Value-Based Professional Networking

Most people think networking is how you get ahead - NO. Strategic Project Leaders create value and leaders seek them out; hence, their network grows— that is why they rise. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐬, 𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐮𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬. Executives and decision-makers are not impressed by flattery or forced small talk. They are moved by : ✔️clarity, ✔️ relevance, ✔️your ability to help them think differently or move faster toward a goal. This is where most professionals get it wrong: They network to be seen, instead of networking to be of service. When you shift your mindset from “How can this help me?” to “How can I create strategic value for this person or organisation?”—everything changes. 🪀Doors open. 🪀Conversations go deeper. 🪀Opportunities multiply. Strategic networking is not about volume—it is about intention. It is not only about visibility—it is about value to others. That is how I built relationships with leaders I once thought were out of reach. That is how you position yourself as someone worth aligning with. 👉Not just a professional. 👉Not just a contact. 👉A catalyst. Want to learn how to create value that builds networks like a Strategic Project Leader? Let’s talk. I will show you how I do it—and how you can too. #FolaElevates #StrategicLeadership #Networking #ProjectLeadership #StrategicElites #CareerAcceleration #ProjectIntelligence ----------------------- Adam Grant, a renowned organizational psychologist, also notes that successful networking is not about climbing the social ladder but creating meaningful, reciprocal relationships. This aligns with research from the Journal of Management Studies, which found that leaders with diverse networks are better positioned to identify and leverage new opportunities.

Networking isn't just about making connections; it's about creating value for those in your network. A common mistake is to reach out to connections only when you need something. Instead, focus on contributing to your network first. Share useful content, offer help, and make introductions that benefit others. For example, when you connect with someone, research their role and challenges. Share relevant articles or insights that might help them. Ask, "How can I help you?" This simple question can go a long way in building trust and fostering meaningful relationships. Making introductions within your network can also be incredibly valuable and appreciated. Starting early and consistently offering value builds a solid foundation for your network. Your posts, thoughts, and advice not only enrich your connections but also position you as a valuable resource. By focusing on creating value first, you build stronger, more meaningful connections over time. What strategies have you used to provide value to your network? #Networking#ValueCreation #TechLeadership

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards. It’s about building real relationships: the kind that lead to opportunities, partnerships, and lifelong connections. After interviewing over 400 professionals on The Social Capital Podcast, I’ve seen firsthand what makes someone a great networker…and what makes them forgettable. My top 3 takeaways from those conversations: 1️⃣ Be Your Authentic Self People can smell fake a mile away. If you’re putting on a facade, trying to impress, or forcing a connection, it won’t last. The most successful networkers? They show up as their real, unfiltered selves - because trust starts with authenticity. 2️⃣ Give First Networking isn’t a transaction. The strongest relationships are built on giving without expecting anything in return. Offer value, share insights, connect people, and help however you can. When you lead with generosity, opportunities naturally follow. 3️⃣ Do What You Say You’ll Do Your reputation is everything. If you promise to introduce someone, share a resource, or follow up → do it. Following through builds credibility while flaking out can damage your reputation faster than you think. But There’s More… Beyond these core principles, I’ve learned additional strategies that take networking to the next level: ✔ Be Proactive in Building Relationships Opportunities can arise anywhere. One guest on The Social Capital Podcast shared how a chance meeting in an airport bar led to a lasting professional relationship - reminding us that networking doesn’t just happen at formal events. ✔ Cultivate Relationships Through Shared Experiences Engaging in activities outside of work - sports, hobbies, volunteering - can naturally expand your network. One professional found that playing a sport helped her reconnect and rebuild her network after maternity leave. ✔ Leverage Digital Platforms Effectively Platforms like LinkedIn are networking goldmines if used right. Sharing insights, engaging in discussions, and showcasing your expertise keeps you visible and valuable in your industry. ✔ Embrace a Relationship-Driven Mindset Shift from transactional networking to genuine connections. People remember those who invest in relationships, not just those who show up when they need something. ✔ Seek Mentorship and Continuous Learning Some of the most successful professionals I’ve interviewed credit their growth to mentorship and ongoing learning. Surrounding yourself with the right people accelerates your success. At the end of the day, the best networkers don’t just meet people - they create lasting social capital. And that starts with trust, authenticity, and generosity.  What’s the best networking advice YOU’VE ever received? #Networking #Authenticity #RelationshipBuilding

