Networking. For some, this word conjures up anxiety-inducing visions of crowded rooms full of strangers and stilted small talk.

However, when done intentionally and authentically, networking can be one of the most valuable skills any entrepreneur or business owner can develop. The connections you build can support your business in ways you never imagined.

If i’m going to be honest, I was always a big fan of networking. Especially after getting out of coding bootcamp, I was entering a whole new market… in tech. Because I didn’t graduate college with and computer science experience, that meant I also didn’t have any computer science connects (Shout out to all my STEM grads) . I saw immense value in speaking to anyone who would just let me listen because I genuinely wanted to be as immersed as possible, picking up any nugget of wisdom, completely open to the fact that, that nugget just might be a good vibe. A lot of time you find a connection on something , a hobby, a similar career field, or career aspirations. And once a connection of genuine trust is built, the network becomes integral, to building exponentially.

Here are three reasons why networking transformed my business and why it should be a non-negotiable part of your entrepreneurial strategy:

1. Generates Referrals and New Opportunities

Referrals are hands down the fastest, most effective way to grow your client base and get your offerings in front of new audiences. One strategic connection could unlock partnerships, affiliate opportunities, joint ventures and collaborations that would otherwise never have been possible.

Here are three reasons why networking transformed my business and why it should be a non-negotiable part of your entrepreneurial strategy:

2. Provides Crucial Knowledge and Insights

Simply put, every new connection you make expands what you know and how you think. Networking gives you an insider look into the hard-earned lessons, failures, shortcuts, and wins of other entrepreneurs. This sharing of wisdom can fast-track your own success.

You never know what invaluable perspective or piece of advice might shape your entire trajectory until you expand your network. Stay curious, ask meaningful questions, and build trusted relationships. The personal, candid guidance I’ve received over cups of coffee or glass of wine has been well worth the investment of time and vulnerability.

3. Adds Social Proof

Humans implicitly associate credibility and expertise with who someone associates with and what companies they have access to. Networks provide third-party validation about your capabilities before a prospect even shakes your hand.

Even just name-dropping one or two key strategic partners or mentors goes a long way towards making you magnetic and building perceived authority. So be intentional about who you create connections with and don’t shy away from leveraging those relationships as social collateral when strategically relevant. The halo effect from predecessors in your space sheds an instant spotlight on your capabilities.

The opportunities for referrals, wisdom sharing, credibility building, and partnership possibilities are immense when you dedicate yourself to nurturing mutually beneficial connections. With some effort and the right mindset focused on service over selfishness, your network can transform into your most valuable business asset.

Just remember that strategic networking is never ending. Consistency and relationship-building over the long haul make all the difference. Start having more curiosity conversations over coffee to uncover shared goals. Expand your circles through colleagues and friends willing to make trustworthy introductions. Offer generous value so others feel compelled to return the favor. Don’t undervalue the power of strategically nurturing your network!