If you have been wondering whether building a business network will help you, I want to tell you firsthand that it will!

Just the other day, I had the chance to connect with three people while on my morning run. These people had nothing in common with each other, yet I made an individual connection with each of them. Maybe it will go somewhere, and maybe it won’t. But what matters is that I stepped out of my comfort zone and added some new people to my network.

The Power of Building a Network

No matter what stage of life you are in, building a business network can benefit you! Maybe you are trying to find a new job, you’re retiring, you’re an entrepreneur, or maybe you are just ready to level up in life. Whatever the case, networking is a powerful tool that you want to have in your toolkit!

There is a quote that says, “your network is your net worth.” I find this to be so true! Who you choose to surround yourself with makes all the difference. You never know who could have exactly what you are looking for, or whose problems you could solve. Even if all you are doing is connecting, there is always a chance that you could be exactly what they need in the future.

The Three Connections I Made (in one hour while on my run!)

When developing a professional support network, you want to put yourself out there as much as you can!

In the eight miles I ran the other day, I had the chance to chat with three completely different people. I could have kept my head down and continued to listen to my audiobook, but I decided to put myself out there and reach out to each of these individuals.

The first person I met was the coach of a women’s college rowing team. The team was practicing by the water, and I decided to stop and introduce myself. It is definitely scary putting yourself out there, but I knew that this coach and these women were exactly the people that I love to help!

The second person actually reached out to me! She smiled and said good morning when I ran past. I was so impressed that she acknowledged me that I turned around to talk to her. I found out that she was about to do a leadership and communication presentation and we both had a connection to New York! Creating connections with people you share interests with is also a great way to start building a business network.

Lastly, I met a fellow military member near the end of my run. We stopped to chat and connect on Linkedin, and I realized that he still didn’t even have a profile picture up! He was getting ready to retire from the military soon (again, another connection!), and I was already thinking of the people that I could send his way to help with this new life transition.

Start Early and Start Now

If you are ready to start building a business network, you need to start now! There is no time like the present to meet new people and start building a network.

It might be uncomfortable. Trust me, it’s still scary for me too! But you never know who you could help or who could help you. The connections you build today could help you for years to come!

Here are some tips if you are looking to start building a business network:

1. Wear something that makes you stand out and can be a connection point

2. Find somewhere local (like a coffee shop) to meet new people

3. Go to networking conventions

4. Don’t discount people who are in your same field… they can still provide valuable insight and connection!

5. Think about how you can help others you are networking with, not just how they can help you

6. Think of the people already in your network who you can send your new connections to

Building a business network takes work and confidence, but it really pays off! Become an expert in your field and share that knowledge with the people you meet. Let’s share our gifts, connect, and help each other. It takes intention and planning, but it is so worth it!

If you want to connect with me, you can find me on Linkedin! I also have a great group fitness program, The Million Dollar Body Academy starting soon! You won’t want to miss out on this chance to make connections, gain confidence, and establish healthy, life-long habits!

Looking for more ways to reach your goals and become your best self? Make sure to subscribe to the blog!