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Networking with Intention

As a Black woman entrepreneur, networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards; it’s about building meaningful connections that align with your values and elevate your goals. Intentional networking fosters relationships that provide support, collaboration opportunities, and inspiration. Let’s explore how you can network with strength, resilience, and sparkle to grow your community and your business.

Strength: Building Authentic Relationships

The foundation of intentional networking is authenticity. Focus on building relationships with people and organizations that resonate with your mission and vision.

  • Step 1: Define your networking goals. Are you seeking mentors, clients, collaborators, or resources?
  • Step 2: Research networking events, conferences, and online communities that align with your industry or interests.

Example: Tamara, a boutique owner, attended a local small business expo with the goal of finding eco-conscious suppliers. She connected with a vendor whose values aligned with her own, leading to a partnership that reduced her costs and increased her sustainability.

Tip: Approach networking with curiosity and an open mind. Focus on mutual benefits rather than personal gain.

Research Insight: Authentic connections foster trust and are more likely to result in lasting, impactful relationships (Ibarra & Hunter, 2007).

Resilience: Overcoming Networking Challenges

Networking can be intimidating, especially in unfamiliar settings. Resilience means pushing past initial discomfort and focusing on the value of the connections you’re building.

  • Step 1: Prepare a clear, confident introduction that communicates your expertise and goals.
  • Step 2: Set a goal to meet at least three new people at each event or interaction.

Example: Denise, a freelance photographer, was nervous about attending her first networking event. She prepared a 30-second elevator pitch and set a goal to exchange contact information with three people. By the end of the evening, she had booked a client and found a mentor.

Tip: Follow up with new contacts within 48 hours to maintain momentum and show appreciation for the connection.

Research Insight: Effective follow-up after networking events significantly increases the likelihood of establishing valuable connections (Casciaro et al., 2014).

Sparkle: Celebrating the Power of Your Network

Your sparkle shines brightest when you celebrate the connections you’ve made and share your journey with others. Networking isn’t just about what you gain; it’s about creating a vibrant, supportive community.

  • Step 1: Share your networking wins with your audience or team to inspire others to engage meaningfully.
  • Step 2: Be a connector by introducing people in your network to each other when opportunities align.

Example: Alicia, a life coach, celebrated her networking success by hosting a virtual networking event for her clients and peers. This event strengthened her community and reinforced her brand’s mission.

Tip: Keep a list of your professional connections and revisit it regularly to explore potential collaborations.

Research Insight: Celebrating and nurturing your network leads to greater satisfaction and professional growth (Granovetter, 1973).

Practical Steps to Network with Intention

  1. Be Authentic: Focus on building meaningful, values-based relationships.
  2. Prepare and Follow Up: Be confident in your approach and maintain connections.
  3. Celebrate Your Network: Share your wins and support others in your community.

Networking with intention helps you grow both personally and professionally. Let your strength, resilience, and sparkle lead the way as you build a powerful network that reflects your mission.

Subscribe to this blog and join our community of women who celebrate themselves and each other. Don’t forget to grab your copy of The Entrepreneurs’ Devotional to meditate on your journey and focus on your goals. #SparkleSparkle


Dr. ReRe



References

Casciaro, T., Gino, F., & Kouchaki, M. (2014). The contamination effects of building instrumental ties: How networking can make us feel dirty. Administrative Science Quarterly, 59(4), 705–735.

Granovetter, M. S. (1973). The strength of weak ties. American Journal of Sociology, 78(6), 1360–1380.

Ibarra, H., & Hunter, M. (2007). How leaders create and use networks. Harvard Business Review, 85(1), 40–47. 

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