Traditional networking often falls flat. We're short on time, struggle to find quality connections, or walk away from events with stacks of business cards but no real relationships. Drawing from insights by leading entrepreneurs, here are eight unconventional strategies to build a powerful, lasting network.
Related: Introverted? Use these tips to build networks
1. Do the work.
No shortcuts exist to quality contacts. As I often say, 'You can get rich quick, but nobody gets rich quick.' A valuable network takes time and effort, though the right events can accelerate it. That's why I created 10X Growth Con—a premier gathering for entrepreneurs to connect meaningfully. Attending alone isn't enough; you must engage, follow up, and nurture relationships.
–Grant Cardone, top sales expert who built a $500 million real estate empire and New York Times bestselling author of Be Obsessed or Be Average. Follow Grant on Facebook or YouTube.
2. Become your best self.
First, define the ideal business partner philosophically, ethically, and in principle. Then, embody that person—we attract what we become. Prioritize self-improvement over your job. When networking, focus on growth, not gains. Build your social media presence while evolving, drawing in aligned connections for enduring partnerships.
–Brian Klock, founder and COO of Creator of Financial Freedom. Follow Brian on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
3. Meet strangers.
One simple tactic I used when starting out: invite strangers to lunches or dinners. In 2015, I hosted weekly group dinners, meeting eight new people each time. These built a network generating nearly $1 million in revenue—without ad spend. It's intimate, effective, and budget-friendly.
–Scott Oldford, founder of INFINITUS, helping six-figure businesses scale to seven figures via online marketing. Follow Scott on Facebook.
4. Give instead of take.
Deliver massive value upfront without expectations to earn trust. Email heroes with sales-boosting ideas, share proven tactics from your business, and offer help freely. This grabs attention and inspires reciprocity, helping me cultivate mentors and friends who fueled my million-dollar venture.
–James Swanwick, entrepreneur, author, and CEO of Swanwick Sleep and the 30 Day Alcohol Free Challenge. Follow James on Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
5. Make a life-changing introduction.
Networking thrives on facilitation, not accumulation. When meeting someone, ask: 'Who could I connect them with to transform their life?' This forges deep bonds instantly, elevating your network beyond transactions.
–Sharran Srivatsaa, angel investor and chairman of Tele Properties, one of California's fastest-growing real estate firms, scaled 10x in five years.
6. Invest in your people portfolio.
Treat your network like a portfolio: prune toxic ties, nurture high-value ones like blue-chip stocks. Invest deeply—host gatherings, involve families—without keeping score. Our Amazon partnership exemplifies this: aligning on goals led to a landmark event.
–Joe Kakaty, co-founder and president of Poker Central.
7. Treat connections as neighbors.
Revive village-like bonds amid social media's competitiveness. Humanize interactions, offer value first. I shared a business-boosting idea with TEDx expert Ryan Foland before seeking advice—reciprocity built community.
–Sweta Patel, startup marketing advisor and founder of Silicon Valley Startup Marketing, who has guided 200+ startups and high-growth companies. Follow Sweta on Facebook and Instagram.
8. Give back.
If events feel salesy, contribute to your community instead. I coach youth sports, donate services for fundraisers, and support clients' causes hands-on. Authentic service sparks word-of-mouth networks.
–Steve Griggs, founder and CEO of Steve Griggs Design, New York's top landscape designer transforming backyards and rooftops into retreats.
Related: The most important part of success is connection.
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