Boldly Grow Your Network: Star Trek TNG Lessons for Business Relationships That Actually Work

The Next Generation teaches us that authentic networking is about empathy, presence, and commitment—not robotic pitches.

Ever wondered what Star Trek: The Next Generation can teach us about networking—and sales growth? (Spoiler: it’s more than just “Make it so.”) In today's warp-speed business world, networking is your prime directive. But it’s not about collecting business cards like tribbles—it’s about building relationships that create real opportunities.

Pull up a chair in Ten Forward (metaphorically speaking), embrace your inner Troi, and let’s beam into the networking do’s… and don'ts.

1. DO: Make Emotional Connections (Troi-Style Empathy)

Why it works: Deanna Troi’s superpower? She literally feels what others feel. In sales, tuninginto prospects' emotions and needs creates trust—and that’s where business starts.

Don't do this: Be a Borg. Networking online can feel assimilating—cold, generic, robotic. Avoid one-size-fits-all pitches or mass-sent templated emails. Instead, show empathy and make the conversation about their story.

Quick Tip: Begin with a thoughtful question like, “What’s your biggest challenge this month?”

You’ll feel more connection—and likely get a better answer.

.....show empathy and make the conversation about their story.

2. DON’T: Skip the Serendipity (Channel Guinan in Ten Forward)

Why it works: Some of the best moments happen off-script—like Data learning humor in a random chat with Guinan, not a formal lesson.

Do this instead: Mix structured outreach with time to simply connect—ask “What inspired you to start that?” or “What’s your secret superpower?”

Quick Tip: After your intro, invite “a casual chat” virtually—or better yet, suggest a future in-person coffee. Those organic moments lead to creative partnerships.

3. DO: Create Lasting Engagement (Think Beverly’s Tap Routine)

Why it works: Dr. Crusher teaching Data tap dance wasn’t just curious—it was funny, tactile, memorable. That kind of engagement amplifies retention.

Avoid: One-off calls or cookie-cutter follow-ups that fade into the background like Zoom

fatigue.

Try this: Use tactile, memorable gestures—send a handwritten note, share a quirky insight, or GIF—even if just virtual. Be the tap dance, not background static.

4. DON’T: Underestimate the Power of Presence (Riker Moves, Tasha Presence)

Why it works: Riker’s legendary chair move and Tasha’s commanding stance say more than words ever could. In sales, presence builds instant credibility.

Don’t be that muted pixel: Avoid bland Zoom boxes or slumping postures—digital presence doesn’t replace real presence. Your energy and body language matter.

Do this: In person (or on video), use confident, open body language. Lean in, smile, make eye contact (or camera contact). Command the room—even if it’s virtual.

5. DO: Show Commitment and Momentum (Go All-In Like Picard & Crusher)

Why it works: Picard doesn’t log off when things get messy—he facepalms and stays

committed. Beverly leans in, sleeves rolled, ready to solve the crisis. That’s the dedication we need behind sales.

Don’t bail: Resist the “bad Wi-Fi excuse” or flake vibe because you can’t commit. Inconsistent attendance or half-hearted follow-up kills momentum.

Do this: Be proactive—set clear next steps, circle back with resources, check in after an event.Build momentum that keeps growing, long after first contact.

Building your network isn’t a flashy holo-deck shortcut. It’s a journey—full of empathy, humor, presence, and commitment. So, channel your inner Starfleet crew and approach networking like a captain: with worthy intent and relational savvy.

Building your network isn’t a flashy holo-deck shortcut. It’s a journey—full of empathy, humor, presence, and commitment.

Key Takeaways

May your network grow stronger than the Enterprise—and may your relationships fuel business growth at warp speed.

Chart Content:

Do’s

• Empathize like Troi—build real emotional connection

  
  

• Spark serendipity like Guinan—let space for unscripted connection

  
  

• Engage memorably like Beverly’s tap lesson

  
  

• Command presence like Riker and Tasha

  
  

• Show up like Picard/Crusher—momentum builds success

  
  

Don’ts

• Be robotic like the Borg—generic messages fade fast

  
  

• Rely solely on formal pitches—unexpected magic happens at the bar

  
  

• Be forgettable—don’t blend into the feed

  
  

• Slouch behind a screen—your body language matters

  
  

• Flake out—true commitment unlocks opportunity

Meet the expert:

Lynn Whitbeck  — Founder & CEO Petite2Queen

Lynn Whitbeck is the Queen of Sales. Business owners and entrepreneurs hire Lynn to ignite winning sales, because most fail to connect, capture, and close their ideal clients. So, Lynn helps sell with intent for maximum impact, influence, and income. Bottomline,

sales love it or hate it, you won’t survive without it.

Dive deeper into her wealth of knowledge:

Website

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