To my fellow managers, HR trail blazers, and entrepreneurs… We already know that the last stretch of the year can feel overwhelming. Financial planning, holiday demands, and business goals collide—and the thought of building NEW relationships?! 

I’m inserting an eye roll. 🙄Who has time for building even more relationships, especially this time of year?

But here’s the truth: thoughtful planning and intentional connections often create the breakthroughs we need most in this season. 

Beyond Networking: Building Real Relationships

When I talk about relationships, I don’t mean another hotel networking mixer where someone tries to sell you insurance. I’m talking about genuine, mutually beneficial connections with other entrepreneurs, especially those outside your industry.

Too often, we’re unclear in our approach. Keep it simple. Women especially (speaking from my own perspective) can overthink the ‘vibe’ or ‘energy’ instead of simply saying, “I admire your work—can we grab coffee?” 😂 

Relationships become easier when you ask yourself: What can I offer this person beyond a business transaction? As a salon owner, this often looks like offering a self-care break—like inviting a fellow entrepreneur for a shampoo and style at the salon while we chat over coffee. 

I hope that if you stop reading at this point, you consider dm’ing me here—seriously! Let’s connect and figure out how we can lift each other up. Reflect on your career and unique talents. I love learning from my community, and I want to hear what you can offer someone in a networking situation or in a future collaboration.

Business Relationships Are Like Dating

Not every connection will click. Sometimes it’s a 50/50 shot whether you’ll meet again, collaborate, or even align. That is a-OK. 

Like dating, building relationships in business takes trial, error, and openness. You’ll learn something from almost everyone if you stay curious and keep showing up, and don’t you dare stop showing up!

Persistence is Your Super-Power

In business, the “early bird” isn’t always the one who wins—it’s the one who follows up with interesting-insightful value. Don’t just simply send me a set of tickets to your event, but also include who else I might enjoy meeting while I’m there. Capeesh?! 

A story I love comes from a friend who raises funds for a local nonprofit. She sent multiple handwritten cards, thoughtful emails, and small personal touchpoints to a business owner over time. When she finally walked into his said business to say hello in-person, he knew her by name, and greeted her with a smile. He remembered the Detroit Tigers pennant she had sent a week earlier, knowing he was a fan. Without hesitation, he cut her a check—not because of pressure, but because she had built trust through recognition, and without ego.

As the year winds down, remember this: relationships give you staying power. Plan this worthwhile endeavor into your calendar with intention by curating your list of contacts mindfully. Be patient and persistent. 

Cheering you on,

🤍 Quinn