East Trade Winds

Are You Networking Wrong? Here's What Actually Converts


Listen Later

GROWTH PILLAR:Networking & Community

WHO THIS IS FOR: SMB owners / Solopreneurs / Newcomers to Canada / Leaders building referral systems

WHAT THEY'LL GAIN: A four-step framework for building a relationship ecosystem that generates leads, visibility, and lasting business partnerships

 

Most people are networking. Very few are building something that lasts.

Brent Edwards, Owner of BrentCanada Experiences, spent seven years at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce managing relationships with corporate members — and in that time, he watched three types of professionals consistently outperform everyone else in the room. Not because they had the biggest networks. Because they built the right ones.

At East Trade Winds S3E044, Brent walks through four practical steps to build what he calls a relationship ecosystem — a network designed to take your business where you want it to go in the next five years.

What you'll take away:

  • Why a diverse network beats a large one — every time
  • How to find the right rooms to be visible and credible in
  • The difference between networking events that harvest leads and ones that just fill your calendar
  • Why mentors, coaches, and community groups are the underused growth lever for solopreneurs
  • How newcomers to Canada can bridge their existing social capital into the Canadian market
  • Key topics covered:

    • The farming vs. hunting mindset — Ivan Meisner's principle applied practically
    • Four inputs every relationship ecosystem needs: organic network, visibility, personal growth, pipeline
    • Where to find events worth your time — chambers, trade shows, alumni groups, referral networks
    • How to assess whether your current network will take you where you want to be
    • B2B vs. B2C networking strategy — what changes and what stays the same
    • Connect with Brent:

      • Website: brentcanada.info
      • LinkedIn: Brent Edwards
      • LinkedIn Company: BrentCanada Experiences
      • Facebook: Networking For Newcomers
      • YouTube: @BrentCanadaExperiences
      • X: @brentedwardscan
      • E-book — The Ultimate Guide to Professional Networking for Newcomers to Canada: Get it here
      •  

        Browse all episodes

         

        — PARTNERS ON THIS EPISODE —

        • Canada Growth Network — Real business connections plus a Super CRM stack. $1 CAD first month, $47/month after.
        • East Trade Winds — Free weekly networking every Tuesday 8–9 AM EST. Bring one challenge. Make one introduction.
        • WebIndexer — Turn your website into a 24/7 client-facing sales assistant.
        •  

          Next Steps

          • Join Canada Growth Network - $47 CAD/month. Super CRM tool. Real people.
          • Subscribe to the K4B blog
          • Search K4B episodes
          • Register as a K4B guest
          • Join East Trade Winds free every Tuesday 8–9 AM EST
          • Past episodes
          • Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

            It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

            It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

            ...more
            View all episodesView all episodes
            Download on the App Store

            East Trade WindsBy Bernie Franzgrote