5 Ways to Build Meaningful Relationships in 2025
We are busy, aren’t we? I literally don’t have one week where there is nothing major to do at least twice until July 2025. If I don’t make it an intention to connect with others in my life in a meaningful way- it will get lost. I bet you feel this too…
Between your chapter meetings, philanthropy events, and social functions, you can forget what really matters: the relationships that make your brotherhood/sisterhood/siblinghood special.
Here are 5 things you can do right now to strengthen relationships with your members:
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Start Having Real One-on-Ones Stop waiting for formal chapter events to connect with your brothers, sisters, and siblings. Text someone you don’t know well and invite them to grab coffee or lunch. Put your phone away and ask questions that matter: What are they passionate about? What are their dreams after graduation? What’s challenging them right now? These conversations build the foundation for genuine friendships that last way beyond college.
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Create Small Group Traditions Big chapter events are great, but magic happens in smaller groups. Start a weekly tradition with 4-5 members – maybe it’s Sunday morning brunch, a workout group, or study sessions at the library. When you meet regularly in smaller settings, you create space for deeper conversations that strengthen your bond.
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Practice Genuine Presence and Inclusivity Challenge yourself to connect with members who have different backgrounds, interests, or experiences than you. Maybe they grew up in a different part of the country, chose a major you know nothing about, or have perspectives you’ve never considered. Be genuinely present in these conversations – ask thoughtful questions, listen to understand (not just respond), and appreciate what makes each member unique. These diverse connections don’t just make our chapters stronger; they help us grow as individuals and leaders.
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Start a Skills-Sharing Initiative Every member brings unique talents to the chapter. Maybe you’re great at Excel or can help members prepare for job interviews. Or perhaps someone else is a talented photographer who can teach others. Create informal teaching sessions where members share their skills. Not only does this build practical knowledge, but it also creates meaningful mentor-mentee relationships.
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Get Vulnerable at Chapter Meetings Here’s a bold move: work with your executive board to dedicate 10 minutes of each chapter meeting to real talk. Have one member share a challenge they’re facing or a lesson they’ve learned. When leaders model vulnerability, it gives others permission to open up too. This builds empathy and helps members realize they’re not alone in their struggles.
Remember, strong relationships don’t just happen - they’re built intentionally, one interaction at a time. These steps might feel uncomfortable at first, but that’s okay. The strongest bonds often come from pushing outside our comfort zones and showing up authentically for each other.
Written by Dr. Colleen Coffey-Melchiorre, Growth Consultant