Innovative Networking Practices

Are we realising the potential of our networks to make change happen? Most innovation emerges from collaborative projects where teams openly “borrow” & adapt each other’s (often small but powerful) ideas. Many networks & communities of practice could achieve so much more by experimenting together around collective priorities to generate & share new solutions. This is beyond spreading known “best” or “good” practices. It is about innovating to design new solutions collectively. So I appreciated this piece from Ed Morrison about three different kinds of networks: - Advocacy networks are communities that seek to mobilise people, creating pressure to shift policies, priorities or messages in a particular direction. Their aim is to connect & influence rather than to change how they themselves work. - Learning networks are communities of practice. They share knowledge, compare practice & build shared capability. Learning networks often excel at spread & improvement of existing practice, but only sometimes move into structured innovation work. - Innovating (or transforming) networks are communities that combine their assets - ideas, relationships, data, capabilities - to create new value that none could produce alone. They manage collaboration as a process of experimentation: agreeing a shared outcome, running multiple connected tests of change, learning by doing & amplifying what works across the network. https://lnkd.in/edbbexiG. Every learning network has the potential to become an innovating/transforming network. Some actions to enable this: 1. Build a foundation of strong, trusting relationships within the network, understanding each member’s starting point & motivation for change 2. Focus on helping each other to succeed; listen to each others’ stories & plans, co-coach, give advice to each other & build shared inquiry 3. Move from “sharing” or “raising awareness” to some concrete outcomes the network want to change together through collective experimentation 4. Agree some simple norms for the network so that members help each other to make progress, make it safe to try things, fail fast & share incomplete work 5. Encourage multiple, parallel tests of change around similar outcome so projects can “steal with pride” from one another & quickly refine promising ideas 6. Put simple routines in place for noticing patterns (what is shifting where & why), capturing these insights & amplifying them across the network 7. Add additional success metrics including innovations tested, adapted & adopted in multiple places Graphic by Ed Morrison. Content with added inspiration from June Holley.

Why playing it safe in networking won’t get you noticed. In business, everyone talks about the importance of  networking, but most people stick to the same formula: coffee meetings, lunches, or maybe a round of golf. But here’s the thing—real, lasting connections are built  when you break out of the mold and create memorable,  one-of-a-kind experiences. That’s why I believe in networking beyond the ordinary. For me, it’s not just about exchanging business cards;  it’s about creating shared experiences. One of my favorite ways to build stronger relationships  is by taking clients and business partners to a horse race. Not your typical networking event, right? That’s exactly the point. Here’s why offering unique experiences  like this makes you memorable: ➡️ 𝗜𝘁 𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗿𝘀 When you’re outside of the traditional business  setting, people tend to relax. A casual environment, especially one filled with  excitement like a horse race, allows for more  authentic conversations. ➡️ 𝗜𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝗻𝗱𝘀 Shared experiences, especially those that involve fun  or adventure, tend to create stronger connections. You’re no longer just discussing business;  you’re building rapport on a personal level. That makes it easier to trust one another, which  is key in long-term business relationships. ➡️ 𝗜𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗔𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 Let’s be honest—how many people remember  yet another coffee meeting? Taking a client or partner to something different, like  a race or a local event, makes you stand out. When they think back to the networking experience,  they’ll remember the person who offered  something truly unique. ➡️ 𝗜𝘁 𝗘𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Activities like horse racing or other non-business  settings lead to conversations that are more fluid. People are more likely to open up, be themselves,  and share their thoughts freely, which can reveal  opportunities and ideas that might not come out  in a traditional meeting. ➡️ 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗙𝘂𝗻! Let’s not forget—people enjoy working  with those they like. Creating an enjoyable networking environment creates  positive associations, making others more likely to want  to work with you again. At the end of the day, it’s the experiences you share that  help build trust and lasting business relationships. So next time you’re thinking about networking,  try something uncommon. You might be surprised by how far a little  fun can go in making you unforgettable.

Networking for Introverts Lessons from my Singapore Management University workshop Networking advice often sounds the same: "Speak up, hand out business cards, follow up within 24 hours." Useful, yes—but let's take it a step further. Here’s the advice that’s helped even the shyest professionals stand out: 1️⃣ Do Recon on Attendees (Without Being Creepy) Before events, research key attendees or speakers on LinkedIn. Note shared interests or recent achievements to weave into conversations. And if Wi-Fi is spotty at events? Save profiles offline for reference. Being prepared makes even the most introverted among us feel in control. 2️⃣ Ask Thoughtful, Unexpected Questions After building some quick rapport, try asking: "What’s the most exciting thing happening in your industry right now?" "If you weren’t in [current role], what would you be doing?" It shows genuine curiosity and sparks meaningful conversations. 3️⃣ It’s not about you—it’s about them. Practice active listening to uncover their hidden professional needs. Ask questions like, “What’s been your biggest challenge this year?” and offer insights or solutions. Giving value leaves a lasting impression. Networking doesn’t have to feel forced or superficial. Introverts can thrive by leveraging their strengths—preparation, thoughtfulness, and a genuine desire to connect. What’s one unorthodox networking tip that’s worked for you? Share it in the comments! 👇

