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Soft Skills II – Networking (part II): Building Authentic Networks: The Art of Conscious Networking

Reading Time: 2 minutesIn part one, we talked about networking as an act of generosity, active listening, and trust-building. But what does that look like in real life? How do we weave a healthy, human, and sustainable professional network?

Conscious networking is not about collecting contacts. It’s about cultivating intentional, meaningful relationships rooted in authenticity. It means giving without expecting, but also learning to care for, position, and protect your network. It’s an art that blends strategy, empathy, and deep humility.

Connecting People: The Most Powerful Gesture

One of the most valuable and generous things you can do in your professional life is to introduce two people who could benefit from knowing each other. But introductions should be intentional. Before connecting two people, ask yourself:
  • Is there a real need or purpose behind this connection?
  • Will both parties find value in it?
  • Am I doing this for them—or for myself?
Purposeful connections position you as a valuable node—not because you want the spotlight, but because you understand human dynamics and create real opportunities for others.

Say No to Toxic Networks

Not all professional relationships are healthy. Some connections are based on pure self-interest, competition, or manipulation. Conscious networking means learning to say no, setting boundaries, and walking away from energy-draining dynamics.

A great network isn’t just about adding—it’s also about refining.

Time is limited. Choose wisely who you spend it with. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you positively, and make you better. And be that kind of person in return.

The Golden Rule: Take Care of Your Network

You don’t need to stay in touch with every person you’ve ever met, but you should be mindful of who you can help, who you can reconnect with, and who deserves a simple thank-you.

Simple ways to nurture your network:
  • Forward a relevant opportunity or article to someone who might benefit.
  • Check in just to ask how someone’s doing.
  • Express gratitude for a past introduction.
  • Follow up on something someone shared with you.
Real networking is built on small, thoughtful gestures. On showing that you remember, that you care, that you value the relationship.

Success Is Not Going Far—It’s Going Together

Success isn’t just about being seen. The most powerful kind of success is shared success—growing with others, not despite others. It’s not about competing; it’s about collaborating.

The person asking for your help today may help you tomorrow. The junior you mentor now may be a leader later. The client who challenges you today may become a business partner down the line. Never underestimate anyone.

Humility as a Growth Engine

Conscious networking thrives on humility. Because only through humility can we see others as equals, without ego or hierarchy. When we lower our guard and show up as our true selves, we form real connections.

And those real connections open unexpected doors, broaden our perspective, and transform us. The best network is the one that makes us better human beings.

Soft Skills II – Networking (part I): It’s About Giving, Not Taking

Reading Time: 2 minutesWhen we think of “networking,” we often picture a room full of people exchanging business cards, hoping to land a deal or meet a useful contact. Networking is seen as a way to gain something—a shortcut to success. The faster, the better. But few things require as much generosity, time, and authenticity as true networking.

What Is Networking, Really?

Networking isn’t “hunting for opportunities.” It’s about building genuine relationships that stand the test of time, grounded in trust, empathy, and the desire to give value before receiving it. People with more and deeper social connections live longer, are happier, and enjoy better health. That’s the conclusion of many studies, including one led by Harvard’s Robert Waldinger: “Relationships make us happy.”

So why do we still see networking as a fast-track formula? Maybe because we’ve forgotten that long-term value is often invisible in the short term. Good actions aren’t listed on the stock market—but they’re the most rewarding of all.

Relational Intelligence Can Be Trained

It’s not about being naturally charismatic. Social skills can be trained. Listening well, empathizing, reading non-verbal cues—all these fall under what we call “relational intelligence,” and anyone can improve it with effort.

In life, two forces dominate: fear and love. Fear isolates us. Love—expressed through generosity and connection—binds us together. Life doesn’t get better because you have a 150 IQ or three master’s degrees. It gets better when you learn how to connect with others.

Generosity at the Core of Networking

Strong networks aren’t built by asking—they’re built by giving. Giving without expecting anything in return. Helping, connecting, supporting. Relationships built solely on interest don’t last. People can sense it, and the connection breaks down.

Planting the seeds of genuine relationships is an investment in trust. And trust is built by keeping your word, showing consistency, and taking a real interest in others. If someone gives you the chance to help them, don’t waste it. It’s an opportunity to create value—for them, for you, and for the people around you.

Listening—Truly Listening

Listening means being fully present. It’s about focusing all your attention on the other person. Listening not just to the words, but to the silences, the body language, the emotions beneath. Listening as if nothing else is happening. And remembering. Because when you later connect a shared need to the right person or solution, you’ll show a level of attention and commitment that sets you apart.

Prejudice, on the other hand, is networking’s worst enemy. When we judge too quickly, we stop seeing people for who they really are. Listening without judgment is the first step toward real connection.

Ego Out, Humility In

Ego gets in the way. It makes us talk too much, show off, compete unnecessarily. But the real power lies in relationships—and truly great people lead with humility. They talk less, listen more. They don’t need to prove anything. Their actions speak louder than words.

Showing your talent isn’t the same as flaunting it. Sharing your experience can inspire others—but it should come from a desire to add value, not to impress.

Continued in Part II.