Personal networks are an important source of resources and information for entrepreneurs. You are going to rely on your networks more in an entrepreneurial journey than you would if you were working your way up the corporate ladder. However, most common stories on entrepreneurship do not highlight the role networking plays in the sustainability and subsequent growth of a venture. If you have generally overlooked the role of networking as an entrepreneur, it is time to rethink and get to networking.
Each individual has a preferred networking style. Please note that we call it a networking style and not a personality trait. A style is something that you can change if you desire; a trait is so embedded in you that it cannot be changed; it’s in one’s nature. We have seen many entrepreneurs who came in as shy people, waiting for their turn to seek help, and over the entrepreneurial journey evolving to be more persuasive, building their potential to network and communicate. So, do not merely call yourself an introvert. Your passion for the product shows when you speak; if you desire to see the growth of your venture, you are going to have to change yourself to suit the requirement.
Two broad aspects of the networking style could be thought of like a preference for breadth (that is meeting many people) or depth (developing deep connections with a few people). You may have a natural preference for one over the other, but it is important to keep a mix of the breadth and depth while you are engaged in venture development.
Additionally, it is important to cultivate your network connections. The most valuable connections in the initial phases may not be as valuable as those in the later phases. For example, a generic mentor may be very valuable in helping navigate the initial uncertainty. However, as the idea gets crystalized, you are more likely to benefit from domain-specific mentors who can delve into their network connections and help convert leads into businesses.
The cultivation of network connections also indicates a secondary point. Many entrepreneurs develop strategies to make their network broaden and resource acquisition efforts more productive in terms of time and effort. These are individual specific. We leave you with the thought that if you invest your attention on the appropriate networking style, you can be more productive.
Ask yourself:
How do I currently network? Is it my preference? Or have I simply assumed it to be so?
Will the current network be useful for me in building my venture further?
How do I cultivate the network that I may require for the future?
Is there a mix of connections that would best suit the requirement of the venture? If I am sure, I cannot network, can I find someone more capable to help get the networks that the venture would need?