You're navigating the world of business networking. How can you steer clear of common relationship pitfalls?

In order to build trust I always like to meet with the decision makers in a one on one meeting get to know them as people because at the end of the day we’re all human beings. After I’ve been able to build some rapport, business naturally starts to spew, then I step in after listening with a consultative approach. It’s important to remember, at the end of the day, people buy from people they like and trust so building trust and being likable are key when getting to know your main decision makers.

In my experience it is always easier to begin with the little conversations that focus on establishing a common ground. Once a common ground is established, trust is built, and upon the foundation of trust great experiences are formed, and opportunities are shared. I find that I am able to make friends spontaneously because of this rather easily misplaced strategy. Another strategy would be to ask the right questions that allow you discover amazing things about the other person. When you give people the opportunity to speak about themselves, they feel good about themselves, and quickly extend the same gesture to you.

Networking isn’t just about what you can gain from others; you know that, right? It’s equally important what you can offer in return. When you connect with someone, consider how you provide value—whether it’s sharing insights, offering introductions, or giving feedback. Effective networking involves both giving and receiving, creating a balanced exchange that fosters stronger, more meaningful connections.

Offering Value is a great way to make friends and form formidable networks. Value is not always what you think it is. Value can be offering compliments to the stranger sitting right next to you. It can be helping your neighbour with your pen. It can be bringing an opportunity to the knowledge of a colleague. When thinking about value, put the other person first. Soon, people feel obligated to return the favour.

For me, the secret is in listening. My goal in a networking conversation is to get them talking about challenges they face. As I'm listening, I'm scrolling through my mental database, thinking of my contacts who may quickly be able to help them overcome their challenge. At key moments in our networking conversation, I'll share with them my thoughts to introduce them to my contact and ask if they'd like an introduction. "Yes!" is typically soon to follow. Even if I readily have feedback to answer their challenges, I take a consultative approach by asking them questions that help them realize the answer without me directly telling them what they should do.

You can’t offer value if you don’t know them! People only truly open up after several occasions meeting. Small talk and good mornings, won’t lead to your value proposition being understood. Create an environment which is mutually beneficial and don’t be driven by today, think about next years tomorrow

Take the Collaborative Approach! Work closely with your fractional team to align on goals. Think of it as crafting a well-balanced meal plan together—everyone’s input ensures the right mix of ingredients. Building the Growth Network Partnership, finding that it’s more than networking, it’s connecting and breaking bread when possible. Keep the communication open.

Oh jesus…..Email, cold calls, sms, watsapp have destroyed the very concept of communication. Shake their hand, look in the eyes, be present and interested in what some one is saying. Your skills to talk are also improved by your ability to listen. Practice, practice, practice your elevator pitch if you’re pushing something. 2 min max or i’m asleep ??

For one who built a network of over 25 mentors to provide affordable mentorship to university students in the Global South, one key strategy that has worked for me, is deciding who I want to connect with and what I am willing to give enough of to win them over. This informed all I shared in my book for career starters and university students: The 10 Commandments of Networking

One thing I found helpful with communication is this golden rule for me, If it's important I will always pickup the phone to communicate that important thought or idea never over a text message.

Clear communication is indeed the foundation of successful business relationships. I'd like to add that communication is the key to any relationship, and relationships are the key to networking. By expressing ourselves transparently and actively listening to others, we build trust, prevent miscommunications, and cultivate a strong network that thrives on mutual understanding and respect

I’m not interested, i’m not interested (listen to these words) Respectfully! “Ok sir/maddam, Let me know if you need anything in the future and i’ll be happy to help, have a great day “ Don’t harass and let your potential commission drive your bad reputation

We've all had that one business contact who won't leave us alone - the person who bombards you with calls, floods your inbox with marketing emails, and constantly pushes you to attend events. This overreach is a sure-fire way to erode trust, one of the most critical elements of effective business networking. Unfortunately, too many organizations, especially in sales, pressure staff to network in this intrusive manner. True networking thrives on respecting boundaries. People are more likely to help when they don’t feel exploited. Reach out to your network when necessary, after all, that’s what it’s there for, just ensure your approach is considerate and driven by mutual benefit, not just your own (or your manager's) agenda.

