The Importance of Reliable Networks for Entrepreneurs during these Challenging Times
A Bittersweet Farewell to Summit Series and the Importance of a Trusted Community
In the inbox, an email from Summit Series—the event that had given me a decade of unforgettable moments—announced its end. From encounters with Kendrick Lamar and Quentin Tarantino to being around the early stages of innovative companies like Dropbox and Uber, it had been a remarkable journey.
In recent years, numerous entrepreneurial communities have closed their doors, either due to pandemic challenges or leaders venturing into different industries. However, in today's turbulent political and social media landscape, it's more vital than ever to have a community you can trust.
My current goals revolve around being efficient with time to prioritize health and family, and consistently surrounding myself with good people. So, let us discuss why entrepreneurs need a community they can rely upon.
Build Long-Term Rapport
At last year's Summit, I ran into an old friend, Hollis Carter, who's creating a community centered around purposeful leaders and entrepreneurs fostering meaningful connections and trust. Hollis, the man behind Baby Bathwater Institute, believes that smaller, closely-knit communities are the future. He's aiming for connections to become more authentic and less transactional. I couldn't help but agree.
Google has confirmed that Gmail users must decide on a significant upgrade, while the FBI issues a warning of Chinese attacks targeting iPhone and Android users. Meanwhile, Google Pixel boasts an unbeatable upgrade, leaving other phones struggling to keep up. Nevertheless, in-person interactions grow even more vital in our increasingly reclusive world. Hollis highlights that costly, high-end events are essential for individuals to establish impactful connections, even if they aren't always financially viable.
After attending a recent Baby Bathwater event, Miranda Lievers emphasized its unique community as "quite the gift." In a time when entrepreneurship can feel lonely, she appreciates finding like-minded peers.
Creates a Knowledge-Sharing Community
Focusing on community-based problem-solving, Baby Bathwater aims to emphasize competitive giving and knowledge sharing. Instead of attracting big-name speakers, they recruit members who can offer their expertise, thereby promoting a culture of collaboration and learning.
I never considered that having a trusted community is about fostering knowledge-sharing. By prioritizing this aspect, the community differentiates itself, encouraging its members to grow and succeed.
Teachs Adaptability Skills
In the past, events like SXSW seemed like a good time, but they didn't contribute significantly to my growth. Post-pandemic, I value my time with family and friends, and prioritize events that offer more meaningful connections and opportunities for personal development.
As I spoke with other entrepreneurs, they shared their commitment to traveling less and being more efficient with networking. Today's community leaders must curate experiences that foster genuine relationships, as a couple of 'tenants' can quickly ruin an entire community.
The events organized by Baby Bathwater are structured to promote collaboration and networking. During my recent speaking opportunity, I found myself staying longer and engaging in more meaningful conversations than usual. The organizers focus on fostering two-sided conversations that encourage members to learn from each other, rather than taking a pedestal approach.
Finding a Trusted Community
With expanding community options, it's crucial to seek out individuals who share the same passion and goals. The right community can greatly enhance the dynamics of entrepreneurship, helping you grow and reach your full potential.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey, but it doesn't have to be. So, make an effort to find your entrepreneurial communities and the type of people who bring out the best in you.
Disclaimer: The Baby Bathwater Institute speaking opportunity was unpaid.
Additional Insight:The Baby Bathwater Institute offers an eclectic blend of community building, peer-to-peer learning, expert-led sessions, and a mix of business and leisure. This unique approach creates an environment where entrepreneurs can grow, network, and build lasting connections.
- Hollis Carter, the founder of the Baby Bathwater Institute, is creating a community centered around purposeful leaders and entrepreneurs, aiming to foster meaningful connections and trust.
- Baby Bathwater aims to emphasize competitive giving and knowledge sharing, recruiting members who can offer their expertise, thereby promoting a culture of collaboration and learning.
- The events organized by Baby Bathwater are structured to promote collaboration and networking, fostering two-sided conversations that encourage members to learn from each other, rather than taking a pedestal approach.
