Networking Insights from Shalom Lamm: How to Build Authentic Connections for Success
In today’s fast-paced world, networking is more than just swapping business cards at events or adding connections on LinkedIn. It’s about cultivating genuine relationships that can lead to meaningful collaborations, career growth, and new opportunities. For many entrepreneurs, successful networking is the key to unlocking the door to long-term success. One such entrepreneur who has mastered the art of networking is Shalom Lamm, a business leader with a diverse background in real estate, community development, and charitable work.
In this post, we’ll dive into some of the networking insights shared by Shalom Lamm—an individual whose success is not only attributed to his business acumen but also to the powerful relationships he has built over the years. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, the lessons shared by Lamm can offer valuable guidance on how to network with intention and authenticity.
1. Building Relationships, Not Just Connections
One of the key networking insights that Shalom Lamm emphasizes is the importance of cultivating relationships, not just collecting contacts. In an interview, he shared, “Networking is not about who you know, but who knows you and who believes in what you’re doing.”
For Lamm, networking isn’t a transactional activity. Instead, it’s about building a web of trust and mutual support. This perspective is especially vital for entrepreneurs who need to foster long-term, meaningful relationships with investors, partners, clients, and even competitors.
Actionable Tip: Rather than focusing solely on the number of connections you have, invest time in getting to know people on a deeper level. Understand their goals, challenges, and values. When you take a genuine interest in others, the relationships become more authentic, and the collaboration opportunities will follow.
2. Leverage Your Existing Network
Another piece of wisdom from Shalom Lamm is the power of leveraging your existing network. Instead of always seeking out new people, Lamm advises entrepreneurs to tap into the connections they’ve already made. Often, the people who are already part of your professional circle can be your biggest advocates.
Shalom himself has often spoken about how he built his business and philanthropic ventures through the relationships he nurtured over the years. Whether it was finding investors, seeking advice, or building a team, Lamm knew that the strongest foundations often come from those who are already in your orbit.
Actionable Tip: Take inventory of your existing network—both online and offline. Reach out to old contacts, re-establish relationships, and see how you can help them as well. People are more likely to invest in you when they feel valued and supported.
3. Attend the Right Events with Purpose
While many entrepreneurs see networking as an obligation at events, Shalom Lamm has always approached it with intention. For Lamm, networking isn’t about attending every event but choosing the right ones that align with your personal or business goals.
Attending events and conferences provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and learn from industry experts. However, simply showing up isn’t enough. Lamm advises being purposeful in your approach—know what you want to achieve at the event and engage with people who can help you achieve that vision.
For example, Lamm, whose work spans across real estate development and charity work, has leveraged conferences and industry gatherings to meet potential partners and collaborators for both his for-profit and philanthropic ventures.
Actionable Tip: Before attending a networking event, define your goals. Whether it’s seeking advice from a mentor, building partnerships, or finding investors, approach the event with clarity. Don’t just meet people—form relationships with those who align with your purpose.
4. Offer Value First
An essential element of successful networking, according to Shalom Lamm, is offering value before expecting anything in return. Lamm understands that the most powerful connections are formed when you provide help, share knowledge, or connect others with resources.
Lamm’s business ventures, especially in real estate and community projects, often involve collaboration with individuals who share his vision for creating value. By always thinking in terms of “value first,” he’s built a reputation for being a resourceful and trustworthy partner. In fact, many of the partnerships and business opportunities that Lamm has been able to develop were a result of his willingness to give before receiving.
Actionable Tip: Focus on how you can add value to the lives and businesses of those in your network. Introduce people to one another, offer advice, or share valuable resources. When you create value for others, you’ll find that the returns come naturally and organically.
5. Be Authentic and Consistent
Authenticity is one of the cornerstones of Shalom Lamm’s approach to networking. Whether working with clients, partners, or even competitors, Lamm has always maintained a straightforward, genuine persona. He believes that authenticity is crucial in building trust, which is essential for lasting relationships.
People are quick to sense inauthenticity, and when they do, it can undermine potential collaborations. Lamm’s consistency—whether in business dealings or personal interactions—has been key to his success. It’s this consistency and authenticity that has made him a respected figure across various industries.
Actionable Tip: Always be true to yourself in your professional relationships. Don’t try to be someone you’re not in order to impress others. People are drawn to authenticity and will appreciate you for who you are, not just what you can offer.
6. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
Finally, Shalom Lamm stresses the importance of following up after networking interactions. Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of assuming that once an initial connection is made, the work is done. However, the key to successful networking lies in staying engaged with those you meet.
Lamm takes the time to follow up with people he meets at events, often sending a personalized email or making a phone call. He believes that maintaining consistent communication is essential for keeping the relationship alive and ensuring that the connection doesn’t fizzle out.
Actionable Tip: After a networking interaction, make it a priority to follow up. Whether it’s through email, social media, or a phone call, staying in touch shows that you value the relationship and are committed to maintaining it.
Conclusion: Networking as an Ongoing Journey
For Shalom Lamm, networking is not a one-time event or a series of transactional encounters. Instead, it’s an ongoing journey that requires sincerity, patience, and dedication. His approach—focused on relationship-building, offering value, and remaining authentic—offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to grow their network and elevate their professional life.
Networking, when done the right way, has the potential to open doors, create opportunities, and build lasting relationships that propel you toward success. Whether you’re just starting out or are already well-established in your career, the principles shared by Lamm are timeless and can serve as a roadmap for anyone looking to create meaningful connections in today’s competitive business landscape.