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝘆 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿: Professional success depends more on friendship quality than network size. We've been taught that professional advancement comes from maximizing connections, cultivating a vast network, and strategically positioning ourselves among influential people. Data tells a different story. After analyzing 15+ years of career trajectories across multiple industries, I've discovered patterns that challenge conventional networking wisdom: 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 #𝟭: Deep friendships predict career resilience better than network breadth. Professionals with 3-5 deep work friendships recover from career setbacks 2.7x faster than those with extensive but shallow networks. These relationships provide the psychological safety needed to process failure constructively rather than defensively. 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 #𝟮: Friendship diversity matters more than status alignment. Career trajectories accelerate faster for those with friends across different functions, industries, and backgrounds versus those whose connections all occupy similar professional spaces. Cognitive diversity among your closest connections drives innovation and opportunity recognition. 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 #𝟯: True professional friendships challenge more than they validate. The most valuable professional friends aren't those who always agree or support unconditionally—they're those who care enough to deliver difficult truths when no one else will. Career acceleration correlates strongly with having friends who provide honest feedback and push your thinking. 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 #𝟰: Friendship ROI increases with time, unlike most networking investments. The professional value of authentic friendships compounds over decades, while transactional networking often yields diminishing returns. The colleagues you genuinely connect with today may become your most valuable allies in 10-15 years. So what does this mean practically? Shift your focus from network expansion to relationship depth: • Invest disproportionately in the few relationships with mutual trust and genuine connection • Cultivate friendships with people who think differently than you • Value those who challenge your thinking over those who simply advance your interests • Build relationships that would survive your professional failure The next time you're tempted to attend a networking event with the goal of collecting business cards, consider instead investing that time deepening a relationship with someone who might catch you when you fall. What's been your experience with the professional value of true friendship? 💚 follow me if you like for more research-backed but counterintuitive career insights 🙂 ♻️ please share to inspire + grow your network

Stop thinking about “networking.” The word itself is flawed. It suggests collecting contacts, chasing opportunities, or angling for your next job. That mindset misses the point. What you should be asking is where can you deliver value, and where can others help you deliver more? At the level most of us operate, no one creates meaningful outcomes alone. Teams, clients, and partners all depend on shared value creation. When you focus there, the right connections form naturally. I’ve approached my career the same way with clients. My role isn’t about asking what they can do for me. It’s about understanding what they need from me: Deeper knowledge  Sharper execution Clearer guidance That focus on value has consistently driven the next opportunity, not a superficial introduction. Forget “networking.” Start contributing where it matters. That’s how careers advance and businesses grow.

Let’s debunk one of the most pervasive myths plaguing our professional and personal lives: networking. For many, the word conjures up images of slick-haired MBAs in ill-fitted suits, passing out business cards with the zeal of a teenager on TikTok. But that’s not networking; that’s just bad theater. Let’s reframe this. You think networking is about what you can extract from your Rolodex? Wrong. Dead wrong. The cornerstone of meaningful connections isn’t taking — it’s giving. Think about it. Nobody wants to connect with someone whose first and last thought is, “What’s in it for me?” The universe has a fantastic accountant, and it always, always balances the books. You try to extract more than you put in, and you’re going to end up bankrupt. Not just in business, but in relationships, friendships, and trust. The great businesses, the enduring brands — they all start with one question: “How can we add value?” That’s it. And that’s how you should approach networking. It’s about investing without expecting immediate returns. It’s about planting seeds, watering them, letting the sun do its thing, and only then, enjoying the fruits. You know that person at conferences, the one who interrupts conversations to hand out their card, hoping to bag a connection or a deal? They’re playing the short game. They might get a quick win, but in the long run, they’re left with shallow connections and even shallower trust. Don’t be that person. Be the one who listens, who offers help without being asked, who follows up just to check in, not check out what they can gain. In the sprawling digital bazaar we live in, the currency is no longer just dollars and cents. It’s authenticity, it’s trust, it’s empathy. So, next time you’re thinking about “networking,” ask yourself: What can I offer? What value can I bring? How can I make this person’s day, week, or year better? Remember: In a world driven by transactions, transformational relationships are the true gold. Stop counting cards and start counting the genuine, honest-to-God connections you can forge by just being human. Give more than you take, and the universe — and your network — will give back in spades.

