The Transformative Journey of H7 Network
Harness the moment and welcome to the “New Beginnings” podcast, where insights into business transformation and personal development take center stage. Today, I’m excited to introduce an esteemed guest, Clay Hicks, founder of H7 Network. With a close-knit relationship as mentor and friend, our regular conversations offer a wealth of insight—we’re delighted to share them with you.
The networking landscape has dramatically evolved in recent years, particularly amid unprecedented global challenges. Join us as we delve into the natural evolution of H7 Networking—from its foundations to its pivotal transformation during the pandemic.
The Early Days of H7: An Inspiring Journey
Clay Hicks candidly shares the origins of H7, describing it as a “Wild West” of opportunities and challenges. As a single father with sole custody, the journey demanded grit and resilience, yet it was marked by an undeniable calling to create something substantial. Clay envisioned a supportive networking group after experiencing both success and disconnection in previous networking environments. In 2008, against many odds, H7 was born—initially consisting of just five members.
Connect, Serve, Ask: The Pillars of H7 Network
Central to H7 Networking’s model is the Connect, Serve, Ask™ (CSA) methodology. With over 8,600 one-to-one meetings, Clay has refined this approach to facilitate meaningful interactions. Connect, Serve, Ask™ is more than a framework—it’s a philosophy. At its core, it’s about fostering trust and respect, one interaction at a time.
- Connect: Engage genuinely to understand the person beyond their professional facade.
- Serve: Demonstrate willingness to help and prove reliability through actionable steps.
- Ask: Empower others by allowing them to contribute to your success, thereby building mutual trust.
This methodology transforms superficial exchanges into opportunities for lasting collaboration and trust-building.
Beyond Pitch Slapping: Authentic Networking
Clay emphasizes the need to steer clear of “pitch slapping,” where the focus mistakenly shifts to hard selling in initial meetings. Instead, networking should aim to nurture connections, highlighting the value of patience and understanding. Authenticity wins trust—and trust, ultimately, fuels business growth.
Adapting Through Adversity: H7 During COVID-19
Pre-pandemic, H7 was thriving across various U.S. cities, with members actively participating in face-to-face meetings. The onset of COVID-19, however, posed an existential challenge. In response, H7 pivoted to a digital model—remarkably expanding reach despite physical constraints.
Employing digital platforms such as Zoom, H7 innovated by introducing breakout rooms, enhancing interaction quality during virtual meetings. In the face of adversity, H7’s virtual evolution burgeoned, growing from one weekly hub meeting to an expansive network across 22 states and four countries—including the United States, Canada, Israel, and the burgeoning opportunity in Egypt.
A Testimony to Growth: Embracing Global Connections
The pandemic accelerated H7’s evolution, allowing the group to reach new heights and regions. Breakout rooms became instrumental in replicating the intimacy and effectiveness of in-person interactions through virtual means, offering members the opportunity to grow their networks beyond geographical limitations.
H7 witnessed unprecedented growth, establishing markets in unfamiliar territories and cementing its value as a global networking community. Members from diverse sectors and locations continue to benefit from its inclusive and dynamic networking sessions.
Conclusion: Embrace the Future with H7 Networking
Clay’s narrative is a testament to resilience, innovation, and adaptive leadership. H7 Networking not only survived one of the most challenging global crises but thrived by reimagining networking dynamics. The Connect, Serve, Ask methodology empowers professionals to forge authentic relationships and meaningful business alliances.
For those seeking enriched professional relationships and communities built on trust and mutual growth, H7 Networking provides a transformative platform. As a member, you’re invited to be part of this journey—a journey not just about networking but about building genuine opportunities and connections worldwide.
Immerse yourself in the world of H7 and experience growth, both personally and professionally. Join the H7 community to embark on a path where every connection leads to a promising new beginning.
Written by: Clay Hicks
“When you focus on the relationship and not the outcome, your outcomes become more predictable”