Meaningful partnerships are important to me. Lately, a significant portion of my work has involved connecting professionals in the healthcare innovation sector. My trip to Dallas last week started with organic introductions I made in 2024. Some may view making business introductions as a simple and quick process. The process takes time, and time has a cost. In healthcare, innovation doesn’t thrive in isolation; it takes the right connections to move ideas forward. But real impact happens when we prioritize relational partnerships over transactional exchanges. It’s about building trust, fostering mutual respect, and creating opportunities that solve real problems. Here are my thoughts on how to make meaningful introductions: ✅ Lead with Value, Not Ego. Don’t focus on what’s in it for you. Prioritize how both sides benefit from the introduction. Relationships built on genuine value last longer and go further. ✅ Know the Gaps Before You Fill Them. Understand the pain points of both parties. High-impact connections happen when you address a critical need or opportunity. ✅ Vet Ruthlessly, Introduce Thoughtfully. Not every connection is worth making. Be selective and introduce only when there’s a clear alignment of values, goals, and capabilities. Protect the integrity of your network. ✅ Do Your Homework. Before making an introduction, ensure you have a thorough understanding of both parties to effectively explain why the connection is significant. ✅ Frame the Introduction with Context. Set the stage. Provide both parties with sufficient background information to understand the relevance and potential of the relationship. Clarity upfront fosters respect and avoids wasted time. ✅ Stay in the Loop (But Don’t Hover). Follow up to see if the introduction was valuable, but don’t micromanage the outcome. Relationships that thrive are built on trust, not control. ✅ Be a Problem Solver, Not Just a Connector. Your role doesn’t end with the introduction. Be available to offer insights or guidance if needed as the relationship develops. ✅ Protect Your Network’s Trust. Introduce only when it makes sense. One mismatched connection can erode trust and weaken your credibility. Guard your network’s reputation as carefully as your own. ✅ Build for the Long Game. Relational partnerships aren’t built overnight. Consistently show up, add value, and nurture trust over time. Sustainable impact comes from authentic, long-term connections. ✅ Celebrate the Wins. When a connection you made leads to something great, acknowledge it. Recognize the impact and reinforce the power of trusted relationships. Relational partnerships move healthcare forward. When trust and respect are the foundation, introductions become catalysts for real change. If you’re serious about advancing innovation, be intentional with your connections. It’s not about quantity. It’s about quality, trust, and lasting impact. 🔥 #healthcareonlinkedin #partnerships #innovation #sme

Networking Advice That Actually Works: Most people approach networking like a checklist. More events. More cold messages. More random connections. But real opportunities don’t come from volume. They come from relationships built slowly, without pressure. After years of working with founders, engineers, clients, and mentors, These are the habits that quietly created the strongest connections for me: 1️⃣ Start With Interest, Not an Agenda → Ask what they’re working on. → Listen to what’s hard, not just what’s impressive. → People relax when they don’t feel “pitched.” 2️⃣ One Thoughtful Message Beats Mass Outreach → Skip copy-paste intros. → Mention something specific you noticed. → Personal effort is rare and memorable. 3️⃣ Remember People Beyond the Chat → Jot down small details after conversations. → A role change. A project. A goal. → Follow up months later. That’s where trust begins. 4️⃣ Offer Value Before You Need Anything → Share a useful link. → Make an introduction. → Help without expecting a return. → It always comes back, just not immediately. 5️⃣ Spend Time in Smaller, Relevant Circles → Big rooms create small talk. → Niche spaces create real conversations. → Go where people actually engage. 6️⃣ Close Conversations With Care → Don’t disappear after a good exchange. → A simple “Great talking today” goes a long way. → Follow-through builds credibility. 7️⃣ Be Selective With Your Energy → You don’t need to meet everyone. → One meaningful connection beats ten surface-level ones. → Protect your focus. 8️⃣ Stay Present Even When Nothing Moves Fast → Relationships grow in layers. → Keep showing up for the same people. → Momentum builds quietly before it shows. Networking isn’t a performance. It’s a practice. Real interest. Small gestures. Long-term thinking. Treat people like people, not opportunities. The doors will open, often when you least expect them. Which habit has helped you the most? Drop it in the comments ⬇️

