TIN #082 - On-Base Networking: How Introverts Can Win Big with Moneyball Tactics
Step Up to the Plate: Simple, Effective Strategies for Making Meaningful Connections
Hello, my fellow introvert!
Today I'm thinking about movies I've seen a thousand times.
There's a list of movies I can't pass when I'm flipping through the channels on TV.
One of those movies is “Moneyball.”
But what does that have to do with networking?
Read on...
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read
Before We Get Started:
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Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game
"Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game" is a book by Michael Lewis, published in 2003.
The movie adaptation, released in 2011, stars Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill.
Both tell the story of the Oakland Athletics baseball team and its general manager, Billy Beane.
The central premise of "Moneyball" is the use of Sabermetrics, a form of analytics in baseball that emphasizes the use of statistical data to make decisions about player recruitment, game strategy, and team composition.
Billy Beane, along with a Yale economics graduate named Peter Brand (a character based on Paul DePodesta, who chose not to be named in the film), challenges traditional baseball scouting and strategies by focusing on undervalued players who have a high on-base percentage (OBP).
In order to win baseball games, you need to score runs. To score runs, you need to get on base.
It doesn't matter how you get on base.
What is most important is you get on base.
In networking, focusing on doing small things, akin to the emphasis on OBP in "Moneyball," offers a powerful parallel for introverts in networking.
This approach simplifies the process, making it more manageable and less intimidating, especially for those who might find networking overwhelming.
Moneyball Principles In Networking
Consistency Over Flash:
Just as getting on base is about consistency rather than hitting home runs, effective networking for introverts doesn't have to be about making a huge impression on everyone you meet.
Instead, it's about consistently making small, meaningful connections. This could mean asking thoughtful questions, showing genuine interest in others, or offering helpful information.
Valuing Small Wins:
Every conversation doesn't need to lead directly to an opportunity or a pivotal connection.
Like a walk to first base, small interactions can cumulatively build a network over time.
Introverts can focus on incremental progress, valuing each new acquaintance or deeper conversation as a step forward.
Redefining Success:
In "Moneyball," success was redefined from winning championships to creating a competitive team on a budget.
Similarly, introverts can redefine networking success. Instead of expecting to get a job offer from every connection, focus on making new connections to forming meaningful relationships. Seek to understand others' needs and how you can help them.
By focusing on the "on-base percentage" of networking—making consistent, small connections—introverts can develop a more sustainable and comfortable approach to building their professional networks.
What does getting on base look like in networking?
Find one former co-worker who isn't a 1st degree connection on LinkedIn and send them a connection request.
Find one former co-worker who is a 1st degree connection on LinkedIn and send them an email or LinkedIn message to reconnect.
Set up one in-person or virtual meeting with one connection who has responded to your messages.
Send an idea or recommendation to one of your connections you've been talking to via email, virtually, or in-person.
Give one of your connections your Target Company List.
Each one of these actions by itself probably won't "score a run." But if you keep getting on base, you'll eventually cross home plate.
Wrapping It Up
By focusing on the OBP of networking—making consistent, small connections—introverts can develop a more sustainable and comfortable approach to building their professional networks.
This strategy emphasizes the power of steady progress and the cumulative impact of many small successes, aligning well with the strengths and preferences of many introverts.
Give it a try.
Let me know how it goes.
Have a great week,
Greg