Connections Are Everything: The Three Levels of Effective Entrepreneurial Communication
Learn how to build an effective network in three steps and avoid common mistakes that often trip up entrepreneurs.
Networking - the art of finding and cultivating valuable relationships—opens doors for entrepreneurs, providing access to essential knowledge, opportunities, and the support needed to achieve success. British anthropologist Robin Dunbar discovered that a person can maintain about 150 active connections simultaneously. He later expanded this theory, categorizing social ties into different "layers," each with its own number of contacts and level of engagement.
Learn how to build an effective network in three steps and avoid common mistakes that often trip up entrepreneurs.
Networking - the art of finding and cultivating valuable relationships—opens doors for entrepreneurs, providing access to essential knowledge, opportunities, and the support needed to achieve success. British anthropologist Robin Dunbar discovered that a person can maintain about 150 active connections simultaneously. He later expanded this theory, categorizing social ties into different "layers," each with its own number of contacts and level of engagement.
Networking is not just about building connections - it’s about creating opportunities for business growth, talent acquisition, and strategic alignment. By integrating networking into your executive search services and people strategy consulting, you can access hidden talent pools and make more informed recruitment decisions. Here is another article about Art of Networking I recommend you to read.
Dunbar Number is also known in StartUp Community as a Dunbar Wall.
Dunbar Number is also known in StartUp Community as a Dunbar Wall.
Understanding Dunbar’s Social Circles
1. Inner Circle - Your Support Group: This includes your closest friends and family. The bonds here are the strongest, with a high degree of mutual support and trust.
2. Sympathy Group: These are people you care about and who care about you, though not as deeply as those in the inner circle. These relationships are still meaningful and supportive but less intense.
3. Colleagues and Acquaintances: This circle includes work contacts and people with shared interests. You know them well, but you don’t have deep personal connections.
4. Extended Network - Casual Contacts and Dormant Ties: These are people you interact with occasionally. Some of these are "dormant ties"—connections that were once close but have faded over time. The good news? It’s never too late to rekindle these relationships if needed.
Although Dunbar's number has been debated by some researchers, the core idea remains valuable: we all need a diverse range of connections across different areas of life, especially entrepreneurs.
Why Networking Is Critical for Entrepreneurs
Having a strong network allows entrepreneurs to find the right experts, build partnerships, reach investors, boost sales, and increase visibility much more easily than those who lack such connections. But how can you create these lasting ties? Here’s a three-step approach to connecting with the right people: Leverage networking as a key tool in your talent acquisition process, giving you access to industry experts and specialists that align with your company’s needs.
Step 1: Preparation - Audit Your Current Network
Before seeking new connections, start by analyzing your existing ones. Take a close look at your current circle—who you do business with, who you spend time with after work, and who you turn to for advice.
Understand who is already in your network and who might be missing. Are you looking for guidance from a more experienced entrepreneur? Or do you need insights from a specialist in a particular field? Every new connection should have a clear purpose.
Once your goal is defined, it’s time to reach out.
Step 2: Reawakening Dormant Ties
Sometimes, the connections you need are already in your network, just dormant. A prime example is the story of Steve Chen, Chad Hurley, and Jawed Karim. While working at PayPal, they became part of the informal "PayPal Mafia" network. Even after leaving PayPal, they maintained their connections. In 2005, they reunited to create YouTube.
This story shows the value of maintaining ties, even when paths diverge. You never know how a past connection might change your future. It’s never too late to reconnect and start a new chapter.
Step 3: Leveraging Referrals
People naturally trust recommendations from those they know. A study conducted in 56 countries found that 88% of people follow the advice of friends and acquaintances. Networking through introductions is powerful, allowing you to connect with the right individuals or access valuable information through just a few degrees of separation.
Don’t hesitate to ask for introductions. The best initial contact is often facilitated by someone who already knows you.
Step 4: Expanding Your Network
To find new contacts, get active in social settings and embrace opportunities to meet others. Attend conferences, exhibitions, business breakfasts, trade shows, webinars, courses, and workshops. Engaging in such events, like any upcoming entrepreneur meet-up, offers excellent opportunities to expand your network and explore new horizons. Integrating networking into your people strategy allows you to build a robust support system, enhancing employee engagement, leadership development, and overall company culture.
