What do you do if your attempts to build professional relationships are constantly being rejected?

1 Reflect Deeply

When facing continuous rejection, it's crucial to reflect on your approach to building relationships. Consider the possibility that you might be coming on too strong or not aligning with the professional interests of those you're reaching out to. Ensure that your attempts at connection are genuine and not solely for personal gain. Take the time to understand the needs and goals of others, and think about how you can support them. This reflection can lead to a more tailored and effective strategy in your networking efforts.

3 Add Value

One of the most important aspects of professional networking is adding value to the relationships you're trying to build. Think about what you can offer that would be beneficial to the other party. It could be your expertise, resources, or even your network connections. When others see that you have something valuable to contribute, they are more likely to welcome a professional relationship with you. Always approach networking with a mindset of mutual benefit.

4 Seek Feedback

If you're consistently facing rejection, don't hesitate to seek feedback. Reach out to trusted colleagues or those who have declined your attempts at building a relationship and ask for honest input on what you could do differently. This feedback can provide you with critical insights into how others perceive your approach and what might be turning them away. Use this information constructively to refine your networking strategies.

5 Adjust Expectations

Sometimes, the issue isn't with your approach but with your expectations. It's important to understand that not every attempt at building a relationship will be successful, and that's okay. Adjusting your expectations can help you to not take rejections personally and to maintain a positive outlook on networking. Keep in mind that building professional relationships is often a numbers game, and persistence is key.

6 Persist Tactfully

Persistence is important in networking, but it must be balanced with tactfulness. If your initial attempts at building a relationship are rejected, give it some time before trying again. When you do reach out, ensure it's with a fresh perspective or new value proposition. Being persistent doesn't mean being pushy; it's about demonstrating consistent interest and value over time in a respectful manner.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?