How do you PR yourself and build new, powerful connections

One of the major highlights for me being in business is my passion for and ability in "connecting the dots and seeing magic happen." When I launched The PR Hub in 2013, my network was sparse, and I had no direct experience in the PR industry. However, what I did have was a genuine interest in connecting with people—especially those who were achieving great things in business. Over time, I’ve been fortunate to grow my network, get to know hundreds of CEOs, business owners and leaders, and create opportunities I never would have imagined when I first started.

Connecting with influential business leaders, especially those you haven’t met yet but admire, can feel daunting. You may wonder how to even begin reaching out, especially if they seem far out of reach. But just as I’ve experienced, it’s possible to build lasting, genuine relationships with people who inspire you.

The key is to approach these connections thoughtfully, with respect and purpose. Here are some tips that can help you get started.

1. Be Truly Invested in the Process

In the early days of building The PR Hub I found myself going along to networking events and observed the many ways people attempt to connect with others. Early in my career, there was a lot of emphasis on collecting and handing out business cards like they were candy. Everyone was rushing to pass out cards without actually stopping to get to know the person across from them. Thankfully, this "business card race" has faded, but I still see people who aren’t fully invested in the connection-building process.

If you’re serious about connecting with influential people, it’s not about how many names you collect—it’s about the quality of those connections. Take the time to think about who you truly want to meet and why. Narrowing down your list of key people who can help you with your business or communication goals is a great place to start.

The same is true if you’re looking to build media connections or pitch your business—target the right people, and ensure there’s a purpose behind the connection.

2. Don’t Go In Cold—Map Out Your Approach

Years ago I worked in a media agency where I was tasked with ‘cold calling’ businesses who were spending money on radio advertising and trying to sell them television advertising packages. Not the most glamorous task, but it taught me a lot about the world of sales and how to approach people thoughtfully, even if the conversation technically started cold. The calls that went well were always those where I had done my homework on the business and tailored my approach to their specific needs or interests.

The same principle applies when reaching out to a business leader you admire. Do your research—know something about their background, business, or recent achievements. If you’re sending an email, make sure it feels personal, not like you’ve blasted the same message to 50 people.

Mention a mutual connection, reference a product or service of theirs you’ve used, or comment on something they’ve shared on social media. The idea is to create a bridge that shows you’ve invested time and thought into reaching out.

Then, quickly move into how you can add value. Why should they respond? What’s in it for them if they take the time to chat with you or answer your email? And most importantly, be clear about your purpose. Don’t leave them guessing—state your intentions upfront.

3. Show Respect for Those Around Them

In another previous role I worked as an executive assistant for a high-profile and very well-respected person. One of the key lessons I learned during that time was the importance of the gatekeeper. Often, executive assistants or other close team members have significant influence over their boss’s schedule and decisions. I was given a lot of responsibility, and my boss respected my judgment when it came to managing requests from people wanting meetings or introductions.

This experience taught me the power of showing respect to everyone, not just the person you’re trying to connect with. If you’re rude or dismissive to a gatekeeper, chances are you’ll never get the meeting.

On the other hand, being respectful and polite can make all the difference. Great business etiquette isn’t just about impressing the leader you admire—it’s about treating everyone you encounter with kindness and professionalism.

4. Follow Up

In my 11 years running The PR Hub, I’ve learned that following up is crucial to maintaining strong media and business relationships. There’s a fine line between helpful persistence and being a pest, but getting it right can be a game-changer. Too many people don’t follow up at all—whether they’re too busy, afraid of rejection, or just forget.

When you successfully make a connection, follow up promptly. A short email, text, or call works (I prefer email unless otherwise requested). Mark down key events they mentioned or put a reminder in your calendar to reconnect with them after a few months.

One of my favorite follow-up strategies is to send an article or resource I think they’d find interesting. It’s a small, thoughtful way to stay on their radar without asking for anything. I learned this tactic from a mentor, and it’s something I still do regularly. A well-timed article that’s relevant to their interests or business can remind them of you without feeling intrusive.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Be Afraid to Start

Reaching out to someone you admire in business can be intimidating, but it’s important to remember that everyone started somewhere. Many of the leaders you’re inspired by have likely faced the same challenges as you and may even welcome the opportunity to connect. By being thoughtful, respectful, and strategic in your approach, you can start to build meaningful relationships with the business leaders you’ve long admired.

The most important takeaway? Don’t be afraid to make that first move. You never know what doors it might open or what magic might happen.

This article first appeared via Kochies Business here.