Strengthening Community Ties Through Networking

Pro tip if you want to get ahead in life: build your relationships through shared, purpose-driven activities. I’ve found that some of the most powerful relationships in my career, ones that have led to real revenue and meaningful opportunities, didn’t come from a “networking mixer.” They came from volunteering, or from being shoulder-to-shoulder with others at a philanthropic event. The FIRST article I ever read when I invented my own pasta sauce ten years ago was in the Harvard Business Review (linkedin in bio) that showed that shared activities, whether it’s volunteering, serving on a nonprofit board, or even something as simple as playing a weekly sport, create deeper and more diverse connections than traditional networking ever could. It's called the Shared Activities Principle. They unite people from different backgrounds around a common purpose, rather than clustering like-minded peers in the same echo chamber. At our dinners, we would get people to work together to create the meal, essentially inventing a container for shared activities for strangers to meet, to serve others. HBR wrote that if more than 65% of your network is made up of people you introduced yourself to, your network is probably too homogenous to bring you new ideas or opportunities. Shared activities break that pattern. When you volunteer, you’re meeting other people who also have a giving mentality. They’re givers by nature. Which means when life or business gets tough, those are the people most likely to show up for you. That’s not something you often find in a transactional cocktail-hour exchange of business cards. So here’s my invitation: Instead of another “networking event,” try joining a fundraiser, a Habitat for Humanity build, or a nonprofit board meeting. Invest your time in something that matters. You’ll not only serve a cause you care about, you’ll build a network rooted in generosity, trust, and shared purpose. For the leaders reading this, try sponsoring a volunteer day for your team. An entire day where your team still gets paid, but gets paid to do good. Bonus points if you can get folks from different teams that normally don't talk, to volunteer together. That's when cross-functional creativity, innovation, and mentorship occurs. P.S. If anybody has any ideas for volunteering in NYC, my DM's are always open. Me, Andy Ellwood, and John Vatalaro love volunteering on Saturday's at a Food Pantry in nyc, but would love so many more opportunities, please!

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

Most people tell you to network, but they don’t teach you how. Here’s what you can do: 🔹 Quality Over Quantity: Before attending, study the event's attendee list and identify 2-3 people you want to meet. This focused approach can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. I’ve recently done this myself at a TED event. 🔹 Adopt a Giving Mindset: Offer to share your expertise or resources. For example, if someone is working on a project you have experience with, volunteer to provide insights or introduce them to someone who can help. This shows you're invested in their success. 🔹 Research Smartly: Look into their recent projects or publications. If your contact has recently published a paper or given a talk, read it and mention specific points you found intriguing or valuable. This demonstrates genuine interest and sets you apart. 🔹 Make the First Move: Send a message acknowledging a challenge they mentioned in a public forum or LinkedIn comment. For example: "Hi [Name], I saw your post about the challenges of remote team management. I've faced similar issues and found that regular virtual coffee breaks helped. Would love to share more if you're interested. Best, [Your Name]" 🔹 Build a Habit: Set a weekly reminder to engage with your network on social media. This could be liking, commenting on, or sharing posts from your contacts. Regular engagement keeps you top of mind and builds a foundation for deeper connections. Tomorrow’s newsletter is packed with actionable insights to turn casual contacts into valuable connections. ➡ Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/eE-aFmFy 💜 Career Well-being is the best work-life newsletter, according to my readers! Join us! #NetworkingTips #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #careerbutterfly #CareerWellbeing

How to network without being “salesly” (And build genuine relationships) — Networking is hands down one of the most underrated aspects of business. A network built on reciprocity is also one of the BIGGEST assets any founder can call upon 10 tips to grow yours the RIGHT way: 1. Offer help first When reaching out to someone, think about how you can help them before asking for anything in return. This can be through introductions, sharing resources, or providing insights to a post of theirs. The goal is to leave no doubt that you’re not just a “taker” but a “giver”. — 2. Acknowledge milestones It might not mean much to you, but any personal milestone is HUGE inside for someone in your network. - Job changes - Work anniversaries - Professional accomplishments. Show that you CARE about their journey. — 3. Personalized connection requests (I know you’re sick of these fake connect requests as much as I am…) So show some personalization! Mention how you found them, why you want to connect, and a specific common interest or goal. It’s the little extra efforts like this that separate you from others. (p.s. “Let’s find synergies” is making you look like you’re spamming) — 4. Regularly update your LinkedIn profile Keep it current with your: - Skills - Projects - Latest achievements A well-maintained profile makes it easier for people to understand your professional background… Which makes it easier for them to relate to you when you speak. — 5. Open your network to others I’m ALWAYS looking for opportunities to introduce my connections to each other. This not only helps them, but it also strengthens your position as a valuable connector. If you be the person who helps build relationships… They’ll remember you for it. — 6. Follow up Stay in touch with your contacts regularly to maintain your relationships. You don’t have to do this daily or even weekly… But a little check-in here and there goes a long way in showing you care. — 7. Organize networking events Host your own networking events or small meet-ups. (In person or through Zoom) This is another great way to be a connector. Strong networking skills involve being able to bring people together in a meaningful way. — [BONUS] - Become the go-to guy in groups Underrated hack: join LinkedIn groups related to your industry or interests. While in the group… - Share your expertise - Be active in discussions - Connect with group members There’s nothing like chatting with like-minded people. (And most people don’t do it). — By implementing these strategies consistently, you will build authentic and meaningful relationships. The goal is to cultivate and build a network that supports and grows with you. What’s your biggest struggle in terms of networking? — Found value in this? Repost ♻️ to share to your network and follow Ignacio Carcavallo for more!

