09/04/2026
“People Buy From People”… But Some People Make It a Full Time Job Not To
We all love the phrase “people buy from people.”
It’s the networking world’s favourite comfort blanket.
But let’s get real:
People don’t buy from any people.
They buy from people they like, trust, and don’t mentally hide from when they walk into the room.
And here’s the kicker:
Likeability isn’t a personality trait.
It’s a strategy.
A strategy most people ignore.
So, if you want to shortcut the whole “know, like, trust” journey, here’s how to stop being forgettable and start being referable.
1. Turn Up Regularly — You’re Not a Rare Pokémon
If you show up occasionally people don’t think:
“Wow, what an intriguing mystery.”
They think:
“Who’s that again?”
Networking is not Netflix.
You can’t disappear for six episodes and expect people to remember the plot.
Show up. Be seen. Be known.
2. Be Early — It’s the Cheapest Advantage You’ll Ever Get
Arriving early gives you:
• Better conversations
• Better connections
• Better first impressions
Arriving late gives you:
• A sweaty entrance
• Missed opportunities
• A reputation you don’t want
Early = approachable.
Late = avoidable.
3. Bring Good Energy — Not Your “Monday Face”
You don’t need to be the life of the party.
Just don’t look like you’ve been dragged there by your accountant.
Smile. Say hello. Look awake.
People refer people who make them feel good, not people who drain the room like a dodgy plug socket.
4. Be Helpful — It’s the Fastest Route to Likeability
You don’t need to fix anyone’s business.
Just be the person who says:
“How can I help?”
Most people don’t.
Which is exactly why you should.
Helpfulness is a superpower. Use it.
5. Commit — Not Just to the Breakfast
Anyone can attend a meeting.
Very few commit to the group.
Commitment says:
“I’m reliable. I’m consistent. You can trust me.”
And trust is the currency of referrals.
The Punchline
If you want people to buy from you, refer you, and champion you, then act like someone worth buying from, referring, and championing.
Show up.
Be early.
Bring energy.
Be helpful.
Commit.
It’s not complicated.
It’s just what the best networkers do, every single time.
If you want to see this in action (and maybe test your own likeability levels), come visit a BoB Connections meeting. Breakfast included. Excuses not accepted.
Looking to grow your network?
Find a BoB Connections meeting near you or, if you’d love to bring our supportive, professional community to a brand‑new area, I’d be delighted to chat about helping you launch your own group.
Explore your options at https://www.bobconnections.co.uk or contact me directly.
