This article is an excerpt from the Shortform book guide to "Goals!" by Brian Tracy. Shortform has the world's best summaries and analyses of books you should be reading.
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Is networking absolutely necessary for success? How can networking with the right people help you achieve your goals?
You might think that building connections with others is unnecessary because some successful people are described as “self-made.” According to Brian Tracy, however, a totally self-made person is a myth. Even entrepreneurs who started their empires from virtually nothing relied on family, friends, financial backers, and customers to build their businesses.
Here’s why the importance of networking with the right people cannot be underestimated.
Build Connections With the Right People
The importance of networking cannot be underestimated: the right people can help open doors to opportunities or to provide emotional or moral support. The right kind of help can save you years of hard work and fast-track your achievements.
It’s therefore important to build and nurture your relationships in three areas:
1) At work: Whatever field or business you’re in, Tracy says that you’re essentially in customer service. Your job is to meet the needs of those who play a role in your advancement and those who rely on you: your boss, co-workers, staff, customers, and suppliers. Be a team player by doing what’s expected of you, knowing your priorities, and genuinely offering to help others. (Shortform note: Tracy writes what you should do as a team player, but he doesn’t describe what you should be. In The Ideal Team Player, author Patrick Lencioni describes a team player as someone who is humble (putting the success of the team above personal interests), hungry (driven to do more), and smart when it comes to dealing with other people. Read more in our full guide to the book.)
2) In your industry: Tracy notes that some of the best people you can associate with may not be within your organization, so venture out of your workplace and get involved in industry associations and business organizations. Volunteer for committees then do your work well. Those you impress today might be able to open doors for you tomorrow. (Shortform note: If the idea of building a network throughout your industry intimidates you, you can treat it as a big goal that you can break down into smaller goals. For example, resolve to make one new industry connection each week.)
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Here's what you'll find in our full Goals! summary :
- Brian Tracy's steps to setting and reaching your goals
- How to approach your goals with the right mentality
- Why persistence is more important than courage
