How to Create Better Personal Relationships Through Effective Networking

Networking is often misunderstood as merely a professional tool for career advancement. However, the principles of effective networking can also significantly enhance personal relationships. In his insightful TEDx talk, David Burkus, sheds light on how we can redefine networking to foster deeper and more meaningful connections.

Here are some key strategies from his talk that can help you build better personal relationships.

Maximize Your Existing Network

"Networking's not really something you do. It's about understanding the network that's already around you and acting accordingly."

Networking isn't just about forming new connections; it's about maximizing and deepening the ones you already have. This perspective encourages us to focus on the quality of relationships rather than the quantity. For instance, revisiting an old mentor can rejuvenate both your professional insight and personal bond, making each interaction more meaningful and personal.

Reconnect with Dormant Ties

"Some of the biggest wins in networking come not from meeting total strangers, but actually from reaching out to old friends."

Dormant ties—people you've lost touch with over the years—can provide new energy and perspectives to your life. Rekindling these relationships can be incredibly rewarding. These are individuals who already know you but have developed new experiences and insights that can enrich your interactions. Reaching out to reconnect can lead to surprising developments in both your personal and professional life.

Consider sending a simple message like, "Hey [Name], I was just thinking about the fun times we had at [event/place]. How have you been?"

Embrace the Discomfort

"Networking makes us feel dirty."

Networking can sometimes feel awkward or forced, but acknowledging and embracing this discomfort can make the process more genuine. When you accept that feeling a bit uncomfortable is part of the process, you can push past it to form connections that are sincere and lasting.

Broader Impact of Networks

"If your friend of a friend of a friend is happy with her life, then you have a 6% greater likelihood of being happy with yours."

Social capital is the collective value of all your social networks and the inclinations that arise from these networks to do things for each other. By nurturing your social capital, you not only enhance your personal life but also contribute positively to your community. This reciprocal benefit makes your social interactions more fulfilling.

Get Personal

"Ask about hobbies, ask about passions, find shared non-work interests."

Networking, at its core, is about human relationships. By understanding personal interests beyond professional life, you can better understand what drives people, how to communicate effectively, and how to build relationships that are both meaningful and mutually beneficial.

Be a Connector

Finally, focus on being a connector within your networks. Facilitate introductions, share knowledge, and bring people together. When you focus on being helpful and contributing to the well-being of others, you not only enrich your network but also deepen your personal relationships.

By applying these principles from David Burkus, you can transform your approach to networking from a professional necessity to a valuable tool for building richer, more personal relationships.

Remember, effective networking is about more than just professional gain; it's about creating a supportive, interconnected community.

Take Action Now 👇

Pick one contact you haven't reached out to in the last 6 months and ask them, "What was the best thing that happened to you in the past few months?"