Networking: “Do I have to?” “No – But Here is Why You Should?”

Business networking benefits

Welcome to our latest blog, where I’m going to talk about the art of networking. You know… that thing us business folks do to make connections with other business folks in the professional world. But hey, let’s be honest. For many of us, networking is about as fun as trying to crack a joke at a funeral (which, if you’ve never tried it… is NOT fun). And unless you are tipping the extreme scales of extroversion, cracking jokes in this type of environment, or networking for that matter, isn’t a thing that comes naturally to most of us.

Frankly, there are times when the last thing I want to do is walk into a room full of strangers, try to turn on the charm, and strike up a conversation that will lead to a meaningful connection. Yet, I often find that once I get over that initial dread and find someone to engage with, I inevitably do end up finding my stride. So, for those of us still learning to get over the initial networking hump, let’s dive in and explore a few tips for making the whole concept of networking a bit more enjoyable.

The Importance of Networking: “Why network when I can Netflix and chill?”

Look, I get it. Networking can sound about as appealing as watching a documentary about mold. But here’s the thing – networking is crucial for both your personal and professional growth. Try thinking of it like going to the gym, except that instead of lifting weights, you’re lifting opportunities. And the more you lift, the stronger you become and the more opportunities you create. All of which does the body good.

So, as tempting as the latest episode of Wednesday may be, let’s put down the remote, jump off the couch, and discuss some of the ways that networking can benefit you:

Expand your network: Attending networking events allows you to meet like-minded folks, potential mentors, and even possible future collaborators. You’re not always going to strike gold, but simply attending an event or two each week increases the odds of meeting someone that can change the trajectory of your career.
Career development: Depending on your goals, networking is a great way to enhance your career prospects. By engaging with other professionals, you can not only learn new industry trends, but also learn about potential job openings. You can even bounce ideas around to make more informed decisions about your professional journey.
Skills enhancement and continuous learning: Many networking events consist of some sort of panel, workshop, lecture, or other type of content with networking mixed in. Using these types of events as an opportunity to learn and share knowledge helps you acquire new insights that can be shared with others, thereby increasing your individual positive influence. Plus, simply by attending the event, you get to practice and hone your conversational and listening skills.
A chance to have some fun: Summer networking, in particular, tends to be more relaxed. Events are often outdoors. The casual atmosphere fosters more natural conversations which makes the experience that much more enjoyable. Plus, taking a break from routine and experiencing something new opens the door to serendipity.

Ok. Now that I’ve convinced you to attend (wink), let’s talk about what you should do to make the most of each networking opportunity:

Start with a clear goal: Before diving headfirst into this networking circus, figure out want you want to achieve. As a former coach of mine put it, ask yourself, “Am I drinking or working?” Either one is fine, just be clear on which one it is. (If it’s the former, be intentional and be sure to keep hydrated…) If it’s the latter, be intentional. Are you looking for new job opportunities? Do you want to meet potential collaborators? Partners? Defining your objectives first, will allow you to make moves that are both thoughtful and tactically aligned with your larger goals.
Expand your network strategically: Forget about collecting business cards like they’re Pokémon cards. Instead, focus on quality connections. Find people that share your passions. Seek out events where these types of folks are likely to congregate. Remember, it’s quality over quantity. If you meet someone that doesn’t fit, politely excuse yourself and move on.
Be proactive and approachable: Look, I get it. We’re all a little socially awkward. But when it comes to networking, you can’t hug the wall, you gotta put yourself out there. Strike up a conversation. Crack a joke or two. If you don’t have any, fire up Google and find some that make you laugh, or at least smile. Remember, laughter is the ultimate icebreaker.
Give before you ask: Networking is not a one-way street. In fact, the best thing you can do is to give before you receive. Think of it like a comedy show, the comedian has to give the audience something to laugh at before getting their applause. There are many ways to “give” to others in a networking setting. Offer support. Share resources. Help others in your network. At the end of the day, it’s about building trust and creating lasting relationships.
Follow up and stay connected: After the networking event, don’t ghost your leads and potential partners. Be sure to follow up with the people you meet. Send them an article they might find interesting. Invite them to attend another event as your guest. Stay connected through social media. Cultivate and maintain each connection you make. The more you do, the more opportunity you create for yourself and further expand your network.

