Susan RoAne
Susan Roane is a communication and networking expert known for her work on professional relationship-building and strategic connection. Her background centers on helping individuals navigate conversations, introductions, and social settings with greater confidence and intention.
This conversation was recorded as part of Life’s Secret Sauce’s original Expert’s Academy interview series.
About the Conversation
The discussion focuses on the mechanics of networking and professional communication, particularly how people initiate conversations and maintain relationships over time. Roane speaks about why many people struggle in networking environments and how preparation and mindset influence outcomes.
Rather than treating networking as self-promotion, the conversation frames it as a skill rooted in curiosity, listening, and situational awareness. Emphasis is placed on practical behaviors that reduce anxiety and make interactions more natural.
Key Themes
- Networking as a learned skill
- Preparation and intention in conversations
- Reducing anxiety in social and professional settings
- Relationship-building over transactional interaction
Highlighted Quote
“Networking is about building relationships, not collecting business cards.”
Selected Notes
- Roane discusses why discomfort around networking is common and predictable.
- Preparation is presented as a way to reduce uncertainty in social settings.
- Effective networking is described as conversational rather than performative.
- Long-term relationships are emphasized over short-term exchanges.
Recording
Why It’s Included
This conversation is preserved for its practical approach to communication and relationship-building. Roane’s perspective contributes specific insight into how professional connections are formed through behavior, preparation, and consistent interaction rather than surface-level tactics.
