Play to Win: Rethinking Networking for an Executive Edge

🔥 Episode Summary

Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward, transactional, or soul-sucking. In this solo episode, Kelsey Waldrop redefines networking as an authentic practice rooted in curiosity and mutual value—not outdated scripts, cold DMs, or performative asks. Drawing on two decades of strategic leadership and executive coaching, she shares the exact 10-step framework she uses with clients to build genuine connections that unlock career momentum.

This isn’t about building a "network." It’s about building real relationships—and connections that fuel career growth and acceleration. 

💡 What You’ll Learn

• Why traditional networking advice is broken—and what to do instead

• The neuroscience behind why reframing your mindset matters

• How to map, score, and prioritize your existing relationships

• The “Curiosity Project” approach to connection

• How to make strategic outreach that people actually respond to

• What to say when someone asks, “How can I help?”

• The one habit that will turn moments into momentum

✅ The 10 Simple Steps

1. Shift Your Mindset: Networking isn’t a necessary evil—it’s a curiosity project.

2. Identify People You Already Know: Start with your existing ecosystem.

3. Prioritize Strategically: Use Kelsey’s 3-part scoring system (likability, action bias, influence).

4. Manage Your Energy: Reach out to people who energize you.

5. Make New Friends, But Keep the Old: Leverage second-degree connections, Kevin Bacon-style.

6. Craft Clear Outreach: Be personal, specific, and easy to say yes to.

7. Focus on Relationships, Not Results: Don’t rush the favor. Build trust first.

8. Use the Jerry Maguire Effect: Help people help you with a simple reference tool.

9. Send a Thoughtful Thank You: Recap, reference, and reinforce the relationship.

10. Follow Up, Always: Track interactions and make connection a monthly habit.

📚 Mentioned Resources

• Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi

• Weakened Language by Andy Craig (Upcoming guest!)

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

🎁 Bonus Resources

• Free Relationship Tracker Download Kelsey’s personal spreadsheet for tracking and scoring your network. → Available on Relationship Power Map - Kelsey Waldrop

• Executive Edge Cohort Small-group coaching to apply these frameworks in real-time. April cohorts are filling fast—apply now on the website.

• → Find More Information at www.Group Coaching - Kelsey Waldrop

❤️ Connect + Support

• Love this episode? Leave a 5-star review and share it with a friend.

• Follow Kelsey on LinkedIn for daily insights and behind-the-scenes updates.

• Want support with your next big move? Request info on upcoming cohorts at KelseyWaldrop.com.