In any interaction, you can either be a "taker" or a "giver." Takers approach networking with the mindset of "What can this person do for me?" Their focus is on their own benefit, and their interactions can often feel self-serving and shallow. Givers, on the other hand, approach networking with the question, "How can I help this person?" They lead with generosity, offering their time, knowledge, or connections without expecting anything in immediate return.

This may sound counterintuitive. How does helping others help you? The magic is in the reciprocity and trust that this approach fosters. When you help someone without any strings attached, you build a reputation as a generous, reliable, and valuable person. People remember those who have helped them. This builds a bank of goodwill that will come back to you in unexpected and powerful ways, often far exceeding what you initially gave.

1. You Don’t Need to Be an Expert to Give Back

A common misconception is that you need to be a senior executive or a top expert in your field to have anything of value to offer. This couldn't be further from the truth. Everyone, at every stage of their career, has something to give.

How to give, even when you're starting out:

  • Share what you're learning: Are you taking a course, reading an interesting book, or listening to a great podcast? Share it. If you have a conversation with someone and they mention an interest in a topic you just learned about, send them a link. A simple message like, "Hey, I remembered you were interested in digital marketing. I just finished this great online course and thought you might find it useful," is an easy and powerful way to give.
  • Offer your unique skills: Are you great with social media? Do you have a knack for proofreading? Do you know how to design a simple graphic? Offer these skills to others. Perhaps a contact mentions they are organizing a small event; you could offer to help design a flyer or promote it online.
  • Give your full attention: One of the most valuable things you can give someone is your undivided attention. In a world of constant distraction, being a good listener is a rare and appreciated gift. When you're in a conversation, put your phone away, make eye contact, and truly listen to what the other person is saying. This act of respect is a form of giving that builds immediate rapport.

2. The Power of Making an Introduction

One of the most impactful ways to give back is to connect two people who you think could benefit from knowing each other. This positions you as a valuable and central node in your network. You become a "super-connector" who creates opportunities for others.

How to do it right:

  • Always ask first (the "double opt-in"): Before you make an introduction, reach out to both people separately to get their permission. This is a crucial sign of respect. You might say to one person, "I have a friend who is looking to break into your industry. Would you be open to me introducing you via email?" This ensures that the introduction is welcome and that no one feels put on the spot.
  • Make the introduction easy: When you send the introduction email, make it easy for them to take the next step. Briefly explain why you’re connecting them and suggest a clear next action. For example, "Sarah, meet Ben. Ben is a talented graphic designer I mentioned, and Sarah, Ben is looking for some advice on building a freelance portfolio. I'll let you two take it from here!"

By connecting others, you create value for both of them and solidify your relationship with each.

3. Share Your Knowledge Freely

Whether online or in person, sharing your knowledge is a fantastic way to build a brand as a helpful expert.

Ways to share what you know:

  • Answer questions in online communities: Join LinkedIn groups, Slack channels, or subreddits related to your field. When someone posts a question that you can answer, provide a thoughtful and helpful response. You’ll become known as a go-to person in that community.
  • Post helpful content on LinkedIn: You don't need to write a long, formal article. You can share a quick tip, a lesson you learned from a recent project, or your thoughts on an industry trend. This "learning out loud" is a generous act that provides value to your network and builds your personal brand at the same time.
  • Be a mentor (even informally): You might not feel old or experienced enough to be a "mentor," but there is always someone a few steps behind you on the path. This could be a student at your former high school or college, or a new employee at your company. Offering to share your experience and guidance with them is an incredibly rewarding way to give back.

4. Celebrate the Success of Others

In a competitive world, it can be easy to feel a twinge of jealousy when you see others succeed. A "giver" mindset flips this. The success of people in your network is a good thing, and celebrating it with them is a simple yet powerful way to strengthen your connection.

How to celebrate others:

  • Engage with their good news on LinkedIn: When you see a contact post about a promotion, a new job, or a successful project, don't just hit the "like" button. Leave a genuine comment of congratulations. "This is fantastic news, John! So well-deserved. Congratulations!"
  • Send a private message: For a more personal touch, send a quick email or direct message. This shows you took an extra moment to recognize their achievement.

When you genuinely celebrate the wins of others, you build a reputation as a positive and supportive person—exactly the kind of person others want in their corner.

5. Follow Through on Your Promises

Perhaps the most fundamental way to give is to be reliable. If you say you’re going to do something, do it.

If you tell someone you’ll send them an article, send it. If you offer to make an introduction, make it. This simple act of following through on your word builds a foundation of trust that is absolutely essential for any strong relationship. Every time you deliver on a promise, no matter how small, you are making a deposit in your relationship bank account.