Brazil, currently, occupies the third position in the world in the number of entrepreneurs, reflecting a scenario of great dynamism in the sector. Seconddatafrom the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) research, released in September 2024, 61,4% of new ventures in 2023 were the result of market opportunities. This trend positions networking as one of the most strategic tools in the current business landscape
According toHarvard 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 of contacts
For Gabriel Khawali, author of the bookLife is a Reviewand the 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 differentiator. "Today, business opportunities do not come only from innovation, but of the people you relate to. Networking is the new asset of the entrepreneur, affirms Khawali
With more than 10 thousand entrepreneurs impacted by its ecosystem, Resenha projects a revenue of R$12 million for 2024, direct result of events, strategic partnerships and connections. A tangible example of the impact of networking in the business world is the real estate project in Campos do Jordão led by Khawali, which has a General Sales Value (VGV) of R$90 million. "This initiative arose from a conversation at one of our events". "Show how good connections can open doors and generate significant financial results", adds the businessman
This recognition of the value of networking is growing, mainly in an increasingly competitive business environment, where innovation alone does not guarantee success. DataDisplayWizard shows that 70% of companies acquire new contacts using in-person networking as a business networking strategy
Khawali reinforces that, in the current corporate scenario, the secret of networking is not just in attending events, but in cultivating genuine and long-term relationships. Networking is a two-way street. It's not just about what you can gain, but also about what you can offer. This exchange is what generates trust and lasting results, reinforces the specialist
For entrepreneurs who want to expand their businesses and leverage the power of "word of mouth" to boost their initiatives, Khawali shares five valuable tips, based on your experience and the success of your networking ecosystem
1) Cultivate long-term connectionsIn his book, Khawali emphasizes that networking should not be a tool for immediate solutions. The best connections are those built over time, based on trust and reciprocity. These are the relationships that, as the years go by, they will open the doors to great opportunities
2) Share value before asking for something in returnOne of the central lessons ofLife is a Reviewsuccess in networking comes from genuine exchange. Focus on adding value to others, without expecting anything in return, create a network of support and mutual trust, what strengthens your position within any market
3) Participate in environments that encourage strategic interactionsKhawali highlights exclusive and high-level events, where it is possible to 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 that 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 of contacts depends on the perception of integrity in your actions
5) Be patient and consistent in the networking processThe results in networking do not appear overnight, remember Khawali. It takes patience and consistency to regularly participate in events, maintain contact with your network and invest time in developing those relationships
With the advancement of social media and the popularization of hybrid events, networking has become even more accessible. The breaking of geographical barriers has allowed entrepreneurs from different regions of the world to establish valuable connections and accelerate the growth of their businesses on a global scale.
For the specialists, the future of entrepreneurship lies in the ability to build strategic relationships and add value through them. And those who know how to use networking effectively, will be ahead, navigating more quickly in the ocean of opportunities in the global market
