Most high-performing professionals resist networking.

It feels transactional.

Time-consuming.

Even unnecessary.

But here’s the reality:


As your leadership grows, your success becomes less about what you know, and more about who you can connect, influence, and develop.

In this episode, Laurie sits down with Paul Marini, Associate Chair for Administration in Orthopedic Surgery at UNC Chapel Hill, to reframe networking as a core leadership competency, not a career tactic.

Together, they explore:

* Why leaders avoid networking (and what it’s costing them)

* How to shift from self-promotion to service and stewardship

* The role of curiosity, generosity, and consistency in building authentic relationships

* How senior leaders can leverage their network to elevate others, not just themselves

If you’ve ever thought, “My work should speak for itself,” this conversation will challenge that belief, and equip you with a more effective, human-centered approach. Because networking, done well, isn’t about visibility. It’s about impact.

The conversation highlights three leadership reframes:

1. From Transactional → Relational

Networking is not about extracting value. It’s about building trust.

2. From Self-Focused → Others-Focused

Curiosity replaces pressure. Generosity replaces performance.

3. From Personal Gain → Leadership Stewardship

At higher levels, networking becomes less about you, and more about how you create access for others.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

* Networking is not optional, it’s a leadership responsibility

* Relationships are the infrastructure behind execution and strategy

* The best networkers are curious, generous, and consistent

* Senior leaders multiply impact by sharing their network

* Small, intentional interactions matter more than large, forced efforts

CONNECT WITH PAUL

Paul Marini LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinipaul/