Netgiving: What is it and why is it important?

The term Netgiving is popping up on LinkedIn, and other places. It comes from Tim Cork’s book “G3: The Gift of You, Leadership, and Netgiving.”   

So, what exactly is it? His definition is “connecting with others to help them succeed.”  

In other words, the idea that you are giving your time to your network to help those within it. Netgiving can also be understood as a tangible way to grow and solidify your own network, helping it to become more of a community, rather than just a group of connected people. 

The reason Netgiving is gaining traction? It’s important – especially in today’s world. People are craving a sense of genuine connection and are wanting to create community. By offering time, knowledge and contacts, they can achieve both.  

How do you Netgive? 

 Everyone’s individual personality and previous experiences will shape how they feel comfortable giving as well as what can be offered to others.  Here are some ways you can be a Netgiver: 

• Give your time to people 

• Offer your knowledge and expertise 

• Share your opinion, although don’t expect people to always agree wholeheartedly 

• Offer your business or services 

• Give your voice, think genuine reviews, op-eds, or promoting causes you can about

• Most importantly, through opportunities like the Connector Program, give your network 

 We read a whole lot of other posts about Netgiving and here are some of our favourite concrete suggestions: 

• Simply reach out to several people each week and ask how they are doing. It is important to care about the answer. Ask if you can be of assistance if they need help and follow through by asking if they need a specific kind of help or if they need help connecting with a person or organization you know well.  

• Engage with people regularly on social media by asking questions or posting about things you are knowledgeable about. Sparking a conversation might be all someone needs to be inspired or gain the confidence to take the next step.  

• Find out how they might benefit from indirect assistance you can offer them, For example: 

• Do they have a book? Can you purchase a few copies and give them to others?  

• Do they have a podcast or blog? Can you write a review or share it on your social media?  

• Can you share their posts on social media to help them gain followers and get noticed?  

• Can you hire them if they are self-employed? (think facilitators, consultants, strategists etc).  

• Can you introduce them to someone who might be better suited to help them accomplish their goals?  

Every little action helps. Even if it doesn’t feel big, it can still have an impact. When we focus on giving and putting others first, we also gain more ourselves.  

Tell us on our LinkedIn page if you are a “NetGiver,” or if you tried one of the suggestions. Which ones are your favourite? What have you tried before? We’re always curious to see how people are creating community and connection where they live!