Ian Navarro’s Post

Next week I will have the privilege of spending three days with many RSM senior associates as they focus on developing their consulting skills and I'm excited be leading a session on the importance of networking for their career. It is a scary concept for some, but it doesn't have to be. We just need to rethink what networking really should be. We need to shed the transactional nature of networking and strive to build connections. Growing your network authentically by having a genuine interest in others builds relationships, but it also is an opportunity to learn. My own network teaches me something new almost daily, helping me be a better professional, because I've made connections with those who I admire, who challenge me to think differently, and who do really good work. Sure, it can feel awkward trying to network in a room full of peers and partners. I get that. But leading with curiosity and a desire to learn about others is the first step to building those important connections that one day could lead to a new idea, mentor, client or even career opportunity. I can't wait to grow my network next week as we learn from one another. I have so many questions! https://lnkd.in/eFAJJrdq

While I’m nowhere near the level of super connectors listed below, I try to spend a fair amount of time each week making new connections while supporting our local coffee shops and maintaining a 0.08% caffeine level. A topic which frequently arises is “good” networking groups/events. I’ve been told there are 60+ networking groups in the Twin Cities. While certainly not all inclusive here’s a summary of the ones I’m familiar with or attended (or have heard really good things about). I attempted to lump into categories but some fall under several: 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 ▪ Harbinger Executive Alliance ▪ Wooddale Church Job Transition Group ▪ MN Crossroads Career Network ▪ Eagle Group (veteran focused) ▪ Saturday Networking with Lisa & Lenny 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥/𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 ▪ Twin Cities Small & Emerging Growth Companies ▪ Private Directors Association ▪ Entrepreneurs Organization ▪ Association for Corporate Growth ▪ Harbinger Executive Leadership Hub 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 ▪ Manufacturers Alliance ▪ Minnesota Precision Manufacturing Association ▪ Twin Cities Manufacturing Group 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥/𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡 ▪ Breakthrough Table ▪ Coalition9 ▪ Purpose Driven Coffee + Best Lunch Ever 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 ▪ Voyageur U ▪ Fractional United 𝐀 𝐛𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 ▪ Networking with Purpose ▪ Cocktails & Conversations ▪ Chambers of Commerce (MN, SW Metro, Twin Cities North) I was given a piece of advice when trying to decide whether an event is worthwhile or not and that is to embrace a Go-Giver mindset.  Approach these events from the perspective of how you might help someone else verses what you personally hope to gain. With this approach every event has the potential to be a rewarding one. Unless you're going to a financial networking event...in that case you might be in trouble 🙂 Leonard Newman Kathleen Pytleski Steve Blexrud Scott Grausnick Lisa Fraga Ben Nicholas Ryan Wahlund, JD John Arms Tim Voit Dan Neitz Aaron Eggert Mick White Steve Swain Jennifer Zick Erik Therwanger

Exactly. The value exchange is important. Go with the value you bring to the table first, in mind.

Professional networking should not feel transactional. Rather, it's about building a connection over time and not just reaching out when you want something. There should be something in the relationship for both parties. Not everyone seems to realise that, however, writes Paul Carrick Brunson, a relationship expert who counts TV icon Oprah Winfrey as a previous boss. Too many people go in for the 'ask' too soon, he says, which can come across as more like 'using'.    "Daily, I receive messages like this (from someone I've never met): Hi Paul, I’m working on an incredible new project. Can you introduce me to Oprah for funding or partnership? Do they really expect my reply to be: Sure, let me email her immediately and make an introduction?" Keep in mind that the number one rule is reciprocity, says Brunson. "Sure, networking is about getting what you want but it’s also about making sure the people who are important to you get what they want, too." Read his full post: https://lnkd.in/e7se9Qss 💭 What other tips do you have for building professional relationships? Let us know in the comments.

Good points here. Any relationship (work or personal) is like a bank account: you have to make deposits first, before making any withdrawals, and then ensure that the withdrawals don’t exceed the amount in the account.

