The Value of Cultivating Meaningful Relationships for Networking Success

After attending a global conference with 100 people from 23 different countries last week in Bangkok, I was reminded how critical it is to create genuine opportunities to truly get to know others. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it can be easy to rely on surface-level connections—exchanging business cards or LinkedIn invites—but real networking success comes from deeper, more meaningful relationships.

These connections go beyond professional titles and quick wins. They are built on trust, shared experiences, and consistent follow-ups. This conference reinforced for me that taking the time to invest in relationships isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must for anyone serious about long-term growth and success, personally and professionally.

The Importance of Relational Skills

Throughout my work and in conversations with others, I’ve often stressed that networking is about quality, not quantity. Simply collecting contacts is not enough. You have to nurture these relationships with genuine care and attention, a sentiment echoed by many at the conference. This intentional approach is what turns networks into what I like to call “netships”—relationships rooted in trust and reciprocity.

From my experience, these “netships” yield far more value in the long run than any quick, transactional exchange ever could. Whether it’s offering support, collaborating on new opportunities, or just being a sounding board, these deeper connections can make all the difference.

Relationships Matter in Every Context

One thing I’ve always advocated is the importance of regular, thoughtful follow-ups. At the conference, I saw firsthand how crucial it is to make these touch points meaningful.

A simple phone call or even a casual coffee catch-up for anyone local and an email or LinkedIn message for those overseas helps maintain and strengthen relationships. It’s not just about staying in someone’s orbit; it’s about showing that you genuinely care about their progress and well-being.

These small efforts to "stay in touch" build a foundation of trust, ensuring that when opportunities do arise, the relationship is more than just professional—it’s personal and supportive.

The Shift from Networking to Netships

Networking often feels transactional, but “netships” (networking relationships, a term I coined many years ago) are a long-term investment in people. At the conference, it was clear to me that those who embraced this mindset stood out. They weren’t rushing to make quick connections. Instead, they were focused on forming genuine bonds with people, prioritising depth over quantity.

This shift from “networking” to “netships” is something I’ve championed in our Relatus capability development programs. It’s about viewing your connections like friendships—they take time, care, and consistent engagement to truly flourish. And just like any friendship, the more you invest in it, the more you both benefit.

Cultivating Networks Requires Patience and Intention

Building meaningful connections doesn’t happen overnight. Networking is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes patience and consistent effort. During the conference, I witnessed the power of intentional networking, where people weren’t just focused on what they could get out of it immediately, but rather what they could build over time.

Having a strategy for your network is key. Knowing when and how to follow up, being present, and actively contributing to others’ success shows that you value the relationship beyond just professional gains.

Meaningful Networks Yield Tangible Results

What I’ve learned over the last twenty years in this space is that the most valuable opportunities often come from these deeper relationships. When people trust you, they are more likely to refer, collaborate, or help you when you need it. This kind of rapport can’t be rushed. It’s built on time, shared experiences, and a true interest in each other’s success.

As I reflected on the conference, it was clear that those who had focused on cultivating these kinds of netships will be better equipped to leverage their network when opportunities arise. And more than that, we created a community of support, where people genuinely wanted to see each other succeed.

Consistent Effort is Key

One thing I always try to emphasise is that consistency matters. I often tell clients that you can’t just reach out when you need something. You have to be proactive, thoughtful, and consistent. Whether it’s an annual check-in or a quick “thinking of you” message, these small gestures go a long way in maintaining relationships that are strong and reliable when you need them most.

In reflecting on my recent experiences, I’m more convinced than ever that cultivating meaningful relationships is at the heart of networking success. It’s not enough to simply grow your network; you have to nurture it.

By investing in relational skills, committing to consistent follow-ups, and viewing networking as a long-term endeavour, we can build a supportive, mutually beneficial network that leads to lasting opportunities.

The message is clear: relationships matter! After all, it’s the meaningful relationships that unlock the true potential of our networks. If you need any guidance, check out our only public workshop for the year, happening in November (Yes! You read it right and only 20 places available) to ensure you are ready for end-of-year event opportunities - https://www.relatus.com.au/mci-workshop

Happy relationships,

Julia

Julia Palmer a respected Relational Strategist and Chief Executive of Relatus, helping you develop your relational capabilities to give you the human advantage.