How can you balance networking and relationship-building in the strategy field?

Networking has always been connected to business and interest. Definitely I’ve struggle with this view and “strategy” during my whole life. I believe in genuine relationships, investing time in really connect, learn, interact and serve others. Some of these real contacts, depending on the life values and circumstances, will become best fiends and other close contacts. Eventually when I need help or advice, as I rarely use these “net” to ask for favores, people jump and want to do whatever they can to support me.

To me (and especially on LinkedIn), it’s about intentional interactions. Where you are having a conversation, not a ‘look at me’ scenario, but a way that brings value to each of you. Goals help, but like in real life networking, you have to go where the conversation flows. Otherwise you’ll be the pest in their inbox or the person everyone excuses themselves from to go to the e bathroom. ??

In the strategy field, balance networking and relationship-building by strategically aligning connections with your career goals. Engage in industry-specific events and online forums to foster meaningful relationships with professionals who share your strategic interests. Leverage social media platforms to showcase your expertise and thought leadership, creating a virtual presence that aligns with your career objectives. Actively participate in collaborative projects or knowledge-sharing initiatives to not only expand your network but also to demonstrate your strategic prowess in action.

Supposing a sound strategy is made of a set of key elements: 1. A DIAGNOSIS that defines or explains the nature of the challenge. A good diagnosis simplifies the often overwhelming complexity of reality by identifying certain aspects of the situation as critical.? 2. A GUIDING POLICY for dealing with the challenges. This is an overall approach chosen to cope with or overcome the obstacles identified in the diagnosis. 3. A SET OF COHERENT ACTIONS that are designed to carry out the guiding policy. These are steps that are coordinated with one another… So, Diagnosis, challenges and coherent actions should be explored in a common plattform/an eco system of professionally interrelated actors/ nettworks revolving around common goals/targets.

Balancing networking and relationship building involves attending industry events, engaging on professional platforms, and fostering genuine connections to exchange insights and ideas. It's about finding a harmony that enhances both your network and the quality of your relationships within the field. Imagine you attend a strategy conference in your Industry. During the event, you actively participate in discussions, share your expertise, and perspectives. This not only expands your network but also lays the foundation for meaningful relationships. Later, you connect with these individuals on professional platforms, fostering ongoing dialogue and collaboration.

I take advantage from all opportunities I have, great people can be everywhere, anytime. Some of my best friends I’ve found in the airport check-in queue, events or here when people ask for help.

personal style plays a crucial role in balancing networking and relationship building in the strategy field. Authenticity in expressing personal style can make interactions more memorable and impactful. Whether it's communication approach, presentation style, or networking demeanor, staying true to one’s personal style fosters genuine connections. Moreover, it helps stand out in professional settings and attracts those who resonate with your unique approach, contributing to the development of meaningful relationships in the strategy field.

Networking is a skill that comes to play in any forum. One can skillfully network in non business forums as well. In my experience an attitude to 'give' is the hall mark of an effective networking. Usually it is the giver who recieves the maximum benefits be it tangible or non tangible.

The major risk in emphasizing personal style in networking lies in the potential for individuals to limit themselves to their comfort zones, which can hinder opportunities for growth and diverse connections. To mitigate this risk, we should: -Balance comfort with stretching boundaries -Adapt to context -Seek feedback -Embrace a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. -Set realistic goals By striking a balance between personal preferences and the need for adaptability, we can maximize our networking effectiveness, broaden our professional horizons, and foster more meaningful and diverse connections.

Networking should feel natural, not forced. Embrace what's comfortable and effective for you, whether it's warm introductions, vibrant events, or focused one-on-ones. Be authentic, engaged, and follow up, but don't be afraid to adjust your approach to different settings and goals.

The major risk in emphasizing personal value in networking lies in the potential for individuals to come across as transactional or insincere. Here are some key risks associated with focusing too much on demonstrating value: -Perceived inauthenticity -Overemphasis on transactional relationships -Failure to understand others' needs -Limited emotional connection -Perceived self-centeredness -Risk of overcommitment To mitigate these risks, we should: -Focus on genuine connections -Listen actively -Reciprocity -Strategic value alignment -Long-term relationship building By approaching networking with a genuine intention to contribute and connect, we can build more meaningful relationships that go beyond transactional exchanges.

Personal values serve as a guiding framework, helping to balance networking and relationship building. Aligning personal values with professional interactions ensures authenticity and fosters genuine connections. This alignment can lead to meaningful relationships, as people are more likely to connect with those who share similar values. Moreover, it aids in decision-making, helping to prioritize relationships that align with one’s principles. This balanced approach contributes to a more fulfilling and sustainable strategy career, where personal values serve as a compass in navigating professional connections.

