“Your net worth is directly correlated to your network.”
It’s a quote I’ve heard countless times throughout my DECA journey, and honestly, it’s true.
Before DECA, I used to think networking meant handing out business cards or adding random people on LinkedIn. But over the last few years, I’ve learned that networking is much more than that.
Here are 5 things that DECA has taught me about networking:
1. Authenticity is Key
One of the biggest things DECA has taught me about networking is the importance of simply being yourself. In a world where everyone is trying to stand out, authenticity stands out the most.
Some of the best connections I’ve made in DECA didn’t happen because I had the perfect introduction or the most impressive title. They happened because I was genuine in conversation and interested in getting to know others beyond just a quick handshake. People remember how you make them feel far more than they remember a rehearsed pitch.
2. Find Common Ground
DECA also creates something incredibly powerful: common ground. No matter where you’re from, what chapter you represent or what position you hold, everyone in DECA already shares a similar passion for leadership, business and personal growth.
That common ground makes networking feel less intimidating. Instead of walking into a room full of strangers, you’re walking into a room full of people who already have something in common with you. From there, the conversation naturally grows.
3. Don’t Plan It
I’ve found that some of the best networking moments happen in the smallest interactions. It could be talking with someone while waiting for a session to start, connecting after a role-play, or even laughing with people during late nights at conferences.
Those conversations often turn into long-term friendships, collaborations and opportunities you never expected. Some of the people I’ve met through DECA have become mentors, close friends and people I know I’ll stay connected with long after graduation.
4. Listen, Rather Than Sell
Another lesson DECA has taught me is that networking is not about what you can gain from someone, but what you can build together. The strongest connections come when you focus less on impressing others and more on creating meaningful conversations. Listening matters just as much as talking. Showing genuine interest matters more than trying to “sell yourself.”
5. Keep the Conversation Going
Social media has also completely changed the way networking works in DECA. A conversation at a conference no longer has to end when the event does. Platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram allow us to stay connected, support each other’s journeys and continue building relationships year-round.
Some of the people I interact with the most today are individuals I first met through a simple conversation at a DECA conference.
My biggest piece of networking advice is simple: be yourself, start conversations and never underestimate the power of a genuine connection. You never know where one conversation might lead.