“Networking is awkward.” You know what’s more awkward? Graduating in May 2025 and applying to 127 jobs with… zero callbacks. Let’s fix that with networking ideas no one’s talking about. and I mean actionable.. 1. “Reverse Research” Your Way Into a Conversation Instead of asking people what they do, show them what you know about what they’ve done. How to do it: Find someone on LinkedIn in your target company/role Read their posts, podcasts, or panels they’ve been on Then send this message: “Hi [Name], I came across your [talk/article/post] on [topic]—your point about [insight] made me think differently. I’m researching [industry], and would love to hear your take on [specific follow-up]. Would it be okay to connect?” That’s conversation built on respect. 2. Book Club for Industry Geeks Start a virtual book or podcast club for your industry. Invite professionals to speak at the end of each cycle. How to do it: Pick 3 peers + 1 book or podcast Create a simple calendar (4 weeks = 4 touchpoints) End with a “Wrap-Up” Zoom chat—invite a guest Post your takeaways on LinkedIn and tag them Because learning together? Is the strongest way to network. 3. Write A “Public Thank You” Post on LinkedIn You probably learned something cool from someone recently. Now imagine you posted it publicly, gave them a shoutout, and showed how you applied it. How to do it: Tag the person Share what they taught you Share what you did next Ask your network, “What’s something YOU learned from someone this month?” You just gave free visibility, created a loop, and 10 people will want to talk to you after. 4. Turn Informational Chats into Co-Creation Networking chats often stop at “thanks for the time.” What if it didn’t? What to do: After the call, send a note: “Hey [Name], based on our chat about [topic], I drafted a small idea to build on your advice. Would love your thoughts!” Create a graphic, short write-up, or project plan (just 1 page!) Now you’re not just a student. You’re someone they collaborated with. That’s relationship-building, not just networking. 5. The 5-5-5 Strategy Most people get stuck on who to reach out to. Here’s a weekly formula: 5 People You Admire (Founders, creatives) 5 People From Your School Network (Alums, professors, guest speakers) 5 Peers Who Are Also Job Hunting (Build a support circle, swap leads) Message all 15. Repeat weekly. That’s 156 conversations in 3 months. You don’t “find” jobs—you build the path to them. Reminder: Networking isn’t about who has the fanciest title. It’s about who remembers you when an opportunity comes up. Be the person who listened, learned, shared, and followed up. If you’re reading this and job searching— try one new method this week. Not next month. Not when it feels “less scary.” Now. You’re not late. #May2025Grads #NetworkingTips #CreativeCareerMoves #JobSearchStrategy #InternationalStudents #GradJobHunt #BeyondTheResume #HumanConnection #Topmate

Networking is a long-term investment, not a short-term solution. This is especially true in seasons of career change. Whether you're pivoting into a new industry or moving into a new role within your company, the relationships you’ve built (or neglected) will either accelerate or slow you down. Here’s what I’ve learned: 1. The best time to network is before you need anything. When your only message is “I’m job searching,” it can feel transactional. Build the relationship first. The opportunities will follow. 2. Dormant ties are gold. That former colleague, supervisor, or classmate you haven’t spoken to in years? They might be the missing link to your next move. 3. Internal networking matters too. Looking to grow where you are? Schedule that coffee chat with someone in a different department or leadership role. Visibility inside your company opens doors. 4. Not all connections need to be strategic. Some of the most impactful introductions come from casual, everyday conversations. Stay open. Be human. Be curious. 5. Consistency beats intensity. One thoughtful message or interaction each week is more powerful than a burst of activity and burnout. 6. Your personal brand sets the tone. When people know what you’re about, they know how to refer you, champion you, or recommend you for something aligned. 7. Networking is about planting seeds. Some conversations will bloom in weeks. Others will take years. Both are worth the effort. Start now. Remain visible. Nurture your relationships. It pays off when you least expect it! #SheLeadsBeautifully 🌷 #Networking #CareerCoach #CareerDevelopmentTrainer #RelationshipBuilding

