One of the most common mistakes executives make is failing to invest in their business network. Too often, I hear the mantra: “I’m too busy.” Too busy to network effectively, too busy to attend events, too busy to forge those strategic relationships that will pay dividends down the road. The reality is, effective networking doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a long-term commitment to building rapport and meaningful connections across your industry and beyond.
Why Networking is Crucial
Networking is essential for executives at every stage of their career. It’s not just about making connections when you need something, like a new job or a business deal. It’s about investing time and effort into building relationships with key individuals—whether they’re in your industry or outside of it—so that when the time comes, your network is there to support you.
Many executives fall into the trap of only maintaining relationships within their immediate circle or industry. This can be dangerous if you need to make a career shift or expand into a new sector. Additionally, relationships with corporate headhunters, for example, can take months or even years to build. Without these strong connections, you might find yourself in a difficult position when the time comes to make a career move.
The Investment of Time and Effort
Networking requires a strategy. It’s not enough to simply show up at an event or send a LinkedIn connection request. True networking involves consistent effort over time. Here’s what it takes:
- Time: Set aside regular time to invest in your network. This means attending events, reaching out to new contacts, and following up with people.
- Consistency: Building relationships isn’t a one-off event. It’s about staying in touch, whether that’s through social media, business platforms like LinkedIn, or face-to-face meetings.
- Follow-Up: After meeting someone new, make sure to follow up. This is where many people drop the ball. A simple follow-up message can solidify a new connection and lead to meaningful opportunities down the road.
Utilising LinkedIn and Other Tools
With the advent of technology, there’s no excuse for not staying in touch with people. Tools like LinkedIn make it easy to maintain connections, share your thought leadership, and keep on top of industry trends. But don’t just connect—engage. Share content that reflects your expertise, comment on your network’s posts, and use these platforms as a way to keep yourself top of mind.
Push Yourself Out of Your Comfort Zone
One of the best ways to build a powerful network is by attending events. But don’t just attend the same types of events over and over again. Push yourself outside of your comfort zone. Attend events that you wouldn’t normally go to, particularly those that allow you to meet people outside of your immediate industry.
When you attend these events, have a strategy. Who do you want to meet? What conversations do you want to have? Be intentional about forging new relationships, and then follow up to keep those connections alive.
My Experience with Networking
Over the years, I’ve made a significant investment in my business network. As a result, I now have a powerful network that regularly delivers opportunities to me—whether it’s invitations to high-level events or referrals to business opportunities. I receive countless invitations each week and have been included in some of the most powerful and influential boardroom conversations. This didn’t happen overnight. It came from years of consistent effort, building trust, and delivering results.
Your Networking Strategy: Key Questions to Consider
- What is your current approach to networking?
- Is your network delivering the results you want?
- Where does your circle of influence lie, and where do you want it to be?
- Who can introduce you to key contacts, and how can you leverage those relationships?
Several years ago, I made the strategic decision to focus on building connections at the board level. I knew I needed to be networking with chairs and non-executive directors, attending the right events, and ensuring I was in the right circles to make those relationships happen naturally. Today, those connections are a cornerstone of my professional success.
Your Challenge: Build a Strategic Networking Plan
My challenge to you is to think about your own networking philosophy. What do you hope to gain from your network in the year ahead? How will you go about implementing a strategy that delivers results? Networking doesn’t happen by chance or on a whim—it requires commitment, time, and a clear plan of action.
Take the time to build your network, invest in meaningful relationships, and position yourself for success. The dividends will come