What's your approach to networking and building relationships with potential clients? What's one tip you would give to someone looking to expand their network?

Question

Networking and building relationships with potential clients is a crucial skill in today's business landscape. This article presents expert insights on effective strategies to connect and engage with prospective clients. From active listening to providing value without expectation, these tips will help professionals cultivate meaningful business relationships.

Max Shak · Answer

As the Founder and CEO of Zapiy.com, networking and building genuine relationships with potential clients is essential to our growth. For me, the approach has always been rooted in authenticity and mutual value. It's not just about selling our product--it's about understanding the needs of the person or company you're speaking with and seeing where there's alignment.
My strategy for networking begins with listening more than talking. It's easy to get caught up in selling your services, but true relationships are built by taking the time to understand your client's challenges and goals. Whether I'm attending an event, meeting someone for coffee, or connecting through a referral, I focus on asking thoughtful questions and truly listening. This helps me see if there's an opportunity where we can provide value, or even if there's someone else in my network who would be a better fit.
What's also worked well is consistency in follow-up. Building a relationship isn't a one-time conversation--it's about staying top of mind and nurturing that connection over time. After meeting someone, I make sure to send a follow-up message, share a relevant resource, or simply check in periodically. This keeps the door open for future collaboration, even if there isn't an immediate business opportunity.
As for expanding your network, my one tip is to focus on quality over quantity. It's easy to fall into the trap of trying to connect with as many people as possible, but real relationships are built on meaningful interactions. Instead of aiming to collect business cards or LinkedIn connections, focus on a few key individuals, and work on building trust and value with them. Over time, those strong connections can lead to more opportunities and referrals than just casting a wide net.
Networking isn't about what you can take; it's about what you can give. When you approach it from a place of service--whether it's offering advice, sharing knowledge, or making a connection--you'll see how those relationships naturally turn into long-term, meaningful business opportunities.

Niclas Schlopsna · Answer

For me, networking is about building genuine connections rather than just collecting contacts. I remember when I was at N26, attending industry events and conferences was a big part of my job. What struck me was that the most meaningful relationships came from having real conversations, not just handing out business cards. At Spectup, we take a similar approach - we focus on understanding our clients' needs and challenges, and look for ways to add value before we even think about pitching our services.
One tip I'd give is to be genuinely curious about others. Instead of trying to promote yourself or your business, ask thoughtful questions and listen actively. I once met a potential client at a startup event, and instead of talking about Spectup's services, I asked him about the challenges he was facing with his business. The conversation that followed led to a meaningful connection and eventually, a successful project with Spectup. It's about finding common ground and being willing to help others, even if it doesn't lead to an immediate business opportunity. That's how you build a network that truly supports your growth.

Nikita Sherbina · Answer

My approach to networking is pretty simple--I try to show up as a real person first, not just someone looking for a business lead. I like starting with value, whether that's dropping a useful tip, reacting to someone's project with honest feedback, or just being present in their space online without pushing anything. It's less about pitching and more about planting seeds that grow over time. I keep things light but consistent, checking in here and there without trying to sell.
One thing that's helped me a ton is thinking of networking as relationship-building, not prospecting. That shift made it feel way less awkward and a lot more authentic. If I had to give one tip, I'd say focus on being helpful with zero strings attached--you'd be surprised how often those connections circle back later in the best way.

John Mac · Answer

My approach to networking is straightforward: show up curious, not clever. The best relationships I've built didn't start with a pitch—they started with a genuine conversation. I try to lead with questions, listen more than I talk, and make it incredibly easy for someone to understand whom I help and how. People remember clarity, not complexity.
One of the most significant shifts in my network growth came when I stopped trying to "scale" every interaction. Instead, I focused on making five meaningful connections a week—through direct messages, voice notes, or actual phone calls—with no agenda other than offering value or making introductions. Over time, that snowballed into opportunities I could never have predicted or "optimized" into a funnel.
So here's my one tip: abandon the "what can I get?" mindset and fully embrace "how can I help?" It's slower, certainly—but it's authentic. And in a world where everyone's shouting, being the one who listens is surprisingly magnetic.

