Beyond Networking: Why Intentional Relationships Are the Real Advantage
- Julia Palmer
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Old-school networking doesn’t cut it anymore (well, it never did!).
For too long, networking has been reduced to elevator pitches, rapid-fire introductions, and collecting as many business cards (or LinkedIn connections) as possible. But quantity doesn’t equal quality—and relationships built on convenience or self-interest rarely deliver value.
In contrast, relationship ecosystems are built on mutual benefit, intentionality, and depth. They’re not about being everywhere—they’re about showing up with purpose in the places and relationships that matter.
In today’s world, relationships aren’t just nice to have—they’re a strategic asset. At Relatus, we help professionals move beyond transactional interactions to build ecosystems of purposeful, strategic relationships. Because real opportunity doesn’t live in the exchange of business cards—it lives in meaningful human connection.
This shift was front and centre at the recent AITD National Conference and Awards, where we were honoured to be named a finalist for Best Capability Development Program alongside the University of Newcastle. It was more than recognition—it was a reminder that the way we work, connect, and grow is evolving. And relational capability is at the core of that evolution.
As organisations across industries grapple with disruption, automation, and hybrid work, one thing remains constant: relationships are what drive performance. LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report highlights that 89% of L&D professionals believe human skills—like communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence—are critical for success in the modern workplace. These aren’t just “nice to haves.” They’re the foundation of trust, influence, and leadership.
Decades of research also back what we’ve long observed in our work: strong networks lead to stronger performance. Harvard Business Review notes that high performers aren't just skilled—they're deeply connected. And MIT’s Human Dynamics Lab has shown that communication patterns within teams—not individual intelligence or expertise—are the most accurate predictors of success.
Yet, despite being more digitally connected than ever, many professionals feel more isolated and disconnected in their work. That’s because connection isn’t just about access—it’s about presence, purpose, and intentionality.
That’s where our work at Relatus comes in. Over the last 20 years, we’ve developed practical, proven frameworks—and we just launched BEE and REAL—to help individuals and organisations master relational intelligence. One senior leader we worked with had a large network but struggled to leverage it when it mattered. After working through our framework, just a few simple shifts in how they prioritised and re-engaged key connections led to unexpected collaborations and measurable growth.
That’s the power of strategic relationship design — it turns dormant contacts into active opportunities.
Our programs help people map, manage, and elevate your relationship ecosystems with strategic intent. They offer structure and clarity in a space that’s often left to chance.
Whether it’s helping a senior leader activate their stakeholder network, or supporting a team to build more meaningful client relationships, we’re not teaching “networking” as it’s traditionally known. We’re enabling people to thrive through relationships—intentionally, confidently, and strategically.
Let’s stop collecting contacts and start creating real connection.
The future of business is human—and those who invest in relational capability will always have the advantage.
Get in touch if this resonates with you,
Julia
Julia Palmer a respected Relational Strategist and Chief Executive of Relatus, helping you develop your relational capabilities to give you the human advantage.
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