A Story of Connection, Community, and Growth:
Discover this fascinating story of Clay Hicks, an entrepreneur who transformed his business and his life through professional networking. Check out our interview with Clay to learn about H7 Network’s incredible “Connect, Serve, and Ask” platform for building trust, creating real relationships that matter, and achieving business growth. Let’s dig into Clay’s favorite rock and roll music. #NetworkingSuccess #BusinessGrowth #TrustBuilding
In the expansive realm of professional networking, Clay Hicks stands at the helm of the H7 Network, illuminating the path for individuals yearning for connections that transcend mere transactions. It’s a nurturing ground where individuals thrive. Hicks combines a unique trio of attributes: community mentorship, personal resilience, and forward-thinking, cultivating a network where trust, support, and enduring partnerships bloom. He recently shared insights with SMarketPlace™ hosts Keith Reynolds and Tom Dempsey, revealing his “Connect, Serve, Ask” methodology for cultivating meaningful relationships. The discussion also veered into Hicks’ passion for rock and roll.
Transitioning from Personal Challenges to Professional Achievements
Clay Hicks didn’t just start the H7 Network for business; it was also a personal quest, influenced by his own journey of adversity and success. “I’m fundamentally an entrepreneur,” says Hicks, highlighting his entrepreneurial zeal and motivation. His drive, enriched by insights from his initial three thousand one-on-one networking meetings, established the foundation for H7. This system goes beyond the typical networking event, stressing the value of a supportive community for members’ success—whether entrepreneurs seeking professional networking connections or job seekers.
Hicks’ story is one of resilience; raising two daughters on his own while navigating the entrepreneurial world catalyzed the creation of H7. This experience instilled in Hicks a profound belief in the strength of community support as a pillar of not only personal but also professional success. “I spent seven years raising my two daughters single-handedly and managing H7 simultaneously,” Hicks shares, underscoring the synergy between personal dedication and professional pursuit that drives H7’s commitment to fostering connections and prosperity.
The Essence of H7 Professional Networking: Connect, Serve, Ask
At its core, the H7 Network thrives on the foundational principles of connecting, serving, and asking—a model that enriches every interaction within the community, from one-on-one meetings to larger gatherings.
This approach nurtures a supportive ecosystem where professionals can excel, fostering meaningful relationships, mutual aid, and opportunities for collaboration and growth. H7 offers an array of resources, including educational opportunities, peer support, professional networking, skill-building tools, and recognition of accomplishments.
The model emerged from Hicks’ transformative experiences and numerous personal meetings, leading to a balanced strategy of making connections, serving others’ needs, and seeking support to strengthen professional networks. “Connect” prioritizes the vital step of forming genuine, human connections, laying the groundwork for trust and collaborative ventures. Hicks, with over 7,600 one-on-one meetings since 2014, has showcased the essential role of personal connections in a flourishing professional network.
The Core of H7
The “Serve” and “Ask” pillars further enrich this groundwork by fostering a culture where selflessness and mutual support flourish. Hicks explained, “Serve and ask—those are the keystones where trust starts to form. If I don’t serve you, I’m not building trust… If I don’t seek your help, say for an introduction, I’m essentially stripping you of the chance to gain my trust. So you have to decide. Are you looking for trustworthy relationships or simply acquaintances to hang out with?”
Through his actions and the culture he nurtures within H7, Hicks emphasizes the importance of assisting others without expecting immediate returns and requesting help in ways that respect the reciprocal nature of relationships. This balance between contribution and solicitation, rooted in authentic connections and trust, is what sets the H7 Network apart as a fertile environment for both professional and personal advancement.
Evolving into a Hybrid Professional Networking Community
Guided by Hicks’ forward-looking leadership as the world recovered from the pandemic, H7 transitioned into a hybrid community, merging the traditional aspect of face-to-face networking with the expansive possibilities offered by online interactions. This adaptive strategy reflects Hicks’ commitment to flexibility and inclusiveness, securing H7’s position as a formidable force in the dynamic world of professional networking strategies.
“We’ve cultivated a hybrid community,” Hicks stated, emphasizing the blend of personal and virtual exchanges designed to accommodate the wide-ranging preferences of its members. This hybrid concept markedly broadened H7’s scope, making it more adaptable to the diverse needs of its community and offering a more accessible and effective platform. Especially in times marked by the prevalence of remote work and digital communication, H7’s methodology has paved the way for a thriving, limitless community.
Hicks’ push for a hybrid model arises from his insights into the contemporary professional’s varied lifestyle and obligations, creating multiple pathways for involvement. This approach not only maintains the authentic nature of direct interactions but also leverages the efficacy and scope of digital platforms, crafting a holistic and inclusive networking experience.
The Legacy of H7: Narratives of Networking Achievements
The true testament to H7’s efficacy shines through in its members’ success stories, where significant personal and professional transformation is a recurring motif. “I’ve learned a lot, of course,” Hicks admitted, acknowledging the substantial growth evident within the H7 community.
The network’s distinct methodology promotes the exchange of knowledge and experiences, enriching the community with a wealth of perspectives and expertise. H7 members have discovered not just avenues for business expansion within the network but also a supportive environment for individual growth and learning.
The array of success stories stemming from H7 is as diverse as it is motivational, showcasing everything from entrepreneurs who’ve utilized the network for business growth to professionals finding new career passions and pathways.
Take, for example, Denver’s entrepreneur Don Klos, who has seen his business flourish thanks to the consistent practice of H7’s networking principles. Hicks pointed out the impact of Klos’s networking strategy, stating, “Seventy percent of Don’s new business can be traced back to his knack for connecting, serving, and asking.”
When the subject shifted to his rock ‘n roll enthusiasm, Clay passionately shared his love for local live music. “There’s nothing like experiencing a local band rocking out,” Hicks remarked. And his favorite way to enjoy it? “Sitting back in a lawn chair,” he added.
Asked about his preferred mainstream bands, Clay’s eyes lit up. “I’m all about eighties rock—Metallica, Poison…” He didn’t hesitate to mention crossover legend Michael Jackson as well. Reflecting on eighties rock, with its iconic big hair bands, Clay’s fondness was evident. “Oh yeah, I loved all those…still do to this day,” he shared with a smile.
Anticipating the Future of H7
As H7 prepares for what’s next, Clay Hicks is ready to lead the network into a global marketplace that values more personal networking approaches. “We’re entering a new era of H7, where technology intersects with the human element,” Hicks declared.
His vision is of a community where digital advancements complement rather than supplant face-to-face connections. This idea is at the heart of Hicks’ plans to enlarge H7’s digital presence while also enhancing member involvement through bespoke experiences and cooperative ventures.
Moving forward, H7’s dedication to cultivating profound, impactful connections and mutual career growth stands firm, heralding a promising horizon for Hicks and the dynamic professional network he has nurtured. With the inventive “Connect, Serve, and Ask” approach and a trailblazing hybrid networking format, Hicks is confident in the solid groundwork he has laid for H7, poised for enduring significance and success.
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