Faizan Khan · Answer

The best clients I have ever encountered began with conversations that had no predetermined agenda. I never rush networking. I show up where people gather, listen without forcing anything, and offer help when I can. I once met someone at a low-key event where there were no pitches, just a real talk about work struggles. Months later, they introduced me to a client who opened doors I never expected. If you want to expand your network, stop trying to impress and start trying to understand. Approach each person as a story worth hearing, not a target worth winning. Stay in touch because you care, not because you are calculating outcomes. Real connections are never made through clever words. They are built when people feel seen without feeling sold.

Aaron Shovlar · Answer

At TITAN Containers in the UK, our approach to networking and building client relationships is grounded in being genuinely useful before being promotional. Whether it's at an industry event, through a referral, or during a site visit, we focus on listening first, understanding what the client needs rather than leading with a sales pitch. This mindset aligns with how we position ourselves in the market: as a trusted, flexible partner that helps people and businesses store anything, anywhere, safely and responsibly.
We also prioritise consistency. We don't disappear after the first conversation. Follow-ups aren't just check-ins—they often include something valuable, like relevant market insights, a case study, or a solution to a problem they casually mentioned. Over time, this builds familiarity and trust, which are essential for long-term business relationships.
One tip I'd give to someone looking to expand their network is to lead with relevance. Tailor your outreach or conversation starter to show you've done your homework and understand their world. It's much easier to connect when the other person sees that you're invested in their context, not just your pitch. Relationships that grow out of shared understanding are the ones that last.

Daniel Lynch · Answer

I approach networking the same way I approach marketing: with empathy first. When meeting potential clients, I'm genuinely curious about their challenges, dreams, and even frustrations. It's about listening more than talking. One tip I'd offer anyone trying to expand their network is: Be interested before being interesting. When you show real curiosity and care, people are far more likely to open up and form lasting professional relationships.

Dan Grigin · Answer

We've built our strongest client relationships through what I call "expertise-first networking" rather than traditional sales approaches. Instead of attending general business events, we host quarterly flooring workshops for interior designers and property managers where we demonstrate new products without any sales pressure. These educational sessions position us as industry experts rather than just another retailer. The deeper connections formed through teaching have resulted in our designer referral program now accounting for 40% of our business. My advice: identify what specialized knowledge you possess that potential clients would value, then create opportunities to share that expertise in non-sales environments. Authentic relationship-building happens when you're genuinely helping someone before asking for their business.

Andrew Osborne · Answer

Networking and building strong relationships with potential clients is all about trust and genuine connection. I don't just see it as business development; I see it as a chance to understand what people actually need in their outdoor spaces. A big part of that comes from being visible and approachable in the community. Whether it's through word of mouth, local events, or just taking the time to chat with someone curious about what I'm doing on a job site, I make the effort to be present. My background in horticulture and over 15 years of hands-on experience gives people confidence straight away. When I can explain exactly why their garden isn't thriving or how to turn a tired backyard into something special, it immediately opens the door to trust. It's not about selling; it's about showing up consistently, knowing your stuff, and offering real solutions.
One of the best examples of this was a client I met at a local plant swap event. They were overwhelmed with a neglected garden and unsure whom to call. We had a relaxed chat about soil health and seasonal pruning techniques, and I shared a few things I'd picked up during my studies and years in the field. A week later, they got in touch, and what started as a one-off job turned into a long-term maintenance contract and multiple referrals from their neighbors. My tip to anyone looking to grow their network is this: don't lead with a sales pitch. Lead with your knowledge, be generous with your time, and make it clear that you genuinely care about the outcome. People remember that.

