Building Digital Relationships

Everyone tells you to “build relationships” on LinkedIn to be successful. But in practice, what does that actually look like? {your LinkedIn content goes nowhere w/out meaningful connections engaging w/ it btw} So here’s my best tips as someone who’s made close to a million dollars leveraging my own personal network on & off LinkedIn ⬇ 1. Physically show up for your business Live events, retreats, conferences — showing up in person works wonders. Even if you’re in a more remote location or your schedule doesn’t allow, virtual events work too. Plan ahead even if it’s just quarterly to keep expanding & nurturing existing relationships at events. 2. Bring community activity from other platforms onto LinkedIn If you’re an entrepreneur, you’re likely active in some online space (Slack, Circle, WhatsApp, etc.). These community platforms can only go so far though. Move those connections onto LinkedIn to nurture & deepen them — engage thoughtfully on member's content, tag them in relevant posts or opportunities you see pop up, or even DM them to check in. 3. Collaborate in content (LinkedIn posts, blogs, podcast episodes) or plan a joint program / offering Want to provide value while tapping into your network's expertise? Create joint content w/ experts in your network who can answer questions you may not be most qualified to answer. It’s a great way to deepen a relationship w/ someone you admire in your network & give value to your audience. 4. Send something in the mail Old fashioned approach but absolutely not out of style. I met Ben Cooper, MBA and Brittany Joy Cooper of Amplify at a conference in September (s/o Catherine Brown & Katie Lantukh for bringing us together). We realized we have overlap in who we both help. Recognizing an opportunity to spread the word about each other’s work, Ben & Brittany mailed me the most thoughtful referral partner package (pictured). Effort like this goes such a long way in deepening professional relationships & I’m looking forward to getting to rep their swag! 5. Keep track, set reminders, stay in touch I use Notion to keep track of my industry / professional relationships. I try weekly to do a giant sweep on everyone’s content & to write down milestones on my calendar (anniversaries, birthdays, launches, interviews) to check in & show I care. Being thoughtful & putting the effort goes a long way. TLDR: - Take yourself to live events or tune in virtually to consistently be expanding your circle & nurturing existing connections - Leverage the communities you’re in on other platforms & use LinkedIn to strengthen those relationships - Reflect, who you could expose your audience to by collaborating? - Send personalized snail mail - Create a tracking system to stay touch Any combination of these w/ some consistency will support yours & others business & audience growth on LinkedIn. What did I leave out? What actions have you found impactful for strengthening your relationships on or offline?  

How to Build Real Connections on LinkedIn 🌐 After over 100 LinkedIn conversations, here’s my best advice for building real, impactful connections. Whether you're seeking advice, insights, or just expanding your network, these steps can help you create relationships that go beyond the virtual. 1. Approach with Gratitude, Not Transactions 🤝     Reach out with a sincere, open attitude—show appreciation for their time and insights, not just what they can offer. 2. Skip the Big Asks 🚫     Rather than requesting mentorship or direct help, start by asking for advice or insights. It’s a respectful way to gain value without overwhelming them. 3. Do Your Research 🔍     A quick read of their LinkedIn profile can help you have an informed conversation. Reference their work, ask specific questions, and show that you value their experience. 4. Show Genuine Interest 🌟     Focus on them and their journey—show that you're genuinely interested in who they are, not just what they can do. 5. Respect the Clock ⏳     Time is valuable. If you say you need 15 minutes, stick to it. This respect for time builds trust and shows you’re serious. 6. Follow Up Matters 📧     A thank-you message and periodic check-ins go a long way. People appreciate thoughtful follow-up, and it keeps the relationship alive. 7. Offer to Help First 💡     Ask yourself, “How can I help them?” Maybe you can share an article, connect them to someone in your network, or support their work. 8. Empathy & Listening 🎧     Every good conversation includes empathy and active listening. People remember those who truly listen and understand their perspective. Meaningful connections don’t happen overnight. Build trust, stay genuine, and let the relationship grow organically. Your network is your greatest asset—nurture it thoughtfully! 👋 I’m Sandra Park, a financial coach helping women in STEM engineer her path to financial freedom 💸

