Rainmaking 101

Most people think being a rainmaker is about sales.

It’s not.

It’s about creating momentum — for yourself, for others, and for the things you care about.

It’s about showing up in rooms you don’t “have” to be in.
It’s about helping people without needing anything in return.
It’s about being known — not just as someone who wants deals, but someone who creates them.

And yes — it can absolutely change your life.

I Wasn't Born to Do This

Growing up, I was socially isolated.

I didn’t think much about other people. I didn’t know how to connect. I lived in my own head — analyzing, overthinking, always observing.

Some people are natural rainmakers.

I’m not.

So I’ve been trying to learn the skill. Step by step. Think → act → repeat.

And honestly?

I’ve started to enjoy it.

Because when I focus on people, my world gets bigger.

Here’s What I’m Doing Right Now

To be clear — I’m not trying to “sell” anything.

I’m just signaling who I am and what I’m looking for.

I’m reaching out to a lot of people:

• Posting content consistently

• Sending DMs

• Asking for warm introductions

• Showing up in-person at least once a week

And when I’m there, I’m not trying to prove myself. I’m trying to help.

If I can make a connection, offer a resource, share an idea — I do it.

Because value compounds faster than effort.

I’m Still Figuring This Out

Let me be clear: I haven’t mastered this.

But I’m starting to see the patterns:

• The people who get ahead aren’t always the smartest — they’re the most connected.

• Trust isn’t built overnight, but it can be built intentionally.

• The more I focus on others, the more opportunity seems to find me.

That’s what I’m trying to practice every week.

Why? Because People Are Leverage

I have a PhD.

But I’ll be honest: I’m not that smart.

I only know what I know. And that’s finite.

But when I talk to others — I get access to their knowledge. Their stories. Their network.

That’s not additive. That’s exponential.

That’s the game.

The Bottom Line

Rainmaking is a skill.

And like any skill, it can be learned.

I’m learning it in public. Testing. Failing. Reaching out again.

Because people are the key.

Always have been.

This Week’s Affiliations

Let’s be real — the best way to learn is by doing.

Show up. Get your hands dirty. Screw it up. That’s how you get better.

But you can’t be in motion 24/7.

So what do you do during the in-between moments?

You feed your mind.

This week, I picked up a new book I’ve been meaning to read:

Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. (← This is my affiliate link)

It’s all about building genuine relationships — the kind that compound over time.

I’ll let you know what sticks.

-Dakota