Networking is Much More Than Building Business

by Chris Borja

While networking is known as a great way to grow business, there’s a hidden benefit that most overlook. That’s the ability to create thriving communities!

Networking is different from many growth and sales strategies because it places much more emphasis on creating and maintaining genuine relationships.

Additionally, networking causes one’s circle of influence to continue expanding and growing with each and every conversation and introduction.

Because of this, new pathways can develop through working together as a team and community rather than as an individual.

Here are 3 ways that networking creates thriving communities.

First of all, networking brings people together. Business professionals rely on meeting new people in order to accomplish their organizational goals.

This becomes the catalyst for new opportunities and endless possibilities! Imagine all of the various places that the business community gathers on a daily basis across our city.

There are networking opportunities happening all over Columbus from morning ‘til night every day of the week! Think about how many people are gathering at any given time for conferences, referral groups, associations, non-profit organizations, networking groups, chambers of commerce, and clubs!

A quick Google search will reveal more opportunities to connect with new people than you have time for! Networking brings people together!

Second, networking encourages diversity! Just as a football team with only quarterbacks wouldn’t be successful, neither would a community without diversity. We need diversity in order to thrive!

Diversity includes the community members’ background, race, age, religion, political views, skills, talents, passions, insights, connections, resources, finances, and life experiences.

Everyone brings these elements to the table, adding value to the community! While a common theme in the media is to cause division because of our differences, these differences and the diversity among us is actually our strength!

Third, networking encourages intentional collaboration and the sharing of resources.

In the business world, we seek to give and receive “referrals.” Referrals are typically the best source for new customers and clients. A good business community openly shares referrals back and forth because of the trust and relationship created between its members.

Networking and collaboration helps for-profit businesses, non-profit organizations, and individual members of the community!

When well-connected communities share their resources and work together, they can do so much more than survive…

Instead, they thrive!

Chris Borja