Hy Safran, Director of Philanthropy at the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit and the United Jewish Foundation, has spent years mastering the art of building relationships that foster community growth and philanthropic success. In the world of philanthropy, networking is more than just exchanging business cards—it’s about creating meaningful, lasting connections that lead to impactful partnerships. Here’s Hy’s advice on how to build a network that truly makes a difference in the world of philanthropy.
1. Focus on Relationships, Not Transactions
Hy emphasizes that successful networking in philanthropy is all about building genuine, long-term relationships rather than focusing on short-term gains or financial transactions. He believes that the most impactful partnerships are born out of mutual respect, shared goals, and an understanding of each other’s values.
“Networking is about people, not projects or dollars. Take the time to understand the person you’re speaking with—their passions, motivations, and how they envision making an impact. When you build relationships based on trust and shared vision, the results are always more powerful,” Hy advises.
Rather than approaching networking with a transactional mindset, Hy encourages focusing on creating connections that are based on common interests and long-term collaboration.
2. Listen More Than You Speak
One of Hy’s key strategies for building meaningful relationships is to actively listen during conversations. In the fast-paced world of philanthropy, it’s easy to get caught up in pitching ideas and presenting opportunities, but Hy stresses that listening to others is the best way to truly understand their needs and goals.
“People want to feel heard and understood. The most important part of networking is not what you say, but how well you listen. By really hearing what the other person is passionate about, you can tailor your conversations and collaborations to align with their interests and values,” Hy explains.
This approach not only builds stronger connections but also lays the foundation for authentic partnerships where both parties feel valued.
3. Give Before You Ask
Hy believes that one of the most effective ways to build strong networks in philanthropy is by offering value before asking for anything in return. Whether it’s sharing knowledge, offering support, or making introductions, leading with generosity shows others that you’re invested in their success.
“Philanthropy is about giving, and that applies to networking as well. Before you ask someone to contribute to your cause or collaborate on a project, think about what you can offer them first. This mindset creates goodwill and trust, which leads to stronger, more reciprocal relationships,” Hy advises.
By giving first, whether through time, expertise, or connections, you demonstrate a genuine commitment to building a mutually beneficial relationship.
4. Be Authentic and Transparent
In philanthropy, authenticity and transparency are essential to building trust and credibility. Hy encourages individuals to be open and honest in their interactions, sharing both their successes and challenges. This transparency fosters a deeper level of trust and strengthens relationships.
“People appreciate authenticity—whether it’s being clear about your goals or acknowledging the challenges you face. When you’re honest and upfront, people are more likely to trust you and feel confident in building a partnership with you,” the philanthropist notes.
Being transparent about your intentions, needs, and the challenges ahead helps create an atmosphere of mutual respect and fosters long-lasting connections.
5. Nurture Your Network Regularly
Building a network is only the first step—maintaining and nurturing those relationships is just as important. Hy stresses the importance of staying connected with people in your network, even when you don’t have a specific ask or project in mind.
“Don’t let your relationships go dormant. Regularly check in with people, even if it’s just to see how they’re doing or share an interesting article. By staying connected, you keep the relationship alive and show that you value them beyond just professional interactions,” Hy advises.
This ongoing engagement helps to keep your network strong and ensures that when opportunities arise, you already have a solid foundation to build upon.
6. Leverage Technology for Connection, Not Replacement
In today’s digital world, technology can play a key role in networking, but Hy cautions against relying solely on virtual interactions. While platforms like LinkedIn, Zoom, and email are great tools for staying connected, he emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions when possible.
“Technology is a fantastic tool for staying in touch, but nothing replaces the power of an in-person conversation. Whenever possible, try to meet face-to-face, whether at events, coffee meetings, or conferences. These interactions build deeper connections that are hard to replicate online,” Hy explains.
Technology should be used to enhance relationships, not replace the human element that makes networking in philanthropy so impactful.
Conclusion: Networking for Impact
Hy Safran’s advice on meaningful networking in philanthropy is centered on the idea that authentic, long-term relationships drive real change. By focusing on people, listening carefully, giving before asking, and staying authentic, you can create a network that is built on trust and shared vision. Regularly nurturing those connections and balancing technology with face-to-face interactions further strengthens your relationships and ensures that your network remains active and engaged.
For Hy, networking in philanthropy is not just about expanding your contacts—it’s about building a community of like-minded individuals who share a common goal of making a positive impact. Through his insights, Hy encourages others to approach networking as a long-term investment in relationships that will lead to lasting success and meaningful change in the philanthropic world.