Your network isn't just a nice-to-have. For entrepreneurs, it's one of the most underrated growth levers in your business. The right relationship at the right moment can open a door that no amount of marketing budget ever could. But most people show up unprepared, hand out cards, talk about themselves too much and wonder why nothing comes of it. Here are 9 ways to network in a way that actually builds something lasting 👇 1. Do your homework before you walk in the door → Spend 10 minutes researching who'll be in the room. Know what they care about.  → Prepare 3 smart questions.  → Preparation signals respect and it makes conversations 10x richer. 2. Go first → Break the ice. Introduce yourself before waiting to be introduced.  → Confidence and initiative are attractive qualities - in people and in leaders. 3. Master non-verbal communication → Stand tall. Make eye contact. Smile genuinely. Give a firm handshake.  → People decide how they feel about you before you've said a word. 4. Ask rapport-building questions → "What are you most excited about right now?" is worth a hundred "what do you do?" questions.  → Go deeper. Most people skip this and stay surface-level forever. 5. Use the SHR method → Make people feel Seen (a specific, genuine compliment), Heard (ask thoughtful questions), and Remembered (recall something they mentioned).  → That combination is rare. And unforgettable. 6. Remember names and write them down → A person's name is the most personal thing you can say to them.  → Write it down immediately after meeting. You'll stand out just by using it next time. 7. Structure your network intentionally → Think in three rings: your Power 25 (inner circle - invest heavily here), your Key 150 (middle circle - stay in touch regularly), and your Outer 250 (wider network - nurture occasionally).  → Most people don't know who's in which ring. Define it. 8. Follow up within 24 hours → Send a personalised message that references something specific from your conversation.  → Most people never do this. Which means doing it makes you instantly memorable. 9. Build skills worth sharing - then share them freely → The most magnetic networkers aren't the ones who collect contacts.  → They're the ones who give value first, without expectation. Be that person. At Dent, we say your network is your net worth - but only if you're building it with intention. The entrepreneurs who grow fastest aren't always the most talented. They're the most connected and the most generous with what they know. Start there. Image Credit:Ben Meer. ♻️ Repost this for someone who needs to build a stronger network. 🔔 Follow me Mike Reid  for more on building leverage through people, not just strategy.

Networking. The word alone makes some people want to hide under their desks. I get it. I've been there. Thankfully, networking is not about being the loudest in the room. To me, it’s comes down to creating opportunity to connect and/or create value. In a way, this post is an attempt to network with you all. For designers, creatives, entrepreneurs—for anyone—your network is your net worth. Not in dollars, but in opportunities, knowledge, and growth. Now, most networking strategies are easy to pick up for extroverts. I, like many, am not one. So, Here are 4 unconventional networking hacks if you are like me 👉 1. Create, as much as you consume. Post your work. Regularly. Daily if possible. Your projects are your conversation starters. And simply put, consistency compounds. 2. Be the connector, not the networker. Introduce two people who could benefit each other. Now you're valuable to both. This is essentially what so many power networkers have done for me. 3. Solve a micro-problem. Find a small issue in someone's work or business. Fix it. Share the solution. This makes you memorable and valuable in one move. Back in the day, I made friends posting quick drawing tutorials on IG. 4. Reverse engineer serendipity. Create situations where "luck" can find you. Host niche events. Start unconventional projects. Aim to magnetize meaningful connections. I do that through hosting really fun design meetups. That’s it for part 1 of 4 for a short series on networking for creatives. The 2nd part will expand on common roadblocks and one of my favorites quotes - “Embarrassment is the path to networking”

70–85% of jobs are filled through networking. I know that must not be “news” 🤷🏾♀️ But very few people are taught how to network in a way that actually aligns with them. In high-performing environments, especially in cities like New York, there is an unspoken expectation that effective networking looks one way: high visibility, constant presence, and the ability to “work a room.” 😮💨 However, that model does not account for how different people create value, build trust, and sustain relationships. Some professionals build expansive networks quickly. Others build fewer, but deeper relationships that compound over time. Some attract opportunities through their ideas and body of work. Others build influence through collaboration, curation, or digital ecosystems. All of these approaches are valid. Few people are intentional about which one is actually theirs. The challenge is not a lack of effort. It is misalignment. When your networking approach does not reflect your natural strengths, it becomes performative. When it does, it becomes repeatable and far more effective. I broke down six distinct networking styles and how to leverage each one strategically. Which one are you? The Connector, Depth-Builder, Thought Leader, Collaborator, Curator, or Digital Native? Comment yours below. I am curious how people are showing up. 🤭 If you want the deeper framework, my full Substack article is linked in the comments. 🔗

The 15-Minute ADHD Networking Hack That's Breaking Traditional Rules New research reveals neurodivergent professionals are pioneering micro-networking sessions, showing 2.5x higher meaningful connection rates than traditional hour-long meetings. This emerging trend demonstrates how brief, focused interactions are reshaping professional relationship building for the ADHD community. Micro-networking sessions are small-scale, focused networking events designed to foster meaningful connections in a short amount of time. Unlike large conferences, these sessions prioritize deeper interactions and engagement among participants. Here are some key features of micro-networking sessions: 1. Speed Networking: Participants engage in brief, timed conversations (usually 2-3 minutes) before rotating to meet someone new.     2. Themed Discussions: Sessions often revolve around specific topics or industries, allowing attendees to connect with others who share similar interests.     3. Conversation Starters: Prompts or questions are provided to help break the ice and stimulate discussions. These sessions are great for quickly expanding your professional network and making valuable connections in a more intimate setting. Have you ever done a micro-networking session?