How to Build Your Network in a Male-Dominated Industry

Let’s be real: stepping into a room where you’re one of the few women—or the only woman—can feel like walking into uncharted territory. In industries like construction, where the hard hats often outnumber the handshakes, building a strong, empowering network is not just helpful—it’s essential.

But here’s the good news: your network is out there, waiting to be built. And you? You’ve got all the tools.

Why Networking Matters

In male-dominated spaces, your connections can be your rocket fuel. A strong network leads to:

Mentorship and guidance
New opportunities (jobs, projects, collaborations)
Support when you’re navigating bias or burnout
A sense of community that reminds you: you belong here

Where to Find Your People

Events That Matter

Industry-specific conferences & expos – If you are living in Denmark, look for events like Nordic Women in Construction, Byggeriets Årsdag, or Build in Copenhagen. TIP: always check the breakout sessions—those smaller rooms spark bigger conversations.
Workshops & seminars – These offer more intimate spaces where meaningful connections are easier to make.
Meetups & after-work events – Less formal, more fun. Even an informal coffee or panel night can lead to lasting relationships.

Here is a list of upcoming events in Copenhagen that can help you build your network in the construction industry:

Online Spaces That Work

LinkedIn – A classic, but only if you use it with intention. Engage in posts, join groups like Women in Construction EU, and reach out with a warm message.
Slack & Discord communities – Some organizations host invite-only channels—ask around, or search platforms like Ladies Get Paid or Women Talk Construction.
Instagram & niche hashtags – Yes, really, slide into the DMs! Follow and engage with accounts of women in the field.

How to Approach Someone

Start with genuine curiosity. People love to talk about themselves, and your confidence doesn’t need to roar—it just needs to be. Below are examples of what to say:

“I’ve followed your work on [project/post]—really inspiring. I’d love to hear more about your journey into the industry.”
“I’m building my network and really admire your career path. Would you be open to a quick chat or coffee sometime?”

Keep it short, warm, and respectful of their time.

Mentorship

Having a mentor changes the game. Here’s how to find one:

Ask your company if they offer formal mentorship programs.
Professional associations often match mentors and mentees.
Start with admiration: If someone’s career path lights you up, ask them for an informational chat. That’s often how mentorships start—organically.

Tips & Tricks for Building Lasting Connections

Follow up – After meeting someone, send a short message. Mention something you talked about. That’s how you stay memorable.
Give before you get – Share articles, invite them to events, introduce them to others. Be generous.
Stay visible – Post on LinkedIn, attend things regularly, show up. People notice consistency.

Feminine Energy = Superpower

Let’s flip the script: Being the only woman in the room isn’t a disadvantage—it’s your superpower. You’re not just seen—you’re noticed. You’re not trying to blend in—you’re there to stand out.

In male-dominated industries, there’s an outdated assumption that you need to “act like one of the guys” to be taken seriously. But what if your strength lies in showing up exactly as you are?

Because charm? It’s not about flirting. It’s about presence.

It’s the way you carry yourself, the way you connect, the way your energy shifts the room. Feminine traits—empathy, emotional intelligence, intuition, and authenticity—are often undervalued in construction and leadership, but they are exactly what this industry needs more of.

Here’s how to own your power:

Smile with intention. A genuine smile breaks tension and builds trust. It’s a soft tool with strong impact.
Hold eye contact with calm confidence. It shows clarity, groundedness, and authority without needing to be loud.
Ask thoughtful questions. People remember someone who’s curious, not just clever. Depth makes you magnetic.
Listen well. Truly hearing someone—without immediately offering your own story—is a rare and powerful trait.
Speak with warmth and purpose. Let your words reflect both strength and empathy. You’re not trying to dominate—you’re here to lead differently.

When people walk away from meeting you, they won’t just remember your job title or your credentials. They’ll remember how you made them feel. And that’s what builds true influence.

Persistence Pays Off

Not every connection will turn into something—but don’t let that stop you. Networking is a slow-build, not a sprint. Every person you speak to makes you more confident, more connected, and more seen.

Keep showing up. Keep reaching out. Keep being the force you are.

In a male-dominated industry, your network is your power circle. You don’t have to fit into the space—you can shape it. The BuildHer way is bold, smart, charming, and intentional. And it works.

By leaning into what makes you you, you become unforgettable.
Your authenticity becomes your elevator pitch. Your presence becomes your legacy.

With gratitude & ambition,
CATALINA TRANDAFIR
Founder, The BuildHer Network