The Secret To Strategic Networking (That Get You promoted)

“Building relationships."

Does hearing that make you cringe? I don’t blame you.

It’s one of those phrases that gets thrown around so much it’s lost its meaning. Most people think it’s just another way to say “networking” — awkward small talk, fake smiles, and trying to impress people you barely know.

But here’s the truth: building relationships is one of the most powerful skills you can have if you want to grow in your career. And I learned that the hard way.

When I first started at Microsoft, I didn’t get it either. Fresh into my new role, I was invited to a three-day event in Redmond. Before I booked my trip, my manager said, “Take the whole week off for this.”

I thought, A whole week? For a three-day event? That’s ridiculous. So, I asked him why. His answer: “You need to network.”

The idea of spending extra time just… talking to people? It seemed like a waste. But I figured, Why not?

That week turned out to be a game-changer. The conversations I had and the connections I made weren’t just casual chit-chat. Months later, those relationships became the key to one of my biggest wins at work.

It finally clicked: relationships aren’t just nice to have—they’re critical for success.

Why Most People Get Networking Wrong

If “networking” makes you think of forced conversations and sucking up to your boss, I get it. No one enjoys that.

But here’s the thing: real networking isn’t about that at all.

It’s about building real, meaningful connections. You’re not trying to sell yourself or “work the room.” You’re focused on adding value to people in a way that feels genuine.

Sounds nice, right? But I know what you’re thinking: What does “adding value” even mean?

Trust me, I struggled with this too. Was I supposed to give book recommendations? Take on extra work? Compliment someone’s shoes? It wasn’t clear.

Over time, I figured out a formula that actually works—without the awkwardness.

The Formula for Career-Changing Relationships

Here’s the three-step approach that changed everything for me:

1. Find the Right People

Don’t waste time trying to impress everyone. Focus on the people who actually influence your career—those who make decisions about promotions, or who can get you on the projects you want.

2. Offer Value First

Before you ask for anything, think about how you can help them. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. Even small, thoughtful actions can make a huge difference.

3. Stay in Touch

Relationships aren’t one-and-done. You’ve got to keep showing up and staying connected—whether it’s a quick check-in or helping them solve a problem.

What “Adding Value” Actually Looks Like

Adding value doesn’t mean going over the top. It’s about understanding what someone needs and finding a way to help them out.

For example, let’s say someone you work with is struggling to fill a role on their team. Maybe you know a great candidate you can recommend. Or you could point them toward a recruiter you trust.

Here’s another example: when I was a VP, I asked a colleague what their biggest challenge was. They told me they needed a pitch deck ASAP, but it wasn’t on my team’s priority list. Still, we made it happen in a week.

The result? My team got recognition for stepping up, and I built a stronger connection with that colleague.

The Stakeholder Hierarchy of Needs

To make this easier, I came up with something I call the “Stakeholder Hierarchy of Needs.” It’s like Maslow’s Hierarchy, but for your career.

Here’s how it works:

1. Remove Obstacles: Is there anything stopping this person from helping you?

2. Solve Problems: What’s their biggest challenge right now?

3. Support Their Goals: What are they trying to achieve in their career?

4. Align with Their Personal Goals: What matters to them outside of work?

5. Connect with Their Values: What’s important to them on a deeper level?

The more you can address these layers, the more trust and loyalty you’ll build.

Your Next Steps

Here’s how to get started:

• Identify Key Stakeholders: Who has the biggest impact on your success?

• Start Small: Pick one stakeholder and figure out what matters most to them.

• Take Action: Find one meaningful way to add value this week.

The truth is, career growth isn’t just about what you know. It’s about who knows you — and more importantly, who champions you. Building genuine relationships with intention and care is the key to standing out and leveling up.

If this approach works for you, let me know! I’d love to hear how it helped you build connections or even secure that next promotion.

I believe in you, and I’m rooting for you

Maya❤️