Human Connection & Networking
Building Relationships That Build Your Business
For years, I was wrong about human connection and networking.
In fact, I used to dread it.
I was the shy, timid guy rehearsing lines in the mirror before every event — sitting in my car, psyching myself up to walk into a room full of strangers.
I’d practice what to say, how to shake hands, even how to end a conversation without sounding awkward.
Speaking to people I didn’t know felt terrifying and unpredictable.
I thought I didn’t have what it took to make real connections — that maybe I just wasn’t built for “networking.”
But I was wrong.
Lately, I’ve been slower to pick up my camera — not because I’m uninspired, but because I’ve learned to start with a conversation instead.
Sometimes it’s as simple as a compliment.
Ten minutes later, I might ask to take their portrait, and in that moment, I see stories in their eyes.
That’s one of the best feelings — realizing that we all just want to feel seen, heard, and understood.
That one small shift — leading with genuine connection before the camera — completely changed how I see networking.
What I Thought Networking Was
For a long time, I believed every connection had to be transactional.
Hand out business cards.
Pitch your services. Follow up with a sale.
But that approach never built anything lasting.
It didn’t spark collaborations or community — just surface-level exchanges.
Now, I’ve realized that true networking isn’t about who you can sell to.
It’s about who you can serve, learn from, and build with.
What People Often Ask Me About Networking
“How do I meet the right people for my business?”
Start by understanding where your ideal clients or collaborators spend their time.
Learn their language — how they think, feel, and talk about their challenges.
When you know their behaviors, needs, and values, meeting the right people becomes natural.
“How do I cultivate lasting client relationships?”
Take notes — literally. Record the date of purchase, service, or first inquiry.
Follow up genuinely: ask about their experience, how they’re feeling, and what’s next for them.
Sometimes it’s as simple as sharing something you know will bring them value.
Keep those lines of communication open — that’s how loyalty is built.
“What’s the best way to network without feeling pushy?”
Be attentive. Be human. Read the room. Introduce yourself, smile, share what you do, and let the rest unfold.
You don’t need to overextend — just be present and curious.
Most opportunities come through one or two degrees of separation.
“How do I create collaborative opportunities?”
Ask. Invite people into something meaningful — whether it’s a personal or test project.
When you lead with creativity and collaboration, you open doors to authentic partnerships and growth.
The Turning Point
Recently, I reached out to Will — the owner of Houston Yoga Club. I found him while researching local studios to collaborate with.
I sent him a cold email offering a complimentary project to highlight his studio, story, and community.
He said yes.
We went back and forth through email until we finally met in person.
During that meeting, I listened — really listened.
With my notebook open, I wrote down his dream outcomes, challenges, and fears.
We talked about how he could strengthen his studio’s brand, keep his community engaged through fall and winter, and highlight his story visually.
The conversation flowed naturally. There was alignment — genuine connection.
The next day, I followed up to thank him for his time and for letting me into his space.
That simple gesture deepened our connection and laid the foundation for a powerful collaboration.
And through Will’s story, I discovered something even more valuable — insight into how to attract other studio owners like him: passionate leaders who care about community and consistency but might struggle with visibility.
The Lesson: Connection Before Transaction
What I’ve learned is simple but powerful:
Human connection first. Sale second.
When you focus on people — their dreams, challenges, and stories — you naturally become the guide who helps them succeed.
And when you do that, networking stops feeling like a chore. It becomes a shared journey of growth, collaboration, and impact.
That’s human connection.
That’s networking done right.
💬 Your Turn
What’s one connection that changed the course of your life, career, or creativity?
Was it something planned — or did it happen by chance?
I’d love to hear your story.
Drop a comment or reply to this post — let’s start a conversation about the real meaning of connection.
Beautifully written and so many gold nuggets in there