Respecting boundaries is essential in business networking, and I couldn't agree more. Be logical and mindful while offering value to the community - avoid being pushy or salesy, as it can harm the relationship. Instead, be genuine in your offerings and seek genuine support from the community when needed. By doing so, you build trust and foster a relationship based on mutual respect, where truth and transparency pave the way for long-term success. Has worked wonders for our community of startup founders and the Marketing agency.

I've learned that I can flip the paradigm on the boundaries of "access" (calls, emails, social media) by applying this Zig Ziglar quote, "You can have everything you want in life, if you will help enough other people get what they want." Whether I'm on LinkedIn or at a networking event, I begin adding so much value to both prospects and referral sources that they want/need more engagement with me to get more value. For instance, on LinkedIn, I follow them to learn what, when, and where they're posting. I edify them through my comments by adding value to their post, increasing both the networking reach of their content and setting myself apart in their mind. By law of reciprocity, they begin to view me as an advocate and ally.

Embracing your true self is the ultimate networking superpower. When you authentically showcase your passions, values, and strengths, you create a magnetic presence that attracts kindred spirits. Don't try to wear a mask or pretend to be someone you're not - it's exhausting and transparent. By being unapologetically you, you'll draw in people who resonate with your energy and are more likely to form deep, lasting connections that propel your personal and professional growth.

Showing up as your true self for customers is really beneficial: Trust: When you're honest and real, customers trust you more. Trust is key to keeping customers happy and loyal. Consistency: It's easier to always be yourself than to pretend to be someone else. If you're not wearing a "costume" or acting differently, you can be consistent in how you interact with customers. Connection: Customers relate better to someone who is genuine. They feel more comfortable and connected when they know you're being yourself. Less Effort: Acting like someone else or wearing a "mask" takes a lot of energy. Being yourself is less stressful and easier to maintain over time.

Early in my career, I learned that behavioral psychology dictates that I can unlock locked doors to the soul through both authenticity and empathy. Sometimes, I stand amazed at the depth and breadth of what people are willing to share with me in a 1st conversation. These tools are especially useful in accelerating the speed of trust. I am very transparent and very empathetic, so this works for me. Even if you're not already, you can learn to be. As I'm building trust in networking conversations, I may share an authentically deep story to serve as a mirror for how much information I'm willing to share in this conversation. Then, I'll ask a question that will allow them to reveal an emotional response to the depth of the story that I told.

Tentar ser alguém que você n?o é é exaustivo e, no longo prazo, insustentável. Seja verdadeiro em suas intera??es, demonstrando seus pontos fortes e fraquezas, assim como seus valores e objetivos, só assim você criará uma rede de relacionamento que compartilhe contigo pontos em comum e te apoiará nos seus negócios quanto necessário.

I met a businesswoman some years ago who presented herself professionally, seemed nice, and dressed well. However, when we arranged to meet for coffee to discuss some business, her authentic self appeared. She looked like she might have been homeless! She had unkempt hair and ratty clothing and looked like she had participated in a knock-down brawl before showing up. She said, "This is how I always dress except for those stuffy groups." Yikes. No business to be done here. I couldn't have referred to her to my worst enemy.

Getting ghosted seems to be the accepted norm. If you say you are going to follow up, do so. Sooner is better. Be good to your word.

Following up is one step to not leave out. Often, we do not know the best approach to following up. One strategy that works for me is creating a broadcast list where I sent messages requesting that they reach out to me should they need help in certain areas. I also do well to keep them in the know of the kind of opportunities I am looking for as well as career changes I may be making.

Your fortune is in the follow-up. Do what you say, when you said you would, and don't make a promise you can't or won't keep. Under promise, over deliver.

Follow-up is crucial in business networking. Simply adding someone on LinkedIn isn’t enough. Imagine meeting someone at an event, connecting on LinkedIn, and then not hearing from them for months—until they suddenly ask for your help. It feels disconnected, right? Networking isn’t just about reaching out when you need something. It's about building relationships consistently, even when you don’t have an immediate need. Stay in touch with occasional calls, messages, or coffee meetings - perhaps a more personal note when someone changes role. This way, your connections remain strong and ready when opportunities arise.