From Networking to Nurturing: How to Form Relationships with Leaders

Starting a new relationship with an executive or influential leader within your company can feel intimidating. It’s easy to worry that you’re intruding on their time or that they’re “too busy” to connect with you. These feelings are entirely normal—most of us have felt that nervousness before reaching out to someone in a more senior position. 

The truth is, many executives are eager to build relationships and rapport further down in their organization. It allows them to build a more cohesive work environment, gain fresh ideas and insights that may not surface in higher-level meetings, improve communication across different levels in the organization, among many other “hidden” benefits.

Building your internal network is a crucial part of your career growth. It’s not just about getting noticed; it’s about creating genuine connections that can support your development, both personally and professionally. Here’s 7 tips to help you build those authentic relationships without feeling like you’re wasting anyone’s time.

1) Be Genuine and Authentic

When approaching networking, sincerity should be at the core of your efforts. It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing connections as mere opportunities to advance your career, but the most impactful relationships are those built on authenticity. Instead of focusing solely on what you can gain, prioritize genuine interactions where you seek to understand and engage with the person behind the title. Share your true self—your goals, passions, and even your challenges. By doing so, you invite the other person to do the same, creating a relationship based on mutual respect and trust.

Authenticity also means showing up as you are, without trying to fit into a mold of what you think an executive expects. Executives, like anyone else, appreciate people who are real with them. For example, if you’re passionate about a certain area of the business, don’t be afraid to share that enthusiasm. Similarly, if you’re unsure or need guidance, it’s okay to admit that. These honest moments can often lead to deeper connections because they reflect the complexities and vulnerabilities that make us human. Remember, executives have been in your shoes before and likely appreciate the courage it takes to approach them with authenticity.

2) Find Common Ground

Establishing common ground is a powerful way to connect with executives and influential team members. Start by researching their professional backgrounds, interests, and any public projects they’ve been involved in. This can give you insight into potential areas of alignment. For instance, if you discover that an executive has a background in a field you’re passionate about, mentioning this in conversation can be an excellent way to break the ice. This shared interest not only eases the initial tension but also paves the way for more meaningful discussions.

Beyond professional interests, don’t overlook the importance of personal connections. Maybe you both enjoy the same hobby or volunteer for similar causes. Mentioning these commonalities can turn a formal interaction into a more relaxed and engaging conversation. For example, if you both share a love for cycling, a casual comment about a recent ride can lead to an extended conversation and a stronger connection. Finding common ground, whether personal or professional, helps build rapport and makes the relationship feel more natural and less forced.

3) Seek Opportunities for Collaboration

One of the most organic ways to build relationships with executives is through collaboration on meaningful projects. When you volunteer for cross-functional teams or initiatives that require leadership involvement, you naturally position yourself to work alongside influential members of the organization. This kind of collaboration allows you to demonstrate your skills and work ethic in real-time, making a stronger impression than any formal introduction could achieve.

Collaborating on a project that aligns with both your and the executive’s interests can lead to mutual respect and a shared sense of accomplishment. For example, if you’re passionate about sustainability and you know an executive is championing green initiatives within the company, volunteering to help with that project could be a perfect opportunity. Working together toward a common goal builds camaraderie and often leads to deeper conversations and a more robust relationship that extends beyond the project itself.

4) Be a Good Listener

Effective networking isn’t just about speaking; it’s about listening—really listening. When you engage with executives, pay close attention to their words, tone, and body language. This active listening not only helps you understand their perspectives and priorities but also shows that you value their input. Avoid the temptation to jump in with your own thoughts too quickly; instead, let the executive finish their point before responding thoughtfully. This approach not only demonstrates respect but also allows you to provide more insightful and relevant contributions to the conversation.

Being a good listener also means picking up on the subtler cues during conversations. For instance, an executive might casually mention a challenge they’re facing. Rather than moving on to your agenda, take this as an opportunity to offer your support or insight, if appropriate. By focusing on what they’re really saying—beyond just the words—you can engage in a way that is genuinely helpful and appreciated. This not only deepens the connection but also positions you as someone who is attentive and responsive to the needs of others.

5) Respect Their Time

Executives and influential team members often have packed schedules, so it’s essential to be mindful of their time when you seek their input or advice. Before reaching out, make sure you have a clear purpose for the meeting and can articulate it concisely. For example, rather than requesting a general catch-up, be specific about what you want to discuss—whether it’s feedback on a project or advice on a particular career move. This clarity not only makes it easier for them to say yes but also ensures that the meeting is productive for both parties.

During the conversation, stay focused and respect the time limit you’ve set. If you’ve asked for 15 minutes, stick to it unless the executive indicates they have more time. Ending the meeting on time, or even slightly early, shows that you are considerate of their schedule and professional in your approach. It also leaves a positive impression, making them more likely to agree to future interactions. For example, you could say, “I want to be mindful of your time, so I’ll wrap up with one final question,” which demonstrates your respect for their busy day.

6) Ask for Advice and Feedback

Asking for advice or feedback is a powerful way to engage with executives, as it positions you as someone eager to learn and grow. When you approach an executive for their input, make sure your request is specific and relevant to their expertise. For instance, rather than asking for general career advice, you could seek their perspective on a particular project you’re working on or ask how they handled a similar challenge in their career. This specificity shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their guidance.

Moreover, asking for feedback demonstrates humility and a commitment to continuous improvement, qualities that are highly respected in any professional setting. When you receive advice, be sure to express your appreciation and act on it where possible. Following up later to share how you’ve implemented their suggestions not only reinforces the value of their advice but also keeps the connection alive. This ongoing dialogue can lead to deeper mentorship or sponsorship, where the executive takes a more active role in supporting your career development.

7) Follow Up and Maintain the Connection

The initial interaction with an executive or influential team member is just the beginning of a potential long-term relationship. To keep the connection alive, follow up in a way that adds value and continues the conversation. A simple thank-you note after a meeting is a good start, but you can go further by sharing relevant articles, industry news, or updates on a project you discussed. These gestures show that you’re invested in the relationship and are thinking about how you can contribute to it, not just benefit from it.

Maintaining the connection also involves being mindful of the executive’s time and priorities. Instead of constant follow-ups, space them out and ensure that each one has a purpose. For example, if you’ve made progress on a project they advised you on, send a brief update with a thank you for their guidance. This not only keeps you on their radar but also demonstrates that you value their input and are applying it effectively. Over time, these respectful and thoughtful interactions can transform a one-time meeting into a lasting and meaningful professional relationship.

Now let’s get to work!

Building relationships with executives and influential team members within your company might seem intimidating at first, but it’s an invaluable step in your career journey. These connections are not just about advancing your position within the company; they are about fostering mutual respect, gaining insights, and contributing to a supportive professional community. By approaching these relationships with authenticity, you establish a foundation of trust that makes your interactions more meaningful and impactful.

Respect for their time and willingness to learn are also crucial. Executives appreciate those who come prepared, respect their busy schedules, and show a genuine interest in their guidance. When you listen actively and engage thoughtfully, you signal that you value their experience and are committed to growing with their mentorship. Over time, these connections can evolve into lasting relationships that not only enhance your career but also enrich your personal development. Remember, the path to building these relationships is through consistent, genuine efforts that reflect your commitment to both your growth and the broader goals of the organization.