Are you in control of your networking, or is your networking controlling you? This is a question worth pondering, especially if you're a small business owner or professional. Networking can be a powerful tool for growth and opportunity, but without the right approach, it can feel like a constant scramble with little return. So, how can you make sure you're the one steering the ship?
Signs Your Networking Is Controlling You
If you feel overwhelmed by networking commitments—constantly attending events, chasing connections, or feeling like you're not gaining any real traction—it may be a sign that your networking is running you, not the other way around. Here are some key signs:
You're saying "yes" to every event: Denver is buzzing with networking opportunities, from Chamber of Commerce luncheons to happy hours. But if you're spreading yourself too thin and attending every event, you may not be getting the quality connections you need.
You're not intentional about follow-ups: After exchanging business cards, do you follow up with meaningful conversations, or are those cards just collecting dust on your desk? If you're not taking charge of building deeper relationships, you're likely missing out on real business growth.
You're always “networking” but not “connecting”: Are you meeting lots of people but struggling to form lasting relationships? Surface-level connections often don’t lead to valuable partnerships or referrals. Without depth, networking can turn into a time-sink.
Your networking feels transactional: If your mindset is solely focused on what you can get, rather than what you can give, networking becomes more about tallying sales prospects than forming genuine connections.
Shifting the Power: How to Take Control of Your Networking
Networking works best when it’s done with intention and purpose. Here’s how to get back in the driver’s seat:
Define your purpose: Ask yourself: Why are you networking in the first place? Are you looking for new clients, trusted advisors, or referral partners? When you’re clear on what you want, you can focus your efforts on the right events and people.
Be selective with your time: Instead of trying to be everywhere, be strategic about where you show up. Choose groups or events where your target audience or ideal connections are likely to be. This can make a huge difference in the quality of your network.
In Denver, for instance, consider joining groups that align with your goals, whether that's a B2B-oriented network or industry-specific meetups. Focus on deepening relationships with the right people rather than spreading yourself thin.
Be proactive with follow-ups: Building a strong network requires nurturing. Take the time to follow up after an event with a personalized message or set up a coffee meeting to discuss how you can help each other. Meaningful relationships don’t happen by chance.
Focus on giving, not just getting: Networking is a two-way street. When you shift your mindset toward how you can add value to others, the connections you make will be more genuine, and ultimately, more fruitful. This could mean sharing resources, introducing people, or simply being a good listener.
Measure your outcomes: Evaluate your networking efforts regularly. Are you getting more referrals? Building a network of trusted advisors? If not, it may be time to adjust your strategy. Taking stock of what’s working and what’s not allows you to tweak your approach so that your networking activities align with your business goals.
Conclusion
When done right, networking is a powerful tool to build a circle of trusted partners who support your business growth. But if you’re not careful, it can become overwhelming and unproductive. By being strategic, intentional, and focused on long-term relationships rather than quick wins, you can regain control of your networking—and use it to achieve your professional goals.
So, next time you’re heading to a networking event, ask yourself: "Am I in control of this, or is it controlling me?" The answer will help you take your networking to the next level.
Ready to take control of your networking and connect with a community of like-minded professionals?
Visit Network in Action Denver and discover how our exclusive, relationship-driven networking groups can help you build meaningful connections and grow your business.
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