Derek Dickow is more than a master networker — he’s a power connector, strategic advisor and executive coach who’s helped raise tens of millions of dollars for political campaigns, charitable causes and game-changing projects. Through his signature conference series, Power Connections, he brings together influential leaders for more than just handshakes and business cards — he creates spaces where meaningful, strategic relationships take root.
Whether you're new to networking or a seasoned connector, Dickow’s approach is a reminder that real influence starts with real intention: Show up. Add value. And most importantly — don’t keep score.
We caught up with Birmingham-based Dickow (derekdickow.com) to talk about how he built his reputation, what most people get wrong about networking and how his signature framework — the 5 Pillars of Purpose-Driven Networking — can change how we show up and create value.
Q: Derek, you're known as a ‘power connector.’ How did you develop your philosophy on networking?
A: This is a fun one. My philosophy is simple: Put others in a better position without keeping score.
Q: You’ve said, ‘Networking is done before you show up.’ Can you break that down?
A: Most people just wing it at events. They show up, pass out business cards like confetti and hope for the best.
My approach? Be intentional. Before I go to a business, political or charitable event, I find out who’s attending. I might call the organizer, get the agenda, or review the list of sponsors. Then I ask myself: Do I know them? Would I like to? Can I bring value? If the answer is yes, I spend 15 focused minutes researching a few attendees — looking for one-to-two personal or professional connections we might share. If you reach the person in advance of the event, and they agree to meet, you can skip hours of small talk.
Q: What are the most common mistakes people make when trying to network?
A: The biggest one? Thinking people care. I know that sounds harsh, but most people are focused on their own goals — not yours.
Another mistake is labeling yourself. Say you meet someone and they immediately say, ‘Hi, I’m an attorney.’ If I don’t need one, I may check out. It’s well-intentioned, but it ends the conversation before it starts.
Instead of perfecting an elevator pitch, prepare three-to-four good questions. Be curious. That’s how real conversations start.
Q: Tell us about your ‘5 Pillars of Purpose-Driven Networking.’
A: It developed from experience — trial, error and learning from the best. I studied legends like Dale Carnegie and Napoleon Hill, and modern thought leaders like Adam Grant and Keith Ferrazzi. I also had a great mentor — my late uncle, Michael George. The 5 Pillars are: 1. Set clear goals. 2. Prepare like a pro. 3. Ask the right questions. 4. Offer real value. 5. Build long-term, authentic relationships.
Networking isn’t just about eye contact and a firm handshake. It’s a human skill — and it can open doors you never imagined.
Q: You often say, ‘Stop selling, start solving.’ What do you mean by that?
A: To shift your mindset. Don’t walk into conversations asking, ‘What can I get?’ Instead ask, ‘How can I help?’
You get there by asking great questions. When you understand someone’s challenges, you can problem-solve and build real value.
Q: You’ve raised tens of millions of dollars for campaigns and causes. What role has relationship-building played in that?
A: It’s everything. Projects come and go — but the relationships last.
If you’re active in your community, someone’s going to ask you for help. Maybe a campaign, a fundraiser or a kid’s baseball team. My advice? Say yes. Show up. Write the check if you can. Volunteer if you can’t. People remember who shows up — and that leads to lifelong friendships.
Q: Elevator pitches can feel awkward. How do you make them more natural?
A: Ditch the pitch. Most of them sound rehearsed and robotic. People don’t want to be sold — they want to be heard.
Instead, make eye contact. Ask thoughtful questions. Listen. Put your phone away and stop scanning the room for your next card exchange. Be present. That’s way more impactful.
Q: You work with CEOs, elected officials and big thinkers. What qualities do they share?
A: The best ones all have a high level of empathy. They listen. They problem-solve. And they make great, thoughtful recommendations. That’s what sets them apart.
Q: Your Power Connections conference brings impressive leaders together. What inspired it, and what makes it different?
A: People were always asking me for introductions — so I’d invite them to lunch or coffee. I loved saying yes, but I needed a way to scale it and create real value — without chasing friends for referral fees.
That’s when the idea hit to create a speed-networking-style event where people could meet quality contacts and see if there’s opportunity.
Our first event had about 50 attendees. This summer, we’ll have more than 1,000. It’s grown because the format works — and the relationships are real.
Q: What’s next for you — and what keeps you inspired to keep connecting at this level?
A: For me, making introductions is like a game — it’s fun. When someone shares what they need, my brain automatically asks, ‘Who would be a great connection?’
At this stage in my career, it's second nature — like breathing.
What drives me now is helping others, especially introverts, realize they can become great relationship builders. With the right system, anyone can do this.
Somewhere along the way, introductions became a business — and I found a meaningful way to help others win.
At every Power Connections event since the pandemic, we donate a portion of ticket sales and raise awareness for the Children’s Foundation — that drives me, too.
In a few short years, that number has become $300,000. Part of what drives is thinking, ‘How can we grow that donation to a million dollars, and then two?’
Q: How do you add value to a relationship without expecting anything in return — and why is that important?
A: Because real relationships aren’t transactional — they’re built on trust.
One easy way to add value? Make a warm, qualified introduction where both parties benefit. When you do that without asking for anything in return, it shows you care — and people remember that.
Power Connections' next event, Power Connections Commercial Real Estate, is scheduled for June 23–25 in Detroit. Keynote speakers and panelists include Former Gov. Rick Snyder, Bedrock CEO Kofi Bonner, Farbman Group President Andy Farbman and more. Powerconnectionsco.com.