Master Networking Without Feeling Salesy

From Icky to Sticky: How Rachel Rozen is Redefining Networking

Welcome back to I Know A Guy, today we meet Rachel Rozen, former Chief Customer Officer turned connection coach, to explore how professionals can shift their approach to networking from awkward to authentic. With a rich background in hospitality and tech, Rachel is now the founder of Connection Catalyst, where she teaches individuals and teams how to build real, long-lasting relationships that drive personal and professional growth.

Networking as a Skill

Rachel doesn’t just talk about networking she teaches it as a repeatable skill. Drawing from her experience connecting with over 300 people in a single year, she helps clients build muscle memory around starting conversations, following up, and staying consistent. Whether you're a student, a job seeker, or a seasoned executive, Rachel emphasizes that networking is essential at every stage of life.

Rachel’s 3 Ps Framework: Passion, Personal, Problem

A cornerstone of Rachel's approach is her 3 Ps framework:

• Passion: Learn what excites the person you're speaking with.

• Personal: Discover something unique or meaningful about them.

• Problem: Identify the challenges they’re facing and explore how you can help.

This framework shifts networking from transactional to transformational. It also creates the kind of memorable moments that turn first meetings into long-term collaborations.

Common Networking Pitfalls

Rachel sees it all: the pitch-slappers, the over-networkers who never follow up, and those who are simply too intimidated to attend events alone. Her advice? Show up as your authentic self, ask good questions, and don’t worry about being "interesting"; instead, be interested. And perhaps most importantly, follow through on what you say you'll do.

Who She Helps

Rachel works with a wide variety of clients, from college students and career changers to C-suite executives and entrepreneurs. Despite their differences, they all face the same core challenge: making meaningful connections that actually move the needle. Whether you're trying to break into a new industry, grow your business, or become more visible within your current company, Rachel's strategies apply.

Building a Relationship-First Culture

Rachel is on a mission to help individuals and companies replace transactional habits with relationship-first cultures. From executive dinners in NYC to free webinars and coaching sessions, she creates space for professionals to practice and perfect their connection-building skills.

Final Takeaway

If you want to become the kind of person others say "I know a guy" about, it starts with building real relationships. Rachel Rozen offers a roadmap to do just that.

Connect with Rachel via her website, sign up for her free webinar, or explore her NYC executive dinners.

Watch The Full Interview Here