When you combine all 3 Pillars of Strong Professional Relationships I’ve written about previously, here’s what a relationship-building conversation might look like:
1. Build Genuine Rapport
Find authentic common ground beyond work—shared experiences, mutual connections, or even thoughtful observations about industry trends. This isn’t small talk; it’s establishing a foundation for real conversation.
2. Understand Their Agenda
“What are your top priorities right now?” Then listen. Really listen. Ask follow-up questions that show you’re processing what they’re sharing.
3. Add Value to Their Goals
“Here’s how my team might be able to support that…” or “Have you considered this approach?” Focus on how you might contribute to their success, not what you need from them.
4. Connect Personally
Share how you might help in concrete terms, but don’t over-commit in the moment. “I’d be happy to make that introduction” is better than promising something you’re not sure you can deliver.
5. Stay in Touch
Before the conversation ends, establish the next touchpoint. “I’ll check in after your Q3 planning to see how the initiative is shaping up,” or “Let me send you that resource I mentioned.”
The Compound Effect of Strong Professional Relationships
The most successful professionals understand that relationships compound over time. The colleague you help today might become your business partner tomorrow. The stakeholder whose challenges you took time to understand might become your biggest advocate on your next project.
But this compound effect only works when relationships are built on genuine mutual value rather than transactional exchange. When you approach professional relationships with intentionality, curiosity, and attention, you’re not just networking—you’re building a professional community that supports everyone’s success.
Starting Where You Are
You don’t need to overhaul your entire approach to professional relationships overnight.
- Pick 1 relationship that matters to your current goals and apply these three pillars consistently for the next month.
- 2. Research their priorities before your next interaction. Ask genuinely curious questions about their work.
- Follow up with specific, valuable assistance rather than generic offers to help.
The goal isn’t to become a networking expert—it’s to become someone that others genuinely want to work with because you consistently show up with intentionality, curiosity, and attention to their success.
That’s how professional relationships transform from networking obligations into genuine professional partnerships.
Need help building a strategy for these conversations, contact me for some collaborative decision-making!