Joe Spisak · Answer

At Fulfill.com, my approach to networking and relationship-building centers on authentic value creation rather than transactional interactions. I've found that the most meaningful connections come from genuinely understanding the challenges eCommerce businesses face with their fulfillment operations.
When I connect with potential clients, I focus first on listening. Having helped thousands of businesses find the right 3PL partner, I've learned that each company's fulfillment needs are unique – what works for a high-SKU beauty brand won't necessarily work for a subscription box company. By asking targeted questions about their order volume, product characteristics, and growth goals, I can provide immediate value in our very first conversation.
Industry events have been invaluable for relationship building. At logistics conferences, I make it a point to attend the sessions where business owners are discussing their pain points rather than just the promotional showcases. These honest conversations reveal the real challenges businesses face – whether it's navigating peak season capacity constraints or managing returns processing – which helps us continuously improve our matching algorithms at Fulfill.com.
My top networking tip? Focus on being a connector, not just a collector of contacts. In the 3PL space, I've built my network by connecting complementary businesses and partners even when there's no immediate benefit to me. One example: I introduced a high-growth food brand struggling with temperature-controlled fulfillment to a specialized cold-chain 3PL outside our network because I knew they were the perfect fit. That brand later referred three clients to us because they valued the honest guidance.
The eCommerce ecosystem thrives on relationships built on trust and mutual success. When you approach networking with a genuine desire to solve problems rather than just close deals, you create partnerships that withstand the inevitable challenges in logistics and fulfillment.

Alec Loeb · Answer

I treat networking like any growth strategy - focused, intentional, and measured by outcomes. I don't enter conversations looking to sell. Instead, I aim to understand what the other person cares about, what problems they're solving, and how I can support them. This mindset leads to trust, not mere transactions. Over time, these relationships lead to opportunities, partnerships, and hires that move the needle. I've seen more results from helping someone without a direct ask than from any cold outreach.
I spend time where my audience is, not where everyone says I should be. If I'm trying to reach retail decision-makers, I attend conferences they go to, not tech events. I connect after events with a short, relevant message, and I follow up with purpose. People remember relevance, not volume. One tip for expanding your network: give someone a reason to remember you. Share something useful. Make an introduction that matters. Offer a perspective that helps. Don't talk about yourself until you've earned their attention.
This isn't about collecting contacts. It's about building relationships that compound over time. When your reputation becomes your referral engine, you stop chasing leads and start attracting opportunities. That's where growth becomes sustainable.

Germán Ceballos · Answer

My most effective approach to networking and building relationships with potential clients is attending conferences and industry events. There's no substitute for in-person conversations when it comes to building trust, understanding real pain points, and identifying collaboration opportunities. These settings create space for authentic dialogue and often lead to connections that wouldn't happen over email or social media.
One tip I'd give to someone looking to expand their network is: don't just attend—engage. Ask thoughtful questions during panels, introduce yourself to speakers, and follow up with new contacts quickly and personally. You'll stand out not by handing out the most business cards, but by being genuinely curious and present.

Heinz Klemann · Answer

My approach to networking depends a lot on personality—and I believe there are really two main paths, depending on what kind of person you are.
If you're the outgoing, sales-type, then go all-in on events, meetups, and direct outreach. Be present, approach people, and follow up. Over time, you'll naturally build a strong network, especially if you stay in touch and prove your value. Those relationships often turn into clients or referrals.
If you're more introverted and execution-focused, then lead with value. Find people with a problem and solve it for free—no sales pitch, no pressure. Just show what you can do. This creates deeper, trust-based relationships rooted in results. It's not fast, but it's very effective and authentic in the long run. You will be the person they approach if they have a problem they need to solve (normally quickly).
One thing I wish I had understood earlier: Pick the approach that fits your style, not what others say you should do. Consistency matters more than volume when it comes to building meaningful connections.

Maksym Zakharko · Answer

My number one approach to networking is actively participating in industry conferences—especially as a speaker. Being on stage positions you as a thought leader, opens up conversations, and builds trust before a formal meeting even happens. After one of my first speaking engagements, I immediately started receiving messages, invitations to collaborate, and inquiries from potential clients. It's truly a game-changer.
Speaking is just the starting point. The real key is to deliver exceptional work consistently. That's how I've built a strong referral-based pipeline—by focusing on results and relationships, not just transactions. When people see real value, they naturally want to recommend you.
My tip for expanding your network:Invest in visibility and credibility. Attend events, share your insights publicly, and most importantly—focus on delivering real outcomes for the people you meet. That's what turns a contact into a client.

