At a very young age, I was always interested in meeting other people. There is something about meeting and keeping in touch that's enjoyable and over time have become highly beneficial to me throughout my life. I've made it a goal to meet people from a variety of different demographics.
I grew up in a predominantly African American community and school system. While my immediate family is quite diverse, my network at the time was not. However, my teachers were diverse and I made it a habit to visit them annually once I left the school in which they taught.
Once I entered the military my network expanded beyond my wildest imagination. I met and became friends/practically family with guys that crossed age, race, and social economics. After I left the military I made it a habit to remain connected with over 100 former shipmates both enlisted and officers (thanks to social media) who I still consider friends and brothers.
After the military, as I began my civilian career, the networking didn't stop. I worked as a contractor and then as a civil servant. In that organization I made a significant amount of friends and associates to which I am still connected with; my network continued to expand.
As I partnered up with a friend to start a business, I begin to learn the importance of attending networking events. Meeting people to learn what they are working on was key, asking how I could help, looking for a way to create value and make a difference. You can say networking was etched into my genetic code.
I was fortunate enough to find a community of young entrepreneurs that allowed me to be engaged with them. In 2015 I attended the Next Gen Summit which have afford me the opportunity to network with younger people that will continue to expand my network well beyond my time on earth.
I learned from Harvey Mackay to always have my antenna up, because you never know who you will meet and how that person may play a role in your future. Be Aware and Prepared to Care for those around you; give before you take. When you do, it will come back to you; it has for me. All of my opportunities are a result of me building a strong network. I've never "had" to submit a resume or interview for a job; I did as a formality.
May this inspire you to build win/win relationships and network throughout your life.