Conclusion: “Networking: Connecting the World, One Bad Joke at a Time”

While networking may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it is a necessary ingredient for success in the business world. So, embrace the awkwardness, be bold and put yourself out there. Connect with others and each time you do, you will get a little more comfortable. Finally, remember that networking is a long-term investment. It takes time and a lot of giving first before the seeds you plant start to grow. By following the steps above, you can increase your odds of success and have a little more fun along the way.

The post Networking: “Do I have to?”<br> “No – But Here is Why You Should?” appeared first on IA Business Advisors.

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How to Mitigate Financial Risk Using the S.M.A.R.T. Management System

June 9, 2025

In an increasingly volatile economy, businesses cannot afford to be reactive when it comes to their finances. Whether you're a startup founder, a growing enterprise, or a seasoned business owner, the risk of financial instability is real—and growing. At IA Business Advisors, we help companies proactively navigate these risks using our comprehensive S.M.A.R.T. Management System . S.M.A.R.T. is more than just a goal-setting acronym. It is a decision-making and execution framework that brings clarity, structure, and alignment to every part of your business. From six-week action plans to one-year targets and long-term strategy, S.M.A.R.T. ensures your financial operations support healthy growth and resilience. Understanding Financial Risk in Today’s Business Climate Financial risk is multifaceted. It ranges from cash flow disruptions and market shifts to internal mismanagement and over-leveraged growth. As Brian Smith shared on a recent Daily Influence podcast episode, unchecked growth can drive a company into bankruptcy. Scaling without intention—chasing fast growth without aligning the internal team and financial resources—leads to diluted communication, quality issues, and operational chaos. Mitigating financial risk begins by understanding that more revenue doesn't always equal more stability. True sustainability comes from building systems that support intentional, well-paced growth. The S.M.A.R.T. Framework in Action: Reducing Financial Risk Our S.M.A.R.T. Management System guides businesses in creating resilient, financially stable operations through: 1. Specific: Build with Intentionality Clarity is power. One of our podcast guests, Mike Heatwole (CEO of The Dala Group), emphasized the importance of sitting down to define what matters most—whether that’s paying down debt, investing in growth, or launching a new venture. When your financial goals are specific, your strategy becomes targeted and less prone to reactive decision-making. “If we don’t know what the goal is, how do we get there?” — Mike Heatwole, CEO of The Dala Group 2. Measurable: Track What Matters Many companies are blindsided not by invisible risks, but by unmonitored ones. We help clients implement tools to track cash flow, margin fluctuations, and budget variances in real time. Visibility into your financial health gives you the power to respond early and course correct as needed. 3. Achievable: Assign Financial Stewardship Risk is reduced when financial responsibility is distributed. Through teamwide financial literacy and clear accountability, we empower organizations to make stronger daily decisions. No individual person should carry the entire burden—and no key area should go unmonitored. 4. Relevant: Make Risk Management a Habit Quarterly or biannual financial health check-ins create a sustainable rhythm. These don’t have to be complicated—they just need to be consistent. Regular reviews embed risk awareness into your company culture and decision-making process. 5. Timely: Foster Honest Dialogue Financial silence is a hidden threat. As Brian noted on the podcast, emotions like fear or shame can prevent businesses from facing financial realities. We encourage honest, blame-free communication around financial performance, creating space for solutions and collective action. Case in Point: Short-Term Action, Long-Term Impact One of our clients, a family-run distribution company, had strong revenue but was bleeding cash due to aging receivables. Together, we built a six-week S.M.A.R.T. Plan focused on accounts receivable recovery. We implemented weekly check-ins, assigned ownership, and used real-time tracking. Within 90 days, their outstanding A/R dropped by 22%, freeing up capital and restoring operational confidence. It’s Never Too Late to Get Financially Intentional Many leaders in their 40s, 50s, or 60s worry they’ve waited too long. But as Mike Heatwole wisely shared: “It’s never too late. Just get started. Do something.” Progress—not perfection—is the goal. Start small. Build momentum. Take the next best step. This mirrors a concept we love from The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan: measure progress based on how far you've come, not just how far you have to go. Final Thoughts: Make Financial Stability a Strategy Mitigating financial risk isn’t about a dramatic overhaul. It’s about consistent action, visibility, and intentional decision-making. With the S.M.A.R.T. Management System, IA Business Advisors helps businesses turn risk into clarity, fear into focus, and instability into opportunity. If you’re ready to start, we’re ready to help. Let’s have a conversation about what matters most to you—and build from there.

