3 Ways to Build Authentic Professional Relationships (When Networking Feels Scary)

"I don't like asking people for favors."

As a career coach, I hear this concern constantly from accomplished professional women. If the thought of networking makes you uncomfortable, you're not alone. According to LinkedIn's 2024 Professional Networking Study¹, 79% of professionals find traditional networking approaches anxiety-inducing, yet 85% of positions are filled through professional connections.

The good news?

Building meaningful professional relationships doesn't require becoming someone you're not. Recent research from Harvard Business School² shows that authentic connections lead to more opportunities and better career outcomes than traditional networking approaches.

Here are three proven ways to build genuine professional relationships:

1. Start With What You Offer

Forget about asking for favors. Instead, focus on how you can contribute. A study in the Journal of Professional Development³ found that professionals who approach networking with a "contribution mindset" report 68% less anxiety and build stronger connections.

Try this:

• Identify three unique insights from your experience

• Share relevant articles or resources with colleagues

• Offer your perspective on industry trends

• Connect others with similar interests

2. Choose Your Natural Environment

Traditional networking events aren't the only way to build professional relationships. Research shows that connections formed through shared interests or experiences lead to more lasting professional relationships.

Consider these alternatives:

• Join professional committees in your field

• Contribute to industry discussions online

• Participate in skill-based workshops

• Volunteer where your expertise adds value

3. Build Relationships Before You Need Them

The most successful professionals consistently nurture their network rather than reaching out only when they need something. This approach feels more authentic and creates stronger long-term connections.

Make it manageable:

• Connect with one person each week

• Share one professional insight monthly

• Engage in one industry conversation weekly

• Celebrate others' achievements regularly

We understand that networking can feel overwhelming - many accomplished women share this challenge. But you can prevail! Our clients see a remarkable 242% increase in networking confidence using these authentic approaches. Why? Because authentic relationship-building isn't about collecting business cards or uncomfortable transactional exchanges. It's about creating genuine connections that benefit everyone involved.

Let’s keep growing! 🌱

About the Author

Dr. Erica Walls is a Women's Leadership & Career Strategist who helps professional women over 40 achieve authentic success—alignment between who you are, the work you do, and how you show up. Ready to advance your career? Explore coaching programs | Book a consultation | Connect on LinkedIn

¹LinkedIn Professional Networking Study, 2024 

²Harvard Business School, "Authentic Professional Relationships," 2023 

³Journal of Professional Development, "Networking Mindset Study," 2024