How to Build Your Own Magical Unicorn Network | John Greenwood | TEDxWestoverHills

How to Build a Magical Unicorn Network

The Importance of Networking

• Networking can be overwhelming; many articles lack actionable advice.

• A "magical unicorn network" is built through significant effort and relationship-building, not just luck.

• Building relationships leads to opportunities, as seen in the speaker's internship experience where connections led to job invitations.

Relationship Focused Networking

• Success in most professions relies on who knows what you know, emphasizing the importance of networking.

• Early career perceptions often view networking negatively, associating it with opportunism rather than genuine connection.

• Research indicates that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, yet less than half maintain their networks during good times.

Understanding Networks

• Networks provide support and diverse perspectives; they should uplift everyone involved.

• The focus is on building real relationships rather than using sales techniques for personal gain.

Phases of Networking: Invitation

• Commonalities create instant connections; shared backgrounds enhance likability and rapport.

• Personalizing invitations increases response rates; mutual connections can significantly improve outreach success.

Crafting Effective Invitations

• Clearly state your purpose for reaching out—whether it's to learn about a job or company—and specify what you're asking for.

• Avoid asking for jobs in initial conversations; focus on relationship-building instead.

• Requesting 15 to 30 minutes shows respect for their time while allowing them to share their experiences.

The 555 Rule for Networking

• To avoid feeling overwhelmed by large networks, use the "555 rule": reach out weekly/monthly to five known contacts, five peers, and five mentors/advocates.

Networking Strategies for Building Relationships

The Importance of Value in Networking

• Many believe that providing something of value, like a gift, is essential when meeting someone for the first time.

• The speaker disagrees, emphasizing that the initial meeting should focus on sharing knowledge rather than offering traditional value.

• Preparation is crucial; knowing the other person's background and having questions ready can enhance the conversation.

Conducting Effective Meetings

• Be personable and authentic during meetings; prioritize learning over asking for favors.

• At the end of a conversation, ask if they can recommend others to connect with, allowing them flexibility in their response.

• Respect time commitments by concluding conversations thoughtfully without cutting off discussions abruptly.

Post-Meeting Actions

• After a successful meeting, send a thank-you email that includes personal insights from your discussion.

• Define the relationship type based on your interaction—whether they could be an advocate, mentor, or acquaintance.

• Track connections using tools like spreadsheets to remember details about each person and maintain contact every few months.

Maintaining Connections

• Tailor communication methods (Zoom calls, coffee chats, texts) based on individual relationships to keep in touch effectively.

• Share relevant articles or personal updates to foster ongoing engagement with your network.

Building a Supportive Network

• Networking should resemble building a community rather than creating a self-centered "solar system" network focused solely on personal gain.

• Emphasize collaboration and mutual support within your network to achieve collective success rather than individualistic goals.

The Value of Diverse Perspectives in Networking

Building a Network with Respectful Discourse

• Emphasizes the importance of having a network where individuals can share and challenge ideas respectfully, even when disagreements arise.

• Highlights that diverse views and experiences within a network are beneficial for personal growth and understanding.

• Discusses the concept of "pressure testing" assumptions, which involves critically evaluating one's beliefs through discussions with others.

• Suggests that following a simple structure in conversations can facilitate better exchanges of ideas and insights.