A Journey Through Networking
In this engaging interview, Tracey Currell, known as “The Connections Queen,” takes us on her journey from struggling sales representative to recognized leader in networking. Starting in 2007, Tracey faced numerous rejections and missed opportunities, until she received a life-changing piece of advice: focus on building genuine connections rather than pushing for the hard sell. This advice transformed her career and led her to success, showing the true power of human relationships in the business world.
For more insights on building a successful career through networking, check out our magazine article on Networking Success Stories.
Read more about networking strategies at Harvard Business Review.
The Power of Connection: No Random Networking
Collaboration Over Competition
Tracey emphasizes that Intrabiz, the network she champions, is not just about expanding contact lists—it’s about collaboration over competition. Unlike other networking groups, Intrabiz carefully places individuals in strategic environments, allowing complementary businesses to connect and grow together. This approach fosters genuine partnerships, helping businesses thrive through collaboration rather than direct competition. As Tracey puts it, “There are no random connections—every introduction is designed to add value.”
Big Names, Big Impact: Sharing the Stage with Legends
Learning from Industry Titans
One of the significant milestones in Tracey’s career was sharing the stage with world-renowned business leaders, including Grant Cardone and Lord Sugar. These moments were not only personal achievements but also opportunities to push the boundaries of networking and inspire others. As Tracey explains, her role on these stages was about “showing people what’s possible through networking and creating new paths to success.” Studies show that exposure to leaders in your industry can significantly boost motivation and performance, making such experiences crucial to professional growth (Cialdini, 2019).
The Core of Her Success: Listening and Connecting
Listening as a Skill
At the heart of Tracey’s success is her ability to listen effectively. Unlike the typical hard-sell approach, Tracey’s method involves truly understanding the needs of her clients and matching individuals based on their business goals. By doing this, she ensures that each connection adds genuine value. Research by Dale Carnegie Institute indicates that effective listening is one of the most critical skills for building meaningful connections and driving business success.
Referral Partnerships
Another key part of Tracey’s strategy is building referral partnerships. These partnerships involve connecting clients who can provide mutual value, creating a network effect that benefits everyone involved. Many businesses overlook the power of referrals, but Tracey sees them as the core of her business’s success. Studies show that referred customers are 25% more profitable and show greater loyalty over time (Kumar & Petersen, 2018).
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Network, Network, Network!
Start with Genuine Relationships
For anyone looking to break into the world of business, Tracey’s advice is simple: Network. Start with friends and family, then move outward, always prioritizing genuine relationships. Listening to others, having a giving attitude, and following up are keys to success. A report by LinkedIn indicates that 85% of job opportunities are filled through networking, further underscoring the importance of connections.
Tip: Tracey stresses the importance of following up after meetings. It keeps you top of mind and helps to solidify a new connection into a long-term relationship.
Learn how to enhance your networking skills at LinkedIn Business.
Overcoming Challenges: The True Grit of an Entrepreneur
Facing Setbacks with Resilience
Tracey is open about the challenges she’s faced. From struggling with financial issues during major exhibitions to losing most of her business during the pandemic, Tracey’s journey is marked by resilience. Despite setbacks, her passion for connecting people and her drive to keep moving forward never wavered. A study from the American Psychological Association found that resilience is a crucial trait among successful entrepreneurs, helping them navigate challenges effectively.
Tip: Remember that setbacks are a part of the journey. Resilience, adaptability, and a positive attitude can help overcome even the toughest challenges.
What’s Next for Tracey Currell and Intrabiz?
Introducing Youth Biz: Empowering Future Entrepreneurs
Looking to the future, Tracey aims to teach the next generation the essentials of networking through her new initiative, Youth Biz. This program will empower young people by equipping them with the skills needed to navigate the professional world effectively. Teaching networking early can set young entrepreneurs on a path to long-term success. Research by Gallup indicates that students with early access to business skills are 2.5 times more likely to start successful companies .
Conclusion: The Journey from Hard Sell to Connection Queen
Tracey Currell’s journey from struggling sales rep to Connection Queen is a testament to the power of genuine relationships in business. Her focus on listening, referral partnerships, and resilience has not only defined her career but has also inspired countless others to rethink the way they approach networking. As Tracey continues her mission with Intrabiz and Youth Biz, she proves that true connections have the power to transform businesses—and lives.
Discover more about Tracey Currell’s journey in the WhatsWhat Magazine Issue 11.
