When It Comes to Networking, Do You Want to Be a Bellboy or a Concierge?
When it comes to networking, the approach you take can significantly influence the quality of your connections, your professional reputation, and ultimately, your success. Imagine two different roles at a luxury hotel: the bellboy and the concierge. Both interact with guests, both serve important functions, but the way they engage makes all the difference. One simply carries bags — the other carries influence. The question is, which one do you want to be in your professional relationships?
A bellboy focuses on tasks. They do what’s asked, move quickly, and deliver a service. But the interaction is purely transactional — a brief exchange of time for a tip. Many professionals network this way. They collect business cards, send quick follow-ups, and rush to pitch themselves without ever truly listening. Like a bellboy waiting for the next bag to carry, they’re always in motion but rarely in meaningful connection. This kind of networking keeps you busy, but not necessarily effective.
The concierge, on the other hand, operates differently. They’re not just responding — they’re anticipating. They listen closely, ask insightful questions, and use their knowledge and connections to create an experience. When you network like a concierge, you’re not just introducing yourself; you’re connecting people, solving problems, and adding unexpected value. Your goal isn’t to make a sale — it’s to make an impression. The result? People remember you not because of what you asked for, but because of what you gave.
True networking mastery lies in shifting from the bellboy mindset to the concierge mindset. It’s about being resourceful instead of reactive, generous instead of self-serving, and strategic instead of scattered. The concierge builds credibility with every recommendation and deepens trust with every follow-up. In time, that trust turns into influence, and influence turns into opportunity. When people see you as the go-to connector — the person who “knows someone who can help” — your network begins to work for you.
So the next time you attend a networking event, ask yourself: are you just carrying bags, or are you creating experiences? The bellboy gets thanked and forgotten. The concierge gets remembered and recommended. Choose to be the person who adds value before asking for it — the one who connects dots, not just collects cards. Because in the world of networking, the real power lies not in who you meet, but in how you serve.