Some of my biggest career breakthroughs have come through networking. But many have the wrong idea of what networking actually is. It isn't just about swapping business cards or connecting on LinkedIn; it's about building real, meaningful connections through the magic of reciprocity. Here are a few personal tips on how to make the most of the power of giving in networking: 1️/ Provide Value to Others It's not about grand gestures, but consistent, small actions that show you're invested. Share that interesting article, drop some knowledge bombs, and watch your relationships grow organically. 2️/ Offer Assistance and Support A little help goes a long way. Share your skills, offer feedback, or just be a sounding board. It's not just about solving immediate problems but building trust and camaraderie. 3️/ Make Meaningful Introductions Connect people in your network who can benefit from knowing each other. Be the bridge that helps others, and trust me, it'll come back to you in ways you can't even imagine. 4️/ Nurture Relationships Through Consistent Engagement It's a marathon, not a sprint. Regular contact, value-sharing, and genuine interest keep the flame alive. A quick message or update can make all the difference. Remember, the power of giving in networking isn't just a professional strategy; it's a way of life. Let's focus on building networks that are not just about us but about creating a ripple effect of collaboration and support. Have you ever had a big opportunity come your way through networking? #networking #business

The most effective networkers understand a fundamental principle that distinguishes meaningful professional relationships from transactional interactions: they prioritize contributing value before seeking assistance.   Effective networking strategies focus on mutual benefit:   Pre-Event Research: Identifying attendees and understanding their professional challenges, recent achievements, or industry focus areas where you might offer insights or connections.   Value-Forward Conversations: Initiating discussions around industry trends, sharing relevant resources, or offering introductions to valuable contacts rather than immediately discussing personal career needs.   Strategic Follow-Up: Connecting post-event with thoughtful resources, articles, or introductions that address specific challenges discussed, rather than generic LinkedIn requests.   Long-Term Relationship Building: Maintaining consistent, value-driven contact with your network through sharing relevant opportunities, insights, or connections throughout the year.   This approach transforms networking from a series of favor requests into genuine relationship building that creates reciprocal value over time.   Professionals who consistently offer value before seeking assistance develop networks that actively support their career advancement because those relationships are built on mutual benefit rather than one-sided need.   The strongest professional networks emerge when individuals position themselves as resources for others' success rather than solely focusing on their own advancement needs.   What strategies have you found most effective for creating mutually beneficial professional relationships?   Sign up to my newsletter for more corporate insights and truths here: https://lnkd.in/ei_uQjju   #deepalivyas #eliterecruiter #recruiter #recruitment #jobsearch #corporate #networking #professionalnetworking #relationshipbuilding #careerstrategist

Building a Meaningful Professional Network in the Digital Era In today’s digital-first world, the value of a strong, authentic professional network is more vital than ever. Gone are the days of transactional networking—today, it’s all about building relationships that are genuine, trust-based, and mutually beneficial. Here are some ways to ensure your connections go beyond the surface: Quality Over Quantity – It’s not about the number of connections, but the depth of each one. Focus on meaningful interactions and conversations that make a lasting impression. Add Value Consistently – Offer your expertise, insights, and support freely. The best connections are reciprocal; give before you expect to receive. Be Authentic and Intentional – Build relationships with people who share your values and ambitions. Genuine connections are sustainable, and intentional outreach makes your efforts stand out. Engage Regularly – Follow up, check in, and support each other's wins and learning experiences. The strength of a network often lies in how actively it’s maintained. In the digital era, networking is an art of building a supportive ecosystem, not just a LinkedIn profile or a business card collection. By nurturing relationships that resonate with your goals and values, your network can evolve into a powerful community that fosters learning, opportunity, and growth. How do you approach building a meaningful network? Share your insights below! #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #CareerDevelopment #DigitalNetworking

Ever wondered how to forge connections that aren't just meaningful, but also mutually beneficial? The key lies in one simple principle: Focus on adding value to others. In today's fast-paced professional world, it's easy to get caught up in what we need and want. But the most enduring and impactful relationships are built when we shift our mindset from 'What can I get?' to 'What can I give?' Here are a few strategies to make that shift: Share Your Expertise: Offer insights or advice in your area of expertise. It's not just about answering questions, but also about providing thoughtful content that can help others grow. Listen Actively: Sometimes, the best way to add value is simply by being a great listener. Understanding someone's challenges or goals can open doors to how you might be able to help. Connect People: If you know two contacts who could benefit from knowing each other, make the introduction. Facilitating valuable connections is a powerful way to add value. Celebrate Others: Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of your connections. A simple congratulatory message can go a long way in strengthening a relationship. Stay Authentic: In all interactions, authenticity is key. Genuine interest and care can't be faked and are the foundation of any lasting relationship. By consistently adding value, you not only enrich your network but also pave the way for a professional journey filled with meaningful connections. What strategies do you use to build impactful relationships? Let's share and learn from each other in the comments below! 👇 #Networking #RelationshipBuilding #ProfessionalGrowth #GiversGain #Leadership