In this empowering episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias explores the transformative power of intentional networking. Drawing from her own journey in the tourism industry, Despina shares a unique framework she calls "Net," designed to help listeners connect more strategically and purposefully. She reflects on her recent speaking engagement at the City of Monash and Eastern Innovation Business Centre, where she inspired a group of women entrepreneurs to elevate their networking game.

Listeners will discover the three essential steps of the Net framework: narrowing your focus to identify key connections, engaging digitally to maintain relationships, and trading value first to foster genuine connections. Despina emphasises that networking is not merely about collecting contacts but about weaving meaningful relationships that can lead to opportunities and collaborations.

With insightful anecdotes and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their networking skills and build a supportive community. Tune in and learn how to cast your net with intention, creating connections that truly matter.

00:00 - Welcome back to the Tourism Club podcast

01:05 - Networking is foundational to business, yet often misunderstood

02:47 - Networking is about purposeful, intentional and strategic networking

10:44 - E is for engaging digitally. This is where most people drop the ball in networking

14:35 - Trade value first. The golden rule. Networking isn't about what you can get

16:41 - Your network is your net worth, according to the classic networking quote

17:33 - Building a network is all about authenticity, not charisma

Connect with Despina Karatzias:

Website: Institute of Excellence
LinkedIn: Despina Karatzias
Instagram: @despinakaratzias

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Facebook: Institute of Excellence | Tourism Hub Podcast

Instagram: @instituteofexcellencehq | @tourismhubpodcast | @despinakaratzias

YouTube: Institute of Excellence | Despina Karatzias

Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence.

Stay connected, stay intentional, and remember to share your networking journey with the world!