Preparing for the Meeting: Key Strategies
1. Research Your Prospective Contact: Understand their background, skills, and interests. Being well-informed helps you steer the conversation in the right direction and shows your respect and genuine interest.
2. Prepare Your Introduction: The days of exchanging business cards are largely over. Now, social media profiles and personal websites act as your digital business card. Share your information beforehand to make the introduction seamless.
3. Set Clear Objectives: For example, aim to connect with five marketing entrepreneurs to exchange experiences. Having a specific goal will keep you focused and make your efforts more fruitful.
Making the Connection
Congratulations, you’ve secured a contact and arranged a meeting! Now, ensure you stay on track by balancing your objectives with a friendly, respectful approach.
1. Set the Right Tone: Professionalism is key. Avoid being overly casual unless you both agree to it. Remember, people often form impressions based on body language, gestures, and tone, so bring a positive attitude and a smile.
2. Respect Time Constraints: Understand the format and limits of your meeting. If it’s a quick chat over coffee or during a busy day, keep it concise and engaging.
3. Engage Actively: Show interest in your conversation partner. Avoid dominating the conversation with your own agenda; ask questions and listen actively.
4. Pave the Way for Future Interactions: If you agree on a follow-up, such as a collaborative project, don’t delay setting up the next meeting. If it’s just an introductory meeting, at least connect on social media to keep the door open for future interactions.
After the Meeting: Nurturing the Connection
Building solid relationships takes more than a single meeting. The real work begins after you’ve made the initial connection.
1. Document the Contact: Losing contact details scribbled on a napkin or buried in your phone is a waste. Keep a structured contact database, such as an Excel sheet, noting important details like names, job roles, and areas of expertise.
2. Seek Feedback: A simple follow-up question like “How did it go?” can help you gauge the impact of the meeting. Or send a short survey to learn if they found the interaction valuable and if they’re open to further communication.
3. Show Ongoing Interest: Just like sales, networking follows a cycle. Not every meeting will yield immediate results, but that doesn’t mean the relationship lacks value. Recommend a specialist, share a helpful book, or suggest a relevant article. Demonstrating your willingness to give will make people more inclined to help you when you need it.
My Thoughts on Networking
Networking isn’t just a one-way street; it’s a reciprocal process. The more you invest in others, the more you stand to gain in return. Many overlook the importance of maintaining and nurturing their connections, focusing only on new ones. However, the true power of networking lies in leveraging both your existing and new relationships thoughtfully.
The story of YouTube’s founders shows that past connections can unexpectedly lead to groundbreaking opportunities. It’s a reminder that every interaction counts and that relationships, even those that seem dormant, can be revitalized and lead to new success.
Networking is about building a community around you—one that will support, challenge, and help you grow. So don’t just collect business cards; build meaningful connections that last.
Ready to take your networking and recruitment strategies to the next level? Contact us to learn how our People Strategy Consulting and Talent Acquisition Solutions can help you build powerful connections and drive business success.
1. Inner Circle - Your Support Group: This includes your closest friends and family. The bonds here are the strongest, with a high degree of mutual support and trust.
2. Sympathy Group: These are people you care about and who care about you, though not as deeply as those in the inner circle. These relationships are still meaningful and supportive but less intense.
3. Colleagues and Acquaintances: This circle includes work contacts and people with shared interests. You know them well, but you don’t have deep personal connections.
4. Extended Network - Casual Contacts and Dormant Ties: These are people you interact with occasionally. Some of these are "dormant ties"—connections that were once close but have faded over time. The good news? It’s never too late to rekindle these relationships if needed.
Although Dunbar's number has been debated by some researchers, the core idea remains valuable: we all need a diverse range of connections across different areas of life, especially entrepreneurs.
Why Networking Is Critical for Entrepreneurs
Having a strong network allows entrepreneurs to find the right experts, build partnerships, reach investors, boost sales, and increase visibility much more easily than those who lack such connections. But how can you create these lasting ties? Here’s a three-step approach to connecting with the right people: Leverage networking as a key tool in your talent acquisition process, giving you access to industry experts and specialists that align with your company’s needs.
Step 1: Preparation - Audit Your Current Network
Before seeking new connections, start by analyzing your existing ones. Take a close look at your current circle—who you do business with, who you spend time with after work, and who you turn to for advice.
Understand who is already in your network and who might be missing. Are you looking for guidance from a more experienced entrepreneur? Or do you need insights from a specialist in a particular field? Every new connection should have a clear purpose.
