Relationships, Not Just Cards – Network Like a Pro

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You know what networking isn't?

It isn't awkwardly handing out business cards like free gifts at a wedding. It's not about scanning QR codes like you're collecting Pokémon.

Networking, my friend, is a bit more sophisticated than that. It’s like farming—you don’t plant the seed one day and harvest the next. It’s about cultivating, nurturing, and investing in people.

And trust me, whether you’re an entrepreneur or an employee, the power of relationships can take you from meh to magnificent.

The Myth of Business Cards & Instant Results

We’ve all been there. You're at some conference or networking event, awkwardly shuffling around, holding a stack of business cards like they’re the golden tickets to Willy Wonka’s factory. Spoiler alert: they aren’t.

In fact, collecting business cards is probably the worst approach to networking. People won’t remember you because you handed them a card; they’ll remember you if you sparked a conversation worth remembering. 

Think of it as dating (without the romantic drama). You can’t just exchange numbers and expect a proposal the next day. You’ve got to build a relationship!

The harsh truth is, most people approach networking like it’s a speed dating. 

But, it’s not about how many business cards you collect, it’s about how many relationships you cultivate.

Instead of playing the card-counting game, focus on conversations that matter, that last beyond that 5-minute “Hi, what do you do?” interaction.

Networking: The Secret Sauce for Employees & Entrepreneurs

Networking is like idli sambar—it works just as well for the solo entrepreneur as it does for the salaried employee. Why? Because whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder or hustling for your startup, it’s people who open doors, not resumes or fancy websites.

The Employee Advantage: A Step Beyond Your JD

If you think networking is just for startup founders, think again. Even as an employee, your career won’t take off on autopilot just because you’re good at your job.

I mean, sure, you’re hitting your KPIs, getting a pat on the back from your boss, but who’s going to talk about you outside the four walls of your office? That’s where your network comes in.

Building relationships means that the next time your dream job opens up, it won’t just be a job posting you apply to—it might be a call you get because someone in your network thinks you’re perfect for the role.

The Entrepreneur’s Advantage: Projects, Mentors & More

For entrepreneurs, networking is like having an army of advisors without paying a dime for consulting. Imagine having a go-to person for every business challenge. That’s what networking gives you.

And let me give you an example, one that’s a little close to home. I met Arun Prakash, CEO of GUVI Geek Network, at a Rotaract Conference in February 2024. We started off talking casually, you know, the usual—work, life, business.

I asked him for some advice on my own business, just a friendly exchange of thoughts. No biggie, right? But little did I know that the seeds of that conversation would sprout into something major.

Fast-forward to May, and what started as a simple chat turned into a job offer—Branding Head at GUVI. Boom. Doors opened that I didn’t even know existed.

So, whether you’re running a startup or climbing the corporate ladder, those seemingly small connections today can turn into massive opportunities tomorrow.

Just like how a WhatsApp group invite can turn into free biryani.

More Than Just Job Opportunities: Mentorship & Growth

Opportunities aren’t the only thing that come from networking. There’s something just as valuable—mentorship. Having someone who’s already been where you want to go, who can guide you through the murky waters of entrepreneurship or career transitions, is priceless.

Think of mentors as cheat codes for life. They help you skip the rookie mistakes and give you shortcuts you won’t find on Google. These relationships often start with simple networking—maybe an introduction at a conference, a message on LinkedIn, or a mutual friend. The magic happens when you genuinely connect, and they see you as someone worth investing in.

A mentor can also elevate your personal brand. And if you’re still living under the rock that says, “personal branding is only for influencers,” wake up. 

Whether you’re pitching for clients or aiming for that dream role, your brand is what people remember about you when you leave the room.

Your Personal Brand = Career Security

Now here’s the thing—long-term career security doesn’t come from being just good at your job. Machines are good at jobs too.

Career security comes from being someone that people want to work with. That’s where networking truly shines.

When you build a strong network, people aren’t just aware of your skills; they see you as a problem-solver, a resource, someone with a personal brand that stands out.

And when people remember you for who you are (not just what you do), they’ll think of you when the right opportunity comes along—whether it’s a new project, a job offer, or even an investment.

Final Takeaway: Networking is a Long Game

So here’s the kicker—networking isn’t about what you can get today. It’s about building relationships that will continue to pay off over time. The Arun example wasn’t a one-off.

The doors networking can open aren’t just about projects or jobs; they’re about building a legacy, a career that’s secure because it’s built on relationships, not just credentials.

Whether you're an entrepreneur or an employee, the real ROI of networking is career security. So go out there, cultivate real relationships, and watch as your personal brand turns into your best investment.

In short: Stop collecting business cards. Start collecting relationships.