The Power of Networking: More Than Just Business
I’ve been doing a lot of networking lately, attending different groups, events, and meetups. What I’ve found is that the ones I enjoy the most tend to be the least structured. These informal gatherings allow for real conversations and genuine connections with other business owners. And while networking is valuable for growing my business, I’ve realized it’s just as important for life in general.
The Value of Networking: Business & Beyond
Networking isn’t just about selling—it’s about connecting. When we put ourselves out there, we meet people who could become clients, collaborators, or even friends. But sometimes, networking pays off in ways we don’t expect.
A few days after attending one of these events, I found myself in an emergency situation where I urgently needed the services of two professionals in completely different industries. By sheer coincidence—or maybe just good networking—I had met both of these women at an event just two days prior. The timing was incredible, but more than that, it reinforced the idea that networking isn’t just about business. It’s about life.
You never know who you’re going to meet, what knowledge they have, or how they might be able to help you (or vice versa). Having a strong network is an investment in your future, personally and professionally.
Making the Most of Your Networking Time
Since I work in multiple industries and have a wide range of expertise, I often struggle with how to explain what I do in casual conversations. It’s easy to say, “I’m in revenue management,” but that barely scratches the surface. When I only have a short window to introduce myself—like at a speed networking event—I need to be intentional about how I position myself while still making an emotional connection.
Here’s what I’m focusing on to improve my networking game:
Clarity – Refining my elevator pitch to highlight key areas of expertise in a way that makes sense quickly. For example, instead of saying, "I work in revenue management and consulting," I might say: "I help small businesses make more money by refining their revenue strategies and service culture. I also train teams to improve customer experiences, which drives revenue and loyalty."
Engagement – Asking good questions and showing genuine interest in the other person instead of just talking about myself. A simple, "What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing in your business right now?" can lead to a deeper and more valuable conversation.
Memorability – Finding ways to make my introduction more relatable, such as sharing a short story or example of how I help businesses grow. For example, "When I started out in revenue management, my world was data-driven. I lived for forecasts, budgets, and KPIs. It was spreadsheets, strategies, and celebrating those hard-won variances. But somewhere along the line, I stumbled upon an undeniable truth: numbers don’t move the needle on their own. People do. The most impactful revenue strategy I ever implemented didn’t come from a pricing model or marketing spend. It came from a culture where teams created genuine, meaningful connections—with customers and with each other. That’s called service culture, and it’s the single most overlooked strategy for driving sustainable revenue growth."
A Standout Networking Group in San Antonio
One networking group I’ve found particularly valuable is Working Moms of San Antonio (WMSA). They offer more than just networking—providing education, workspace sharing, and a variety of resources for business and personal growth. It’s a space where professionals can build connections that go beyond exchanging business cards. If you’re in the area, it’s worth checking out! Working Moms of San Antonio
Final Thoughts
Networking is about more than just collecting contacts—it’s about building relationships. Whether for business growth, personal emergencies, or just finding like-minded people to connect with, being part of a network is invaluable. If you’re on the fence about networking or feel like you don’t have time for it, I’d encourage you to find a group that fits your style. You never know when the right connection will come at exactly the right time.
Are you part of any great networking groups? I’d love to hear about them!
