The Networking Cake

Have you ever thought of networking as a cake? Hear me out—just like baking, successful networking requires the right ingredients, layers, and finishing touches. Let me introduce you to the Networking Cake, a simple and structured model that transforms the often overwhelming world of networking into something both effective and enjoyable.

The Layers of the Networking Cake

Every great cake starts with solid layers. In networking, those layers are the 3 Fundamentals:

?? Layer 1: Who You Are This is your foundation—the values, strengths, and unique identity that make you stand out.

?? Layer 2: What You Offer Your second layer is all about your skills, expertise, experience, products or services, contacts, and the value you bring to others.

?? Layer 3: What You Look For The third layer clarifies your goals and the specific support you’re seeking from your network (e.g., contacts, insights, actions, products, or ideas).

These layers create the structure for your networking efforts. But what’s a cake without some glossing and a cherry on top?

The Glossing and Cherry on Top: 4 Key Questions

? Where to Go – Choose the right places (events, communities, platforms, organizations) to show up.

? Whom to Speak To – Identify people with whom you can create mutual value.

? What to Say – Plan your message to highlight your value and genuine curiosity about others.

? How to Say It – Ensure your approach is authentic, impactful, and tailored.

These finishing touches elevate your Networking Cake from good to unforgettable, helping you focus your energy and actions for the best results.

Why the Networking Cake Works

Just like baking, networking requires preparation, thought, and a pinch of creativity. The Networking Cake brings together self-awareness (the layers) and actionable strategies (the glossing and cherry on top) to make your connections intentional and impactful.

A Story of Coffee and Cake

Imagine this: You’re hosting someone for coffee and cake. The cake you serve tells them everything they need to know about you—it reflects your personality, generosity, and attention to detail. The same is true for networking. When you show up with clarity about who you are, what you offer, and what you seek, you create an opportunity to connect meaningfully.

You bake YOUR Networking Cake in your own kitchen, tailored to your unique style, ingredients, and purpose. Imagine the flavors, the layers, the decorations—it’s all about customizing the recipe to suit your unique networking style and journey.

Ready to Bake Your Cake?

Next time you approach networking, think of it as baking your unique cake:

• Build your layers—know yourself, your offerings, and your needs.
• Add the glossing—focus your efforts with the 4 key questions.
• Serve it with confidence, and enjoy the sweet results of meaningful connections during your "coffee & cake date."

Final Thought

Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional or forced. When you think of it as baking your own cake, it becomes an opportunity to create something meaningful, nourishing, and enjoyable.

So, what kind of Networking Cake will you bake? I’d love to hear your recipe! What’s your “secret ingredient” for successful networking?