Rethinking Networking // Why Real Relationships Fuel Business Growth
When most people hear the word "networking," they picture a lukewarm hotel ballroom filled with badge-wearing strangers awkwardly handing out business cards like candy. The truth? That version of networking is outdated, transactional, and kind of exhausting. The real power of networking comes from authentic connection - being seen, heard, and valued by people who get what you're building.
As a business owner, I’ve learned that networking isn’t just about sales or referrals. It’s about building community. It’s about being the kind of person others want to recommend, collaborate with, or call when they need a gut check on pricing or a go-to project manager. Relationships are the foundation of longevity in business, and they pay off in ways that don’t always show up in a spreadsheet.
Why Networking Still Matters (Even If You're Introverted or Over It)
Let’s be real. If you’re running a business, you're already juggling client work, admin, and an endless stream of notifications. But making time for connection? That’s not optional. It’s essential. Here’s why:
Opportunities Beyond Leads - The best collaborations, referrals, and ideas often come from people who aren’t even your ideal client. One connection can shift your entire trajectory.
Trust > Algorithms - People hire and refer people they trust. And trust isn’t built with perfect Instagram captions, it’s built through human interaction.
A Solid Support System - When things get messy (and they will), your network becomes your lifeline. A quick text to a fellow business owner can sometimes do more than an entire Google search spiral.
How to Network Like a Real Human (Not a Walking Pitch Deck)
In Person:
Go Where the People Are - Your chamber, local co-working space, or niche professional events can be goldmines. If you're dreading it, bring a business buddy with you. You’ll be braver and probably have more fun.
Drop the Agenda - Go in looking for good conversation, not a client. People remember how you made them feel way more than your list of credentials.
Be a Curious Weirdo - Ask questions. Listen more than you talk. People love to share their stories - and they’ll remember that you asked.
Online:
Engage Like You Mean It - Comment thoughtfully on posts. Slide into DMs (respectfully). Share helpful insights. Be visible, but not spammy.
Virtual Events Are a Thing - Don’t sleep on webinars, Zoom meetups, or digital workshops. If your industry is niche or your location remote, online spaces can be a lifeline.
Follow Up, Always - Send a message after a great conversation. It doesn’t have to be long. Just remind them of the moment and say you’d love to stay in touch.
Great Questions to Ask When Networking (That Aren’t "So, What Do You Do?")
Want to actually connect with someone? Ditch the small talk and try one of these instead:
What's one thing in your business you're really excited about right now?
What’s the best thing you’ve outsourced lately?
Have you had any big wins or flops lately? I love a good learning moment.
What kind of projects or clients light you up the most?
Are you reading or listening to anything right now that’s inspiring you?
If you could take a month off and work on one part of your business, what would it be?
Who’s someone you’ve worked with recently that really knocked it out of the park?
These kinds of questions go deeper than job titles and roles. They open the door to collaboration, referrals, and friendships. Because let’s be honest—your next business bestie might not look like your ideal client on paper, but they could be the reason you land your biggest contract yet.
How to Stay Connected After the First Coffee (or DM)
Send the Follow-Up - Yes, even if you’re “bad at email.” One thoughtful message can turn a moment into a relationship.
Keep a Running List - Track who you’ve met and what you talked about. Bonus if you make notes on things like kids, dogs, or that favorite coffee shop they mentioned.
Be a Connector - One of the best ways to stay top of mind? Introduce people to each other. It builds goodwill and makes you unforgettable.
Check In Without an Ask - Send a quick “thinking of you” note or share a resource they’d love. No pitch. No ask. Just connection.
Making meaningful connections isn’t about schmoozing or hustling—it's about showing up as you, offering real value, and building relationships that actually matter.
Struggle at all in this, I highly recommend the book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, it's an oldie but goodie!!
So keep putting yourself in the room (virtual or otherwise), keep being curious, and trust that your people are out there. You’ve got the vision, the vibe, and the voice—now go connect with some humans who get it. Cheering you on!
