Mastering the Art of Real Networking
How Powerful Connections Start with Purpose, Presence & Practice
The Power of Showing Up
“Eighty percent of success is showing up.” – Woody Allen
Allan Hammond, founder of Friday Club, lived this mantra decades before it became a meme. Every Friday, rain or shine, he showed up. He didn’t always have the words. He didn’t always have the pitch. But he showed up — and in doing so, built one of South Africa’s longest-standing business networks. But simply showing up isn’t enough.
To make networking work — to turn connections into clients and introductions into opportunity — we need to go deeper.
Lesson from Tony Robbins: Energy is Everything
Tony Robbins often tells the story of his early days — no money, no reputation, and sleeping in his car. What he did have was unmatched energy. Every room he entered, he brought fire. People remembered him not because of what he sold, but because of how he made them feel.
Friday Club Pro Tip: Bring energy. Before you pitch, bring presence. Smile. Look people in the eye. Be excited about their business, not just yours.
“People may forget what you say, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” – Tony Robbins
Story from Simon Sinek: Start With Why
Simon Sinek’s journey began with a loss of passion. He had everything — money, prestige — but no meaning. That’s when he started asking, “Why?” That question changed his life, and the lives of millions who now use his “Start With Why” model.
Friday Club Pro Tip: In your 30-second pitch, don’t just say what you do. Say why it matters.
Example:
“I help single moms start home-based businesses — because I believe financial freedom starts with flexibility.”
When people connect to your “why,” they remember your “what.”
Brené Brown on Vulnerability: Drop the Armour
Brené Brown reminds us that real connection comes from being real. Networking isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about being human.
At Friday Club, some of the most powerful moments have come not from polished pitches — but from honest ones.
“Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change.” – Brené Brown
Friday Club Pro Tip: Share your journey. Your wins, yes. But also your learnings, your pivots, your purpose.
Seth Godin on the Smallest Viable Audience
Seth Godin teaches marketers to stop chasing everyone. Focus on your tribe. Find the few who resonate and serve them with everything you’ve got.
Friday Club Pro Tip: You’re not there to connect with everyone. You’re there to find your people — those who get you, refer you, and grow with you.
Tip: Don’t spray. Target. Know who you want to meet, and why.
Build the Muscle, Not Just the Moment
Networking isn’t an event. It’s a practice. A craft. Just like going to the gym — the first session is awkward, but if you keep at it, it becomes your strength.
Pro Tips to Practice:
- Rehearse your 30-second story weekly
- Set a post-event reminder to follow up
- Track connections in a simple spreadsheet
- Book one coffee date every Friday
Final Thought: From Conversation to Collaboration
At Friday Club, we believe that the greatest opportunities don’t come from being the loudest in the room — they come from being the most intentional.
When you Get Up, Dress Up, and Show Up with purpose, connection becomes transformation.
“In a world where business is often cold and transactional, human connection is your competitive edge.” – unknown
