Let’s be real—most people hate networking. It feels fake, awkward, and like you’re just trading business cards so you can forget about each other later. But here’s the thing: networking, when done right, is how stuff gets done. And LinkedIn? That’s your networking playground. (Yeah, I said it—playground.) It’s not just a glorified resume site; it’s where you build relationships, get opportunities, and find people who can actually help you move the needle.
So how do you actually network and not suck at it? Buckle up.
1. Ditch the Robot Talk
If your LinkedIn profile reads like a corporate manifesto, you’re doing it wrong. You’re not a robot (I assume). So, why are you using words like “results-driven” and “synergy enthusiast”? No one talks like that in real life. (And if they do, run.) Be real. Your profile should sound like you, not some LinkedIn template. Talk about what you actually do in a way that’s relatable, not buzzword bingo.
2. Don’t Be a Connection Collector
If your only strategy on LinkedIn is to spam the “Connect” button, wake-up — you’re missing the point. Networking isn’t a numbers game. (Okay, it is, but not just that.) It’s about actual relationships. So instead of collecting connections like Pokémon cards, focus on meaningful engagement. Comment on people’s posts. Share stuff that’s useful, not just what makes you look good. You know, act like a human.
3. The 80/20 Rule (No, Not That One)
The real key to effective networking? It’s 80% about giving and 20% about asking. In other words, don’t show up in people’s inboxes asking for favors if you’ve never even said “hi” before. Contribute something first—share a useful article, offer insight, or give a virtual high-five. (Yes, that’s a thing.) Build trust, then ask for help when it feels natural, not transactional.
4. Customize Your Messages
Look, we can all tell when you’re copying and pasting the same message to 100 people. It’s like walking into a party and introducing yourself to everyone with a megaphone—loud, impersonal, and weird. Personalize your outreach. Mention something specific, like a post they shared or a project they worked on. You don’t have to write a novel, but show that you’ve actually put in two seconds of thought.
5. Be Active, Not Annoying
Nobody’s going to remember you if you pop in once every six months to update your job title. Consistency is key, but that doesn’t mean flooding everyone’s feed with #hustle and #grind posts. (Please, for the love of all things holy, stop doing that.) Share valuable content, engage with others’ posts, and show up regularly—but not like an over-caffeinated intern on their first day.
6. Leverage LinkedIn’s Features (Yes, They Exist)
If you’re not using LinkedIn’s features, you’re leaving money on the table. (Okay, maybe not money, but definitely opportunities.) Write articles, post videos, share polls—whatever fits your style. LinkedIn isn’t just for scrolling through job posts. It’s a platform for you to stand out and show your expertise. So, if you’ve got insights, share them. Don’t worry about being perfect. Done is better than perfect, and if you’re waiting to sound like a TED Talk, you’ll be waiting forever.
7. Follow Up, Don’t Flake Out
Ever connect with someone, have a great conversation, and then… nothing? (Yeah, we all have that one “friend” who ghosts after one coffee meeting.) Don’t be that person. Follow up with people you connect with. Even if it’s just a quick “Hey, great chatting with you, let’s stay in touch,” it keeps the relationship warm. And who knows, maybe that person you met last week could be your next client or collaborator. But you’ll never know if you don’t keep the door open.
In short: networking via LinkedIn is simple, but it’s not easy. It takes effort and a relational versus transactional orientation. When you use it right, it can open doors you didn’t even know existed. The trick? Don’t treat it like a chore. Approach it like a conversation—one where you’re genuinely interested in the people you’re talking to (and not just what they can do for you). You’ll be surprised how much better your networking game gets when you stop trying to “network” and start building actual relationships.