Episode Details

David Homan is the founder and CEO of Orchestrated Connecting, a global community of connectors, as well as Orchestrated Opportunities and SOAR Connect, a startup focused on building authentic relationships at scale. A former nonprofit CEO who was responsible for 85% of his organization’s fundraising, David has built a global network around one core philosophy: create value for others without expecting an immediate return. He shares how generosity, curiosity, vulnerability, and trust can transform networking from a transactional activity into a powerful long-term business strategy.

On this episode we talk about:

• How David discovered the long-term financial value of making introductions with no expectation of return

• Why the best networking relationships are built over years rather than through quick transactions

• The difference between authentic connectors and “collectors” who simply try to accumulate contacts

• Why introverts can actually be some of the best networkers

• How curiosity, vulnerability, and generosity create deeper relationships and better business opportunities

Top 3 Takeaways

1. Play the long game with relationships. The most valuable connections often don't produce an immediate return. David emphasizes that meaningful relationship value can take two or more years to materialize.

2. Give before you ask. Instead of approaching successful or influential people wondering what you can get from them, look for ways to genuinely help them without expecting anything in return.

3. Prioritize authenticity over posturing. Great networking isn't about working the room, collecting business cards, or knowing the most people. It's about listening, being curious, showing vulnerability, and making people feel heard and trusted.

Notable Quotes

• “You have to be more curious to others than they are to you, and you have to be willing to be vulnerable.”

• “If you offer help, ask somebody to respond back to you with a written note for what they need. And ninety percent of people are unwilling to do that work.”

• “A natural giver is uncomfortable being given to.”

Connect with David Homan:

• LinkedIn: David Homan

• Instagram: @the_connection_orchestrator on Instagram

• Website: DavidHoman.com ; https://orchestratedconnecting.com/

• Book: Orchestrating Connection: How to Build Purposeful Community in a Tribal World

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