Staying Positive While Building Connections: Tips & Tricks
Building connections while maintaining a positive outlook can be challenging. This article presents practical tips and strategies for fostering meaningful relationships in professional settings. Drawing from expert insights, it offers actionable advice to help readers transform challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
- Transform Challenges into Motivational Fuel
- Embrace Growth Mindset in Networking
- Find Meaning in Every Interaction
- Focus on Effort and Long-Term Goals
- Leverage Expertise to Build Client Trust
- Show Respect and Dependability Daily
Transform Challenges into Motivational Fuel
Building connections in this industry can definitely have its challenging moments, but I’ve always found that perspective is everything. When I founded Fulfill.com, it wasn’t just about building a business—it was about solving real problems I’d experienced firsthand. Those bad experiences with 3PLs actually became my greatest motivation!
What keeps me positive is seeing the direct impact we make. When an eCommerce founder tells me how we’ve saved them from a fulfillment nightmare or helped them scale beyond what they thought possible—that’s incredibly energizing. Honestly, there’s nothing more rewarding than turning someone’s logistics headache into a success story.
I also stay motivated by reminding myself that behind every order is a real person waiting for their package. This isn’t just about moving boxes; it’s about helping businesses deliver on their promises to customers. When you frame challenges that way, it’s easier to maintain perspective.
My background as a D1 wrestler taught me that persistence through difficulty creates breakthrough moments. In the 3PL matching business, you face rejection and skepticism regularly, but I’ve learned to see each “no” as getting one step closer to the right “yes.”
The community keeps me going too. I’ve built relationships with incredible founders and 3PL operators who are equally passionate about improving this industry. When building connections feels challenging, I focus on the collaborative nature of what we’re doing—creating an ecosystem where everyone can thrive.
My advice? Document your wins, even the small ones. On tough days, I review messages from clients we’ve helped, reminding myself why we started this journey. Staying positive isn’t about ignoring challenges—it’s about seeing them as the very reason your work matters.
Joe Spisak
CEO, Fulfill.com
Embrace Growth Mindset in Networking
When building connections feels challenging, I focus on maintaining a growth mindset and reminding myself that every interaction, even difficult ones, is an opportunity to learn. Early in my career, I faced a lot of rejection and slow responses, but I learned to view those moments as part of the process rather than personal setbacks. What keeps me motivated is setting small, achievable goals and celebrating progress, no matter how minor. I also lean on my support network—mentors and colleagues who encourage me to keep going. Finally, I remind myself why I’m doing this: building genuine relationships that create value for both sides. That purpose helps me stay positive and persistent, even when the connections aren’t immediate.
Nikita Sherbina
Co-Founder & CEO, AIScreen
Find Meaning in Every Interaction
I’ve found that staying positive while building connections comes from seeing each interaction as an opportunity, not just a task.
When I first started with Kalam Kagaz, I struggled with networking. Some days were slow, and responses were rare. But I learned that real connections take time. They don’t happen instantly; they grow with effort and genuine interest.
What keeps me motivated is focusing on real conversations. I try to understand the person I’m speaking with, their goals, challenges, and passions. This approach made networking feel less forced and more meaningful.
I also celebrate small wins. A good chat, a helpful piece of advice, or even a simple follow-up can be encouraging. It reminds me that progress is happening, even if it’s slow. For me, it’s all about patience, genuine interest, and enjoying the process of building real relationships.
Kritika Kanodia
CEO, Kalam Kagaz
Focus on Effort and Long-Term Goals
When building connections feels challenging, I focus on effort over results. The foundation of team connection starts with a quick call, a follow-up email, or simply showing up with the team. I don’t dwell on past mistakes or failures. I continue to advance by recognizing every step I take as progress.
What motivates me is the long-term perspective. Business and relationships work in the same way. You plant seeds, and if you persist, something will grow. I stay focused on the goal and let small wins build my momentum.
James McNally
Managing Director, SDVH [Self Drive Vehicle Hire]
Leverage Expertise to Build Client Trust
Staying positive in this industry comes down to remembering why I started in the first place. Gardening has always been a grounding force in my life. When building new client relationships or dealing with a tough day on the job feels like an uphill battle, I come back to that connection with nature and the satisfaction of transforming a space. Over the years, I’ve learned that building trust takes time and consistency. My background as a certified horticulturist, combined with over 15 years of hands-on experience, means I’m confident in what I bring to the table. That confidence helps me stay positive, even when the initial rapport with a client isn’t immediate.
One moment that stands out was a project for a new client who was hesitant after having a poor experience with a previous contractor. The garden had been neglected for years, and she was understandably guarded. I didn’t push the hard sell. I walked her through the process, explained the plant choices I recommended for her soil type and microclimate, and provided small educational tips along the way to empower her as a garden owner. Slowly, through consistent communication, detailed work, and patience, she began to trust me. Six months later, her garden was not only thriving but had become a talking point in her street. She ended up referring me to three of her neighbors. That outcome didn’t just come from doing the job well but from applying years of accumulated knowledge and understanding how to communicate it effectively. That’s what keeps me motivated.
Andrew Osborne
Owner, Ozzie Mowing & Gardening
Show Respect and Dependability Daily
In my line of work, trust is built slowly. I maintain a positive attitude by showing up with a good demeanor and treating everyone with respect. I understand that even a small, kind word can lead to a stronger connection later.
What keeps me going is recognizing the value of being dependable. I remind myself that genuine connections take time, especially in challenging jobs like mine. Helping someone through a stressful mold issue brings its own reward, and that keeps me motivated to continue showing up.
David Struogano
Managing Director and Mold Remediation Expert, Mold Removal Port St. Lucie
