In retail, success rarely happens in isolation. Behind every career breakthrough, every bold idea, and every meaningful collaboration, there is usually someone who opened a door, offered advice, or simply believed in us when it mattered most.
That is the real power of networking. Not the transactional kind where business cards are exchanged and quickly forgotten, but the authentic kind rooted in curiosity, generosity, and trust.
Years ago, I had the chance to speak on a panel in Ireland thanks to my friend and mentor, Michael LeBlanc. It was one of those moments that validated the progress I had made in my career, and I will always be grateful for the way Michael encouraged me to step into opportunities like that.
On that same trip, I met another speaker, Scott Adel. To this day, I would say Scott is one of the smartest people I have met in this industry. But our connection did not begin on the stage. It began in Waterford, when we went shopping together.
Scott’s trip got off to a rough start. His luggage was lost, and by the time we arrived at the hotel, he needed to find clothes and essentials. I could have gone to my room and rested, but instead I joined him. We explored Waterford, weaving through shops, looking for what he needed, and in the process we discovered the real people behind our titles.
Later on that same trip, Scott had a medical emergency. It would have been easy to move on, but I kept checking in with him through messages, making sure he was okay. What started as a rough travel experience turned into the foundation of a friendship. To this day, we share ideas, we share inspiration, and we share both the pain and the joy of retail.
That is what networking really looks like. It is not about forced small talk at conferences. It is about finding those moments of connection, when you get to see someone as a person first and a job title second.
So how do you build a network that truly matters?
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Be genuine. Approach people with curiosity, not an agenda.
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Offer value first. Share insights, make introductions, and support others without expecting something back.
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Stay connected. Relationships grow when you invest in them consistently.
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Expand your circle. Some of my best ideas have come from conversations outside the retail industry.
Networking, at its best, is not about collecting contacts. It is about building a community that grows with you. A community that challenges you, supports you, and celebrates your wins.
The relationships you build today may shape opportunities you never expected tomorrow.
If you enjoyed this story, you will find many more like it in my book Retail Rewired: How Modern Retail Leaders Drive Growth and Reinvention. You can get your copy here: https://tinyurl.com/bdhfet89
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