5 Ways to Build Relationships with High-Impact Individuals
Networking is critical for C-suite individuals.
Here’s why.
Expertise. As an executive, you face complex challenges that require access to a broad range of resources and expertise.
Insights. You want to stay well-informed on market insights and dynamics to make the best strategic decisions to stay ahead of competitors.
Strategic pairings. You hope to foster strategic partnerships that can benefit your company.
Personal development. You want real relationships with people who share your values and ambition to help you grow your company and grow personally.
But even if you’re in your company’s C-suite, networking with other high-impact individuals can still be intimidating.
Most of the time, other high-impact professionals want to connect. It’s just a matter of going about it the right way.
Remember this: Build relationships with people, not what they can give you.
Here are 5 ways to build meaningful relationships with high-impact individuals.
1) Prioritize organic conversations through events
It’s no secret that organic connection is more effective than cold outreach. While networking events might seem inorganic, if you attend events surrounding topics that strike upon your core interests, you’ll be sure to have organic conversations with others who share your values and interests.
Avoid seeing events as a distraction from your “more important work.” When you begin to view human connection and the inspiration that conferences and seminars can bring as essential, you’ll likely be surprised at your overall growth.
Remember, events are a starting point for relationship-building, not a time to close a transactional deal.
Looking for networking opportunities that integrate faith and business? Join us at the SENT Chicago Regional this fall.
2) Gain insight
Rather than asking for favors from a new connection, focus on gaining insight first. Ask a meaningful question related to the person’s work, mindset, etc.
Learning about another’s expertise or experience will allow you to forge a connection beyond a transaction.
The person will appreciate being regarded for wisdom, and you will both engage in a meaningful conversation surrounding ideas that ignite your interests.
The more you understand your connection’s viewpoints and demonstrate your own, the more likely possibilities for collaboration will organically emerge.
3) Add value
When forging new connections, always look for opportunities, big or small, to provide value to those you network with.
Adding value freely speaks volumes. Reaching out with acts of generosity will demonstrate that you are invested in others’ success, not just your own.
It’s always important not to make promises you can’t keep, so only offer value if you can deliver. Connecting someone with another valuable connection suited to their needs is a low-lift place to start.
Down the road, you may have the chance to collaborate in a mutually beneficial way. But try to develop a habit of serving others first when possible.
4) Practice sincerity
Being formal and stiff has “gone out of business.” Business leaders share personal insights on LinkedIn. Companies excel when their founders possess a personal brand. People want to connect with real people.
In other words, people value sincerity.
As simple as it sounds, it takes intentionality to “leave your ego at the door.”
Be sincere, be humble, be eager to learn from others. But don’t hide your light under a bushel basket.
5) Join values-aligned groups
If you want to build relationships with other high-impact executives and founders who align with your values, groups that offer relevant discussions, workshops, networking events, strategy sessions, and peer advisory groups are incredible assets.
These platforms can facilitate connections with influencers in your field through strategy sessions and topic-based conversations.
You will get the most out of these platforms when you are committed to engaging.
Becoming a SENT Member offers you access to a community of driven thought and industry leaders who have outsized potential to impact your growth, personally and professionally.
Start building relationships now
Don’t know where to start your high-impact networking journey? We’ve got the solution for you.
Join the SENT Network to get access to:
Community → curated connections selected by our team
Events → members-only digital strategy sessions, speed networking, discussions, and relevant workshops
Platform → connect with ease on the SENT Platform
Head to the membership page to learn about what other benefits you’ll get when you become a SENT member.
