How Networking Transformed My Business

You read that right. Networking in the elevator industry can take your business to new heights —literally. That wasn’t just an elevator pun. If there is a business tip that should be ingrained, it is to expand your network at every opportunity. Someone you meet now may play an instrumental role in your company down the road. When we network, we create opportunities for mentorship, sharing resources, generating leads, problem-solving, and a slew of other benefits. 

More than likely, you’re already participating in networking. And if you’re not, now is the time to start. It’s also important to consider what you bring to the table as a networking participant. As our network expands, we’re helping others in the elevator industry by sharing our own experiences and lending a hand when needed. As an entrepreneur in the elevator industry, you’ll want to invest in being a participant, a collaborator, and a good colleague. 

Understanding Networking 

When I think about networking, it goes beyond swapping business cards or connecting on LinkedIn. It’s about fostering real relationships where you can offer value to others. As elevator entrepreneurs, we don’t work in isolation—our network is often what helps us get through the toughest times. Our network can also create opportunity, or in Don’s case, can kickstart something great. 

In a recent episode of The Elevator Entrepreneur, Don Gelestino joins me to discuss the events leading up to his career in the elevator industry and his experience as a new business owner. Don unintentionally landed himself a spot as a helper for an elevator company in New York back in 1986. Don reminds us that we could be networking even when we don’t realize it.  

“One morning I was dead asleep. They shook me and said, you got to come to work with us. And I said, what do you guys do?... They said, our father owns an elevator company, and we need a helper.” 

The Elevator Entrepreneur 

The rest was history. Don retired from his rock and roll persona and began his lengthy career in the industry. Back then, you had to know a guy. These days, it still helps to know a guy, but that’s not the only piece to the networking puzzle. 

What Can Networking Do for You? 

Networking can open a multitude of doors. These doors provide access to: 

• Mentorship: Meeting experienced professionals can provide you with inside tips and support. Any business professional will tell you that solid expert opinion, advice, and feedback is a great way to gain fresh ideas and make improvements in your own elevator business. 

• Resources: Making new connections can provide access to tools and knowledge that you otherwise would not have known about. This might include technology and systems that make running your business easier. 

• Generating Leads: Building a relationship through networking could lead to your next customer, next employee, or next partnership. One referral is all it takes to create a long-lasting relationship. 

• Problem Solving: Being able to make one phone call and receive all the answers you need to fix a problem is incredible, isn’t it? If you’ve done your due diligence in the elevator industry by connecting with the right people, that can be the outcome when facing tough business challenges. 

By opening these doors, the opportunities are endless. I’ve met mentors, future partners, and made some lifelong friendships through the power of networking. These people have then led me to even greater heights in my career. 

How Do You Network? 

It starts with who you surround yourself with. As an elevator entrepreneur, you should be focused on building trust and relationships with colleagues, employees and potential customers. This is not something that is done overnight. It requires time, effort, and a desire to genuinely get to know people. In the elevator industry, where the community can feel small, a strong network can give you a competitive edge. Here’s where you can strengthen your network: 

• Online: Many online platforms exist to encourage networking. LinkedIn is a major component, followed by other industry-related applications. Being in such a tight-knit community, it might take effort to find your, as Don puts it, “elevator people”. Search for people with similar interests. Connect and interact with them. I make it a point to engage with my network regularly by sharing updates, posting useful resources, or connecting with others in the elevator community. 

• Joining organizations: Becoming a part of organizations like NAEC and ABC can help you meet industry professionals and gain access to exclusive events and resources. The relationships you form can evolve into business partnerships. Being a part of the NAEC has also given me a platform to grow as a leader. The possibilities are endless. 

• Industry Events: Conferences, seminars, and workshops are prime venues for gaining new knowledge and meeting industry leaders. They’re great for meeting peers, hearing about new trends, and sharing challenges. During my time as NAEC president, I saw firsthand how these events bring people together to create real connections that lead to business growth. If you’re serious about building your elevator empire, make it a priority to attend them. 

• Keep in touch: As you meet more people in the industry, focus on your lasting impression. One of them could lead you to your next business partner or opportunity. Call them even when you don’t need anything. Offer kind words or a simple gesture when it matters. 

Don has met so many other elevator entrepreneurs through the NAEC and has utilized this association to network throughout his entire career. Even to this day, someone may call him from across the country to ask for advice and they’ll “talk just like I would talk to a guy across the street from my job in New York.” Being able to call someone up for advice is what makes these associations so powerful.  

Why is Networking So Important? 

We’re always one networking opportunity away from a great business opportunity. You can build a network of people who can support you through thick and thin. Staying focused on the bigger picture is crucial in the elevator industry and remaining friendly in the face of competition can be easy to forget. Don reminds us of what our elevator community consists of. 

 “There’s enough work that you don’t have to fight your competition. At the end of the day, we can all be a right-minded community, and we can compete. You’re not going to get all the jobs, but if you’re good at what you do, you can actually work with a community of competitors and get great things done.” 

There you have it. Networking is essential to building a successful career in the elevator industry. By attending industry events, joining associations, and developing authentic relationships, you not only grow your business but also contribute to the overall health of the elevator industry. Keep in mind that networking isn’t a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing process that, when done well, can help you build a legacy. Embrace the opportunities to give back, mentor others, and always stay connected. Your network is the key to ensuring your elevator business reaches new heights and continues to thrive. A wealth of knowledge is at your disposal when you connect with the right people. Use it! 

Whether you’re new to the elevator entrepreneur industry or a seasoned professional, here are my 3 networking takeaways:  

• Networking helps you learn from others, so listen first, gain perspective, then collaborate in ways that can help everyone succeed. 
   
• Stay consistent in your outreach. Focus on developing relationships—a small gesture goes a long way. 
   
• Adapt your networking strategies as your career progresses and the elevator industry evolves. 

If you’d like to watch more of what Don Gelestino has to say about networking, click the link above or watch the full video on Youtube.

As always, stay safe out there, and I will continue to empower my fellow Elevator Entrepreneurs.