Brazil currently holds the third position globally in the number of entrepreneurs, reflecting a highly dynamic scenario in the sector. According to data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) survey, released in September 2024, 61.4% of new ventures in 2023 resulted from market opportunities. This trend positions networking as one of the most strategic tools in today’s business landscape.
According to Harvard Business Review, 95% of business leaders highlight networking as a fundamental factor for professional success and company growth, with great opportunities combined with personal connections and a well-built network.
For Gabriel Khawali, author of the book A Vida é uma Resenha and founder of Resenha, one of the largest high-level networking platforms in Brazil, the ability to build and cultivate strategic relationships has become an indispensable competitive advantage. “Today, business opportunities don’t just come from innovation but from the people you connect with. Networking is the entrepreneur’s new asset,” says Khawali.
With over 10,000 entrepreneurs impacted by its ecosystem, Resenha projects revenue of R$12 million for 2024, a direct result of events, partnerships, and strategic connections. A tangible example of networking’s impact in the business world is the real estate project in Campos do Jordão led by Khawali, which has a Total Sales Value (VGV) of R$90 million. “This initiative emerged from a conversation at one of our events. It shows how good connections can open doors and generate significant financial results,” adds the entrepreneur.
This recognition of networking’s value is growing, especially in an increasingly competitive business landscape where innovation alone doesn’t guarantee success. Data from DisplayWizard shows that 70% of companies acquire new contacts using in-person networking as a business networking strategy.
Khawali emphasizes that in today’s corporate landscape, the secret to networking isn’t just attending events but cultivating genuine, long-term relationships. “Networking is a two-way street. It’s not just about what you can gain but also what you can offer. This exchange is what generates trust and lasting results,” reinforces the expert.
For entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses and leverage the power of ‘word of mouth’ to boost their initiatives, Khawali shares five valuable tips based on his experience and the success of his networking ecosystem:
1) Cultivate long-term connectionsIn his book, Khawali emphasizes that networking shouldn’t be a tool for immediate solutions. The best connections are those built over time, based on trust and reciprocity. These are the relationships that, over the years, will open doors to great opportunities.
2) Share value before asking for something in returnOne of the central lessons of A Vida é uma Resenha is that networking success comes from genuine exchange. Focusing on adding value to others without expecting anything in return creates a network of support and mutual trust, strengthening your position in any market.
3) Participate in environments that encourage strategic interactionsKhawali highlights that exclusive, high-level events, where you can interact with people who share similar goals and interests, are essential for building an influential network. Entrepreneurs should seek these spaces to expand their connections more efficiently.
4) Be authentic in all interactionsAuthenticity is one of the pillars Khawali advocates in his networking methodology. Being genuine in your interactions strengthens trust and credibility, two fundamental assets for any entrepreneur. Building a solid network depends on the perception of integrity in your actions.
5) Be patient and consistent in the networking processNetworking results don’t appear overnight, Khawali reminds us. It takes patience and consistency to regularly attend events, stay in touch with your network, and invest time in developing these relationships.
With the advancement of social networks and the popularization of hybrid events, networking has become even more accessible. Breaking geographical barriers has allowed entrepreneurs from different regions of the world to establish valuable connections and accelerate their business growth on a global scale.
For experts, the future of entrepreneurship lies in the ability to build strategic relationships and add value through them. Those who know how to use networking effectively will stay ahead, navigating more swiftly through the ocean of opportunities in the global market.
