How To Network Online 101

Note: This post is about networking online via Linkedin & X. Will do more editions on how to do with other avenues.

Let’s talk about networking.

Yeah, I know—it’s one of those words that gets thrown around like confetti at a wedding. But if we’re being real, most people hate networking because it feels fake, forced, and just plain awkward.

Here’s the thing: If networking feels like a chore, you’re probably doing it wrong.

Networking doesn’t have to be about schmoozing your way through cocktail parties or collecting LinkedIn connections like they’re Pokémon cards. It can be authentic, valuable, and even enjoyable if you approach it with the right mindset.

So, let’s get into some real, practical tips on how to network like a human and not a robot.

1. Ditch the Transactional Mindset

Most people approach networking with a “what can I get?” mentality. They’re looking to extract value rather than provide it. But here’s the truth: people can smell this a mile away, and it reeks.

Instead, flip the script. Think about what you can offer instead of what you can take. Do you have a unique skill, insight, or even just a different perspective? Share that. Approach networking with the mindset of giving, not taking, and you’ll be surprised at how much more effective it becomes.

And look, if that feels too altruistic, here’s a selfish reason to do it: people remember those who help them. If you’re the person who’s always offering value, you’re going to be top of mind when someone has an opportunity to share.

At the end of the day, your goal for networking should either be:

1. building a foundational relationship (just like you’re making friends) without asking for anything

2. if you are asking for something, making sure you’re objectively offering more value than you’re asking for

2. Be Intentional About Who You Connect With

Let’s be honest, not everyone is worth connecting with.

That might sound harsh, but your time is limited, and you want to build a network of people who are actually going to enrich your career and life—not just randoms who happened to be in the same room as you.

Start with people who inspire you, challenge you, and bring a new perspective. Don’t just blindly connect with everyone; be selective. Find folks in your industry or adjacent spaces, those who align with your goals, and the ones who are already doing what you want to be doing.

Create a shortlist of 5-10 people. As you get more successful (or unsuccessful with no responses) then cross them off the list and replace them with a few more and keep going. Rise and repeat this over time. As you grow your network, revist the people you crossed of and see if anyone you met with can make an intro.

Remember, a quality network beats a quantity network every time. So, trim the fat and focus on building meaningful connections.

3. Use Social Media Like a Pro

You’re not going to get very far with networking if you’re only relying on in-person events. That’s where social media comes in. Platforms like LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) are goldmines for finding people who share your interests, passions, and goals.

Here’s a simple, repeatable process:

• Comments & Replies: A big mistake people make is starting off hot and sliding into the DMs. I have a different approach. Thoughtfully engage with them on their posts via replies and comments. You participate in the convo and boost their engagement while catching their attention over time. So when you do slide into the DMs, they recognize you, giving you a higher chance of responding.

• Start Following Thought Leaders: Look for people who are actively sharing insights, not just retweeting the same boring stuff. Engage with their posts by leaving meaningful comments. Trust me, they notice. From there, look at who else is engaging. Chances are you’re like minded and engage with them, too, and add to your shortlist of networking folks as needed.

• Share Your Own Thoughts: Don’t just be a lurker. Get out there and share your thoughts, experiences, and insights. You don’t have to be an expert—just share what you’re learning along the way. People connect with authenticity, not perfection.

• Slide into the DMs (Respectfully): If someone’s content resonates with you, send them a quick message. Keep it short, genuine, and respectful. Comment on something specific they’ve posted about and ask a thoughtful question. Most people are more open to conversations than you’d think.

4. Follow Up Without Being Annoying

So, you’ve had a great initial conversation with someone. Now what? A lot of people drop the ball at this stage. They either never follow up or they go overboard and start sending daily messages like they’re trying to sell a timeshare.

Here’s how to follow up like a pro: Send a simple message a few days after your initial interaction. Reference something specific you talked about, and let them know you appreciated the chat. After that, keep it low-key. Maybe you share an article they’d find interesting or ask for their opinion on something relevant.

The key is to stay on their radar without being a pest. You want to be the kind of person they look forward to hearing from, not the one they dread.

5. Play the Long Game

Networking is not about immediate gratification.

If you’re expecting instant results, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Real connections take time to build, and relationships are like plants—they need nurturing to grow.

Stay in touch with people, even if it’s just a quick check-in every few months. When you genuinely invest in your relationships over time, you build a network that’s there for you when it matters. So don’t be that person who only reaches out when they need something. Be the person who’s consistently showing up.

6. Be Yourself, For Real

A lot of people think they need to put on a “networking persona” to make connections. They try to be more polished, more formal, or more impressive than they actually are. But here’s the deal: people connect with realness. If you’re just yourself—flaws, quirks, and all—you’ll attract the kind of people who are genuinely interested in you.

So, take off the mask and just show up as you are. You’d be surprised at how many people will appreciate it.

The Bottom Line

Networking doesn’t have to be a chore if you approach it with the right mindset. Focus on giving value, be intentional with your connections, and play the long game. If you do that, you’ll build a network that not only helps you reach your goals but also makes the journey a whole lot more enjoyable.

Until next time, stay authentic and keep building those connections.

~Rando

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I’ve caught up to a lot of the coaching calls now that I’ve freed up more time. If you’re looking to book, feel free to click the link below: