Let’s think about this – Are we really saying the people we associate and hang out with determine the amount of money we make?
 
The answer is a roaring yes and let me share why.
 
When we're young, we are encouraged by our parents to hang out with the 'good' kids. Why? Because the more you associate with like-minded people, the higher the probability of positive influence. If your circle of influence is into fitness, there’s a high chance you would value it too. This logic applies to our professional careers as well.
 
With few workplace guarantees, it’s important to recognise that your best path to job security is yourself. The more adaptive, flexible, and agile you are, the more you'll succeed.
 
Every intelligent person not only invests in applied knowledge in their area of expertise, but also invests in relationships. Porter Gale, author of ‘Your Network is Your Net Worth’ wrote, "I believe your social capital, or your ability to build a network of authentic personal and professional relationships, not your financial capital, is the most important asset in your portfolio." She goes on to elaborate how the book explains her affirmations that our net worth is not based solely on the size of our portfolio, but on our ability to work with other people who share our values. This network of people will become an interpersonal safety net that guarantees greater output and personal fulfillment.
 
Having a powerful network means having access to powerful positions and opportunities. In today's business world, leaders prefer to engage in important transactions with people they trust. That's why serious serial entrepreneurs, influencers, and deal makers choose to seek out exclusive business networking opportunities.
 
Being visible and getting seen are benefits of networking that are vital in building and growing your career and business. Being visible and seen alongside the right people can also mean an increase in your own standing among peers and others in your industry. "It's not what you know, but who you know" holds true in business around the world. 
 
Networking is a superb way to tap into advice and expertise that you wouldn't otherwise be able to obtain. Solid advice from the right person can sometimes be a critical factor in your personal success. That knowledge can come through intense conversations, conferences, or even casual discussions of mutual interest.
 
The people with whom you associate and spend time with influence who you are and what you become. Therefore, it is important to surround yourself with positive, uplifting people who help you grow and thrive as a person.
 
Mentoring is also an important aspect of networking. Virtually everyone has gained value from a mentoring relationship, either formally or informally. Even Bill Gates often refers to his ongoing relationship with Warren Buffett as a mentor. 
 
In ‘Networking Smart’, Wayne Baker states that the term 'networking' elicits strong feelings, positive and negative; some people swear by it, others swear at it. If the idea of 'networking' overwhelms you, don't fret, you're not alone. There is a perception that networking is about 'selling' or putting yourself out there to focus the attention on 'you'. On the contrary, people buy or invest from people they trust. The key is establishing relationships based on trust and shared value systems.
  
The magic lies in looking inward first and then outward. It starts with having clarity on what drives you. What is your purpose and your non-negotiable goals? Connecting should not feel like work. Instead, it should be part of your day-to-day, bringing you joy and greater prosperity.
So, who is in your network?