How to Network Without Feeling Fake: Building Genuine Business Relationships

Let’s face it, traditional networking can feel downright awkward. From overly rehearsed elevator pitches to the pressure of handing out business cards like confetti, many of us walk into networking spaces and instantly feel out of place.

But here’s the good news: networking doesn’t have to feel forced, fake, or transactional. In fact, the most effective business connections are built on trust, shared values, and real human conversation.

At The NETwork, we believe in a different approach. One that prioritizes connection over competition, authenticity over performance, and relationships over quick wins. If you’ve ever walked away from a networking event feeling drained or disheartened, this post is for you.

Here’s how to network in a way that actually feels good, and works.

1. Ditch the Pitch – Lead with Curiosity

One of the biggest reasons networking feels icky is because it’s often rooted in the idea that you have to sell yourself. But people aren’t looking to be sold to, they’re looking to connect.

Instead of leading with your offer, try leading with curiosity. Ask people about themselves. Listen actively. Find common ground. When you shift your focus from “How can I sell to this person?” to “What can I learn about this person?”, everything changes.

Try asking:

• “What inspired you to start your business?”

• “What’s something exciting you’re working on right now?”

• “What’s your favourite thing about what you do?”
  

These questions invite genuine conversation, and allow relationships to form organically.

2. Show Up As Your Whole Self

Gone are the days when professionalism meant polishing yourself into something unrecognisable. Today’s entrepreneurs crave authenticity, and that means showing up as your whole self.

That includes the messy bits. The passions. The values. The vulnerability. People connect with people, not perfectly curated personal brands.

At The NETwork, we celebrate the whole you, introverted, neurodivergent, multi-passionate, spiritual, or simply tired of pretending. You don’t need to wear a mask here. In fact, the more you unmask, the more magnetic your networking becomes.

 Realness builds trust, and trust builds business.

3. Focus on Value, Not Visibility

There’s a difference between being visible and being valuable. Too often, entrepreneurs are told to “get in the room” or “be seen” without any support on how to make meaningful contributions once they’re there.

True networking isn’t about being everywhere, it’s about being present and adding value when you show up.

This doesn’t mean you need to give away free coaching or flood people with tips. Value can look like:

• Holding space for someone who needs to talk.

• Offering a thoughtful introduction to someone in your network.

• Sharing a relatable story others can learn from.
  

When people associate you with helpfulness and empathy, they’ll remember you, and want to work with you.

4. Follow Up Like a Human (Not a Sales Funnel)

You had a great chat, swapped socials, maybe even vibed on a few big ideas… and then? Silence. This is where most networking connections fizzle out.

But following up doesn’t have to be salesy. In fact, the best follow-ups are simply about keeping the conversation going.

Try this:
“Hey [Name], I really enjoyed meeting you at [Event]. I loved hearing about [specific detail]. Let’s keep in touch, would you be up for a virtual coffee sometime?”

It’s warm. It’s human. And it’s not trying to close a sale. That’s what makes it powerful.

5. Choose Networking Spaces That Align With Your Values

You don’t have to network everywhere to be successful, you just need to find the right spaces. The ones that align with your energy, values, and goals.

If you’re someone who values deep conversation over surface-level chit-chat, inclusive communities over exclusive cliques, and collaboration over competition, you deserve a space that reflects that.

That’s why we created The NETwork:

• To be a nurturing space for heart-led entrepreneurs.

• To foster authentic connection, not performative professionalism.

• To prioritise inclusion, empathy, and education over ego and gatekeeping.
  

We believe your network should feel like home, not a hustle.

6. Understand That Networking is a Long Game

The magic of networking rarely happens overnight. Like any relationship, building trust takes time. Don’t stress if you don’t leave every meeting with a lead or a collaboration offer. What you’re building is a reputation, a community, and a presence.

Keep showing up. Keep offering value. Keep being real.

You never know who’s watching quietly, who you’re inspiring without even realising, or which connection will become life-changing in the months to come.

Final Thoughts: Real Relationships = Real Results

When you strip networking of its jargon, pressure, and performance, what you’re left with is people, humans who want to connect, learn, grow, and feel seen.

You don’t have to play the traditional game to win in business. You just need to find your people and show up as yourself.

If you're looking for a place to do that, The NETwork is ready to welcome you.

 Ready to connect with entrepreneurs who value real relationships over fake small talk?

Join The NETwork for free and start building a community that feels good and grows with you.