Networking often feels pointless at first—just meeting people and exchanging cards—but over time it becomes powerful. When others put their reputation behind you, it pushes you to follow through and deliver. By putting himself out there online and engaging in networking groups, community circles, and church, Dirk learned that networking is really about building relationships that eventually lead to referrals.

Dr. Ivan Misner of BNI explains networking success through three steps: Visibility, Credibility, and Profitability.

Visibility means putting yourself out there so people know who you are and what you stand for. Your online presence and interactions shape how people first see you.

Credibility is built by consistently doing what you say you’ll do and serving people well over time. Experience, integrity, volunteering, and genuinely helping others all build trust.

Profitability naturally follows when people know you and trust you. Opportunities, referrals, and business growth come from helping others succeed, not just focusing on money.

In the end, networking isn’t just about making money—it’s about relationships, helping people, mentoring others, and creating opportunities for everyone to succeed.