Hi Networkers! I’m Anggie, Partner and VP of Sales & Marketing at CROING l Creative Agency and Founder of our initiative Women Who Network: Stories of Connection and Success.
Networking has played a key role in my career, and I’ve found through many conversations that it’s an area where many women still don’t feel confident or need a little push to explore further. At CROING, we are motivated to inspire and empower professional women to feel more confident in networking. We believe that by sharing stories and experiences, we can encourage more women to connect and grow together.
In this episode, we dive into the story of a powerhouse entrepreneur who began her networking journey in corporate Canada and now runs a thriving business with 99% of her clients in the U.S. She shares how she went from scheduling one-on-ones in the office to building a cross-border network rooted in intentional relationships and strategic follow-ups. You’ll learn why getting organized is key, how to nurture connections at different levels, and why stepping out of your local bubble might be the game-changer your business needs.
When Pauleanna Reid first stepped into the corporate world, she didn’t yet know that networking would become the cornerstone of her future success. As an executive assistant in corporate Canada, she quickly realized that building relationships was not just helpful—it was essential. Whether it was for a department move, a title change, or a salary boost, connection was currency.
But that was only the beginning.
“In corporate, I learned to schedule one-on-ones with department heads just to understand their roles. That’s where my networking muscle started building,” Pauleanna shared.
As her career evolved and her goals expanded beyond the corporate world, Pauleanna saw that her local network in Toronto wasn’t enough. The city, as she describes, is an “opportunity desert” for those looking to grow past a certain ceiling. So she did what many hesitate to do—she expanded her reach.
Planting Seeds in New Cities
With boldness and strategy, Pauleanna began networking across U.S. cities like New York, DC, LA, and Atlanta. She wasn’t chasing clout—she was planting seeds. And over time, those seeds grew into a successful, U.S.-based business, fueled almost entirely by referrals and word of mouth.
“99% of my business is in the U.S. now. That’s the result of years of intentional connection. You have to think long game.”
Stay Organized or Stay Stuck
One of Pauleanna’s most powerful tools? A humble Excel spreadsheet.
Each year, she tracks 300–400 people she connects with. She records not just names and emails, but birthdays, past conversations, lead types, and follow-up notes. Her system helps her nurture relationships at the right pace and with the right context—whether it’s a quick check-in text or a biannual coffee.
“There’s so much opportunity in the follow-up. People underestimate how valuable it is to stay top of mind.”
Advice for Women Who Hesitate
For women who are hesitant to network, Pauleanna has a clear message:
“You’re cutting yourself off from opportunities, information, and connections that could change your life. Don’t let fear or perfectionism stop you from starting.”
And for those already networking but unsure how to elevate?
“Get organized. Determine the cadence of your relationships. Not everyone needs to be on a Zoom every month. Some of my most treasured connections? I see them twice a year. But we go deep.”
Final Takeaway
Pauleanna’s story isn’t just about networking—it’s about ownership. She took ownership of her path, her relationships, and her systems. And in doing so, she built a business that spans countries and communities.
Because when you stop waiting for opportunity to knock and start creating meaningful connections? Everything changes.