Forget Traditional Networking - Try Netwalking Instead #17
The Unexpected Joy of Following Through on an Idea
Monday Morning, 7:45 a.m.
Standing at our meeting point in Brussels, a mix of excitement and nervousness washes over me. It’s Monday morning, in front of Parc Cinquantenaire. Directly opposite are the buildings of the European Commission, where Europe's future is shaped. I scan the crowd, wondering who might be here for my event.
Why Netwalking?
Everything I do today revolves around connecting people and helping them shape their ambitions. Sometimes it works beautifully; other times, it does not. However, this story is about one particular idea that has become a reality.
Five years ago, before “Netwalking” became a thing, I started contemplating this concept. Networking events in noisy bars never appealed to me: they felt too loud, forced, and uncomfortable. And the awkward moments when we stare into our glass, hoping it will start talking to us, get another drink as no conversation has clicked so far, or go to the bathroom for the third time in a row, as we haven't found yet another person to keep up the conversation with.
Netwalking flips that scenario.
- Swap loud bars for a peaceful park.
- Exchange alcohol for coffee, tea, or water.
- Replace forced seating arrangements with the freedom of walking side-by-side.
- Let conversation flow naturally and creativity spark while being in motion.
Who would choose to meet strangers at 7:45 a.m. on a Monday? Exactly my kind of people - those determined to start their week intentionally, bringing positive energy and ambition. Over time, I have tested various days and times, but nothing matches the unique energy of a Monday morning.
But Only Three People Showed Up. Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. This time, five people signed up, but life happens - especially on Monday mornings. Three people showed up, which is perfect for deep, meaningful conversations. We start as strangers and part ways as if we’ve walked many Mondays together before. Sometimes there are ten people, sometimes seven, and sometimes it’s just me - yes, alone.
I charge a small fee to ensure that people get out of bed on Monday morning, not to make money. There are other services from which I earn income, but this one is about enjoying the moment with like-minded people, holding space for conversation and connection, and bringing my idea to life to make Monday mornings special for others.
Organic Growth - Slow but Real
I haven’t marketed Netwalking. There have been no LinkedIn campaigns or search engine optimisations - just an Eventbrite link. I wanted organic growth, attracting people who are searching for authentic connections rather than networking in crowded bars.
The trend is clear: more people are joining. More people crave in-person connections and want to #getoutside.
This year, I met someone who introduced me to the concept of mutual reciprocity, which I have unknowingly practised for years. It creates a beautiful ripple effect, naturally leading to (business) collaborations and casual meetups, such as paddle matches or trail runs together. It restores people’s faith that there are many others out there who want to #makeadifference.
The Hardest Part Is Getting Started
Initially, something was holding me back from bringing the idea to life (as I described in my previous post about the fear of what others think about me).
I built a now-expired website years ago but did nothing with it.
However, clarity on its purpose changed everything:
- Connect genuinely.
- Build authentic relationships.
- Create space for real conversations and collaboration while having a bit of fun on the usually dreaded Monday mornings.
Networks are the key to business success.
So I kept showing up every Monday morning. Slowly, people began to show up too. I’ve met some of the most interesting individuals during those Monday morning walks. In a world dominated by digital overload and shaken by AI, genuine, in-person interaction has become invaluable.
In-Person Connections in an AI World
Despite my fascination with AI and its extensive use in my business, my vision for the future centres on real-world connections and collaboration. Building a business on genuine relationships brings me confidence and joy.
Robots walking outside? I’ll worry about that later. I know that in some years, it will be totally normal for others to pay a lot of money to take them for a walk outside, let alone what they might pay for taking them on real-life adventures. But that’s a whole different story.
Want to Join?
Curious about Netwalking in Brussels? Join us on a Monday morning in the coming months. Check it out here.
The point?
Networking is essential for building a business and bringing ideas to life. But more than anything, it's about showing up, especially on a Monday morning.
We don’t need 100 people at an event or instant success. We just need to start. Test the idea, tweak it, and keep showing up.
What idea are you sitting on? And what's your first step to bring it to life?
If any of this sparks something, you need someone to kick your ass to bring your idea to life, hit reply or book a virtual coffee. I read every message.
Thanks for reading, keep going, and don’t forget to stay awesome!
Clem