Your network determines your net worth. Whomever penned that line had an accurate view about networking.
As a business owner, I’m interested in building my own net worth, increasing my business revenue, and making advantageous connections. As an Apostolic business owner, I’m also interested in helping other Apostolic business owners thrive. The Apostolic Chamber of Commerce (ACoC) provides a natural avenue for me to meet both of those goals.
ACoC membership is more than distributing business cards or sharing your Hello QR code. Although new sales can be generated through networking, joining does not guarantee these will pour into your business. Our goal is to provide value and serve others with personal gain taking a back seat to selfless service. By inviting other Apostolics to explore the ACoC, we are given the opportunity to connect and meet other business members’ needs. This approach and attitude follow Jesus’ example.
“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you”
John 13:15, NIV
In John 13, Jesus demonstrated selfless service by washing the disciples’ feet. He emphasized the necessity of identifying and fulfilling tasks, regardless of one’s position. This attitude of ministry is key to success and makes a difference in our net worth. Webster’s Dictionary defines the word minister as “to give aid or service.” By ministering to others and offering aid, we emulate Jesus’ teachings.
Prioritizing the needs of others before our own fosters stronger and more sustainable network growth. By solving problems for others without expecting immediate returns, we create opportunities for unimaginable outcomes. It is essential to share these experiences, highlight specific results, and recommend that others adopt a similar approach.
The value of connection: You may wonder, am I more valuable to others when I focus on connecting them with another business member? To answer your question, consider a time when you had a need and one of your business connections introduced you to the correct person who could meet that need. Most likely you appreciated that introduction. Self-serving individuals would not feel this was beneficial to their business, but those who model a servant’s attitude realize the value and benefit of prioritizing other’s needs before their own. This increases their value. Let’s strive to be that person and provide valuable introductions–even when we may not benefit immediately.
Opportunities to serve others with the Apostolic Chamber of Commerce.
- Send invitations to five individuals who would benefit from the Apostolic Chamber’s upcoming calls or events.
- Attend our 4th Thursday Virtual networking events and any in-person events you are able to make it to. Make introductions that benefit others, even if there is no immediate benefit for your business.
- Identify needs within your professional network that can be resolved by an Apostolic and facilitate the connection.
We encourage every Apostolic Chamber of Commerce member to invite others to join. The ACoC is in a season of growth and development – adding trainings, networking events, and resources that are needed by our members to help them grow their businesses, connect with others of like precious faith, and advance the Kingdom of God. NOW is the perfect time to join and get in on the ground floor of this important movement.
By focusing on serving and connecting others with valuable resources, we expand our network and enhance our own worth. Jesus exemplified selfless service and emphasized that relationships shape us. By aligning ourselves with God’s plan and serving others, we create a network that benefits us–one that challenges us to become better disciples and mentor others. Let us build a strong network that reflects God’s intentions and trust Him to provide abundantly. Have you joined the ACoC yet? I invite you to join us today.
By Bryan Bootka, Messaging That Works
