Networking made easy: Clever tips for entrepreneurs

In today's business world, almost half of the world's working people are self-employed. With such a pool of entrepreneurs, there is enormous potential for networking. The path to contact and collaboration doesn't always have to be costly or rocky. In this article, successful entrepreneurs reveal how they built their network.

Out of the office and into an adventure

It doesn't always have to be the traditional office or digital links on business platforms. Successful entrepreneurs still rely on direct human interaction. Sir Richard Branson, for example, the founder of Virgin Group, is known for his unconventional business methods. He favours informal meetings, often on his own island, Necker Island. Mark Zuckerberg from Facebook has introduced ‘walk-and-talk’ meetings in the past. He holds discussions during a walk together through nature or on the Facebook campus, which is intended to encourage open dialogue and the free development of ideas.

Dare to be like Brenson and Zuckerberg

A look at the entrepreneurial successes of both shows that things can be unconventional. Anyone can be a little bit Mark Zuckerberg or Sir Richard Branson. Why not invite business contacts in a more private, unconventional setting? Premium home spa saunas could be a great way to do this. Each invited business partner brings along another contact from a network. They then relax together in the sauna and perhaps talk a little about business. Afterwards, there are deliciously refreshing snacks and drinks. This type of business partner socialising has long been a tradition in Finland. In the UK, however, it is not yet so widespread. So that business partners are not confused, the invitation should say something like:

‘Relax with us! We cordially invite you to a refreshing sauna experience where you will have the opportunity to expand both your mind and your network in an informal atmosphere. Please feel free to bring a business contact - and don't worry, the sauna visit is optional. We look forward to welcoming you with light snacks and drinks, whether you choose to enjoy the sauna experience or not.’

Demonstrate emotional intelligence

Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba, is known for his unconventional approach to networking and business building. Ma's approach relies heavily on building trust and mutual benefit, which is central to his network and business philosophy. He emphasises the importance of soft skills such as emotional intelligence and the ability to inspire and motivate others.

Openness to new ideas has helped Ma to build global business partnerships. He organised large events and trade fairs to bring together entrepreneurs and SMEs from all over the world, which consolidated Alibaba as a global marketplace. These events were not only for trade, but also for cultural exchange and networking.

Ma has repeatedly demonstrated resilience in communication, especially in difficult times. This taught many business partners to stand together in crises instead of falling apart, which created long-term loyalties.  

The creative approach: crazy things grow together

Paul Ripke is a well-known photographer and content creator from Germany who now lives in the USA. He is best known for his creative and innovative approach to network expansion. His career began in the advertising industry, where he quickly made a name for himself before turning to the world of photography. The all-rounder has become best known for his work with prominent musicians and brands, which has helped him build an extensive network in various creative industries.

Think out of he box

His approach to networking is characterised by creating shared experiences that are often characterised by exciting and challenging activities. He regularly organises events like with Porsche and projects that focus on creativity and teamwork. These shared experiences are not only about work, but also about having fun and strengthening the sense of community among the participants.

One example of his creative approach is the so-called ‘Photo Challenges’, in which he works with other photographers and artists to solve specific photographic tasks under time pressure. These challenges are often open to the public and attract many interested parties and potential new network members.