How to Network Upward: Connecting with Influential People and Leaders?

I. Don't Rely on Cleverness, Build Long-term Trust

Overly clever people are easily exploited short-term and then discarded. Those capable of genuine long-term cooperation are typically steady, honest, and willing to take losses on small matters. High-level individuals are excellent judges of character—any hint of calculation and you're basically eliminated.

II. Don't Rush to Take, Maintain Proper Boundaries

When facing people at higher levels, don't rush to showcase yourself, and especially don't approach with a strong sense of purpose. The more urgent you seem, the cheaper you appear; the more restrained you are, the more space you create.

III. Value First, Then You Can Enter the Circle

The prerequisite for upward networking is having value yourself and being able to continuously deliver value. Pay your dues, get things done, produce results—make the other party willing to bring you along. The higher the level, the more they only associate with valuable people.

IV. Solid Foundation Beats All Techniques

A solid foundation allows abilities to be cultivated; without one, no method will work. Sincerity, integrity, and respecting boundaries are the foundation of trust.

V. Fortunate Connections Are the Result of Long-term Accumulation

Benefactors don't appear suddenly—they're earned through your sustained right mindset, right intention, and right action. Whatever seeds you plant, you'll eventually meet the corresponding people.