Build Your Network from the Bottom, Not the Top

I’m an introvert, first of all. So this will be more relevant to fellow introverts out there. #GoGoIntrovert

For extroverts, networking might not seem intimidating. But for us introverts, we often think of a thousand things before we even say hi to someone who’s already standing right in front of us. However, that’s not the whole point of this article.

“Build your network from the bottom!” This is advice I received from one of my mentors. During a conversation, I wanted to learn from him about building a network. My mentor happened to be a VP at a publicly listed company, with strong ties in finance and investment. His network in the banking industry was extensive, long-standing, and always accessible when needed.

So, I asked, “How do I start?” I’m not good at speaking—I’m an introvert. Even when I have a need, I’m hesitant to ask for help or favors from others. Here’s the simple summary of his advice: Build your network from the bottom, not at a high level. Knowing people ‘at the top’ might make us feel impressive and look good. But for those of us just starting out in business, we need to understand that, in their eyes, we might not be beneficial to them. Or to rephrase: We need them more than they need us. Instead, invest time and effort in building a network with those at the mid-low level, those who are also striving and growing. Be genuine, kind, and helpful, even if you don’t earn anything beneficial in a monetary sense.

Why? Isn’t that less impressive? Not everything in networking has to be about financial gain or securing a project.

If we focus on nurturing healthy relationships with them early on, sometimes by supporting each other in small ways, maintaining communication periodically within healthy boundaries, eventually, both we and they will continue to grow on our respective paths. Today, these connections might not provide any immediate value, and sometimes their business units are entirely different and unrelated. But you never know—one day, your paths might cross, and you might need each other. Or, because you are known as a good colleague and friend, they might recommend you in ways you never expected, smoothing the way for mutual success.

Keep in mind to build a healthy network; don’t be aggressive, especially with high-level contacts. They are used to people wanting to get close to them for their own purposes. So, just stay genuine while focusing on expanding and strengthening connections that are on the same level as you, or even below you—that’s perfectly fine! Because we all will need each other at some point.