How to Build and Sustain Meaningful Relationships

Is your network an ecosystem of relationships?

In my recent conversation on the Trust Your Voice podcast, I sat down with Laura Cox Kaplan, who’s 30 year career spans some of the highest institutions in Washington, DC. She is also the innovative mind behind She Said, She Said, a multimedia platform designed to help women live with intention. 

Needless to say, over the years, Laura has built an incredible global network. With her unique perspective and insight, we were able to break down why it’s important to be intentional about creating relationships, and how to utilize your network to grow and achieve your goals. 

The following are a few key points from our conversation:

Treat your network like an ecosystem.

A network is something that should evolve and change, just as we evolve and grow in our lives and careers. But while you focus on building new relationships, make sure that you're managing your existing ones! 

Have a very generous spirit.

When it comes to networking, Laura’s personal mantra is “You get what you give.” If you always think about forging a relationship with someone based on what you can give, and what you can learn, that's going to help you build up important capital in the long run!

Cultivate an open network.

A closed network is one in which everyone you are connected to is also connected. This often forms organically in neighborhoods, religious groups, schools, etc. An open network is when you broaden your reach and connect with others outside your orbit. 

Sometimes you only need one or two people. 

Networking doesn’t necessarily mean engaging with large numbers of people at one time. Just one person could be your plug into a completely new network that you wouldn’t have been able to connect to naturally.

The points above are just a few highlights from an inspiring discussion that can change the trajectory of your life.

Do you feel you lack confidence in your ability to create and cultivate a thriving network? Or, are you struggling in other ways to align your actions with your thoughts and vision? If so, you may benefit from my bi-weekly podcast.

Subscribe now and by the end of each episode you'll be energized to spark your creative leadership, make purposeful connections, and confidently prioritize the matters that bring the most joy to you!

In the meantime, share in the comments how you've grown your network. Let's motivate one another!