I landed back in Los Angeles after a 4-day legal convention in Vegas and realized something: People are great at networking in the moment, but struggle to follow-up and keep relationships after an event like a major convention. To make sure all of the connections you made are sustained long-term, here's a step-by-step guide to effectively follow up post-convention: 📝 Personalized Note Writing: Always begin with a personalized note. Thank your new contacts for their time and highlight specific topics or moments you shared. A handwritten note can make a deep impression in today's digital world, signaling thoughtfulness and genuine interest. 📲 Organize Contact Details: Compile a database of the addresses, emails, and other contact details you've gathered. Tools like Microsoft Excel or CRM platforms like Salesforce or HubSpot can be great for this. This not only helps with immediate follow-up but aids in long-term relationship management. 🤳🏻 Engage on Social Media:   Connect with your new contacts on platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, IG, Facebook and TikTok. Engage with their posts to foster online rapport, but ensure your interactions are meaningful. 📩 Newsletters:   If you have a newsletter, consider adding your new contacts to the mailing list (with their consent). This keeps them updated on your activities, insights, and the latest happenings in the legal field. 🔄 Share Your Work: If you've written books, articles, or other publications, share them. It not only positions you as an expert but provides value to your contacts. ✅ Regular Check-ins:   Set reminders to touch base periodically. You could share relevant articles, wish them on holidays, or update them about significant milestones in your career. 👏🏼 Tips and Insights: Offer helpful tips or insights from the convention or from your experience. It’s a non-invasive way to remind them of the value you bring to the table. 🤝 Long-Term Relationship Building Relationships are not about transactions but genuine connections. Ensure your interactions are not always business-focused. Learn about their interests, congratulate them on personal achievements, and be there during challenging times. 📚 Recommend Books: If you've come across insightful books (including ones you've written), recommend them. It's a subtle way to showcase your expertise and share knowledge. 🎉 Events and Reunions: Consider organizing or attending reunion events for convention attendees. It's a way to rekindle connections and stay updated on each other’s progress. Remember: post-convention networking is an art. It requires genuine interest, persistence, and patience. By investing time and effort into nurturing these relationships, you'll not only grow your network but also enrich your professional journey. Remember, it's not about how many contacts you have, but the depth and quality of those connections. #networking #lawyer #success #relationshipbuilding

Instead of asking investors for 30-minute calls, try this: After years on the investor side, I’ve seen countless ways founders try to connect with investors, and many fall flat. Not because they lack potential, but because they’re missing a clear, intentional strategy. Here are four practical ways to build genuine, value-driven relationships: 1️⃣ Add them on LinkedIn and build in public Let us see your journey! Share your wins, your learnings, what you're building. Give us a reason to care. When investors see consistent, tangible progress from afar, it creates a natural sense of interest,  that "I need to know more" feeling. 2️⃣ Send a message that sparks curiosity Whether it’s an email or a DM, lead with a compelling blurb that hints at your progress and how it connects to your goals. Investors are human, give us a reason to be genuinely curious about what you're building beyond a future ask. 3️⃣ Ask if you can add them to your investor update This is one of the most underrated tools. A brief, quarterly update (3-5 bullet points) on your key milestones keeps you on their radar without demanding a meeting. It builds a powerful narrative over time, showing consistent progress. (and if you don’t have an update yet... that’s something worth fixing first.) 4️⃣ If possible, meet them in person. Nothing beats face-to-face. Investor relationships grow faster at events, conferences, or even casual meet-ups. Show up prepared, be ready to share what you're building, and just be yourself. Real-world interaction makes a huge difference. Scheduling a call “just to keep them in the loop” can easily backfire, especially if you're not fundraising yet. Investors are people too, with full calendars and limited bandwidth. Empathy goes a long way! Want some extra tips on how to write truly compelling blurbs that get attention? DM me! #Fundraising #InvestorRelations #StartupStrategy

