Why Networking Matters More Than Any Marketing Trend

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There is so much to learn in marketing, and no matter how long you have been in the industry, there is always more to discover and improve. Marketing is constantly evolving with new trends, tools, and platforms, but one thing that never changes is the importance of people.

Recently, one of the marketing skills I have worked hard to strengthen, and have truly seen progress in, is networking and relationship building. At first, I thought marketing was mostly about strategy, design, and visibility, but I have learned that real growth happens when you focus on meaningful connections.

Learning to Network with Purpose

When I began focusing on networking, I initially viewed it as simply expanding my connections on LinkedIn or introducing myself to other professionals. Over time, I realized that effective relationship building is much deeper than that. It involves active listening, offering value, and showing up consistently without expecting something in return.

I started engaging more with people who share similar goals and challenges. I took the time to comment on their posts, share insights, and reach out for genuine conversations. The more I focused on learning from others and supporting them, the stronger those connections became.

That shift in mindset has been one of the most valuable lessons in my professional growth.

How It Has Helped Elevate with MGM

Developing this skill has made a real difference in how I approach Elevate with MGM. Networking has allowed me to connect with small business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketers who continue to inspire and challenge my ideas. Many of these connections have influenced the content I create, the resources I share, and even the programs I offer.

Through these relationships, I have collaborated with like-minded professionals, received helpful feedback, and reached new audiences that I may not have found otherwise. It has also built credibility and trust within my community. When people see that your focus is on building authentic connections rather than just selling, they are more likely to engage and support your work.

Elevate with MGM has grown into more than just a marketing platform. It has become a community where business owners and entrepreneurs learn from each other and grow together. That sense of collaboration and support would not exist without the relationships that developed along the way.

Why Every Marketer Should Build This Skill

For anyone looking to grow their brand or business, learning to network and build relationships is essential. According to the American Marketing Association, marketers who focus on relationship-based strategies tend to see stronger engagement and long-term customer loyalty compared to those who rely only on direct promotions. Building genuine connections leads to sustainable success because people trust and support brands that feel authentic.

If you have not made networking part of your marketing strategy yet, start small. Connect with someone in your field, engage with their work, or offer help when you can. Every conversation is an opportunity to create genuine relationships that open doors to new opportunities.

And if you are not sure where to begin, you can start with me. Connect with me on LinkedIn, introduce yourself, and let’s grow together. I love meeting others who are passionate about learning and elevating their brands.

At Elevate with MGM, one of my biggest goals is to show that marketing is not only about strategy but also about connection. When you focus on people first, growth happens naturally. Because at its core, the most powerful marketing tool you have is not a platform or an ad budget; it is the relationships you build.

Source: American Marketing Association (2023). Why Relationship Marketing Still Works in a Digital World. Retrieved from https://www.ama.org