Lately, I feel like I’ve been riding a tidal wave of well-timed connections or events that lead to awesome connections. I believe that relationships are the backbone of anything that we’re doing, whether that’s in our business or our lives in general.
But for now, let’s focus on the business side of it. As a solopreneur, relationships are the lifeblood of my business. Not just for leads, but importantly for community and support. I’m talking about true, genuine connections, not ones with strings attached, where you’re just expecting to generate revenue from it.
There’s been a pattern of feedback that I’ve noticed from people lately. That feedback: I have a superpower at networking. To me, I’m just having fun meeting new people and helping connect people who might find a mutual benefit. But if there’s something I can share with others to help them form genuine relationships, I’d love to share. No gatekeeping here.
So let’s dive in.
Be Open to Introductions
If someone offers to introduce you to someone in their network who they think you might benefit from knowing or learning from, seize the opportunity. Sometimes you’ll be able to see a clear connection. Sometimes you might just have to trust them. They probably have good reason.
There are two aspects of seizing the moment. One is truly just being open to the new connection. The other is actually acting on it timely. I think the timing of our connections is no accident. I think God is always conspiring to help us find our highest and best journey and purpose, even if we can’t see it at the time. But I also believe the timing is no accident from a tactical perspective. Someone probably thought to make that introduction because of something you’ve mentioned to them, like your goals, challenges, etc. This person may be the right relationship at the right time.
I realize our calendars are all busy, and of course, there still needs to be some judgment exercised here. But here’s the deal. If you’re meeting over a video call, the worst-case scenario is that you meet someone new that you never see again, and you used 30 minutes of your time. Not a big deal. In the best case scenario, there is almost unlimited upside. You could meet a new friend for life, someone who can open up a whole new world to you, etc.
Reach Out to Cool People
It’s great to have existing connections introduce you to their network, but it’s certainly not necessary. If you see someone interesting on LinkedIn or hear someone awesome on a podcast, reach out!
Here’s the key, though: Don’t just send a generic connection request. Reach out in a real, genuine way. Tell them what you found interesting about them. Let them know what inspires you about them. This lets people know that you really care, share common values and goals, and that you’re not just reaching out to sell them on something.
You may be surprised at the response you get. Most people respond positively to that, even if it’s just accepting a LinkedIn connection and moving on. Many others will continue the conversations. And guess what? If you do this and the person doesn’t respond, then you’ve maybe only used five minutes of your time. Limited downside. Huge upside!
Be a Connector
It feels like I’m always thinking about who I can connect in my network. I love helping others create awesome new relationships, and it feels like a way to pay it forward for all those who have done it for me.
By doing this, you can help create win-win situations for the folks you are connecting. But it’s really a win-win-win situation because, as you’re making these connections, you’re also building more trust and goodwill in those relationships.
This is important because we never want to just be the takers in any relationship. We want to add value to it as well. It is important to receive in relationships (something I’m still working on), but it’s also important to keep balance by contributing to them as well.
I’m a non-fiction book ghostwriter focused on leadership and business genres, which means I get to connect with a lot of awesome people. If you’re interested in connecting, reach out on LinkedIn.
P.S. Books are a great way to scale connections and relationships. If you’re interested in partnering on your own book, schedule a free strategy session using the button below!
Disclaimer: This blog should not be construed as providing, or intending to provide professional financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. It is simply meant to share my experiences with those who may find them relatable and helpful.