This transcript was generated from the episode audio and may contain minor errors.
[Music]
Building a strong network is vital for side hustle success. And that's exactly what Raj is seeking advice on. But Raj is an introvert. You know what that means? Sadly, this means he will never succeed.
He should give up now before it's too late. Just move on. Just kidding. Of course it's okay. I'm an introvert.
I'm a super introvert. Most likely more introverted than you or anybody else out there. So in my answer, I'm gonna share a couple tips on how to expand your network and connect with like-minded individuals, both within your community and industry. Whether you identify as an introvert or not, if you're looking to strengthen your connections, maybe this will help. Welcome to side hustle school, by the way.
My name is Chris Guillebeau. Stay tuned for the detailed question and my answer. [Music]
Hi, this is Raj from Boston. I learned about side hustle school from a coworker who reads your books. I've been trying to expand my side business, local event planning service, but I realized that I need a strong network to support his growth.
I'm hoping to connect with other entrepreneurs, suppliers and potential clients. What strategies or tips can you share on building such a network? I'm an introvert, so I don't really want to go to a bunch of conferences where I don't know anyone, but I'm willing to put in the work if that's what it takes. Raj, thanks for calling in. Hey, listen, I don't think you necessarily have to go to a bunch of conferences where you don't know anyone.
Like if you're not into that, I don't think that's the only way to succeed. I think more importantly is to build relationships with existing connections and use those connections to connect with others. I would say don't overlook the value of that network you already have, including your friends, family, coworkers, acquaintances, especially in the event planning world. Everybody knows somebody who is doing some kind of an event or is associated with some kind of event or just attends events. Let them know about your side business, see if they can introduce you to someone who might be interested in your service or otherwise has some industry connections.
In this world, as I said, word of mouth can be incredibly powerful in building the right network. So it's not about showing up to conferences and having to like put that name badge on and try to go up to people. And I mean, you can do that if you want, but I think if you're feeling the pressure, that's definitely not the only way. The second strategy, broad approach here, is to be helpful to other people you meet in this field. So as you connect with people, most event planners need assistance and backups for events.
And it can make a world of difference. Like I've seen this myself with different folks. If you're available to help without ego or expectation, during a critical event, that can just go a long way. And you end up getting a call later or a referral to something else. So just remember that this is a gradual process.
You're gonna get better at it over time. So do keep putting yourself out there where possible, but don't feel like you have to change your entire personality. I really think this is the way. So good luck, Raj, let us know how it goes. Listeners, if you have a question or a scenario, something you're struggling with, sidehustleschool.com/questions, we'll continue to feature them each week, along with updates from listeners as they launch and grow their projects.
That's all for now, I'll be back tomorrow. My name's Chris Guillebeau, this is "Side Hustle School." [Music]
From the Onward Project.
