Networking for women entrepreneurs without being transactional

🤝 Networking feels awkward? You’re not alone. If the idea of reaching out to someone for “networking” makes you cringe, you’re not the only one. Many of us associate networking with forced small talk, sales pitches, or feeling like we’re asking for favours. But here’s the truth: Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional. When done right, it’s about building authentic, mutually beneficial connections that can open doors and provide value to both parties. Here’s how to make networking feel natural and effective: 1️⃣ Start with Common Ground When reaching out, mention something you genuinely admire or have in common. This could be their work on a specific project, attending the same school, or even shared connections. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I recently read about your work on [specific project], and I found it fascinating! As someone interested in [related topic], I’d love to hear about your approach.” 2️⃣ Shift the Mindset from “Getting” to “Giving” Instead of asking for favours, think about how you can offer value. Sharing helpful insights, articles, or even thoughtful comments on LinkedIn posts can create goodwill and start a genuine conversation. 👉 Example: Commenting on their post: “I really appreciate your take on [topic]. It reminded me of [specific example/experience], and I’m excited to apply this in my own work!” 3️⃣ Ask for Advice, Not Favours People love to share their expertise, and asking for advice shows respect for their knowledge. It’s a low-pressure way to connect while learning something valuable. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [industry/role], and your career journey is inspiring. Would you be open to a quick chat to share advice on [specific topic]?” 4️⃣ Follow Up with Gratitude Networking doesn’t end after one conversation. Send a thank-you note, share how their advice helped, or engage with their updates online to maintain the connection. 👉 Example: “Thank you for taking the time to chat with me! Your advice on [topic] was so helpful—I’ve already started applying it and am seeing progress. Let’s stay in touch!” 💡 Final Thought: Networking isn’t about collecting connections; it’s about building relationships. Approach each interaction with curiosity, authenticity, and a genuine desire to add value, and you’ll find it feels much less awkward—and a lot more rewarding. How do you make networking feel natural? Let’s share ideas below! 💬👇 #NetworkingTips #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalConnections #JobSearch

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or sending generic LinkedIn messages—it’s about building real, meaningful connections. But let’s be honest: it can feel awkward, especially when you don’t know where to start. Here’s how I’ve learned to make networking both effective and authentic - Provide some sort of value. When reaching out to someone, think about how you can bring value to them. Instead of asking, “Can I pick your brain?” try something like: - “I really enjoyed your recent post about [topic]—it gave me new insights.” - “I noticed you’ve worked on [project/field]. Here’s a resource I found helpful—thought you might too!” Starting with value makes the interaction about collaboration, not extraction. Networking doesn’t end with the first meeting. After connecting, follow up with a personalized message: “It was great chatting about [topic]. I came across this article that aligns with what we discussed—thought you’d find it interesting!” Consistency and genuine interest are what transform connections into relationships. Networking is a skill, not a transaction. It’s about showing up authentically, giving more than you take, and staying connected.

How to Build Real Connections on LinkedIn 🌐 After over 100 LinkedIn conversations, here’s my best advice for building real, impactful connections. Whether you're seeking advice, insights, or just expanding your network, these steps can help you create relationships that go beyond the virtual. 1. Approach with Gratitude, Not Transactions 🤝     Reach out with a sincere, open attitude—show appreciation for their time and insights, not just what they can offer. 2. Skip the Big Asks 🚫     Rather than requesting mentorship or direct help, start by asking for advice or insights. It’s a respectful way to gain value without overwhelming them. 3. Do Your Research 🔍     A quick read of their LinkedIn profile can help you have an informed conversation. Reference their work, ask specific questions, and show that you value their experience. 4. Show Genuine Interest 🌟     Focus on them and their journey—show that you're genuinely interested in who they are, not just what they can do. 5. Respect the Clock ⏳     Time is valuable. If you say you need 15 minutes, stick to it. This respect for time builds trust and shows you’re serious. 6. Follow Up Matters 📧     A thank-you message and periodic check-ins go a long way. People appreciate thoughtful follow-up, and it keeps the relationship alive. 7. Offer to Help First 💡     Ask yourself, “How can I help them?” Maybe you can share an article, connect them to someone in your network, or support their work. 8. Empathy & Listening 🎧     Every good conversation includes empathy and active listening. People remember those who truly listen and understand their perspective. Meaningful connections don’t happen overnight. Build trust, stay genuine, and let the relationship grow organically. Your network is your greatest asset—nurture it thoughtfully! 👋 I’m Sandra Park, a financial coach helping women in STEM engineer her path to financial freedom 💸

