Networking Without the Cringe: Building Real Relationships That Last
Date and Time
Wednesday May 20, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM NZST
Location
SkyCity Hamilton - Garden Room
Fees/Admission
Chamber members: $29.00 + GST
Non-members: $59.00 + GST
Description
You walk into a room and look for someone you know.
You default to “What do you do?”
You leave with business cards, but no real connection.
Sound familiar?
What if networking felt natural, not forced? What if you could walk into any room with confidence and build genuine connections that lead to real opportunities?
In this interactive session, you will learn:
• A simple, practical approach to networking
• How to introduce yourself in a way that sparks real conversation
• Better questions that move beyond small talk
• How to be intentional without being transactional
• Tools and mindsets that work, even if you are more introverted
This is not just theory. You will practice in the room, try new approaches, and leave with a way of connecting that feels authentic.
This is not about working the room. It is about building relationships that last.
Trainer
Tracey Olivier - Leadership Coach & Facilitator
Before stepping into her work in leadership and organisational health, Tracey cut her teeth in the world of connection.
While living in South Africa, she founded a networking business (KBN) that grew to five thriving chapters across Durban, bringing business owners and leaders together in a way that felt both purposeful and relational. Over three years, she built and facilitated spaces where connections turned into real opportunities, partnerships, and long-term relationships.
Alongside this, she launched and ran Connect Magazine, a platform dedicated to showcasing local businesses, telling their stories, and strengthening the wider business community.
This wasn’t networking for the sake of it. It was about creating ecosystems where people felt seen, valued, and connected... something that continues to shape how Tracey approaches networking today.
View our terms and conditions here.
For enquiries or to cancel your registration email events@waikatochamber.co.nz.
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