“How do you decide who to invest time in at a networking event?” It’s a common question, and one that applies just as much to LinkedIn as it does to in-person conversations.
Most of us go into networking with an image of the ideal person we want to meet. But the chances of meeting them at the exact right time are slim. And even if you do meet them, they may not be ready to work with you at that moment.
The Limitation of Prospecting
This is where many people get stuck. They approach networking with a “prospect” mindset, evaluating others solely on whether they fit a narrow definition of potential business. Inevitably, this leaves valuable connections overlooked.
A Better Approach: Partnership
The real shift happens when you stop seeing people as prospects and start treating them as partners. Instead of asking, What can I get from this person? ask, how can I help them get what they want?
When you collaborate on solving problems or moving toward shared goals, the value of the relationship compounds. Even if the timing isn’t right today, you’ve built a foundation for tomorrow.
Building Exponential Value Through Relationships
Partnership is a mindset that transforms every interaction. By looking for ways to create value for others, you multiply the opportunities for value to come back to you. Networking stops being transactional and becomes a catalyst for long-term growth.