Business Networking - Masters
Happy Friday — a quick reminder about the easy first step (and the everyday practice) of Business Networking.
The art of Business Networking — the easy first step and the day-to-day
Let's start with the easy part. When you meet someone new, follow up. I always try to connect on LinkedIn, send a text, or write an email. Something simple: Nice to meet you / connect with you! — and then a personal note. Looking forward to seeing you at the next event.
That small step matters more than people think.
But here's what I've learned over 25 years of doing this:
Every contact is unique. I have a contract with my employer to market and sell my solution— but my first priority is always to build my reputation and my network. My goal with every new contact is to inspire, to help, and hopefully to build a long-lasting connection. Marketing my solution comes second. So I take the time to understand what the other person cares about, and I share stories, whitepapers, and links relevant to them — not just to me. And I never make it feel like a sales pitch.
Use what LinkedIn gives you. Birthdays, for example. Now — if you're a hardcore sales person, skip this. But if you genuinely care about your network like I do, send the birthday wish. Mean it. Add a personal line: Remember when we... The key word is genuine. If it's a tactic, people feel it.
I help a lot of contacts find new jobs and make new connections. But there's something important here: always put that on the goodwill account — never the I-own-you account. If you're helping because you expect something back, either charge a fair fee or be honest with yourself about your motives. A true networker shares freely, or says no. And saying no is also part of networking. My network has been built since 1999. I don't share contacts with just anyone — only with people who can genuinely help them or add something to their professional life.
True story — With the Masters on now, I’m reminded of working with Alex Noren
Years ago I worked as an agent alongside Alex Norén's brother (Andreas). We were at the World Tour Finals in Dubai — in the restaurant, on the range, meeting players and fellow agents. I met an agent who closed every deal with a handshake. Not a contract. A handshake. At that level, with players and major sponsors. I've never forgotten it. That's only possible when your reputation is completely bulletproof — when trust is the contract.
That's what real networking builds. Not a database of contacts. A reputation that walks into the room before you do.