I used to think networking was just about handing out business cards and making small talk. But over time, I realized it’s about something much deeper: building genuine relationships that matter. 1️⃣ Be Intentional – Networking can be draining (trust me, I get it). Instead of saying yes to everything, choose events where you’ll actually connect with people in your industry or desired role. Quality over quantity. 2️⃣ Be Authentic – The best connections happen when you’re just you. People remember real, not rehearsed. Don’t be afraid to stand out. 3️⃣ Don’t Just Talk About Work – Some of the strongest professional relationships I’ve built started with conversations about music, travel, or even our favorite coffee spots. Your personal interests make you memorable. Networking isn’t about impressing people—it’s about forming real connections. And those connections? They can change everything. What’s one way networking has impacted your career? 👇🏽 Let’s share and grow together! #Networking #CareerGrowth #Authenticity

Your network isn’t just who you know. Too many people see networking as collecting business cards- or maybe scanning QR codes- and shaking hands at events. But the real value isn’t just who you know- it’s how you engage and build relationships over time. Many of my professional relationships have turned into personal ones, meaning I’ve gotten to know colleagues beyond their work roles and shared in their ups and downs, building deeper and more meaningful connections. As we get older and move through career and life, sometimes our network can feel like it's the same circle or getting stale. My biggest shift? Seeking out new communities and embracing virtual connections—many of which eventually turned into real-life relationships. This approach has led to unexpected collaborations, meaningful conversations, and even career opportunities. But most importantly, it’s expanded my thinking- breaking my old corporate biases. My newer networks have challenged my assumptions, revealing possibilities I never knew existed. If you’re looking to build a more valuable network, start by: ➡️ Attending events even if alone. ➡️ Joining new communities. ➡️ Sharing your expertise. The more you show up (even when that little voice tells you not to), the more meaningful your connections become. __________ What communities helped you expand your network? #startups #healthcare #ShastaAdvisory

"Networking is not about collecting contacts! It is about building relationships!" - Heidi Roizen Remember when your parents advised you to have a few trusted friends who truly know you? This wisdom also applies to networking. We often hear that networking is crucial for career success, but does it truly work? Traditional networking—attending events, exchanging e-business cards, or connecting on LinkedIn—can help you meet people, but these interactions often feel superficial. It’s common to struggle recalling these connections or finding value in their LinkedIn profiles later. What if we replaced the concept of "networking" with "net-weaving"? Instead of just collecting connections, we’d focus on intertwining our skills, experiences, and passions to create a strong, supportive fabric that uplifts everyone involved. Net-weaving emphasizes helping others by making introductions, advocating for them, sharing valuable information, and offering support, all while building trust. For example, if your mentor suggests you contribute to a project or volunteer for an initiative they’re involved in, view it as an opportunity to add value. By actively participating and showing support, you strengthen the relationship and demonstrate your commitment. Engaging thoughtfully and offering genuine help creates a network that benefits everyone and fosters personal growth. Net-weaving exposes you to new perspectives and skills, all while making a positive impact on others' lives. So, how are you incorporating net-weaving into your networking strategy? #Careers #NetWeaving #Mentoring #Growth #coaching #mentoring #networking

Networking Doesn’t End When You Get the Job Think your networking days are over once you land a job? Think again. Getting the job is just the beginning. The financial pressure may have eased, but now is the perfect time to build even stronger relationships that can propel your career forward. Action Steps to Keep Networking Post-Hire: 1) Make Networking a Routine Set specific times each week for networking activities. Consistency is key to building genuine relationships that last. 2) Leverage Work Events Participate in conferences, seminars, company events, and workshops. These are golden opportunities to meet new people and strengthen connections with colleagues and industry professionals. 3) Stay Active on LinkedIn Keep your profile updated and engage with industry content. Staying visible on LinkedIn helps you maintain and grow your professional network. 4) Focus on Quality Connections Build meaningful relationships that offer valuable advice and opportunities. Quality over quantity should be your networking mantra. 5) Seek Mentorship Find a mentor to guide you through your career. Whether it’s navigating promotions, salary raises, or better roles, a mentor can provide invaluable insights. Look within our own company first. 6) Provide Value Offer your help and expertise to others in your network. The more value you provide, the stronger your relationships will become. Networking doesn’t end when you get the job—it’s just getting started. How do you maintain your network after landing a job? Share your tips in the comments! ------------ ➕ Follow Jaret André for more daily data career advice. 🔔 Hit the bell icon to be notified of success stories and career tips.