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Networking to Your Net Worth: How Strategic Connections Fuel Growth

"Your network is your net worth." – Porter Gale


In our world today, where who you know can be more valuable than what you know, strategic networking involves making connections, especially the right ones.


In a dynamic conversation on the wealth enhancing potential of networking, a client and I examined the power of positioning, the psychology of first impressions, and the importance of building relationships with decision-makers.


Photo Courtesy of Renwick Brutus Media

Our discussion didn't focus on LinkedIn tricks or email outreach; it was more centred on how to craft a brand that makes the right people take notice. Because at the end of the day, visibility without credibility is just noise. Here are a few of our most salient takeaways.


Step One: Position Yourself in the Right Circles

"If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room." – Richard Tirendi


My client had a realization: instead of chasing random opportunities, he needed to connect with the people who already had access to them.


He remarked, “I started looking at the top companies in my industry and networking directly with their teams.”


Instead of applying blindly to jobs or trying to force his way in, he reverse-engineered the process. He did the research, took the requisite action, and

  • Found the key players in his field

  • Identified their “inner circle” using social media insights

  • Started building relationships with the right people, not just anyone


This strategy mirrors what Stephen Bartlett, host of The Diary of a CEO, has mastered—not just meeting big names, but strategically positioning himself within their networks.


Step Two: The Psychology of Attention – Standing Out Online

"Attention is the most valuable currency in the world today." – Gary Vaynerchuk


My client had a simple but powerful insight: the way you format your LinkedIn profile can determine whether people remember you or not.


"I experimented with different fonts on my profile. No one else was doing it—it made my name stand out.”


This is the same principle that advertisers use when designing logos, headlines, and product packaging—the smallest tweak can make all the difference.


Because in the digital age, blending in is the same as being invisible. On the other hand,

  • Unique formatting catches the eye

  • Strong headlines create intrigue

  • A distinct brand voice makes you memorable


Step Three: The Art of Selling Yourself Without Sounding Desperate

"Don’t call it networking. Just call it being a decent human being." – Keith Ferrazzi


One of the biggest mistakes people make when networking? Coming off as transactional instead of valuable.


My client and I discussed the importance of having an actual portfolio of work to back up your skills.


“If someone important asked me right now, ‘Show me what you’ve done,’ I need to have something ready to go.”


This aligns with Elon Musk’s hiring philosophy at Tesla and SpaceX—he doesn’t care about degrees, he cares about evidence of skill.


A few key strategies:

  • Have a quick, polished portfolio (a simple PowerPoint showcasing your best work)

  • Keep an updated media page (press mentions, testimonials, interviews)

  • Show, don’t just tell (let your work speak for itself)


Because when the right opportunity comes along, you won’t have time to get ready—you need to be ready.


From Connections to Career Acceleration

"Success is where preparation and opportunity meet." – Bobby Unser


Our conversation had revealed a simple but powerful formula:

  • Be intentional with your network. Connect with decision-makers, not just peers.

  • Make yourself stand out. Small tweaks in branding and communication make a big difference.

  • Always be ready to showcase your value. Opportunities come fast—be prepared to seize them.


Because at the end of the day, while success often requires talent, it’s essential that you position yourself where the right people can see it.


Trained as an economist, Renwick Brutus emigrated to the United States as a young man, earned his MBA at Fordham University and worked in the financial services industry where he has been widely acknowledged for his contributions. Renwick has owned multiple companies and consults with an impressive list of individuals and organizations. He utilizes a unique blend of financial insights, wisdom and business strategy to help individuals prosper and companies grow. You may reach him here.

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