Your Network is Only as Strong as Your Relationships
You’ve probably heard the phrase: “Your network is your net worth.” But what does that actually mean?
Most people think networking is about accumulating contacts—shaking hands, exchanging business cards, adding people on LinkedIn. But a stack of business cards won’t build your business. A LinkedIn connection won’t open doors unless there’s real trust behind it.
The real question isn’t, “Who do I know?” It’s “Who knows me and trusts me?”
So how do you build a network that actually supports your growth? You lead with value and authenticity.
The Best Way to Build a Strong Network? Give First.
If you want to connect with high-caliber people, you must first change your mindset. These are the ones who inspire, challenge, and push you forward. Give more than you take. Shift your focus from getting to giving.
In any relationship, make more deposits than what you withdraw.
Instead of asking, “What can they do for me?” start asking, “How can I serve them?”
Here’s how you do it:
1️⃣ Be Present in Their World – Show up where they are. Engage with their content, attend the same events, or get introduced through a mutual connection.
2️⃣ Offer Value Without Any Expectation – Share relevant insights. Introduce them to someone who can help them. Simply check in and see how they’re doing.
3️⃣ Follow Up & Stay Consistent – Real relationships aren’t built in a single interaction. Make a habit of staying in touch. Send a thoughtful message, invite them for coffee, or share something valuable with them.
When you approach networking with generosity and authenticity, your relationships transform. They become more than just connections. They become assets that fuel your personal and professional growth.
But What Happens When Life Gets Busy?
Let’s be real—work and family responsibilities can make staying connected feel impossible. That’s why you need a system for maintaining relationships.
Here’s a simple way to make sure your network stays strong:
✅ Schedule “connection time” each week – Block out 20-30 minutes to reach out to people in your network.
✅ Use a simple CRM or spreadsheet – Track who you connect with and set reminders for follow-ups.
✅ Make it part of your routine – Whether it’s a quick message, a shared article, or a coffee chat. These small, consistent actions build strong relationships over time.
Here’s what I do.
Every day, I make it a point to message and connect with 3 people in my network. LinkedIn, Facebook, Text message or Phone call… you name it. With these 3 people, I do one of the following: Compliment, Console, or Congratulate. That’s it.
Another thing that has helped is having a TOP 25 list of people I want to connect with. From that Top 25, choose at least 3 people within their network. Then, message or email them to establish a connection. Use a simple spreadsheet to make the list today!
Your Challenge This Week: Reignite One Connection
Pick one person in your network and reach out today. Send a message, make an introduction, or share something valuable with them.
When you invest in your network before you need it, you build a foundation of trust. In the long run, this foundation will pay off in unexpected ways.
Drop a comment below—who’s the one person you’re reconnecting with this week? Let’s make it happen!
