As Canadian Thanksgiving approaches, I am taking time to reflect on the journey I have been on over the past five years. Entrepreneurship is a path filled with challenges, growth, and unexpected turns. Still, one of the most valuable lessons I have learned is the importance of building and nurturing a strong network. This Thanksgiving, I want to express my gratitude for the incredible people who have supported me and shared the role that meaningful relationships have played in shaping my business, Oliphant HR Consulting.
The Power of a Network
One of the greatest assets an entrepreneur can have is a strong network. It is about knowing people and cultivating deep, trusting, mutually beneficial, and meaningful relationships. In my own experience, my network has been my lifeline—providing me with opportunities, insights, and referrals that have directly impacted the growth of my business.
Every successful project, every new client, and every learning opportunity can be traced back to the support of a trusted connection. When you invest in building relationships based on trust, reciprocity, and respect, your network becomes much more than a list of contacts. It becomes a community of people as invested in your success as you are.
Over the years, I have realized that fulfilling meaningful relationships is the key to a robust network. It is not just about what you receive but how you can offer value to others. True partnerships are formed in these exchanges—where both sides are committed to growth—. Whether it is offering advice, making a referral, or simply being there during tough times, the strength of your network comes from the quality of these connections.
Gratitude for My Network
This Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to thank some incredible people who have been part of my entrepreneurial journey. These relationships have not only shaped my business but also enriched my life. Each person has played a significant role in my success, and I am deeply grateful for that.
Glain Roberts-McCabe from The Round Table, your advice and counsel gave me the push I needed to leap into entrepreneurship. You reassured me that clarity would come over time, even if I did not have a locked-in niche. Your support during my coaching certification journey was also crucial, and I cannot thank you enough for your guidance and encouragement. You have been an instrumental beacon of support throughout my business journey.
Pam Ross from Blue Rebel, you were my first client when I launched my business. You trusted me to support you and kicked off Oliphant HR. You also referred me to another client, which turned into a business, and I had the pleasure of returning the favor by referring you for a leadership workshop. Pam, your friendship, trust, and support have been invaluable, and I am so grateful for you.
Jennifer Honey Brannon, you brought me into a competency strategy with your previous employer, which turned into a multi-year engagement with a great client. You have also engaged me for your current employer, supporting me with coaching engagements with key leaders. I am so grateful for your belief in me from the start and for helping me build my business.
Michael Garrity, your referral to one of the leading investment organizations that needed strategic HR services led to a long-term, strategic engagement spanning over three years. This opportunity was a turning point for my business, and I am so thankful for your trust in me.
Erinn Heritage, we worked together at a previous company, and since then, you’ve continued to make referrals to other organizations. I am deeply grateful for your continued support.
Ron Craig, you trusted me to support you with strategic HR strategy, and our relationship has grown into a partnership spanning multiple years. I am so grateful for your trust in me and for continuing to engage my services, allowing us to build something great together.
Michael Meeks, we had a great working relationship when I supported you as your HRBP, and our relationship has only strengthened. You’ve engaged my services to support competency and leadership development, and I am grateful for our partnership, built on mutual trust.
Anna Filipopoulos, I consider you one of the best leaders I have ever worked with and for. Your belief and trust in me led to referrals and unique projects I am so grateful to have supported. You have been an incredible part of my journey, and I cannot thank you enough.
Elena Tokareva, we built a profoundly trusting relationship at our previous company, and you continued that trust when you brought me into your new organization. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you again and our kindred connection.
Petroula Tsirimbis, our strategic partnership over the past five years has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my business. Together, we have supported your organization’s needs in many ways, and I am so grateful for our relationship that will stand the test of time.
Casper Wong, it has been a pleasure supporting you and your organization over the past five years. Helping you navigate tremendous growth has been fulfilling and rewarding. Your referrals to new businesses have made a significant difference in my life, and I am deeply thankful for your trust and support. You help me improve my business and services.
Jeff Holmes, thank you for believing in me and allowing me to partner with you and your team. I loved my time with your organization and am grateful for your continued professional and personal support. You are a good human, and I am thankful for you.
Patti Duench, I loved working with you in our past life, and I am grateful that you leveraged me with your current employer. Relationships that stand the test of time are rare and unique, and I am so thankful for you and your trust in me.
Joel Bennet, your check-ins and prayers meant the world to me as we navigated some personal issues within our family. Your care and concern have not gone unnoticed, and I am grateful for you.
Larry Chartier from Pixel Perfect, your partnership has been incredible, and I am so grateful for you every day. I also appreciate your support of my business beyond just the website—your contributions have been invaluable. You are an incredible human, and I am thankful to have you by my side.
To my clients, it is a privilege to have the honor of working with you. I do not take for granted that you can choose other vendors to support your business needs, but you chose me. That is not lost on me, and I am grateful every day for the opportunity to work with such wonderful people.
To my family and friends, thank you. Your ongoing encouragement and support never go unnoticed. You pick me up when I fall and help me to see the light when it dims. Your support means more to me than you will ever know. I love you all.
Lessons on Building Meaningful Relationships
One thing I have learned through this experience is that relationships are built on trust, authenticity, and a genuine interest in helping one another succeed. Here are a few lessons I have gathered along the way about creating and maintaining a strong network:
- Genuine Gratitude – A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Gratitude strengthens relationships and shows that you value the trust and support others have given you.
- Invest in Relationships — Take the time to invest in relationships. Genuinely get to know the people in your network. Relationships built on mutual respect and trust last and bring the most value.
- Offer Value First – Look for ways to help and support your network before asking for something in return. Whether sharing knowledge, offering a referral, or simply being a good listener, adding value to others strengthens your connections.
- Give Back – Networking is a two-way street. When you have received support or opportunities, look for ways to give back to the same person or someone else in your network.
- Stay Connected – Consistent communication is critical to maintaining relationships. Check in with people in your network, not just when you need something. Authentic connections are built over time.
Gratitude for My Coachees
Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to all of my Coachees. Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of coaching over two hundred individuals. Experiencing your growth as you embrace new habits and behaviours has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my business. Your vulnerability, honesty, and commitment to growth are inspiring. This is where the real magic happens, and I am honored to be part of your journey.
Conclusion
Reflecting on these past five years, I am reminded that success is rarely achieved alone. It takes a network of supportive, trusted individuals to help guide, refer, and uplift you. This Thanksgiving, I am deeply grateful for the power of my network and the meaningful relationships that have helped build Oliphant HR Consulting. To everyone who has played a role in my journey—thank you. Your belief in me, your referrals, and your trust have made all the difference.
Happy Thanksgiving; there is much to give thanks for!
