Go Old School: 3 Ways to Build Client Relationships and Business Networks
In a world bursting at the seams with apps, DMs, and AI-generated everything, leaders looking to elevate relational impact by building relationships and business networks might find the most powerful tactics aren’t hidden in the latest tech stack—they’re hiding in plain sight. Yep, we’re talking about good ol’ fashioned human moves. The kind that don’t require Wi-Fi, an app, or a productivity hack.
If you’re craving deeper connections that don’t get lost in the digital noise, it’s time to go retro.
Dust off your stationary,
Charge your phone (for calls, not scrolls),
And polish your philanthropy pants.
Let’s dive into three “old school” ideas that today’s leaders can revive to build real, lasting relationships that create greater outcomes.
1. Show Others Your Handwriting: Write the Dang Note
You’ve probably received hundreds of emails this week (and ignored many of them). But how many handwritten notes showed up in your mailbox?
Exactly.
There’s something disarmingly personal about seeing someone’s actual handwriting. The quirks, the loops, the occasional ink smudge—it all screams
“I took time to think about you.”
A handwritten note card tells your clients or partners that they’re not just another row on your CRM spreadsheet.
Handwritten notes make messages feel felt. As a leader, this isn’t just a warm fuzzy—it’s a trust-builder. And trust is the currency of business relationships.
Not sure what to say? Don’t overthink it.
Write what you feel. Thank someone for their time, acknowledge their recent win, or just say you’re thinking of them and can’t wait to reconnect.
The formality of a printed card is nice, sure. But authenticity? That’s where the magic happens.
Add a personal touch, and you’re not just memorable—you’re magnetic.
2. Let Others Hear Your Voice: Make the Call
Before you reach for your keyboard to send that perfectly punctuated email or witty Slack message—pause.
Consider this: your voice is one of your most underutilized leadership tools.
Recently, I picked up the phone and called a client—not a Zoom link in sight. We started off laughing about false eyelashes (yes, really) and then pivoted into a 45-minute convo about strategic planning for Q3. That one call deepened the relationship in a way 17 emails and a “thumbs up” emoji never could.
That’s a whole lot of opportunity ringing in your pocket.
…There’s nuance in your tone.
…Emotion in your pauses
…Connection in the rhythm of real-time conversation’
Calling someone makes your outreach feel urgent, intentional, and human. It also allows spontaneous collaboration that can’t happen in asynchronous chats.
How to: Start with warmth & purpose. Humor is a brilliant bridge-builder and can sometimes stand alone as the purpose, too. (Eyelash jokes are optional.)
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One of the first exercises we walk you through is understanding the 5 major types of relationships you should have in your network - and then we plan out how to build them over 3 months. Boom. Business, done.
3. Philanthropy is a Power Connector: Give to Get
Think giving back is just good karma? It’s also a damn good business strategy.
Now imagine what it can do for your personal network.
Saying “yes” to charitable opportunities puts you in rooms (and on rooftops and gala dance floors) with other community-minded leaders. It’s one of the most underestimated ways to build client relationships and business networks—and unlike cold networking events, the vibe is already generous and values-aligned.
I was raised to believe that charity starts at home—even if that meant giving half your apple to someone who needed it. That mindset stuck. Whether I’m sitting on a board of directors, volunteering as an event emcee, donating gifts or sponsoring a conference, I’ve learned that philanthropy builds bonds faster than a LinkedIn message ever could.
Let’s be clear: the golf course isn’t the only place where deals get done. In fact, many business relationships start over a shared mission, not a shared scorecard. Philanthropy is the great equalizer. It tells people who you are, not just what you sell.
The Final Word (and It’s in Cursive)
If you’re serious about leveling up your leadership, ditch the endless digital chatter and get real. Not reactive. These three old-school moves
writing a note,
making a call,
and showing up for causes—aren’t just nostalgic; they’re strategic.
They allow you to connect at the heart level, not just the headline level.
To build client relationships and business networks in a noisy world, try whispering with intentionality rather than shouting with automation. It’s bold. It’s rare. And most importantly—it works.
So grab a pen, dial the number, say yes to that invite. Your next opportunity may not come from an algorithm. It might come from an envelope, a voicemail, or a fundraiser wine tasting.
