Change is in the air... can you feel it?
With everything going on today, your network is one of your most powerful assets. If it is just a collection of names - it’s time to fix that. The right connections can lead to collaborations, strategic partnerships, and transformative opportunities. However, with social media platforms becoming increasingly unpredictable and algorithm-driven, relying solely on them to maintain our professional networks is a risk we can no longer ignore.
Building relationships beyond social media and emphasizing personal and direct connections is crucial to ensure your network truly works for you. This post shares ways I create a resilient, opportunity-rich network. My signature reflection questions will help you stay intentional about your approach.
1. Diversify How You Stay Connected
For a time, social media was the easiest way to keep in touch. However, it’s no longer as trustworthy, reliable, or meaningful for many. Platforms can and do change overnight. I have had countless friends have their accounts deleted with no explanation beyond some form of “you violated the platform rules” or similar nonsense. When the algorithms shift, access to your audience becomes limited. Genuine connection comes from engaging on multiple channels: in person, email, text, or even a quick (gulp) phone call or note in the mail... and social media. It is time to start diversifying how we connect before it is too late.
I learned this lesson the hard way a few years ago when a platform I relied on to connect with my network suddenly changed its algorithm. My posts weren’t reaching the people I needed them to, and I realized I had no personal contact information for some of my closest collaborators. That’s when I started keeping a “real connection list” - a mix of emails, phone numbers, and even mailing addresses of key people in my circle. Now, when a social network deletes a post, I still have my blog, email list, and personal connections to lean on. It still stings when a post is deleted, but not as much.
Reflection Question:
Do I rely too heavily on one platform or medium to connect with others? How can I diversify my communication methods this month?
2. Focus on Quality Over Quantity
The size of your network isn’t as important as its depth. This may sound counterintuitive in a world that gamifies and values “collecting” people over genuine connection. Meaningful, sacred relationships are built through trust, consistent engagement, and sincere interest in the other person’s success. Instead of trying to “collect the most business cards” at a networking event - try focusing on meeting 1-2 new people and really CONNECT with them... listen to learn, not to respond - and for goodness sake - put your phone down and look them in the eyes. Something magical happens when we intentionally gaze into someone’s eyes while they are sharing with us. I believe it is one of the most divine moments of connection we experience as humans, and we can’t let computers or phones steal these moments.
Reflection Question:
Who are the five most influential people in my network? How can I add value to their lives without expecting anything in return?
3. Let Your Network In on Your Vision
Your network can only open doors for you if they know where you want to go. It’s easy to assume people understand your goals and expertise, but if you don’t actively share them, you might miss out on connections that could change everything.
One of the best business connection stories I share is with Sara Sutachan, Chief Strategy Officer at the California Association of REALTORS®. We were introduced most serendipitously - through a colleague who happened to know one of my clients. During a team meeting, Sara mentioned she sought someone to discuss women in leadership and possibly a conference. Her colleague reached out to her circle, heard back from my client who knew my work (and solid personal brand known for empowering women), immediately thought of me, and mentioned my name.
Anyone who has attended one of our events knows that the introduction became the beginning of something extraordinary. When Sara and I connected, it felt like we were destined to collaborate. Together, we built WomanUP!® - an award-winning initiative that, over 7 years together, changed thousands of lives - even more than we know through the ripples. That “connection” experience reinforced the value of showing up consistently and cultivating a strong personal brand and voice, which allows others to recommend you when opportunities arise confidently.
Reflection Question:
When was the last time I reached out to my existing network to share what I’m working on or where I’m looking to grow? How can I make it easier for them to think of me when opportunities arise?
Bonus Tip:
Create a document that shares your vision. Have it ready to go when someone asks, “How can I help you?” Here is the most recent one I created. Feel free to customize it for yourself!
4. Be Intentional With Your Network’s Growth
Every new connection that aligns with your values, goals, and vision will bless you tenfold. Growing your network isn’t about adding more names to your contact list; it’s about surrounding yourself with individuals who inspire, challenge, and support you.
I was once introduced to someone who seemed like a perfect fit for a collaboration. It was clear after our first conversation that our values didn’t align. I paused to review my P.E.A.C.E. process (pause, examine, assess, choose, execute) and realized I wanted to pass on the partnership. Honoring myself and respecting my time and mental health felt so good. When you focus on relationships that truly align with your goals and values, the quality of your network improves exponentially.
Reflection Question:
Does my current network reflect the opportunities I want to attract? How can I align my connections with my future vision?
5. The Power of a Thoughtful Follow-Up: Make Your Connections Stick
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to make a lasting impact after a meeting is following up with something personal and memorable. I always make a point to jot down a few quick notes immediately after any significant interaction - whether a coffee chat or a larger event. This helps me remember key details and ensures it’s meaningful and thoughtful when I reach out later.
For example, I once met someone at a networking event, and before I got into the car, I made a note about a wine we both loved. When I followed up with a brief email mentioning that wine, she was so tickled by my attention to detail that she introduced me to a key player in her network, and that introduction led to a significant collaboration. I sent her a bottle of that very wine to show my gratitude... and when we get together - we always make time to catch up and sip a new wine. These were simple acts and highlight the profound impact of thoughtful follow-through.
What’s important to note is that most people don’t follow up or give up after one call/email. That’s why a thoughtful note can make a huge impact, even just a few sentences. It shows that you value and are invested in the connection, so people remember you long after the meeting.
Reflection Question:
After a recent interaction, what detail can I focus on when following up to make the message feel personal and memorable?
What tool will I use to set a reminder to follow through within 24 hours of every significant meeting or conversation?
Bonus Tip:
I use the alarms option in the clock app on my iPhone to keep it simple. I also use the Boomerang plugin on my Gmail accounts to keep my email interactions on track and top of mind.
Beloved, your network is a living, breathing, sacred ecosystem that thrives on genuine connection, consistent nurturing, and intentionality. By diversifying how you communicate, prioritizing meaningful relationships, and leveraging in-person connections, you will build a network that helps you open doors and walk confidently through them.
Magic happens when you are ready to embrace that it’s not about how many people you know but how well you know them - and how much you’re willing to invest in those relationships.
What is your next step?
Think about the one person in your network you’ve meant to reconnect with. Send them a quick message today to rekindle the connection... you never know where it might lead.
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