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I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : Management Toolkit / Entrepreneurism / Economy Central by Falcon Bank MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT
(Net)work It The most effective professional networking focuses on getting engaged and building relationships. By A.J. Kaufman
impromptu conversations and follow-up.” Brower stresses that the real benefit comes the more you show up and engage over time — it doesn’t just happen right away. “Networking isn’t about quick wins — it’s about demonstrating competence, offering support, and building trust over time,” Brower said. He recommends focusing on building long-term, genuine connections, both professionally and through community engagement. He always tries to be helpful, no matter what the situation is. Seize Every Opportunity
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rofessional networking. That phrase, albeit familiar, can also be vague. Surely, we could all compile a list of the “Top 20 reasons networking is important” based on our experiences, but does that help? Networking is a process that can expand your knowledge by interacting with other professionals, often within your career field. It involves establishing, building and maintaining relationships, and is not easy to master, especially if you are just starting to build your network. More seasoned professionals have continuously
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expanded their networking circles through new people they meet and conduct business with. Networking also helps build influence and career growth. Build Relationships
“I’ve found that networking works best when you focus on contributing rather than just what you can get,” Michael Brower, an agent with American Family Insurance in St. Cloud, said. “Personally, I find the most value in building connections through my active participation in Chamber committees, regular attendance at events, and through
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Jason Miller, a broker/owner who founded Trust Real Estate Company this year, agrees that networking is at the heart of growing a small business, but adds that strategy plays a critical role in its success. “My primary objective in networking has always been quality over quantity,” he said. “Too often, people attend networking events aiming to make as many connections as possible. I prefer to focus on a few meaningful connections and grow my professional network organically.” Miller avoids thinking about how he can benefit, instead focusing on how he can help those he’s connecting with.
“Providing value to others is a powerful tool that fosters loyalty and strengthens both personal and professional networks.” Miller also believes effective networking can happen anywhere. “By staying actively involved in my community and industry, people have come to know me as a person — who I am and that I’m not always just looking to ‘make a sale,’ ” he said, adding he participates in traditional networking opportunities, like the Saint Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce and a weekly business networking group. Miller also engages with various nonprofits, his children’s schools and coaching youth sports. He has found that simply by being an active and positive member of the community, others have come to know who he is and what he does. Have a Plan
Sarah Dean, director for Central Minnesota's Scouting America Exploring program, believes in talking to people and learning through experiences. What is her best tip? “Show up at things. You never meet anyone in your office. Never use the Zoom option if there is an in-person one,” Dean said. Dean also recommends mentally preparing and psyching yourself up before going into a