Networking Isn't a Career Tactic. It's a Leadership Skill.
Most high-performing professionals don’t struggle with competence.
They struggle with connection.
Not because they lack relational ability, but because networking has been framed incorrectly, as something transactional, time-consuming, or self-promotional.
So they opt out.
They focus on execution.
They deliver results.
They trust that their work will speak for itself.
And early in their career, that works.
But over time, something shifts.
The leaders who advance and sustain impact understand this:
Your success eventually depends less on what you do, and more on who you can engage, align, and activate.
This was the topic of my conversation with Paul Marini on this week's Growth Edge Leadership Podcast.
In This Episode
- Why high-performing leaders often resist networking
- The hidden cost of relying solely on competence
- How to reframe networking as a leadership responsibility
- A practical framework: curiosity, generosity, and consistency
- The role of leaders as connectors and stewards of relationships
• Simple, actionable ways to strengthen your network this week
The Hidden Cost of Avoiding Networking
When leaders disengage from networking, they don’t just miss opportunities.
They limit execution.
Because strategy doesn’t fail on paper.
It fails in relationships.
- Misalignment slows progress
- Lack of trust creates friction
- Weak connections limit influence
In contrast, leaders with strong networks:
→ Move faster
→ Solve problems more efficiently
→ Create opportunities for others
→ Expand their organizational impact
This is why networking is not optional.
It’s a core leadership competency.
Why Even Strong Leaders Resist Networking
In my conversation with Paul Marini, three consistent barriers emerged:
1. “I don’t have time.”
Leaders often associate networking with formal events or extra commitments.
But effective networking rarely happens in large blocks of time.
It happens in small, intentional moments.
2. “It feels self-promotional.”
For leaders who value humility and results, networking can feel inauthentic.
But that’s only true if you approach it with the wrong mindset.
3. “My work should speak for itself.”
This belief is deeply ingrained, and partially true.
But leadership isn’t just about producing work.
It’s about mobilizing people.
And people move through relationships.
A Better Model: Curiosity, Generosity, Consistency
When networking feels forced, it’s usually because it’s being approached as performance.
Instead, shift to this framework:
Curiosity
Ask better questions.
Seek to understand challenges, priorities, and perspectives.
Curiosity builds connection faster than credentials ever will.
Generosity
Look for ways to create value without expectation.
This could be:
- Sharing insight
- Offering support
- Making a connection
Consistency
Relationships are not built in a single interaction.
They are built through repeated, meaningful touchpoints over time.
Small actions. Sustained.
A Practical Way to Start
You don’t need a conference.
You don’t need a strategy deck.
Start here:
→ Identify one person in your network
→ Identify one way to support them
→ Take action this week
Send the message.
Make the introduction.
Follow up.
That’s it.
Because leadership isn’t built in grand gestures.
It’s built in consistent, intentional actions that strengthen relationships over time.
Final Thought
If networking has felt uncomfortable or inauthentic, don’t abandon it.
Reframe it.
From:
→ Transactional → Relational
→ Self-focused → Others-focused
→ Occasional → Consistent
Because the most effective leaders don’t just build networks.
They build communities of trust, alignment, and shared success.
And that’s where real leadership impact lives.
I'm rooting for you!
Listen In!
Listen to the full conversation with Dr. Naomi Lawrence-Reid on The Growth Edge Leadership Podcast.
Kajabi: https://www.lauriebaedke.com/podcasts/growth-edge-a-leadership-podcast/episodes/2149185464
Apple Podcasts:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/RDZqYD0EEYM
Course Connection
If you want to develop a more strategic, authentic approach to networking, explore my course:
Super Connected: Strategies for Networking Like a Pro
You’ll learn how to:
✔️ Build meaningful, high-impact relationships
✔️ Develop a networking approach that feels natural, not forced
✔️ Position yourself as a trusted connector and leader
Let's grow together!
Topics Covered:
- Networking for leaders
- Leadership networking strategy
- Relationship building in leadership
- Executive networking skills
- Professional networking
- Building strategic relationships
- Leadership influence through relationships
- Authentic networking approaches
- How to network as a leader
• Networking without being transactional
