The Power Of Preparation (You're Too Broke To Not Be Visible)
As an entrepreneur, people often ask me how I managed to build such a strong network and put myself out there. Networking isn’t just about showing up and shaking hands; it’s about being strategic, intentional, and, most importantly, prepared. In this first part of our networking series, I’ll walk you through the foundational elements of networking and how to prepare yourself before diving into the game.
Be a person worth networking with.
I know this may sound harsh, but it’s true—before you start networking, you need to ensure that you’re someone worth networking with. It’s all about how you present yourself and the value you bring to the table. To do this, you need to invest time and effort into establishing your credibility.
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by developing a strong online presence. Think of your online profiles as extensions of your personal brand. When people meet you, the first thing they do is look you up online. Does your digital presence reflect who you are and what you do? If someone visits your profile and it doesn’t align with the image you presented during your introduction, you’ve already lost credibility.
Take my example: I’m a social entrepreneur and a sickle cell advocate. When people check out my social media platforms, they should immediately see that these are the areas I focus on. My posts reflect my work in community spaces, my advocacy for sickle cell awareness, and my passion for social equity. It’s not enough to just state who you are in your bio—your content needs to support it.
How to strengthen your online presence:
Consistency is key: Regularly post about your work, share relevant content, and engage with your audience.
Polish your aesthetics: Ensure your profile pictures are professional and your branding is consistent across all platforms.
Put the proof in the pudding: If you say you’re passionate about a specific cause, let your content reflect that. Post articles, share resources, and discuss the things that matter to you.
Your online presence is your first impression before any coffee chat or meeting. Make sure that it’s working in your favor, not against you.
Have something to offer.
Once your online presence is on point, the next question is: what do you have to offer? Before diving into networking events, it’s important to know what value you bring to the table. Networking isn’t just about taking—it’s a two-way street. Whether it’s a strong product, a solid service, or a community of supporters, you need to have something that benefits the person you’re connecting with.
For example, in my experience, I waited until I had built a solid foundation before I started heavily networking. Why? Because I wanted to be sure that when people engaged with me or my organization, they saw value in the connection. This means taking the time to build your business, refine your offerings, and ensure that you’re ready for the relationships you want to create.
And remember, documentation matters! If you’ve done amazing work, make sure you have the photos, videos, and testimonials to show for it. People want to see what you’ve accomplished, so don’t be shy about showcasing your success.
Succeed With Me
I believe most people are only three steps away from establishing a personal and professional brand that they love. Book a success session with me to get started with 1:1 consulting that helps you achieve your craziest dreams.
