The Importance of Showing Respect

One of the most significant lessons I've learned from leading the Imperfectly Perfect Campaign is the value of building genuine relationships.

Another thing that seems very prevalent on Linked as well as many other social platforms is not only people connecting to pitch but also people who don't know you seeking introductions or favours.

Let me just say, with over 500 of the world's biggest names supporting my work and efforts, I've never once asked for introductions to others. The relationships that have formed have been organic, growing from mutual respect and genuine connection.

While the old saying "if you don’t ask, you don’t get" holds some truth, there's a nuance that often gets overlooked. Reaching out to people you either don’t know or are just starting to get to know, and immediately asking for introductions or favours, is a big no-no for me.

Let me tell you why: simply put, for me I feel it shows a lack of respect and gives off a transactional mindset that reduces people to mere stepping stones.

Respect in Building Connections

When someone asks for introductions without taking the time to build a relationship with me, it signals that they see me only as a means to an end. They have no genuine interest in who I am, what I do, or how we could mutually benefit from knowing each other. This approach is not only disrespectful but also short-sighted. Relationships built on mutual respect and interest are far more valuable and enduring.

Learning from Experience

I've learned this lesson the hard way. In the past, people I believed I had built some what relationships with started asking for introductions, only to disappear once they got what they wanted. These experiences taught me to be a lot more discerning with peoples intent.

Recognising Genuine Intentions

These days, I can see such opportunistic behaviour coming from a mile away. If someone has no interest in building a relationship with me, it tells me a lot about their intentions. People will try all sorts of ways to get to your contacts. Some will reach out without being asked and tell you they’ve mentioned you to several people in their network. This is often a tactic to make you feel obliged to reciprocate, but it rarely stems from a place of genuine connection.

If you didn't ask to be introduced to anybody, never feel obliged to reciprocate to those that have done it with a clear intention to get you to do something. It is sneaky behaviour and again tells you a lot about a person.

I’ve also seen people offering spots at their events with the expectation of getting a spot at my events in return. While everyone has their own way of networking, discernment and wisdom gained through experience teach you who to steer clear from.

The Right Way to Network

Building genuine relationships takes time, effort, and a willingness to give without expecting immediate returns. When you focus on truly connecting with people, rather than just what you can get from them, the benefits are far more substantial and long-lasting.

So in my experience and why I have an incredible network, is because the key to successful networking actually lies in the quality of relationships, not the quantity.

Respect, genuine interest, and mutual benefit should be at the heart of every connection.

So, before you ask for that introduction, take a moment to consider:

Have you built a real relationship with this person?

Are you offering them something of value?

And most importantly, do you respect them enough to invest in the relationship, rather than just looking for a quick gain?

So focus on building real relationships, and the rest will follow.

glennmarsden.com