The Art of Authentic Networking: Lessons from the Networking Queen - From Episode 121 of Afternoon Pint

In our fast-paced digital world, the ability to build meaningful connections might be the most valuable skill you can develop. Dalene Allen, known as "The Networking Queen," exemplifies how authentic relationship-building can transform not only your business but your entire life trajectory.

Dalene's journey began in Glen Margaret, Nova Scotia, where entrepreneurial roots were planted early. As the oldest of seven sisters, she learned resourcefulness from her mother, who operated a handcraft shop called "The Killick." By age 13, Dalene was knitting fishermen sweaters for $30 each—significant money at the time—and even crafted one for the conductor of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. This early experience taught her the value of craftsmanship and personal connection with customers.

Her professional path took fascinating turns through retail merchandising, textile buying in Europe (where she witnessed some questionable business practices), and ultimately to Mary Kay Cosmetics, where she achieved remarkable success. Within a year of starting, Dalene was earning six figures and driving the iconic pink Cadillac—though humorously, she didn't yet have a driver's license when they delivered it. During her Mary Kay years, she was personally mentored by founder Mary Kay Ash, learning invaluable lessons about relationship-based business building.

The cornerstone of Dalene's networking philosophy is disarmingly simple yet profoundly effective: make one new connection every day. This seemingly modest goal—just five new connections weekly—translates to 260 annually. Using the 80/20 principle, even if only 20% of those connections yield business opportunities, that's potentially 52 new clients each year.

Dalene's approach to networking flips conventional wisdom on its head. Rather than focusing on selling, she emphasizes human connection, understanding that "when you build the relationship, business happens organically." Her three-part interaction formula has proven remarkably effective:

1) Express gratitude for existing business

2) Mention that referrals are the greatest compliment

3) Offer to help others both personally and professionally through your network.

Social media, according to Dalene, provides powerful networking opportunities when used intentionally. She advises going beyond the "like" button—commenting with at least five words, preferably in the form of a question, to start meaningful conversations. This approach not only strengthens connections but improves visibility through algorithmic favour.

Perhaps most illuminating is Dalene's advice for networking event anxiety, something many professionals struggle with. Rather than standing awkwardly in the corner (which makes you appear unfriendly), she suggests positioning yourself near the entrance to greet newcomers who might be feeling equally uncomfortable. Her golden rule? "If you pretend that somebody's got a sign around them that says 'make me feel important,'" you'll approach interactions with the right mindset.

As founder of "Networking Naturally" and former executive director of Business Network International (BNI) for Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, Dalene has helped generate millions in business through strategic connections. Her mission now focuses on teaching younger generations the lost art of face-to-face networking in an increasingly digital world.

The essence of Dalene's wisdom distills to a single word: curiosity. "Be curious," she advises. "Everybody's got a story to tell." By approaching networking as an opportunity to discover others' stories rather than simply promoting yourself, you transform what many find awkward into something genuinely enriching—and ultimately, profitable.