Why you hate networking and how to change that
Read time: 3 min
How many LinkedIn connections do you have? Hundreds? Thousands?
But are they your real network?
First things first: Why do you hate networking?
Networking feels uncomfortable, even "dirty."
It is something “we need to do,” and because we see it that way, it requires more energy from us.
Networking seems hard to do because it is presented as one-sided.
“You need to build a network, add people in, and not ask them for something now but prepare to benefit in the future.”
We’re told to build a network, add people, and wait for future benefits.
No wonder we’re bad at it.
The True Value of Networking
But networking is not bad if you get its actual value.
The key is to discover the reasons for building a network.
It’s not just about what you can get; it's also about what you can offer.
Think of networking as a bi-directional exercise.
Both parties benefit, making it feel effortless.
This shift in mindset helps you see where you can contribute and build meaningful networks.
Oh btw, your network is dynamic. You are gaining and losing folks as time goes by.
So Why Do You Need a Network?
It’s not just about better career opportunities.
It’s about interacting with diverse perspectives to enhance your worldview.
Interacting with different people will also make you “luckier” by increasing your luck surface and exposure to opportunities.
Sharing ideas can create outcomes greater than the sum of their parts.
Learnings & Insights on Networking
Access Over Numbers
A small, well-connected network can provide more value than hundreds of shallow connections. Quality over quantity.Embrace Creativity
Creativity is the new Productivity.Master Conversations
Become a good conversationalist. Live in other countries, travel, read a lot, and experiment with crazy stuff. You’ll be left with great stories, and influential people will want to hang out with you and make introductions to their circles.Give Before You Ask
Provide value before making requests. Build relationships over time. Read my post on becoming someone worth mentoring.Master The Critical Skills Needed in Climate VC
Read my Hard & Soft Skills You Need to Break Into Climate VC
Conclusion
Networking isn’t something we naturally enjoy because we see it as unidirectional.
Shift your perspective: contribute and receive, making the network stronger for everyone.
Whenever you're ready, there are 2 ways I can help you:
🎓 Take Our Online Climate Tech Investing Course: Watch our 2-day online course to learn the essential skills of investing and setting up an outlier portfolio 🎯 take the course here.
👉 Invest in Climate Moonshots With Us 🚀 Join 320+ members and become a shareholder of the best Climate Tech startups alongside us, from $1,000, join us here.
And if you are enjoying this newsletter, the best support would be to recommend it to a Climate friend or colleague 🙏 Let’s grow this movement together.