Once your goal is defined, it’s time to reach out.
Step 2: Reawakening Dormant Ties
Sometimes, the connections you need are already in your network, just dormant. A prime example is the story of Steve Chen, Chad Hurley, and Jawed Karim. While working at PayPal, they became part of the informal "PayPal Mafia" network. Even after leaving PayPal, they maintained their connections. In 2005, they reunited to create YouTube.
This story shows the value of maintaining ties, even when paths diverge. You never know how a past connection might change your future. It’s never too late to reconnect and start a new chapter.
Step 3: Leveraging Referrals
People naturally trust recommendations from those they know. A study conducted in 56 countries found that 88% of people follow the advice of friends and acquaintances. Networking through introductions is powerful, allowing you to connect with the right individuals or access valuable information through just a few degrees of separation.
Don’t hesitate to ask for introductions. The best initial contact is often facilitated by someone who already knows you.
Step 4: Expanding Your Network
To find new contacts, get active in social settings and embrace opportunities to meet others. Attend conferences, exhibitions, business breakfasts, trade shows, webinars, courses, and workshops. Engaging in such events, like any upcoming entrepreneur meet-up, offers excellent opportunities to expand your network and explore new horizons. Integrating networking into your people strategy allows you to build a robust support system, enhancing employee engagement, leadership development, and overall company culture.
Preparing for the Meeting: Key Strategies
1. Research Your Prospective Contact: Understand their background, skills, and interests. Being well-informed helps you steer the conversation in the right direction and shows your respect and genuine interest.
2. Prepare Your Introduction: The days of exchanging business cards are largely over. Now, social media profiles and personal websites act as your digital business card. Share your information beforehand to make the introduction seamless.
3. Set Clear Objectives: For example, aim to connect with five marketing entrepreneurs to exchange experiences. Having a specific goal will keep you focused and make your efforts more fruitful.
Making the Connection
Congratulations, you’ve secured a contact and arranged a meeting! Now, ensure you stay on track by balancing your objectives with a friendly, respectful approach.
1. Set the Right Tone: Professionalism is key. Avoid being overly casual unless you both agree to it. Remember, people often form impressions based on body language, gestures, and tone, so bring a positive attitude and a smile.
2. Respect Time Constraints: Understand the format and limits of your meeting. If it’s a quick chat over coffee or during a busy day, keep it concise and engaging.
3. Engage Actively: Show interest in your conversation partner. Avoid dominating the conversation with your own agenda; ask questions and listen actively.
4. Pave the Way for Future Interactions: If you agree on a follow-up, such as a collaborative project, don’t delay setting up the next meeting. If it’s just an introductory meeting, at least connect on social media to keep the door open for future interactions.
After the Meeting: Nurturing the Connection
Building solid relationships takes more than a single meeting. The real work begins after you’ve made the initial connection.
1. Document the Contact: Losing contact details scribbled on a napkin or buried in your phone is a waste. Keep a structured contact database, such as an Excel sheet, noting important details like names, job roles, and areas of expertise.
2. Seek Feedback: A simple follow-up question like “How did it go?” can help you gauge the impact of the meeting. Or send a short survey to learn if they found the interaction valuable and if they’re open to further communication.
3. Show Ongoing Interest: Just like sales, networking follows a cycle. Not every meeting will yield immediate results, but that doesn’t mean the relationship lacks value. Recommend a specialist, share a helpful book, or suggest a relevant article. Demonstrating your willingness to give will make people more inclined to help you when you need it.
My Thoughts on Networking
Networking isn’t just a one-way street; it’s a reciprocal process. The more you invest in others, the more you stand to gain in return. Many overlook the importance of maintaining and nurturing their connections, focusing only on new ones. However, the true power of networking lies in leveraging both your existing and new relationships thoughtfully.
The story of YouTube’s founders shows that past connections can unexpectedly lead to groundbreaking opportunities. It’s a reminder that every interaction counts and that relationships, even those that seem dormant, can be revitalized and lead to new success.
Networking is about building a community around you—one that will support, challenge, and help you grow. So don’t just collect business cards; build meaningful connections that last.
Ready to take your networking and recruitment strategies to the next level? Contact us to learn how our People Strategy Consulting and Talent Acquisition Solutions can help you build powerful connections and drive business success.
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