Social mobility is a topic often talked about in policy, education, and employment, but lived experiences rarely get enough airtime. It’s easy to say that people should just “get out there” and build their network, but it’s another thing to actually do it, especially when you come from a background where networking wasn’t part of the conversation growing up.
I’ve lived it. I went from having a very limited network to now, where I find myself regularly engaging with people across industries, governments, charities, and business. I’ll be the first to tell you, it’s possible, but it requires grit, bravery, and, perhaps most importantly, the courage to ask.
I want to share my story in the hope that it’ll inspire others, especially young people and those coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. Networking isn’t some magic skill reserved for the privileged, it’s a muscle anyone can build. The key is learning to overcome fear and understanding that you have as much to offer as the people you want to connect with.
My Early Days: A Network of One
I grew up with limited access. And by limited, I mean I didn’t have a network of established professionals or mentors waiting to guide me through life’s challenges. My world was small, and for a long time, I didn’t even know what I was missing. I became a father at 14, which shifted everything for me. At that age, you're not thinking about networking, you’re just thinking about not mucking life up for others.
It wasn’t until I started to get more involved in business and entrepreneurship that I realised how crucial having a strong network is. But at the time, my network was still very limited. I didn’t grow up surrounded by people who were launching businesses or sitting on boards, so I had to figure it out on my own. I was an outsider, peering into a world that felt far removed from my reality. But here's the thing, just because it feels far off doesn’t mean it’s out of reach.
The First Lesson: Overcoming Fear
There’s a level of fear that comes with networking, especially when you feel like an imposter. I’ve felt it countless times. It’s that fear of stepping into a room where you don’t know anyone and feeling like everyone else is more accomplished, more knowledgeable, or simply “belongs” there more than you do. That’s the first barrier we need to break down.
Fear doesn’t go away; you just get better at pushing through it. The trick is to stop thinking about yourself and start thinking about what you can offer others. Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. It’s about building relationships, and relationships are built on value—whether that’s knowledge, support, collaboration, or simply showing up.
I remember the first time I went to a business event. I was nervous, unsure of myself, and at least half of me wanted to turn around and leave. But I forced myself to stay and introduce myself to just one person. That’s it—one person. That’s where it starts. What you quickly realise is that most people aren’t there to judge you. They’re there for the same reason you are—to connect, learn, and grow.
The Power of Asking
I often tell young people today, especially those I work with at Inspire 2 Ignite, that the biggest barrier to success is not asking. We’re so afraid of rejection that we talk ourselves out of even trying. But here’s the truth: the worst someone can say is “no.” And if they say no, you’re no worse off than you were before. But if they say yes? That’s where the magic happens.
I can’t count how many opportunities I’ve gotten simply because I asked. Whether it was asking someone to grab a coffee, asking for advice on a project, or asking to be introduced to someone else, it all started with that initial ask. And the more you do it, the more you realise that people are generally willing to help, as long as you’re genuine in your approach.
One of the most important asks I made was when I reached out to someone who had started a similar organisation to mine. I wanted advice on scaling and developing partnerships, and I was nervous about reaching out. But I did it anyway, and it turned into one of the most valuable connections I’ve ever made. People that have achieved success I find are usually very happy to talk about it, so when they do say yes, be sure to go into that conversation with a curious and open mind.
Building Trust and Reciprocity
A network isn’t just about what you can get—it’s about what you can give. It’s about building trust and demonstrating that you’re someone who adds value to others. For me, that meant showing up, following through on commitments, and being willing to help others without expecting anything in return.
Trust is the currency of a strong network. If people trust you, they’ll introduce you to others, they’ll bring you into new opportunities, and they’ll want to collaborate with you. I’ve seen this happen time and time again. Some of the most valuable relationships I’ve built didn’t start with me asking for something. They started with me offering help, advice, or simply a listening ear.
Reciprocity is key. When you give without expectation, it comes back to you in ways you might not even anticipate. It could be months or even years later, but people remember those who helped them along the way. And those are the people they want to see succeed. A lesson I learned from my dad actually, he is always first to the bar in life and what I have noticed over time is they are always either grateful or they reciprocate, that is a win-win.
From Limited Access to Expansive Network
Today, my network looks nothing like it did years ago. It’s expansive, diverse, and full of people I can reach out to for support, advice, or collaboration. I sit on boards, work with government and industry leaders, and regularly convene groups of influential people. But I didn’t get here overnight. It took years of stepping out of my comfort zone, overcoming fear, and being willing to ask.
The thing is, I didn’t have a roadmap. I didn’t have a playbook for how to go from limited access to a powerful network. I just started by putting myself out there and being intentional about building relationships.
The most important thing I’ve learned? Networks aren’t built by luck or chance. They’re built by intention, effort, and a willingness to keep showing up—even when it’s uncomfortable.
Social Mobility and the Role of Networks
When we talk about social mobility, we often focus on education and employment opportunities. But networks play an equally important role. For young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, having access to the right people can open doors that might otherwise stay closed.
That’s why I’m so passionate about the work we do at Inspire 2 Ignite. We’re not just helping young people develop skills or find jobs—we’re helping them build networks. We’re connecting them with mentors, industry leaders, and people who can offer guidance and support.
Social mobility isn’t about moving up the ladder. It’s about having the relationships that allow you to keep climbing. For many, the first rung on the ladder is the hardest to reach, but once you’re on, the network you build will help you keep moving.
Advice for Building Your Network
Building a network doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. If you’re just starting out, think of it like this: begin small. You don’t have to know everyone in the room or shake a hundred hands. Just start with one person. Walk up, introduce yourself, and take it from there. Building a network isn’t about quantity; it’s about real connections, one at a time.
And the key here? Be genuine. Don’t feel like you have to put on a show or try to impress. People can tell when you’re not being authentic, and no one wants that. Just be yourself, relax, and focus on actually getting to know the person in front of you. That’s how real relationships start.
Then there’s the part that’s hardest for most of us, asking. It might feel awkward at first, but don’t be afraid to ask for help, advice, or even an introduction. You’d be amazed at how often people say yes. And if they don’t? Well, you’re no worse off than before. It’s all part of the process.
One thing I’ve learned is to give before you get. It’s easy to look at networking as something that benefits you, but it’s much more powerful when you build trust first. Offer your help, share your skills, or just be there to listen. Show that you’re a person people want to work with. That builds the kind of reputation that pays back tenfold down the road.
Finally, remember that networking isn’t a one-off thing. You’ve got to keep showing up. Stay engaged, keep in touch, and nurture those connections over time. It’s not about turning up once and collecting contacts; it’s about consistency so that people remember you’re there. In the end, building a network is about being present, being real, and just having the courage to take that first step. So get out there, start those conversations, and watch what unfolds.
I’m living proof that you don’t need to come from privilege to build a powerful network. You just need to be willing to put yourself out there, ask, and offer value. The network I’ve built has been instrumental in every part of my career, and I’m committed to helping others do the same. If you’re ready to start building your network, take that first step today. Overcome the fear, make the ask, and watch how your world begins to expand.
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