Your Value: Networking with Purpose
By Gavin Sadler, Managing Director, Hatched Agency
As part of my involvement in TOP Networking, I recently had the opportunity to deliver an information slot — a brief talk that each member gives during our weekly meetings. This time, I spoke about something that resonated deeply with the group and was kindly highlighted by Richard Frazer of TOP Networking: the importance of understanding your value.
Here’s an overview of that talk — because the message isn’t just for the room that day. It’s a reminder for anyone serious about building meaningful business relationships.
Mindset Makes the Difference
Let’s start with something simple, but essential — your mindset.
A few weeks back, I had a conversation about networking that stuck with me. It revolved around how limiting beliefs can quietly sabotage our potential.
If you walk into a networking room thinking:
“Networking never works for me,”
“I’m too new to contribute,” or
“I don’t know enough people to make a difference”
…then, chances are, that belief will shape your actions. You might hesitate to follow up. You may avoid inviting guests. You stop referring. And before long, that mindset becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
What Real Value Looks Like
The difference between a thriving networking group and a stagnant one? It often comes down to this:
How much value each of us brings into the room.
And no — value isn’t just measured in referrals. It’s also about:
- Showing up, week in and week out.
- Bringing positive energy.
- Encouraging others.
- Being present and engaged.
- Inviting guests who could benefit the group.
Some members become the bedrock of a networking group. But here’s the question we should all ask ourselves:
Am I acting like one of those members — no matter how long I’ve been here?
The Ripple Effect
One of the most powerful dynamics in any group is momentum — and that can go both ways.
If even a few members start to coast, the group feels it. Momentum dips. Energy fades. Expectations lower. And slowly, what was once a buzzing room becomes just another meeting.
But here’s the good news: the opposite is also true.
When just one person starts to step up — brings a guest, gives a great referral, or checks in to help someone else — the ripple effect is immediate. Others follow. The room lifts. Connections deepen.
A Simple Challenge
Here’s a question I left the group with — and I’ll leave you with it too:
If you left your networking group today, what would they lose?
If the honest answer is “not much,” that’s okay. It’s also a sign — a nudge to show up differently and start adding more value.
If you are bringing value — brilliant. Keep going. And take it further:
- Encourage someone new.
- Ask how you can help another member this week.
- Be the reason the group gets stronger.
In Closing
We often show up to networking groups thinking about what we can get from them. But the real magic happens when we focus on what we bring to them.
When we all take responsibility for the energy in the room — when we give, grow, and support one another — that’s when networking becomes something more than business. It becomes community.
Let’s not forget that.
Want to learn more about how Hatched Agency grows through relationships and collaboration? Get in touch — or better yet, come as a guest to one of our networking meetings. Let’s connect.