Unlocking Success through Strategic Networking: Building Relationships that Propel You Forward

?? As Adarsh U. and I embarked on our journey in a new country, we knew the importance of building a network of personal connections. But where to start? The enormity of the task was overwhelming. We made countless acquaintances, but these new contacts demanded more and more of our time and attention, without bringing us closer to anything truly exciting.

What we were truly missing was strategy. Strategy, by definition, is the path to a goal, a trajectory. Once you start thinking about that trajectory, numerous questions arise. If you want to move from point A to point B, where exactly is point A? Why do you want to reach point B? Are there alternative routes? Which one is better? And by what criteria? Thinking strategically requires a method that provides clarity and guides your efforts. We were good at meeting people and developing relationships, but we never thought about how to weave them into a network that would work for us and with us.

In the beginning, we were tacticians, not strategists.

?? Strategic networking isn't merely about building relationships with specific individuals. It's about achieving your life and career goals through everyone around you. In a well-constructed network, each connection enhances other connections, collectively strengthening your position in society.

? The most common concern cited is the time investment required to create an effective network of contacts. In the midst of perpetual busyness and the scarcity of attention even our loved ones receive from us in between work and household chores, where can we find time for meaningful networking?

?? As you embark on the journey toward a more influential position in society, remember: the further you progress, the easier and more enjoyable the movement becomes. Just like in any sport, be it running, chess, tennis, or golf, the initial steps are never easy and pleasant. But with perseverance, a second wind will surely come.

?? Another excuse often given is a lack of talent for social interaction. It's disheartening to observe a friend who can talk endlessly effortlessly amassing a horde of admirers and sponsors for her business. "There's something wrong with me," you may think. But you're wrong. Believe that there are always people who are smarter, more beautiful, better dressed, richer, or simply luckier than us. However, such exceptional individuals are quite rare. Most people around us are just like us.

?? When it comes to networking, here we create ourselves. Networking is a realm where you gain experience and skills solely through the process. There's no other way.

?? Is strategic networking ethical? Do these strategies introduce something unnatural into human relationships? Do you feel like you're manipulating people? If you're building relationships with people according to your "secret" plan, do those relationships become "fake"?

?? Such an important question cannot be ignored; therefore, it's worth addressing now. In any relationship, there are two sides. It's easier to start with yourself. When you desperately need someone, perhaps for your business, or if you're simply smitten by someone, your attempt to attract them through reasonable and honest means is not only justified but also quite natural.

?? Just as Romeo's nighttime serenades beneath Juliet's window might seem overly extravagant to us today, hardly anyone would condemn his romantic endeavor. Literature, art, and life itself are replete with examples of attempts to charm or win someone over. In most cases, we have no doubts about their sincerity. Furthermore, in movies and books, we admire the persistence with which characters strive to win someone's favor.

?? Ultimately, whether your encounter succeeds or not, that person can always say "no." Regardless of how you initiate the connection, you can't forcibly invade someone's life. The more you insist, the stronger the rejection.

?? Networking, much like a lottery, is uncertain. Yet, you'd never turn down a prize if you happen to hit the jackpot. Acquainting yourself with people is a kind of lottery too. Some people you dream of including in your circle, but you're unsure how to achieve it. Yet, you're surrounded by individuals you'd rather not interact with. Your attitude toward people depends on the value they hold for you – emotional, aesthetic, material. Perhaps among your friends, there are a few you met by complete chance. Thanks to fate, you don't overly worry about how that opportunity arose.

?? Hence, it's not just how you establish or cultivate relationships that matters, but what you bring to those relationships and how you regard the significant people in your life. Networking as a discipline equips you with the skills of meeting and relating to people, but you determine how and why you use these connections in your life.

?? Above all, what networking undeniably accomplishes is continuous learning from others. Moreover, within your strategy, you'll intentionally seek out those who know more, who are better than you. Thanks to networking, you'll become richer in many senses. Your professional value will increase rapidly. You'll achieve better understanding with loved ones, colleagues, and superiors. With strategic thinking, you'll identify problems sooner, avoiding painful conflicts and losing friends. And we guarantee – you'll become wiser.