Ep. 233 — Networking with Jordan Harbinger

Most people treat networking like a last-minute scramble — reaching out only when they need something. Jordan Harbinger, who spent a decade building one of the world's largest podcasts, argues that's exactly backward. Networking isn't about collecting contacts; it's about giving without keeping score, staying connected long before you need help, and treating relationships as your most valuable asset. In this conversation, Brad and Jonathan unpack Jordan's system for reconnecting with dormant contacts, maintaining relationships without feeling salesy, and why your network might be the best insurance policy you'll never buy.

Key Topics:

• Give First, Always:
  Networking works when you approach it with a mindset of giving rather than expecting returns. Keeping score destroys relationships. 00:39:10

• Reconnect with Dormant Contacts:
  Make a list of 10-15 old contacts and reach out without an agenda — just express genuine interest in catching up. 00:15:32

• Use a CRM to Stay Consistent:
  Tools like Contactually help you schedule regular check-ins so relationships don't fall through the cracks. 00:20:08

• Build Your Network Before You Need It:
  "Dig your well before you're thirsty." Start building connections when things are going well, not when you're desperate. 00:35:47

• Focus on High-Impact Events:
  Instead of attending dozens of low-value meetups, prioritize one or two high-impact events each year. 00:29:05

Notable Quotes:

• "Your network can serve as the best insurance policy money can't buy." 00:42:25
• "Start building your network before you actually need it." 00:35:47
• "Avoid keeping score in networking to maintain healthy relationships." 00:39:10
• "Focus on high-impact networking opportunities rather than quantity." 00:29:05

Chapters:

• 00:00:00 Introduction
• 00:01:52 Importance of Social Dynamics
• 00:04:12 Building a Network
• 00:10:24 Networking Strategies
• 00:20:08 Using CRM for Networking
• 00:32:11 Follow-up Strategies
• 01:09:28 Conclusion

Resources:

• Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi 01:05:24
• The Jordan Harbinger Show 00:48:08

Definitions:

• CRM: Customer Relationship Management — a system for tracking and managing interactions with contacts. 00:20:07
• Social Capital: The networks of relationships that enable a society or group to function effectively. 00:38:07