What's on my mind after Denver Start-Up Week: NETWORKING UP: HOW TO CONNECT WITH THE BIG FISH (WITHOUT BEING A BOTTOM FEEDER)    Networking – we love it or loathe it – but, either way, it’s unavoidable. And the really high stakes opportunities where you’re networking with a big kahuna can feel a lot like a sweaty upper lip and "Oh god, how do I talk to these people without sounding like a desperate fan?"   As someone who's fumbled her way through more networking events than I care to admit, here's what I do to connect with industry leaders without the cringe:   1.    The "Genuine Interest" Approach: Actually care about what they do. Revolutionary, I know.    2.    The "Value First" Strategy: Offer something before asking for anything. Even if it's just a relevant article or insight.   3.    The "Common Ground" Technique: Find shared interests beyond work. Maybe you both love obscure 80s movies or have a weird fascination with pigeons.   4.    The "Question Master" Tactic: Ask thoughtful questions. People love talking about themselves. Let them.   5.    The "Follow-Up" Rule: Send a personalized message after meeting. Reference something specific from your conversation. Show you were actually listening.   6.    The "Long Game" Mindset: Build relationships, not a contact list. Quality over quantity, always.   And remember, networking isn't about collecting business cards like Beanie Babies. It's about building genuine connections.

"Networking is not a one-way street" encapsulates the essence of building meaningful connections and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of mutual exchange and reciprocity in networking efforts. In any networking interaction, it's essential to recognize that it's not just about what you can gain from others, but also what you can offer and contribute. True networking involves genuine engagement, active listening, and a willingness to help others without expecting immediate returns. By understanding that networking is a two-way process, you foster trust, respect, and long-term relationships. It's about building a community where everyone supports and uplifts each other, creating opportunities for growth and collaboration. So, whether you're seeking advice, mentorship, or professional opportunities, remember to approach networking as a collaborative endeavor where both parties benefit.

When it comes to networking, especially within our vibrant SME, distribution, and e-commerce communities, the journey is just as important as the destination. It’s tempting to reach out with our needs and wants at the forefront, but the essence of true networking lies in nurturing relationships over time, much like a gardener tends to their plants with care and attention, without rushing the growth process. Here's a thought to ponder: instead of leading with the "ask," what if we shifted our approach to lead with the "give"? Imagine the depth and strength of connections formed when our first instinct is to offer support, share knowledge, or lend a hand without an immediate expectation of something in return. The principle of reciprocity—giving before receiving—can transform our networking strategy from transactional encounters to meaningful exchanges. By investing in our relationships this way, we not only enrich our professional network but also cultivate an environment of mutual support and generosity.

Networking in the Modern Age of Digital Media In today’s fast paced world of social media, staying relevant means more than just knowing about trends in passing. It’s about constantly evolving, improving yourself, and making learning a staple in your daily life. Whether you’re the CEO of a F500 company, or just starting out like me, understanding the changing world around you will open doors to new opportunities and make you more effective in your job. I recently listened to an audiobook of the most important piece of literature on communication and networking, How to Win Friends and Influence People, by Dale Carnegie. It completely transformed how I think about business and people. Some portions of the book have not stood the test of time, yet, the vast majority of it is still true today, even though most, if not all, of our interactions are online. Networking is no longer just about meeting people and trying to extract something from them, if it ever was; it’s about what you can do to help others to grow yourself both personally and professionally. I’d love to hear about how others are networking in this digital age. Are you doing better? Are you doing worse? I would love to hear your thoughts. Let us start a discussion so we can learn from each other.

I couldn't agree more, Paul 🫡✨ In my journey of networking and building connections, I've come to realise the immense value of learning from like-minded individuals. There's so much we can gain by supporting each other and fostering a mutually beneficial and respectful relationship. That's why, whenever I meet someone new, I make it a point to extend my support and let them know that I'm here for them, should they ever need it. Networking is not just about what I can gain from others. It's about the connections we build and the collective growth we achieve. Together, we learn, support, and uplift one another, without expecting anything in return. However, there have been instances where I've reached out for support and unfortunately received no response. It's disheartening when the same level of engagement and support isn't reciprocated. That's why I believe in setting effective boundaries for personal wellbeing, professional performance, and growth. If a connection consistently fails to engage and support me, despite my efforts, I might choose to archive that connection. It's not about burning bridges, but rather acknowledging that the relationship isn't mutually respectful. I always appreciate it when people have the courage to ask me why they've been archived. In such cases, I believe in being candid and explaining my perspective. It's important to have open and honest communication, even when it involves difficult or courageous conversations. By doing so, we can foster an environment of growth and understanding. So, I urge us all continue to network with compassion and professionalism and support each other, learn together, and create a community of like-minded individuals who genuinely care for one another's wellbeing and growth. Together, we can achieve amazing things! #Networking #Support #Growth #MutualRespect #ProfessionalCompassion