Letter 9: The Truth about Networking in New World
Aabhinna Suresh Khare
Transforming Business Through AI & Digital Innovation | CDO & CMO at Bajaj Capital | 18+ Years in Strategy & Martech Leadership
?? Rethinking Networking: Are You Truly Adding Value? ??
Networking is probably the most misunderstood concept in the professional world. Its time we clarify and understand it.
This is Day 9 of my 75 HARD challenge and I have committed to write 75 Letters , one each day during the challenge. A friend of mine asked me, How I have such a good network, even though am not from this city.
So, I decided to share my views on Networking and why people are seeing it wrongly.
For many Networking starts with merely "I know you, you know me,". I know that person very well, I am so close to him etc etc. For another set, it's about what they can take from you. A lot of people reach out to me asking, Hi Sir, Hi Aabhinna, I am so impressed by your work and we want your 30 minutes to showcase the product we have to offer.
You know what it really sounds? It sounds that, I know you as a name and I want to take 30 minutes of your time to sell you something. If thats what your network is, trust me, you are making a mistake.
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When even the smartest people define networking this way, they dismiss it as ineffective or label it as something for "losers."
The truth is, a genuine network is built on what you can contribute to it. It's an exchange, not a one-way street, and it starts from giving first.
Here's the reality: You join a network to offer something, not just to take. Otherwise, why would they welcome you? Networking is about what you can bring to the table—be it advice, friendship, or support. It's about serving the network you're part of.
If you can't offer anything, you won't be accepted. This principle applies to social media as well. Simply commenting on posts without adding value is not networking. You're not offering anything meaningful to the person you want to connect with, whether it's for friendship, business, or collaboration.
Next time you want to connect with someone, ask yourself: What value am I bringing to this relationship?
Thankyou for reading my posts and giving me so much affection.
#Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #ValueExchange #RelationshipBuilding #SocialMediaStrategy #CareerAdvice #StayCerebral #AddValue