Networking in the property and construction industries has traditionally relied on well-established methods to build new business connections, such as large-scale events and informal meetups. While these approaches have served many professionals well, it’s becoming clear that effective networking can take many forms.
Today, a growing number of professionals are embracing a broader view of what successful networking looks like. While forming quick connections and visibility-focused strategies continue to have value, some in the sector, including many women, are also establishing connections rooted in trust, mutual support, and long-term collaboration. Far from being a rejection of traditional networking, this approach is an expansion of it, broadening the toolbox for everyone in the industry.
And it’s already making an impact. Women now make up 15% of the UK construction workforce, up from 12.6% before the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Their success highlights that networking styles which emphasise authenticity and relationship building can help drive inclusive, sustainable growth across the sector.
Different approaches, shared goals
Research in sociolinguistics and organisational psychology shows that men and women often adopt different strategies when building professional networks. Studies by Dr. Deborah Tannen, a leading linguist, suggest that men are more likely to use communication to negotiate status and establish broad, loosely connected networks.2 These approaches often support visibility and influence, both crucial in fast-paced sectors like construction and property.
Whereas research finds that women tend to focus on strengthening interpersonal relationships. Their networking style is often more collaborative, centred around reciprocity and relationship building.
Charlotte Naish, Business and HR Director at General Demolition, reflects: “One thing I always keep in mind when networking is the power of being authentic and a little bit vulnerable. In an industry like construction and property, which can sometimes feel very ‘tough’, showing up as yourself – flaws, curiosity, and all – can actually be a superpower. People connect more deeply when you’re real, not just rehearsed.
A more inclusive culture of connection
Professionals in the sector are not rejecting traditional networking methods, many are simply building on them. As the industry continues to diversify, the way we build relationships is adapting too, with a growing emphasis on forming connections in a way that feels meaningful and natural.
This shift in how we connect isn’t limited to construction and property. As Charlotte explains: “I once heard an Olympic coach say that women need to know everything about their teammate before they can fully bond – what drives them, what worries them, who they are outside of the team. Men, on the other hand, often bond through the experience itself – win or lose, it’s the shared challenge that brings them together,” adds Charlotte.
“That really resonated with me. It made me realise that knowing your audience is key to understanding how to network effectively. Taking the time to truly get to know someone, and allowing yourself to be known in return, creates space for trust and lasting relationships.”
In fact, a 2020 McKinsey & Company report noted that companies with greater gender diversity in leadership outperform their less diverse peers in profitability and decision-making.3 One reason? Inclusive leadership styles often lead to more thoughtful communication, deeper engagement, and a more collaborative culture, qualities that begin with how people connect.
Forming a broad network of connections works well for some professionals, while others find that different techniques, focused on more personal or sustained engagement, better suit their style. These varied approaches are symbolic of an evolving industry, one that encourages everyone to explore networking strategies that suit them best
Learning from success
At General Demolition, we’ve always believed that our strength lies in our people. Whether through our sustainability goals, our team development, or our long-standing client relationships, we understand that trust and collaboration are the foundation of every successful project.
Women in construction and property connected at MIPIM 2025, at an event hosted by Eleni Chalkidou of MJ Group International.
Networking is central to our work, and building lasting relationships can start anywhere – whether near our UK-based projects or at industry events like MIPIM 2025 in Cannes, France. At this year’s event, Eleni Chalkidou of MJ Group International hosted a successful meet-up that brought together women in construction and property, fostering connections and empowering one another through diverse networking techniques.
We view the rise of varied networking styles as a positive shift for the entire industry. After all, welcoming different ways of connecting allows us to learn from the most effective techniques in today’s evolving industry.
Networking isn’t just about who you know – it’s about how you engage. In sectors like construction and property, where trust and respect carry weight, these values are what turn introductions into opportunities. “In our industry, strong groundwork isn’t just for buildings – it’s what lasting relationships are built on too,” concludes Charlotte.
References
- https://www.ons.gov.uk/aboutus/transparencyandgovernance/freedomofinformationfoi/womenintheconstructionindustry
- https://www.deborahtannen.com/you-just-dont-understand/
- https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/diversity-wins-how-inclusion-matters
