Let’s talk about networking.
You know—those events where everyone looks like they walked straight out of a Safaricom ad.
Suits perfectly pressed.
Accents clearly imported.
Confidence dialed up to full volume.
Meanwhile, you’re standing in the corner thinking:
“Hi… I run a small business… online… sometimes…”
And silently praying the ground will open up and swallow you.
I get it.
I used to fear networking the way I fear missing my M-Pesa reversal window.
Because here’s what usually happens:
You enter the room and it feels like a silent competition.
- Who has the biggest title?
- Who knows the chairman?
- Who’s just flown in from Dubai this morning and is leaving for Amsterdam tonight?
- Who’s met both Bill Gates and Obama?
- And, of course, who went to an Ivy League school?
And me?
I was just trying to remember my elevator pitch without sweating through my clothes.
But here’s what I’ve learned—networking is not about being impressive. It’s about being real.
You don’t need a foreign accent, a 10-page CV, or a shiny logo on your lapel.
You just need to show up—and be human.
Smile.
Greet people.
Ask questions.
Say: “Here’s what I do. Here’s how I can help.”
That’s it.
That’s the connection.
And here’s the kicker—your so-called “small hustle”?
Could be the exact solution someone in that room is desperately looking for.
So show up—even if your voice shakes.
Because sometimes, the doors you’ve been praying for open…
the moment you simply say hello.
Let’s go.
