Value Before Network Access

Andrew Wilkinson shares his perspective on effective networking and building relationships with influential people, emphasizing the importance of bringing value and earning your place rather than forcing connections. His experiences range from successful relationship building with business leaders to awkward situations in Hollywood circles.

Key Points:

• Strategic Approach to Meeting Influential People:

  • Find points of similarity and relevance when reaching out
  • Be willing to travel and meet on their terms
  • Make initial contact through areas of mutual interest or benefit

• Value-Based Networking:

  • Don't try to enter circles where you can't provide value
  • Wait until you're interesting or relevant to the person you want to meet
  • Build legitimate reasons for connection rather than forcing relationships

• Real Examples of Networking Success:

  • Met Dan Gilbert through cold email highlighting shared interests in city development
  • Connected with Bill Ackman through charity lunch auction ($57,000)
  • Developed relationship with Charlie Munger through formal letters rather than direct communication

• Lessons from Failed Networking:

  • Attending Vanity Fair Oscar party showed the importance of belonging naturally
  • People quickly dismiss those who don't belong in their circle
  • Having no shared language or value makes networking ineffective

• Key Principles:

  • "Earn the room you're in" rather than buying your way in
  • Be humble and open about wanting to connect
  • Be willing to invest time and money, but only when there's genuine alignment
  • Focus on building relationships where you can contribute meaningfully

• Practical Networking Approach:

  • Research thoroughly before making contact
  • Highlight 3-4 relevant points of connection
  • Be willing to travel and accommodate their schedule
  • Show genuine interest in their work or achievements
  • Wait for the right timing and context

The core message is that effective networking comes from building genuine value and relevance rather than forcing connections or trying to buy your way into relationships.