Givers get more than the takers! Networking and relationship building measures are never a one way road. 5 simple things that have always helped me are 1: Listen to understand the needs 2: Reciprocare to connect the synergies for both 3: Algin to mutual strategic value potentials 4: Communicate effectively and frequently demonstrating the mutual value 5: Seek feedback and progress towards mutual growth

Most people get it wrong when networking. They go in selfish. I'm looking for X, from Y - can you connect me? Fine, you can ask those questions but don't expect someone to open up their little black book after meeting you over coffee for 5 minutes. You need to offer them your value in order to build trust. What can YOU do for them? Who can you introduce them to? Your value is the beginning of a good networking experience.

Network with an "add, not take" mindset. Share your expertise, connect with people, celebrate wins, offer support. Be a resource, not a burden. Genuine value builds trust and strengthens connections over time. Remember, it's always a two-way street :)

I used to blow a lot of time on networking and relationship building that was wasted energy. We live out of a city centre and often would lose hours in travel time - as a service based business this was costing us literally 10s of thousands a year. So now - I use zoom a lot for inital "coffee catch ups" AND I also prequalify these to make sure they aren't sales pitches in disguise. I also made a list of colleagues I really wanted to build relationships with - and have reminders in my calendar to drop them a line/ connect on a regaulr basis. This has reduced time, effort and I now get better results from my networking time

Once a relationship is established, take the time to check in regularly. I have reminders in my calendar to do this regularly - even with friends - because I need visual reminders. Knowing this weakness has enabled me to turn it into a strength. You don't owe anyone your time. Networking comes in many formats and it doesn't all have to be in person. If it isn't clear how an offer aligns to your values, it is more than ok to decline the invitation or to ask questions about what has led them to connect with you. I very rarely do in-person networking because of my time limitations, instead I choose to meet online. That saves me travel time which is as significant cost in my business.

The major risk in emphasizing personal time in networking lies in the potential to either overcommit or under commit our time, which can impact the effectiveness of relationship-building efforts. The key risks are: -Overcommitment -Inconsistent engagement -Lack of strategic focus -Missed opportunities -Neglecting relationship building -Failure to Adapt To mitigate these risks, we should: -Set realistic time goals -Prioritize relationships -Maintain consistency -Focus on quality over quantity -Adapt and refine strategies By strategically managing our time and maintaining a balanced approach to networking, we can optimize our effort, build meaningful connections, and contribute to our professional and personal development over the long term

Kairos - try to find the intersection between time and space generating the perfect occasion. The time investing on people is never a waste

For me honestly, authentic engagement and thoughtful follow-up matter more than hours logged. Dedicate meaningful time to connections that resonate, and adjust your pace based on your needs and goals. Ultimately, quality trumps quantity :)

Networking can indeed trigger learning as it encourages the exchange of knowledge with people from various expertise areas, leading to the acquisition of new information and sharing of your own insights. Exposure to new perspectives and ideas during networking events can enrich your learning process and expand your own thought patterns. Effective time management between networking and learning activities is essential to ensure both personal and professional development. Applying what you learn from networking in practical scenarios can help in gaining new skills and reinforcing existing knowledge. Choosing networking events aligned w/ your interests & learning goals facilitates both effective learning and productive networking experiences.

Quality trumps quantity, so invest time in those who truly resonate :) Go beyond familiar circles and actively seek diverse connections. Try deepening bonds with those who spark, nurture trust with shared experiences :)

Here's the truth: Balance beats quantity. Quality relationships over sheer connections. Focus on depth, not width. Build lasting connections that drive your strategy journey, rather than drowning in an ocean of superficial handshakes.

Balancing networking and relationship-building in strategy involves a strategic blend of authenticity and purpose. Attend industry events and engage in online forums to expand networks. However, prioritize building genuine, lasting connections over quantity. For instance, Warren Buffett strategically nurtured his relationship with Bill Gates, fostering a partnership that transcended networking to shape significant business collaborations. Cultivate a reputation for delivering value and insights, ensuring that your network is not only extensive but also meaningful, contributing to strategic collaborations and mutually beneficial opportunities.

To become a reality, your strategy needs to align with a lot of moving parts. Your relationship building and networking are a part of 5+ moving parts (like goals, time, capital, value, team). It takes a lot of focussed and fierce daily execution. Every day. Create a daily, weekly and monthly accountability structure to make sure you keep on track and aligned.

I believe it all depend on your goal. If you have to learn or consult with potential client. The goal will decide the direction in which you will head i.e seeking contribution or contributing actively. I also believe one need to balance in terms of adding value to their connection to maintain the relation & network.

Goal, style, value, time, balance .... all true.... But. How about your existing network, your background and most importantly your place! The environment, the ecosystem you at present are in. If you do business (or start a new one) in Asia (except Japan), especially in China or in some so-called developing countries where "interpersonal" relationships matter, all you need to understand and to learn is #Guanxi. Guanxi will be your guide to balance all.