Forget Social Security—It’s Time to Build Your Social Currency
For years, I called my resume a “living, breathing document.” I’d constantly update it, tweak it, and obsess over getting the phrasing just right. But here’s the truth: the resume is dead.
Sure, it might still have a place in the hiring process, but these days, your real value lives somewhere else—in your network. Your social currency—your real connections, your personal brand, and your presence—is what opens doors. And in today’s project economy, that’s more important than ever.
What Is Social Currency?
Social currency is about who you know, who knows you, and how well you’ve built trust and credibility in your network. It’s no longer enough to have the right skills or experience. You need people to see your value, to remember you, and to refer you when the opportunity arises.
This year, I decided to double down on my social currency. From January to July, I set out to reconnect with people I’ve worked with over the years. The result? 120 connection calls.
These weren’t just polite catch-ups—they were real conversations about what I do, what they’re up to, and how we might collaborate. It’s been one of the most rewarding investments I’ve made in my career. And I’m not done yet.
Why Connection Calls Matter
Think of a connection call as more than just networking—it’s about actively building your social currency. Here’s why they work:
They reignite relationships. People you worked with years ago might not know what you’re doing now.
They open doors. A quick call can lead to your next project, partnership, or opportunity.
They clarify your value. Talking about your work helps you sharpen your personal brand and become easier to hire.
In today’s economy, this is essential. Businesses are shifting away from full-time teams and embracing project-based work. That means if you want to stand out, you need to position yourself as a go-to specialist with clear, actionable offerings.
My Vision for the Project Economy
I’ve always loved swooping into projects, fixing the strategy, and leaving my clients with something sustainable. In corporate, my ability to make a big impact in a short amount of time and move on to the next project was looked down upon. Tenure, longevity was seen as the ideal.
Now, this is the future of work—project-based opportunities for specialists who know how to deliver. That’s why I specialize in 3-month sprints: I build, they grow, and I move on to the next challenge.
But to succeed, you need potential clients to know who you are and what you do.
Let’s build a future where we’re not just surviving in this new economy—we’re thriving in it.
Build Your Social Currency
If you’re not already investing in your personal brand and connections, start now. Here’s how:
Optimize your LinkedIn profile. It’s your storefront—make sure it’s compelling and up to date.
Reach out to your network. Schedule connection calls to reengage with people and remind them what you’re great at.
Define your offerings. Create clear packages that businesses can easily say yes to.
And if you’re ready to take the next step, let’s talk. I’d love to connect and hear how you’re navigating this shift. Whether it’s your personal brand, your services, or the state of the project economy, there’s so much we can learn from each other.
Book a connection call today. Let’s build a future where we’re not just surviving in this new economy—we’re thriving in it.
Cheers to a stronger network, bigger opportunities, and a more vibrant career in 2025!