Enhancing Interpersonal Relationships for Toxic Workplace Recovery

May 29, 2025

Hello, team! Mary here, continuing our journey through the I in Team series, where we challenge and empower you to Find , Be , and Build Your Influence. One of the most common things we’re asked to help our clients with is toxic workplace recovery. This directly connects to the culture of the team, and while rebuilding that culture takes time and intention, it is absolutely possible. In fact, with the guidance of our I in Team approach and S.M.A.R.T. Management system, we’ve successfully helped more than 19,000 teams evolve into high-performing, values-based cultures. If you’re ready to take the lead and breathe life back into your team, we’re here and ready to support you. Practice Emotional Intelligence One of the most impactful steps you can take on your toxic workplace recovery journey is to practice emotional intelligence (the ability to recognize, understand, and manage both your own emotions and the emotions of those around you). Toxic environments are often the result of emotional disconnection, poor communication, unnecessary competition, and a culture that avoids constructive feedback. Begin by shifting your perspective: respond with empathy, ask thoughtful questions, and use “I” statements. These habits model two traits, emotional regulation and empathy, that influence how your team interacts and solves problems. Start small. For example, set a personal goal to give one piece of sincere praise or recognition per day. This is a S.M.A.R.T. goal, and it starts to reinforce positive emotional exchanges. Over time, this contributes to a psychologically safe environment where people feel seen and supported. Foster Open Communication Once emotional intelligence begins to take root, toxic workplace recovery is just around the corner. Open communication becomes more natural because when team members are aware of their own and others’ emotions, communication becomes seamless. The number one rule? Listen. Really listen. Without listening, communication is incomplete. Try implementing monthly influence partnerships—team pairings that rotate so members can get to know each other beyond surface-level roles. This creates connection and, when done with consistency (Timely), fosters trust across your team. Another way to build open communication is by creating a structured feedback loop. Clarify how and when feedback should be given—perhaps during weekly one-on-ones or monthly review meetings—and make sure all team members understand the difference between criticism and constructive feedback. S.M.A.R.T. feedback is Specific and Relevant, and when delivered with respect, it encourages team members to grow without fear. Lead by Example As we say throughout the I in Team series, everyone is a leader regardless of title. Whether you’re in the C-suite or just starting your first job, how you show up directly shapes the culture of your team. To begin, set some respectful boundaries rooted in your values. Let others know what you need to succeed and what behaviors support or disrupt your work. When disagreements arise, demonstrate what respectful disagreement looks like—calm, focused on solutions, and free from personal attacks. If your workplace has leaned into competition, shift the focus to collaboration. Collaborate on micro-goals, like shared tasks or cross-functional projects. Make the results Measurable and celebrate wins together (publicly, if possible). Consider S.M.A.R.T.-based team-building events (like problem-solving challenges or goal-setting workshops) to reinforce collaboration in a meaningful way. Final Thoughts Toxic workplace recovery starts with you. Every interaction, every word, every moment of listening is a chance to model what’s possible. Show up the way you want others to show up. If your team is struggling to rebuild or you need expert guidance, reach out . We’re here to help. Let’s keep influencing responsibly and positively together.