44 reasons for a strong network

You know me as a full-time networker, as a cluster manager, as a networking trainer and speaker. Fittingly, on the occasion of my 44th birthday: 44 thoughts and reasons about contacts, relationships, trust and genuine networking.

General

1. Because no one is successful who tries to do everything alone.

2. Because relationships open doors that CVs cannot. I’ve experienced this myself – both positively and negatively.

3. Because trust is the foundation of all development.

4. Because every encounter holds potential. You never know what opportunities may arise from a single conversation.

5. Because diversity brings new perspectives.

6. Because feedback from your network is more honest.

7. Because real relationships provide stability – in good times and in difficult ones.

8. Because people do business with people, not with companies. And that’s only human.

   
   

For Entrepreneurs

9. Because cooperation accelerates growth.

10. Because trust in the market is priceless.

11. Because recommendations are the most effective form of success – whether for customers, employees or partners.

12. Because entrepreneurs learn from one another, not against one another. I experience this regularly as a cluster manager at DiWiSH!

13. Because joint projects foster innovation (see the DiWiSH network).

14. Because exchange enables and amplifies new ideas.

15. Because success is more sustainable when it is shared.

    
    

For Economic Development, Clusters, Associations & Chambers

16. Because networks strengthen regions – economically, innovatively and in terms of self-confidence.

17. Because cooperation achieves more than competition.

18. Because trust is the engine of sustainable development, as it makes collaboration possible in the first place.

19. Because people work together through relationships, not structures.

20. Because strong networks enable change.

    
    

For Sales

21. Because relationships always come before closing – and should remain afterwards.

22. Because trust sells better than any argument.

23. Because loyal customers are like fans – they stay, they recommend, they are enthusiastic.

24. Because genuine interest convinces in the long term.

25. Because referrals are more powerful than cold calling.

    
    

For Marketing

26. Because people trust brands they know – and that is more important than ever in today’s oversaturated information age.

27. Because high-reach partners can only recommend a limited number of collaborations – those with a strong product and strong relationships.

28. Because cooperation multiplies reach.

29. Because brands without a community have no voice.

30. Because relationships are the foundation of reputation.

    
    

For Customer Management & Projects

31. Because good relationships make projects easier.

32. Because trust prevents conflict.

33. Because honest exchange solves problems faster.

34. Because understanding is the basis of successful collaboration.

    
    

For HR Departments

35. Because culture is created through relationships, not mission statements.

36. Because employees stay when they feel connected.

37. Because referrals bring the best talent.

    
    

For Startup Founders

38. Because no pitch convinces like a strong network.

39. Because mentors shorten the path.

40. Because trust opens doors before investors do.

    
    

For the Good of Humanity

41. Because genuine connection creates empathy, peace and understanding.

42. Because networks foster empathy.

43. Because trust enables progress.

    
    

For Dog Owners 😉

44. Because every walk is somehow a networking event with like-minded people.