Genuine Relationships
As a solopreneur, I’ve learned that building genuine relationships is harder than it looks. It’s tempting to treat every interaction as a transaction: a potential client, a potential collaborator, a networking contact. But when I focus on the “what’s in it for me” mindset, connections feel hollow, and I end up exhausted without meaningful support.
Example 1: The Superficial Meetup
I once attended a local business meetup, thinking I could make connections that would lead to referrals. I spent the evening exchanging cards and talking about my services. By the end, I realized I barely remembered anyone’s name or what they did. A few brief LinkedIn connections emerged, but nothing tangible came from the event. I felt like I’d been “networking” all for the sake of appearances.
Example 2: Online Overload
In another instance, I tried to grow my network on LinkedIn by sending connection requests en masse. While my connections grew numerically, most interactions were limited to likes or generic comments. I craved depth — a conversation where both sides truly understood each other’s challenges — but the platform’s speed and superficiality made that rare.
Why Genuine Relationships Matter
Solopreneurs don’t have corporate infrastructure; our support systems come from our networks. Without authentic connections, we risk isolation and miss out on collaboration opportunities. Superficial relationships might feel like growth, but they rarely provide trust, mentorship, or meaningful client leads.
How I Build Genuine Connections Now
- Focus on listening. I approach new contacts with curiosity, asking questions about their challenges rather than leading with my pitch.
- Follow up thoughtfully. Instead of generic “nice to meet you” messages, I send notes referencing our conversation or suggesting actionable ideas.
- Invest in small gestures. Congratulating someone on a milestone, sharing a relevant article, or offering introductions strengthens bonds over time.
- Prioritize alignment. I focus on people whose values and goals align with mine, rather than trying to connect with everyone.
Conclusion
Genuine relationships require intentionality and patience. For solopreneurs, the goal isn’t to maximize contacts but to cultivate depth. When I shift focus from quantity to quality, I find collaborations, referrals, and support networks that are sustainable, authentic, and energizing.
