Human Kind. Be Both.

The secret to real networking? Be kind. Be human. Kindness sparks connection. Humanity builds relationships.

Jul 12, 2025

After two decades of helping people connect and build relationships, I’ve discovered that one word captures the true heart of networking and human connection.

Humankind.

One word. Two meanings. Both matter.

In the traditional sense, humankind encompasses every person across time and place, bound together by the common threads of experience, emotion, and the human spirit.

It is the story of all people—past, present, and future—woven together by the shared experience of being human.

But it also reflects a way for people to be “human” and “kind” to others, which are two qualities at the heart of genuine networking and real connections.

In networking, “humankind” becomes a powerful catalyst for opportunity, growth, and lasting success.

Let’s take a closer look …

🤷‍♂️ Be Human

Networking isn’t about pitching. It’s about people.

Good people listen carefully, encourage others, offer support, and yes, they also make mistakes.

Being human means being real.

Warren Buffett and Bill Gates: A Human Bond Built on Respect

When Bill Gates first met Warren Buffett in 1991, he wasn’t eager to connect. He expected a boring conversation with a traditional investor. Instead, Buffett asked thoughtful questions, listened carefully, and didn’t try to impress. Their conversation went so well that Gates later said, “I didn’t realize how much I had to learn from him.”

The key was that both men chose to lead with their humanity.

They shared their visions, hopes, and dreams.

But just as openly, they shared their flaws, missteps, and failures.

They didn’t posture. From the very beginning, they chose to be real with each other.

That first meeting, rooted in genuine curiosity and respect, turned into one of the most famous business friendships in history. It eventually led to a massive philanthropic partnership through the Giving Pledge.

Being human beats being impressive because trust is built on honesty and not perfection. People don’t do business with companies … they do business with humans they trust.

Human connection is the currency of lasting business relationships.

❤️ Be Kind

Kindness isn't weakness, and it’s more than just being 'nice.'

It’s a conscious choice to lead with strength, empathy, and integrity.

In a world filled with pitches, promotions, and polished elevator speeches, the most powerful networking move is surprisingly simple:

Be kind. Be human. Be real.

Want Better Connections? Start with empathy.

Kindness isn’t just “nice to have” in networking. It’s a strategy. Here’s why:

People remember how you made them feel, not your resume.
Trust builds faster when you're genuine, not transactional.
You’ll stand out in a world where many are only out for themselves.
It pays off long-term with referrals, job leads, and introductions you didn’t ask for.

Richard Branson: Leading with Kindness and Approachability

Virgin Group founder Richard Branson is famous for his approachable and friendly demeanor. He’s written notes to fans, responded to cold outreach, and made time for junior staff. He says his leadership and networking style is rooted in one rule: “Be nice.”

This simple philosophy helped Branson build a network of collaborators across industries, from airlines to music to space, by making people feel valued and respected.

A little kindness opens big doors.

✅ The Takeaway

Many of today’s most influential voices are speaking out about the power of being human and kind.

Consider Justin Welsh, who is widely regarded as one of today’s top entrepreneurs. He recently shared:

I've spent fifteen years watching the folks who actually win in business, and it's almost always the kind ones.
When I say kind, I don’t mean folks who are pushovers or people pleasers. I mean the genuinely kind people who root for others to succeed.
Kind people build networks that last. When they need help, people actually want to help them back. Their teams stick around. Their customers become evangelists for their products. They attract opportunities that never reach the loser keyboard warriors.
— Justin Welsh, Kindness is not weakness

Justin Melcham also emphasized the value of kindness in a recent LinkedIn post to his 368,000 followers: