Get connected: The power of proximity

You’ve heard the saying: you’re only as good as the company you keep. Well, I can attest to that! Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone and connect—not just with first-tier contacts, but with the people they know, too.

Think about it. If you only talk to your coworkers every day, how many new prospects does that generate? Now, imagine asking five coworkers to introduce you to five people each. Suddenly, your network—and opportunities—expand exponentially. That’s the formula for successful networking.

Maybe you’re thinking, "That’s easier said than done." Sure, but the Quad Cities Chamber hosts plenty of networking events. When was the last time you attended one? Too busy? Think you already know everyone you need to?

Last week proved to me, once again, how powerful networking can be:

Monday: Lunch with an old coworker. ROI: Connected my work with her new employer’s mission, provided coaching to an emerging leader and supported a local business by eating downtown.

Tuesday: Attended State and Local Workforce Board Meetings. ROI: Gained insight into how federal budget cuts impact workforce development—and how I can better advocate for the Quad Cities.

Wednesday: Hosted the Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority for a tour with a local manufacturer. ROI: Fostered a key introduction, gained insights into manufacturing challenges and highlighted the Quad Cities’ industrial strength.

Thursday: Visited a manufacturer using cutting-edge AI and automation. ROI: Shared their story with my network of 1,877+ LinkedIn contacts. Also reconnected with an employee I had endorsed for their current role. That evening, I hosted our first Manufacturing Hub Huddle of the year—50+ attendees, countless new connections and a job opportunity sparked from an introduction I made a year ago.

Friday: Toured Empowering Abilities and learned about their Enterprise Program. ROI: Helped spread the word about an organization connecting overlooked workers with meaningful jobs. Shared info in person, on LinkedIn and at a Quad Cities Chamber staff meeting to encourage business partnerships. Also, convened local partners to promote the SkillBridge program, which supports veteran employment. Referrals fuel this program—I mention it to every business I meet!

Now, you might be thinking, Chris, that’s what you get paid to do. True. But if you know me (and if you don’t—let’s connect!), you know I network on and off the clock. I’m a self-proclaimed intrapreneur, and there’s no skill more valuable than building relationships. Done right, networking elevates everyone involved.

With warm weather ahead, it’s the perfect time to get out and meet people. Need an introduction? Let me know—or better yet, join us at an upcoming QC Chamber event!