💡 Stop Pitching. Start Connecting. ⁉️Ever received a connection request and within 2 minutes got a sales pitch in your inbox? Yeah… same. 😐 ✅ Let me say this clearly — LinkedIn is not your cold-calling CRM. It’s a professional ecosystem where relationships come before revenue. Here’s the truth: ✨ People don’t buy from strangers who barge into their inbox. They work with people who engage, resonate, and show up consistently in their professional space. ✅ Instead of Pitching, Try This: ✅ Follow first. ✅ Don’t send that connection request just yet. Follow their content, observe what they talk about. ✅ Engage meaningfully. Read their posts. Leave a comment that adds value — not “Great post!” but something that starts a conversation. ✅ Show up consistently. ✅ Make your name familiar — not as a nuisance, but as someone who gets it. Contribute. Don’t sell. ✅ Share insights, answer a question, link to a helpful resource (that’s not yours). Let them come to you. ✅ People notice value. When the time is right, they’ll say: “Hey, I’d love to learn more about what you do.” 💬 Real Talk: ✅ I've had founders, execs, even VCs reach out to me because I spent time engaging with their work genuinely—no pitch, no pressure. Just respect and real curiosity. ✅ One comment turned into a zoom invite. ✅ One like turned into a strategic partnership. ✅ One DM (months later) turned into a full-time gig. ✅ So next time you're tempted to pitch in that cold message — pause. Breathe. Play the long game. 📣 Final Thought: ✅ Build relationships before you build your pipeline. ✅ Be human before being a brand. ✅ Be generous before being transactional. 👍 Thank me later. #LinkedInTips #Networking #NoColdPitching #RelationshipMarketing #SocialSelling #ValueFirst #CareerGrowth #StartupTips #ProfessionalBrand #LeadWithValue

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards or likes—it’s about building authentic, mutually beneficial relationships. In a recent Intentional Conversations episode, I was joined by guest co-host Gisele Marcus, a global executive and accomplished speaker, to unpack the art of networking. From her story of landing 11 job opportunities through authentic connections to strategies for LinkedIn and beyond, Gisele reminded us that true networking is about visibility, trust, and reciprocity. We explored: ✨ Why authenticity matters more than transactions ✨ Strategies for networking as an introvert (yes, it’s possible!) ✨ How to make both in-person and digital networking meaningful ✨ The role of intentionality in creating lasting professional relationships The bottom line: when we network with authenticity, we don’t just open doors—we build bridges that carry us further than we could go alone. 🔗 Read the full recap in my newsletter, watch the replay or catch the podcast episode. #Networking #Leadership #Authenticity #IntentionalConversations #BusinessGrowth

Networking Nirvana: Why Random Acts of Connection Beat Business Card Battles The most meaningful professional connections in my career haven't come from traditional networking events or cold LinkedIn messages. They've emerged from genuinely caring about others' success and practicing what I call 'reciprocity without expectation.' This reminded me of a powerful truth: networking isn't about collecting business cards or growing your LinkedIn connections. It's about creating an ecosystem of mutual support where everyone rises together. Some of my best professional relationships started in unexpected places – while volunteering at a local food bank, during a delayed flight conversation, or through shared interests completely unrelated to business. These connections feel more authentic because they're built on shared experiences rather than immediate professional gain. The key? Stop thinking about networking as transactional. Instead, focus on: 🖤Creating value for others without keeping score 🤍Sharing knowledge and resources freely 🤍Connecting people who could benefit from knowing each other 🖤Building relationships before you need them True reciprocity isn't about immediate returns, it's about contributing to a community where support flows naturally in all directions. What's the most unexpected way you've made a meaningful professional connection? #ProfessionalDevelopment #Networking #CareerGrowth #CommunityBuilding #TheLuxpreneur

Networking isn't about collecting business cards or followers. It's about building relationships with people who add value, expand your world, and help solve problems - and being one of those people in return. The best networkers know: • It's not about what you can get but what you can give. • The best time to build a network is before you need it. • The strongest connections aren't transactional—they're built on trust. • People remember who followed up, who followed through, and who made them feel seen. A good network can get you in the door. A great one can change your entire trajectory. So build it.  Nurture it.   Don't just show up when you need something. And always try to give first. --------------- I'm Katie Dunn, an Angel Investor, Board Director, and Startup Advisor. I prepare founders for fundraising, and they gain confidence, resources, and connections. Check out my LinkedIn Strategies for Founders guide (link in Featured Section).

