More Powerful Than Networking: Why “Netgiving” Is the Leadership Game-Changer You Need
- Liza Engel
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
I used to have a boss who would bring me to events I’d never been to—big industry meetups, forums, sometimes even fancy receptions full of people I didn’t know. We’d walk in together, and five minutes later, he’d vanish. Eventually, he’d disappear entirely.
I managed. It was like being thrown into cold water. You swim because you have to. And I did—awkward intros, scanning for familiar faces I couldn’t find, trying to “network.”
But I always left thinking: There must be a better way to connect than this.
And there is. It’s called Netgiving.
Last week, during an interactive keynote, I asked a question that struck a chord with the room:
“How can we be more impactful when networking—and how can we get more joy and meaning?”
The answer is a mindset shift—from networking to netgiving—where the focus moves from what you can get to what you can give.
Why Netgiving Matters for Leaders
For professionals who lead, present, negotiate, or facilitate, networking can feel like a chore—or worse, a transaction. But when you lead with generosity, everything shifts. You connect more meaningfully, build trust faster, and create real momentum.
Whether you’re an executive, entrepreneur, consultant, or educator, netgiving transforms how you build relationships and others experience you and your leadership.
My Netgiving Story: How It Shifted My Career
At a training session, I once shared:
“I’m designing agile organisations and looking to connect with others working on similar challenges.”
That simple statement sparked an unexpected conversation and an introduction to someone with exactly that experience. The connection grew. I offered help, and they provided support in return. Then, when they reached out again, I could give even more.
It became a never-ending support loop, and together, our respective impacts were far greater than what either of us could have accomplished alone.
That’s the heart of netgiving. No pitch. No pressure. Just people helping people—and growing in the process.
The Five Pillars of Netgiving Leadership
1. Share Your Intention Openly
Say: “Here’s what I’m working on, here’s what I’ve learned—does this connect to your work?”
Action: Craft one sentence that shares your current focus and offer to support others.
2. Ask, “How Can I Help?”
Close every conversation with: “What would make your challenge easier right now?”
Action: Choose two people this week and offer something—an introduction, a resource, or a thoughtful perspective.
3. Honor Every Favor
Reciprocity isn’t repayment—it’s relationship building.
Action: Schedule 15 minutes weekly to follow up with a note or small gesture of appreciation.
4. Model Netgiving in Teams
Shine a light on someone’s work. Celebrate quiet wins.
Action: At your next team meeting, highlight the value of an unexpected contribution or cross-functional support.
5. Build a Netgiving Habit
Reflect: Who did you help? Who helped you?
Action: Start “Net Giving Fridays.” Send a thank-you or proactively offer help to someone in your network.
Gradually you will sense a shift and a smile will unfold across your face.
Why Leaders Who Lead with Generosity Win
Trust grows faster when generosity is authentic.
Deeper relationships form through shared purpose.
Opportunities flow to those who create value without conditions.
Influence becomes effortless when grounded in service, not self-promotion.
When you practice Netgiving, you won’t just connect more—you’ll be remembered for how you connect and make others feel.
Final Reflection
This quarter is about leadership. And generous leadership—Netgiving leadership—is precisely what the world needs more.
Lead with curiosity. Offer something real. Build trust through small acts of connection.
You already have a network. Now, make it even more meaningful.
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