Transforming Networking Through Positive Communication: A Pathway to Professional Growth

Brent Lucia University of Massachusetts Amherst ; Brian Hentz

Abstract

This article reframes professional networking through the lens of positive communication, arguing that authentic, value-driven relationship building enhances both personal well-being and professional growth. Drawing on positive psychology, emotional intelligence, and moral development, it highlights how empathy, gratitude, and identity alignment transform networking from a transactional act into a relational, self-actualizing practice. The article offers a pedagogical framework for instructors, including a multisession unit to help students internalize and practice positive communication principles. Ultimately, this approach fosters deeper, more fulfilling connections that empower students to become confident, ethical professionals capable of sustaining meaningful, high-quality relationships throughout their careers.

Journal
Business and Professional Communication Quarterly
Published
2026-03-01
DOI
10.1177/23294906251406934
CompPile
Search in CompPile ↗
Open Access
Closed
Topics
Export

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (0)

No articles in this index cite this work.

References (50) · 2 in this index

  1. Network: A practical guide to creating and sustaining networks at work and in the world
  2. Make your contacts count: Networking know-how for business and career success
  3. Biganeh M. Young S. L. (2025). Followers’ perceptions of positive communication practices in leadership: What…
  4. How to assert yourself, listen to others, and resolve conflicts
  5. Positively energizing leadership: Virtuous actions and relationships that create high per…
Show all 50 →
  1. Business communication: Developing leaders for a networked world
  2. Casciaro T. Gino F. Kouchaki M. (2014). The contaminating effects of building instrumental ties: How networki…
  3. Clark T. (2009). Networking: A key to career communication and management consulting success. Business Commun…
  4. Flow: The psychology of optimal experience
  5. Drumgoole J. (2019 May 24). The power of authentic networking. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshum…
  6. Dutton J. Carlsen A. Maitlis S. (2025). Building high-quality connections. In Pressman S. D. Parks A. C. (Eds…
  7. Energize your workplace: How to create and sustain high-quality connections at work
  8. Flynn F. J. (2003). How much should I give and how often? The effects of generosity and frequency of favor ex…
  9. Working through conflict: Strategies for relationships, groups, and organizations
  10. Friar J. H. Eddleston K. A. (2007). Making connections for success: A networking exercise. Journal of Managem…
  11. Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ
  12. Granovetter M. (1973). The strength of weak ties. American Journal of Sociology 78(6) 1360–1380. https://doi.…
  13. Give and take: Why helping others drives our success
  14. Hauwiller J. (2021 July 21). Where authentic networking and emotional intelligence meet. Forbes. https://www.…
  15. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly
  16. Holmes J. Marra M. (2004). Relational practice in the workplace: Women’s talk or gendered discourse? Language…
  17. Kuwabara K. Zou X. Aven B. Hildebrand C. Iyengar S. (2020). Lay theories of networking ability: Beliefs that …
  18. The handbook of mentoring at work: Theory, research, and practice
  19. Lauren B. Pigg S. (2016 October 19-21). Toward entrepreneurial pedagogies: Rethinking professional networking…
  20. Knock: How to open doors and build career relationships that matter
  21. McCauley K. D. (2022). The networking “menu.” Management Teaching Review 9(1) 67–81. https://doi.org/10.1177/…
  22. Mirivel J. C. Fuller R. P. (2024). A world of possibilities: Introducing positive communication scholarship t…
  23. Business networking and sex: Not what you think
  24. Mowreader A. (2023 October 2). Investing in student wellness as a retention concern. Inside Higher Ed. https:…
  25. Mye A. (2015). How can positive psychology be applied to inform and promote positive communication in the wor…
    How can positive psychology be applied to inform and promote positive communication in the workplace?
  26. Words can change your brain
  27. Positive communication in health and wellness
  28. Porter C. M. Woo S. E. Alonso N. Snyder G. (2023). Why do people network? Professional networking motives and…
  29. Privette G. (1983). Peak experience peak performance and flow: A comparative analysis of positive human exper…
  30. Raj M. Fast N. J. Fisher O. (2017). Identity and professional networking. Personality and Social Psychology B…
  31. Reardon K. A. Walsh A. M. (2017). Developing a precareer network: An exercise in identifying using and making…
  32. Nonverbal communication in everyday life
  33. Sacks M. A. Graves N. (2012). How many “friends” do you need? Teaching students how to network using social m…
  34. Socha T. J. Beck G. A. (2015). Positive communication and human needs: A review and proposed organizing conce…
  35. Socha T.J. Pitts M.J. (2012). The positve functions of interpersonal communication. Communication Studies 63(…
  36. Seligman M. (2019). Positive psychology: A personal history. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology 15 1–23. ht…
  37. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly
  38. Snow S. (2013 April 3). The rise of the superconnector. Fast Company. https://www.fastcompany.com/3007543/ris…
  39. 10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199734610.013.0029
  40. Van Quaquebeke N. Felps W. (2018). Respectful inquiry: A motivational account of leading through asking quest…
  41. Waldvogel J. (2007). Greetings and closings in workplace email. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication 12…
  42. Williams B. (1976). Moral Luck. Proceedings of the Aristotelian Society Supplemantary Volumes 50 115–135. htt…
  43. Wodak R. (2011). Complex texts: Analysing understanding explaining and interpreting meanings. Discourse Studi…
  44. Wolff H. G. Moser K. (2009). Effects of networking on career success: A longitudinal study. Journal of Applie…
  45. Wood A. M. Froh J. J. Geraghty A. W. (2010). Gratitude and well-being: A review and theoretical integration. …