Kritika Kanodia · Answer

At Kalam Kagaz, my approach to networking is centered around genuine connection and value-first engagement. I don't just jump into sales talk. I take the time to understand the person's goals and challenges before discussing how we can help. No matter if it's at an event, through LinkedIn, or during casual conversations, I focus on building trust and offering insights that matter to them.
One tip I'd give is to be a good listener first. Often, people are so focused on pitching their services that they forget to truly listen. When you understand their pain points and ambitions, you can position your offerings in a way that genuinely solves their problems. Networking is about relationships, not just transactions.

Khurram Suhrwardy · Answer

I approach networking by focusing on authentic technical connections instead of surface-level interactions. I prepare specific questions about potential clients' workflow challenges, allowing conversations to naturally evolve around practical solutions rather than sales pitches. My best tip for expanding your network is creating a structured follow-up system - document key details from initial conversations and establish a regular schedule for sharing relevant resources that address their specific needs. This approach turns brief chats into real connections based on actual help instead of pushy follow-ups, making you a trusted advisor rather than just another business card in their collection.

Gökhan Cindemir · Answer

My approach to networking is rooted in offering value before asking for anything. As a lawyer, I focus on understanding the specific challenges potential clients face and offering insights—even casually—that show I'm thinking about their business, not just my own. One tip I'd give anyone expanding their network: be consistent in showing up—whether that's through events, LinkedIn posts, or follow-up emails. Relationships are built over time through trust and relevance, not just a single introduction.

Shah Dudayev · Answer

The one thing everyone always forgets to do is ASK! Ask your clients, your friends, your colleagues, and others whether there is anyone they think they should introduce you to who can be mutually beneficial. You'd be surprised how your existing network can grow with one simple prompt.

Hershel Glueck · Answer

My approach to networking and building relationships is to be genuinely interested in helping others and to provide value whenever possible.
This approach might seem somewhat obvious, but I find that people often forget the fundamentals. Many networking books focus on various tricks and strategies for meeting people and "getting them to like you," which can overshadow the basics.
All relationships are fundamentally built around providing value for each other. In a business context, the best way to build strong relationships with potential clients is to identify what they're seeking and offer it without expecting payment. This builds a significant amount of trust and appreciation. When the person eventually needs your services, you'll be the first they contact, either to work with them or for a referral to someone else.
This strategy may not produce the immediate results some people desire, but over the long term, it works like a snowball gaining size and momentum as it rolls down a hill.

Jon Hill · Answer

Authenticity is paramount in building strong professional relationships, which is why I don't hesitate to address business matters when initiating new partnerships.
Bringing up the possibility of a working relationship only after we've chatted for twenty minutes can leave the recipient feeling misled.
Therefore, I'm upfront and very frank. I don't lead with overly casual small talk or forced friendliness just to ease into the conversation. I state my goals upfront and am clear about our potential future collaboration.
While this approach might deviate from the traditional script, I've found that being candid from the outset builds trust faster than trying to manufacture a connection. People aren't taken aback; rather, they appreciate the honesty.

How to Network and Build Relationships With Potential Clients

How to Network and Build Relationships With Potential Clients

Listen Actively and Follow Up Consistently

Build Genuine Connections Through Curiosity

Offer Value Without Expecting Immediate Returns

Focus on Helping Others, Not Selling

Lead with Relevance and Industry Expertise

Show Empathy and Genuine Interest First

Share Specialized Knowledge in Non-Sales Settings

Demonstrate Expertise Through Community Engagement

Create Authentic Value in eCommerce Partnerships

Cultivate Relationships That Compound Over Time

Engage Meaningfully at Industry Events

Choose a Networking Style That Fits You

Deliver Exceptional Work to Build Referrals

Understand Clients' Needs Before Pitching Solutions

Establish a Structured Follow-Up System

Offer Insights That Address Specific Challenges

Ask for Introductions from Existing Contacts

Provide Value Without Expecting Immediate Payment

Be Upfront About Professional Intentions

Prioritize Authenticity in Business Relationships