LinkedIn has revolutionised professional networking, making it easier than ever to connect with industry peers, potential clients, and thought leaders. But let’s be honest—a quick connection request or a comment on someone’s post isn’t the same as a real relationship.
True business connections aren’t built through algorithms or polite likes. They grow through conversations, shared experiences, and trust—things that don’t happen through a screen alone. If LinkedIn is your only networking tool, you could be missing out on deeper, more valuable professional relationships.
One of the best ways to foster these connections is by stepping away from digital platforms and engaging in real-world networking. Whether it’s a private networking dinner, an industry conference, or an event at a social club in London, face-to-face interactions create genuine, long-lasting relationships that online engagement simply can’t match.
So, how do you move beyond digital networking and start forming connections that actually last? Let’s dive in.
The Problem with Relying Solely on LinkedIn
There’s no denying LinkedIn is a fantastic starting point. But it has its limits.
A polished profile and a well-worded message can’t replace the trust that comes from meeting someone in real life. In fact, research from the University of Buffalo found that face-to-face meetings lead to successful business outcomes 40% more often than online-only interactions.
People naturally trust those they’ve met in person more than a name or profile picture on a screen. If your networking is confined to LinkedIn, you’re likely missing out on opportunities to build meaningful relationships.
So, where else should you be focusing your efforts?
1. Show Up at Industry Events and Conferences
Nothing beats the impact of a face-to-face conversation. Conferences, seminars, and industry events provide the perfect setting for organic discussions. When you meet someone in person, you’re no longer just another connection request—you’re a real person with insights, ideas, and a personality that stands out.
How to make the most of these events:
✅ Ask thoughtful questions in Q&A sessions
✅ Join panel discussions and networking meetups
✅ Speak at events to build credibility and visibility
Pro tip: Some of the best connections happen outside of formal sessions. Strike up conversations during coffee breaks, at after-hours networking events, or even in the queue for lunch.
2. Join Professional Associations and Industry Groups
Professional associations aren’t just about membership perks—they’re powerful networking hubs. Unlike LinkedIn, these groups bring together professionals who are invested in the same industry challenges and opportunities as you.
By joining committees, engaging in discussions, and taking on leadership roles, you form connections based on shared experiences—something LinkedIn can’t replicate.
3. Explore Alternative Networking Platforms
LinkedIn might be the biggest player, but it’s not the only game in town. Depending on your industry, other platforms can offer more personal and engaging networking opportunities.
🔹 Meetup – Find and attend niche industry events and informal gatherings.
🔹 LunchMeet – Arrange coffee chats with professionals in your area.
🔹 Clubhouse – Join live, audio-based discussions with industry experts.
Exploring these alternative platforms helps you escape the crowded and often impersonal nature of LinkedIn networking.
4. Get Involved in Volunteering and Community Projects
Shared values and common causes build strong, long-lasting connections. Getting involved in a charity event, mentorship programme, or community initiative introduces you to professionals who are just as passionate about making an impact as you are.
Whether you’re volunteering at a local charity or supporting an industry-related initiative, these experiences create authentic bonds that extend beyond business transactions.
5. Attend (or Host) Informal Networking Gatherings
Not all networking happens in boardrooms or conference halls. Some of the best professional relationships start in more relaxed settings—over coffee, at a dinner, or during an industry happy hour.
Hosting small, invite-only gatherings at a private members' club positions you as a connector—someone who brings people together. This strengthens your network and builds your reputation as a valuable industry contact.
6. Find a Mentor (or Become One)
Mentorship isn’t just about career advice—it’s about building relationships that can last a lifetime.
Having a mentor connects you with experienced professionals who can open doors to new opportunities. On the flip side, mentoring someone else can expand your own network while reinforcing your expertise and leadership in your field.
7. Strengthen Your Personal Brand
People naturally want to connect with those who share valuable knowledge and insights. If you’re actively contributing to your industry, meaningful connections will come to you.
How to build your brand:
📌 Write blog posts or contribute to industry publications
🎤 Speak at events, panels, or webinars
🎧 Launch a podcast or appear as a guest on others'
The more visible you are, the more likely you are to attract genuine, like-minded connections.
8. Be Authentic – and Listen More Than You Speak
Great networkers don’t just talk about themselves—they ask the right questions and genuinely listen.
Instead of thinking about what you can get from a conversation, focus on how you can add value. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and take a real interest in what others do. This approach builds trust and makes you memorable.
9. Follow Up (Without Being Transactional)
Following up is key to keeping connections alive, but it shouldn’t always be about business. Relationships built on genuine interaction last far longer than those based purely on transactions.
Instead of reaching out only when you need something, try:
📩 Sending an article that reminded you of them
🎉 Congratulating them on a recent achievement
☕ Suggesting a casual coffee catch-up
Small, meaningful interactions go a long way in building long-term professional relationships.
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LinkedIn is a great tool—but it’s just one tool. The strongest business relationships don’t come from connection requests or comment threads. They develop through face-to-face interactions, shared experiences, and meaningful conversations.
So step away from the screen. Attend an event, join an industry group, visit a social club in London, or simply strike up a conversation beyond LinkedIn. You never know where a real connection might lead.