Recently,, a client shared with our community... “Attachment creates this neediness. Learning to network without a hard agenda shifted everything for me.” So, let’s talk about networking, because so many of you are doing it wrong. Here’s the deal: When you’re an entrepreneur, networking isn’t just about swapping business cards or chasing leads. It’s about building real relationships that add value to both sides. But here’s the irony: The more attached you are to getting something from a conversation, the less effective you’ll be. People can feel the desperation. That “hard agenda” vibe? It repels the very opportunities you’re hoping to create. 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗠𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘀: • 85% of jobs and opportunities come from networking, yet only 25% of professionals actually approach it strategically (Source: LinkedIn). • For 72% of successful entrepreneurs, authentic connections are the #1 factor driving their success (Source: Entrepreneur Magazine). If you’re not networking with intention and authenticity, here’s what you’re risking: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗸𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗮𝘆 • Strained Relationships: People can smell a self-serving agenda a mile away, and it damages trust. • Missed Opportunities: When you focus only on short-term results, you miss the long-term value of genuine connections. • Networking Fatigue: Constantly chasing outcomes instead of building relationships will burn you out. 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗟𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗣𝗿𝗼 1) Focus on Connection, Not Outcomes: Approach conversations with curiosity. Ask about their journey, challenges, and goals—not what they can do for you. Example: “What’s been the most exciting project you’ve worked on lately?” 2) Give Before You Ask: Share value first. Introduce them to someone in your network, send them a relevant article, or offer insight. The fastest way to build trust is to help someone without expecting anything in return. 3) Set a Networking Goal: Forget about making 10 shallow connections at a conference. Instead, aim for 2–3 meaningful ones per month—the kind where you’re both excited to stay in touch. 4) Follow Up Thoughtfully: After you meet someone, send a personalized note. Share a resource or insight that’s relevant to them. Relationships are built in the follow-ups, not the first handshake. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲 Networking isn’t about collecting contacts or closing deals—it’s about building relationships that compound over time. The more you give without expecting, the more opportunities will naturally come your way. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹? Download the Networking Playbook to learn how to map your connections, build authentic relationships, and create opportunities that last. Comment "PLAYBOOK" below or DM me and I'll get it sent your way.

Stop treating relationships like vending machines. Put in a favor, and expect a reward to pop out immediately. Newsflash: Real connections aren't built on "I scratch your back, you scratch mine." They're about genuine care, shared experiences, and mutual support. Want a network that'll have your back when you're starting or looking for your next venture? Ditch the transactional mindset. Instead of the "long time, no talk, need a favor" approach, try this: "Hey! How's life treating you? Let's catch up and hear what you've been up to." Take an interest in others, be curious, and learn from them. Invest in people, not just potential returns. The strongest networks are built on years of authentic interactions. Remember, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. Building genuine relationships is easier than you think.

The most impactful relationships are built on authenticity, not transactions. When you intentionally connect with people and offer guidance without expecting anything in return, you create trust, influence, and opportunities that money can’t buy. After my keynote speech for the NABIP South Jersey Chapter I raffled off 4 hours of executive coaching at no cost to support this great organization’s advocating efforts. I was astounded during the first session to learn that the winner’s wonderful in-laws went to high school with me. That heartwarming encounter does not happen if I had opted not to give back. Additionally, a business owner who asked a question as I was leaving was surprised when I suggested we drop our bags and sit in the lobby to discuss his business. This gesture inspired him to hire me as his executive coach a week later. In business, they say time is money! I say, if you give people your time in a genuine way, they will appreciate experiencing your value firsthand! Here are ways you can share your time to build meaningful relationships: ✔️Mentorship – Offer guidance to emerging professionals. ✔️Active Listening – Be fully present in conversations, showing genuine interest in others’ challenges and goals. ✔️Strategic Introductions – Connect people in your network who could benefit from knowing each other. ✔️Lunch or Coffee Meetings – Spend time with colleagues or industry peers to build rapport beyond business transactions. ✔️Knowledge Sharing – Offer insights or best practices on blogs, LinkedIn, or podcasts. ✔️Volunteer Together – Engage in community service to bond over shared values. The key is consistency, because relationships thrive when you show up with value, sincerity, and no strings attached. Thank you again Angelica Wilson! 💫 #mentor #giveback #leader #care #executivecoach #helpothers