Life Is a Contact Sport: Why the Best Leaders Never Stop Networking

When I tuned into a podcast this week featuring Will Butler-Adams, the CEO of Brompton Bicycles, I wasn’t expecting a story that would stop me in my tracks. He shared how, at the age of 27, while transitioning out of his engineering role, he struck up a conversation with a stranger on a train. That single, serendipitous moment led to him being offered a leadership role at Brompton—and eventually becoming its CEO.

No agenda. No pitch. Just curiosity, openness, and presence.

That story deeply resonated with me because it reflects a philosophy I hold close: life is a contact sport. Whether you’re building a business, seeking opportunity, or exploring new ideas, progress doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens through people.

In a world where technology connects us more than ever, meaningful, in-the-moment connections still matter most. And as leaders, cultivating the skill of intentional, authentic networking is no longer optional. It’s foundational.

Leadership Is a Networked Practice

Leadership in the modern era isn’t defined solely by technical skill or subject matter expertise. Today, it’s relational. The leaders who rise are those who connect across boundaries—industries, geographies, generations—and turn those connections into momentum.

Networking is often misinterpreted as collecting business cards or delivering polished elevator pitches. In truth, it’s about cultivating curiosity, generosity, and strategic openness to those around you.

The ROI of Serendipity: Why Networking Matters More Than Ever

1. It Accelerates Unseen Opportunities
- Referrals still dominate hiring and partnerships.
- Investors often fund people before they fund ideas.
- Mentors don’t respond to CVs—they respond to connection.

2. It Keeps You Adaptable in Fast-Moving Markets
- When you're networked beyond your core industry, you hear whispers of change before they become headlines.
- Cross-industry insights spark innovation.
- When disruption hits, you have more voices to call on.

3. It Strengthens Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
- You build listening muscles—essential for leadership clarity.
- You gain exposure to multiple worldviews—vital for inclusivity.
- You learn to navigate power dynamics and collaboration with nuance.

How to Network Like a Leader—Not a Salesperson

1. Reframe Networking as Curiosity, Not Conversion
Approach each interaction with a learner’s mindset.

2. Build Outside Your Bubble
Your most valuable connections may lie outside your industry or comfort zone.

3. Make Serendipity a System
Will’s story feels random, but luck favors the consistent. Build systems that increase your contact surface.

4. Give Before You Ask
The fastest way to build credibility in a network is to show up with generosity.

5. Leverage Tech Without Losing Humanity
Digital platforms are tools—not substitutes—for real connection.

My Own Strategy: Show Up, Speak Up, Stay Curious

As someone committed to building better businesses and better leaders, I apply this “contact sport” mindset every day.

- Say yes to introductions, even when they don’t have a clear ROI.
- Initiate conversations with people whose perspectives stretch mine.
- Make time to mentor and be mentored, because relationships are reciprocal.

These aren’t just good habits—they’re investments in a future that’s too dynamic to predict, but rich with possibility when you’re connected.

Final Thought: Make Contact, Make Change

Leadership isn’t linear. It’s human, unpredictable, and shaped by the people we engage with. The sooner we embrace that, the faster we grow.

So the next time you’re on a train, at an event, or scrolling through LinkedIn—start the conversation. Ask a question. Extend an invitation. Share your story.

You never know where it might lead.

Action Steps for Leaders Who Want to Connect Better

- Audit your current network. Where are the gaps? Who’s missing?
- Schedule 2 reach-out messages this week—no agenda, just connection.
- Commit to 1 “serendipitous” event per month—public lecture, meetup, conference, etc.
- Practice leading with value: How can you serve before you ask?