An article I recently read by business coach Vonnie Alexander sheds light on the often-overlooked power of unconscious networking. Through her experience during the pandemic, Vonnie highlights the importance of building genuine connections throughout your career, even if you’re not actively seeking something in return.
Lost Contracts, Unexpected Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic forced a harsh reality check for many, including Vonnie, a self-employed coach. Existing contracts vanished as businesses prioritised survival. However, instead of succumbing to panic, Vonnie focused on her family and navigated the unexpected challenges. Financial security and a positive outlook helped her weather the storm.
The Hidden Lifeline: A Network Built on Relationships
Just when things seemed bleak, new opportunities started to appear. Referrals from past clients, projects with former colleagues, and collaborations with ex-employees began to emerge, all without any active marketing effort on Vonnie’s part. This unexpected lifeline prompted a realisation: her entire career had been building a network, albeit unconsciously.
Beyond Business Cards: Trust is the Key Ingredient
Vonnie’s approach to networking wasn’t about collecting business cards at crowded events. It was about cultivating genuine connections throughout her career. Leaving positive impressions, offering support, and fostering trust became her guiding principles. It wasn’t always perfect, but she strived to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position or perceived importance.
Making People Feel Valued: The Power Beyond Words
Looking back, Vonnie realised the impact went beyond what she said. It was about how people felt after interacting with her. Authenticity, sincerity, and genuine interest – these qualities resonated more than any sales pitch.
The Unexpected Reward: A Network Built to Last
Many of those connections, forged over the years, now hold key positions in various sectors. The foundation of these relationships is trust, forming the bedrock of Vonnie’s thriving coaching practice.
Networking: A Long-Term Investment
Vonnie’s experience highlights a crucial message: effective networking isn’t about short-term gains. It’s a long-term investment in building genuine connections. Focus on fostering positive relationships throughout your career – they could become your greatest asset.
Building Your Network: Beyond the Business Card
Here are some key takeaways from Vonnie’s experience to cultivate a powerful network:
- Prioritise genuine connections: Focus on building relationships that go beyond professional interests.
- Offer value, not just services: Consider how you can help others, not just what you can sell them.
- Leave a lasting impression: Make a positive impact, be remembered for the right reasons.
- Nurture existing connections: Stay in touch, maintain communication, and offer support even when not actively seeking business.
The Network Effect: A Two-Way Street
Networking is a two-way street. As you invest in building supportive relationships, you’ll be surprised at how often the network helps you as much as you help others.
Your Turn: How Do You Build Your Network?
Share your experiences in the comments below. We’d love to know:
- How do you build genuine connections in your professional life?
- Have you experienced the benefits of a strong network?
- What advice would you give to someone starting to build their professional network?
_________________________________________________________________
Tap here to chat to me about how we can amplify your brand to the world, guaranteeing an overnight boost in rankings, reputation & traffic.
If you’ve enjoyed reading today’s blog, please share it (links below).
Do you have a blog on business and marketing that you’d like to share on blog.influxjuice.com? Contact me at rob@influxjuice.com.
Learn how to get your brand in front of your ideal clients with this free marketing guide
Latest Blogs
- 8 Easy Fixes for a User-Friendly Mobile Website
- How to Spot a Resilient Business
- 8 Proven Strategies to Empower Your Remote Workforce
- How Entrepreneurs can Squeeze the Best out of the Rest of 2024
- 8 Ways Entrepreneurs Can Close Presentations with a Bang
