The Buffalo Sessions — Episode: Networking is Broken

Watch this before your next networking event.

Jamie Stewart is joined by first-time co-host Gillian Schofield for a raw, honest, and practical conversation about why traditional networking doesn’t work — and what to do instead.

In this episode:

Why most people approach networking the wrong way

The Networking Trap and how to escape it

How Circle Networks flips the script from “pitching” to relationship building

Why chasing 1-to-1s with everyone is a waste of time

The power of long-term collaboration over quick wins

How to build a referral team who actually sends you business

What real networking success looks like — with stories that prove it

Key takeaways:

Stop going to events just to sell.

Build friendships first — business follows.

A single great connection beats a dozen forgettable ones.

Strategic follow-up wins over frantic follow-up.

Warm introductions are more valuable than email intros.

00:00 Rethinking Business Networking Labels

04:31 "Networking: Beyond Client Hunting"

07:24 Building Trust Before Business

12:11 "Trap of Low Ticket Offers"

14:33 "Rethinking Networking for Relationships"

17:03 Integrate Networking with Marketing

20:15 Unlocking Networking Potential on LinkedIn

25:43 Friendship vs. Work Priorities

26:53 "Thanks for Listening"

Find out more about Circle Networks and grab your free trial here https://circlenetworks.co.uk/free-trial