The Power of Networking: Elevating Your Executive Career

"Success isn't just about what you know—it's about who knows you."

As someone who reached senior leadership positions in Fortune 50 companies starting in my 20s, I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of networking. In my journey, I quickly realized that networking and cultivating a strong network set me apart from many of my peers who weren't as focused on building these connections. This early emphasis on networking accelerated my career path and opened doors to high-impact opportunities that may have otherwise been out of reach. In this first edition of "The Executive Edge" I want to share the importance of networking and some key considerations for leveraging your connections effectively.

The Importance of Networking in Executive Success

Networking isn't just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections; it's about building meaningful relationships that can support your career growth. For me, a well-curated network offered several critical advantages:

1. Access to Opportunities: Many executive roles and high-stakes projects are filled through referrals and recommendations. By maintaining a strong network, I was often in the right place at the right time to hear about these opportunities and be considered for them.
2. Support and Mentorship: Having a diverse network provided me with access to mentors and peers who offered guidance, shared experiences, and provided constructive feedback. This support was invaluable, especially as I navigated complex career decisions early on.
3. Knowledge and Insights: My network was a rich source of industry insights, trends, and best practices. Engaging with a wide range of professionals helped me stay informed and ahead of the curve, which was crucial for my career advancement.
4. Reputation and Credibility: Building a positive reputation within my network enhanced my credibility and visibility. Being known for my expertise and professionalism made me a sought-after candidate for key roles and leadership positions.

Key Considerations for Effective Networking

1. Quality Over Quantity: The quality of your network matters. It's about building deep, high-quality relationships focused on mutual benefit rather than simply increasing the number of your connections. A smaller, well-connected network of influential and supportive individuals can be more valuable than a vast, shallow one.
2. Be Authentic and Genuine: Authenticity is key to building trust and lasting relationships. Connecting with people at a human level is essential, as being relatable and authentic helps you create meaningful bonds. In a recent episode of my podcast, Move the Ball, I had the pleasure of speaking with Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing. On the show we discussed many topics, including how authenticity is not only crucial in networking but also in building a high-performing team, and how it has been key for McLaren to excel in professional motorsports, especially in Formula 1. Zak emphasized that authenticity fosters trust and unity within a team which is vital for achieving success at the highest levels, as it has at McLaren Racing . Click here to listen to that podcast episode with Zak.
3. Be Proactive and Consistent: Networking is an ongoing process. Consistency and follow-up are crucial, but they don't always have to be about business. I made it a point to reach out to people not just for professional reasons but also to talk about their families or to congratulate them on personal achievements. This kind of outreach helps strengthen relationships on a human, personal level and shows genuine care. Additionally, sharing valuable information or resources can be a great way to stay connected and be of value to others.
4. Leverage Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn are powerful tools for building and maintaining professional relationships. For example, I shared my achievements, insights, and industry-related content to keep my network informed and engaged.
5. Seek Diverse Connections: A diverse network provided a broader perspective and opened up unexpected opportunities, such as becoming a board member on multiple semi-professional American football leagues and more. I didn't limit myself to people within my industry or immediate circle; I reached out to individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, and expertise.
6. Who Knows You Matters: While knowing the right people is essential, it's equally important that they know and remember you. I made an effort to stand out and be memorable through my contributions, personality, and professional presence.

Networking has been a vital component of my executive success, providing access to opportunities, support, and knowledge. It wasn't just about who I knew but also about who knew me. By being authentic, proactive, and strategic in my networking efforts, I built a strong, supportive network that helped me move the ball forward in my career. If strategic networking is something that is a challenge for you, consider picking up a copy of the Move the Ball: Mastering Strategic Networking, Building Meaningful Connections That Elevate Your Career Workbook to help you figure out who you should be networking with and how to get moving on building those impactful relationships.

As you continue your journey toward executive leadership, remember that every interaction is an opportunity to strengthen your network and your career. Building a network isn't just a strategy; it's a superpower. Stay connected, stay engaged, and keep moving the ball forward! If you're looking for more guidance on building a successful network and excelling in business, consider giving the Move the Ball podcast a listen, including the episode titled "Elevate, Separate, and Dominate: How to Network Like a Pro". This Move the Ball podcast is a great resource for insights and strategies that can help you differentiate, elevate, and accelerate your career.

For more tools and resources to help you elevate your networking game and master the art of strategic connections, check out The Executive Edge Pro Playbook. This is your go-to playbook to give you the "edge" you need to advance your career. This playbook includes the following tools:

? Move the Ball: Mastering Strategic Networking Digital Workbook

? Move the Ball: Mastering Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) Digital Workbook

? Move the Ball: Making Career Transitions & Pivots Digital Workbook

? Move the Ball: Your Ultimate Goal Setting Digital Workbook

Click the links and check them out. Together, let's move the ball!

UPDATE: If you’re looking for inspiration and actionable strategies to level up in your career, my book Dominate the Game: How Life Changes When You Show Up is now available as an audiobook! You can listen on Audible and also on my audiobook platform, where you can listen to a sample chapter and take the first step toward transforming your mindset, your career, and your life. The time to show up and dominate your game isn’t tomorrow—it’s today. Let's make it happen, the game is yours to conquer!

About the Author

Jennifer A. Garrett is an internationally recognized business and branding consultant, host of the Move the Ball podcast, 2x best-selling author, attorney, and speaker known for her bold approach and boundary-pushing mindset. She is the visionary behind the Move the Ball movement, which empowers individuals to seize opportunities, pursue fulfilling careers, and achieve the lifestyle they desire. Jennifer's journey is a testament to resilience and determination, overcoming challenges such as being a teenage single parent, serving in the military (as an Army Judge Advocate), thriving in male-dominated industries, and navigating complex corporate environments.

Jennifer has built a respected brand in the professional Sports & Entertainment industry from scratch, rapidly gaining recognition and the endorsement of top-tier NFL athletes, professional sports executives, and celebrities. Jennifer holds seven college degrees, is a mother of five, and has worked in senior leadership positions in multiple Fortune 50 companies, spearheading multi-billion-dollar transactions. Jennifer's two books are titled: Move the Ball: How the Game of American Football Can Help You Achieve Your Life Goals and Dominate the Game: How Life Changes When You Show Up. Learn more about Jennifer at www.getinsidethehuddle.com.

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