The most overlooked networking tool is staring you in the face…
Forget LinkedIn algorithms and rehearsed elevator pitches. The most overlooked networking superpower is staring you in the face every morning.
We’ve talked extensively about the power of connections—their potential to spark million-dollar deals, launch careers, and forge transformative partnerships. But to truly harness this power, we need to dig deeper. The magic doesn’t begin at bustling events or in perfectly polished LinkedIn messages (though they can certainly spark something great). It starts much closer to home—with you. Building a network that moves mountains begins with mastering the art of looking inward.
Let’s talk about how internal reflection can revolutionize your outward connections and set the stage for a transformative network – both in your life and with your brand.
First, you must consider the following questions (if you’ve been reading, these will sound familiar):
- What’s your North Star? Before you can effectively connect with others, you need to know where you’re headed. What are your goals across various life domains—career, relationships, personal growth? Having this clarity becomes your compass for identifying truly meaningful connections.
- What unique value can you offer? Reflection helps you recognize your unique strengths, experiences, and insights. Understanding what you bring to the table allows you to approach networking with confidence and authenticity.
Now, when it comes to what to do…
Map Your Life Domains
A high-performance sports coach breaks down every aspect of the game—apply that level of analysis to your life. Create a map of key areas, like: Health, Family/Relationships, Work/Finances, Learning, and Travel. For each, set one to three year goals and identify the habits and systems you need to progress. This clarity doesn’t just keep you focused; it illuminates exactly who you need in your corner to achieve your vision.
For example, if one of your goals is to transition into a leadership role in your industry, you might realize you need to connect with mentors who’ve made similar moves or peers in adjacent fields who can offer fresh perspectives.
Implement Weekly Check-Ins
Adopt a “Plan, Do, Review” sequence. At the end of each week, reflect on what went well, what needs improvement, and what should stop. This practice keeps you accountable and helps you spot patterns in your personal life—and in your networking efforts.
Ask yourself: What conversations energized me this week? Did I make any unexpected connections? Where did I struggle to communicate effectively? These insights can guide your future interactions and help you refine your approach.
Listen for the Non-Obvious
When you’re deeply in tune with your own journey, you naturally ask questions that prompt others to reflect. This leads to more enlightening, connective conversations. In professional interactions, aim for 80 percent of the conversation to focus on the other person’s aspirations and motivations (all that inner work will pave the way).
Seek Out Unique Perspectives and Ask Questions That Dig Deeper
After meaningful interactions, give yourself time to process. Let the insights marinate before translating them into action or connections.
Remember, building a network isn’t about collecting contacts—it’s about creating an ecosystem of meaningful relationships that propel everyone forward. By starting with self-reflection, you’re not just connecting dots; you’re weaving a tapestry of opportunity and growth.
What’s one area of your life where you could benefit from more intentional reflection to enhance your connections? Share your thoughts in the comments, or reach out directly—I’d love to hear how you’re applying these ideas!
Have You Read Who Does What By How Much Yet?
Jeff Gothelf and Josh Seiden’s book, Who Does What By How Much is practical guide to OKRs for employees in all industries. It breaks down every aspect of OKRs to make them truly implementable. If you have a team (or you’re on one), you need this book—and so do your colleagues.