Relationships Are the Real Resume
Are you building real relationships or just checking boxes?
I used to think networking was a waste of time. As a high-performing engineer and later a manager, I believed results should speak for themselves. Promotions? Influence? Recognition? Those would follow the impact I delivered.
And sometimes, they did.
But when I hit a ceiling—when I started aiming for executive roles—that strategy stopped working. I’d delivered results. I had strong teams. Yet others were being tapped for opportunities before me.
Why? Because they were known. Not just by their immediate org. But across the company.
That’s when I realized something that changed everything:
Relationships are the real resume.
And no, I’m not talking about forced 1:1s where you talk about weekend plans or pretend to care about football scores.
I’m talking about genuine connections. The kind built on curiosity, generosity, and shared goals—not self-interest.
How to Network Without Being “That Person”
1. Reach Out When You Don’t Need Anything
Your team is collaborating with another group. You’re not blocked, you’re not escalated, you’re not even directly involved. Perfect.
That’s your chance. Reach out to their leader. Introduce yourself. “Hey—I noticed your team is working on X with ours. I just wanted to connect, learn more about how you’re thinking about it.”
No ask. No agenda. Just connection.
2. Be Curious About Cool Things
Someone is building a new architecture. Expanding into a new region. Hiring a unique kind of team.
Reach out. Ask questions. “Hey—I saw you’re launching something in Costa Rica. That’s fascinating. I’d love to hear how you approached building a team there.”
People love being recognized for their work. When your outreach is authentic, it sticks.
3. Welcome Newcomers Like a Peer, Not a Stranger
A new leader joins a sister team. They don’t report to you. You’re not even sure your paths will cross.
Introduce yourself anyway.
“I lead the XYZ team. Just wanted to say welcome—and if you ever need anything on our side, happy to help.”
That’s how relationships begin. No pitch. No politics. Just peer-to-peer respect.
What Genuine Networking Is Not
• It’s not name-dropping.
• It’s not coffee chats stacked on your calendar.
• It’s not transactional (“what can you do for me?”).
It’s showing up human. Being curious. Being useful. And being seen.
Why It Matters More at the Top
At the executive level, your impact isn’t just the projects you lead—it’s the trust you’ve built across the org.
When people know you, they pull you in. They advocate for you. They think of you for the next big thing.
And when you don’t have those relationships? You might be delivering, but you’re invisible.
Start with One Connection
Pick someone this week you admire, respect, or are just curious about.
No agenda. No pressure. Just reach out.
You’re not “networking.” You’re building the kind of reputation that travels faster than your resume.
Want to lead with authenticity and influence at the next level?
Let’s build your strategy together.