How do you balance networking with leadership?

1 Know your purpose

Before you start networking, you need to have a clear idea of why you are doing it and what you hope to achieve. Networking without a purpose can lead to wasted time, superficial relationships, and missed opportunities. Think about your goals, your values, and your vision as a leader, and then identify the people who can help you reach them. For example, you might want to network with potential mentors, collaborators, customers, or supporters. Having a purpose will help you focus your networking efforts and choose the most relevant and meaningful events, platforms, and contacts.

3 Add value

Networking is not a one-way street, where you only seek to gain something from others. Networking is a two-way exchange, where you also offer something of value to others. As a leader, you need to add value to your network by sharing your knowledge, skills, insights, or resources, and by helping others achieve their goals or solve their problems. Adding value will help you establish your credibility, reputation, and influence in your network, and create long-term and mutually beneficial relationships. Adding value also means being respectful, attentive, and responsive in your networking, and acknowledging and appreciating the contributions of others.

4 Leverage your strengths

Networking is not a one-size-fits-all activity, where you have to follow the same rules or strategies as everyone else. Networking is a personal and flexible activity, where you can leverage your strengths and preferences as a leader. As a leader, you need to leverage your strengths in your networking by choosing the methods, platforms, and events that suit your style, personality, and goals. For example, if you are an introvert, you might prefer networking online, in small groups, or in one-on-one settings. If you are an extrovert, you might enjoy networking in person, in large groups, or in informal settings. Leveraging your strengths will help you network more effectively, confidently, and comfortably.

5 Manage your time

Networking is not a sporadic or occasional activity, where you only do it when you need something or when you have some free time. Networking is a regular and ongoing activity, where you maintain and nurture your relationships over time. As a leader, you need to manage your time in your networking by setting priorities, goals, and boundaries for your networking activities. For example, you might decide to network for a certain amount of time per week or month, to attend a certain number of events or meetings per year, or to limit the size or scope of your network. Managing your time will help you network more efficiently, effectively, and sustainably.

6 Learn and grow

Networking is not a static or fixed activity, where you only rely on your existing contacts or skills. Networking is a dynamic and evolving activity, where you learn and grow from your interactions and experiences. As a leader, you need to learn and grow in your networking by seeking feedback, advice, and guidance from your network, and by embracing new challenges, opportunities, and perspectives. Learning and growing will help you network more creatively, adaptively, and strategically.