The people with strong networks aren’t better networkers, they just nurture relationships consistently. I understand the feeling of overwhelm that comes with hearing the word “networking”, but it doesn’t have to be a big thing. Think of networking as a series of small, meaningful touchpoints. They compound over time. Here’s how to keep your relationships warm: - Send a quick message when something reminds you of someone - Comment on their LinkedIn posts to stay on their radar - Grab coffee or hop on a casual catch-up call   - Make thoughtful introductions when you see a fit, help other people connect!  - Stay connected on other social platforms and comment from time to time (yes, even on Instagram or Facebook…relationships are built in all kinds of ways) - Reach out to folks for their subject matter expertise when you have a need - people love sharing advice on things they know well  - Attend networking events. This one is last on my list, but it’s one of the tools in your toolbox. My networking actions so far this week:   • Sent a voice note to Eileen Crossin - we were talking about TBM, something we both follow and have connected over in the past and then caught up over back and forth voice notes.    • Sent Shiv Gupta a note to set up a coffee chat. We worked together at AOL. I also did some part time work for him when he was just starting U of Digital. I wanted to catch up, hear about all the great work he's been doing and learn about the AI coursework he’s creating now.   • Sent a Linkedin message introducing 🤝 Samantha McKenna and Ali Akhtar- Sam and I were talking about the enablement space and she had not heard of Letter. I thought there might be mutual benefit for each of them to know one another so I made the intro (and asked them both for permission before I did it). All of the above took me collectively less than 5 minutes. You can do it too. This is part of my Networking Series, where I break down how to build a strong network through small, meaningful touchpoints and share how I’m doing it in real time for accountability. What are you doing this week to connect with your network? Drop it in the comments. 

Networking isn’t about collecting business cards. It’s about building real relationships: the kind that lead to opportunities, partnerships, and lifelong connections. After interviewing over 400 professionals on The Social Capital Podcast, I’ve seen firsthand what makes someone a great networker…and what makes them forgettable. My top 3 takeaways from those conversations: 1️⃣ Be Your Authentic Self People can smell fake a mile away. If you’re putting on a facade, trying to impress, or forcing a connection, it won’t last. The most successful networkers? They show up as their real, unfiltered selves - because trust starts with authenticity. 2️⃣ Give First Networking isn’t a transaction. The strongest relationships are built on giving without expecting anything in return. Offer value, share insights, connect people, and help however you can. When you lead with generosity, opportunities naturally follow. 3️⃣ Do What You Say You’ll Do Your reputation is everything. If you promise to introduce someone, share a resource, or follow up → do it. Following through builds credibility while flaking out can damage your reputation faster than you think. But There’s More… Beyond these core principles, I’ve learned additional strategies that take networking to the next level: ✔ Be Proactive in Building Relationships Opportunities can arise anywhere. One guest on The Social Capital Podcast shared how a chance meeting in an airport bar led to a lasting professional relationship - reminding us that networking doesn’t just happen at formal events. ✔ Cultivate Relationships Through Shared Experiences Engaging in activities outside of work - sports, hobbies, volunteering - can naturally expand your network. One professional found that playing a sport helped her reconnect and rebuild her network after maternity leave. ✔ Leverage Digital Platforms Effectively Platforms like LinkedIn are networking goldmines if used right. Sharing insights, engaging in discussions, and showcasing your expertise keeps you visible and valuable in your industry. ✔ Embrace a Relationship-Driven Mindset Shift from transactional networking to genuine connections. People remember those who invest in relationships, not just those who show up when they need something. ✔ Seek Mentorship and Continuous Learning Some of the most successful professionals I’ve interviewed credit their growth to mentorship and ongoing learning. Surrounding yourself with the right people accelerates your success. At the end of the day, the best networkers don’t just meet people - they create lasting social capital. And that starts with trust, authenticity, and generosity.  What’s the best networking advice YOU’VE ever received? #Networking #Authenticity #RelationshipBuilding

One meaningful connection is worth more than 100 surface-level ones. I've always believed that genuine relationships aren't built by chasing metrics but by sharing authentically and engaging with curiosity. For me writing wasn't a strategy. It was a passion. And it was through this authenticity that meaningful connections and opportunities naturally followed. Here’s what I’ve learned about building relationships that last: ✅ Be intentional with connections. Don’t just add people - connect with those who align with your values and aspirations. ✅ Personalize your approach. Whether it’s a message or a comment, show genuine interest. Avoid generic outreach. ✅ Give before you ask. Share insights, offer support, or introduce someone valuable - without expecting anything in return. ✅ Consistent engagement matters. Comment thoughtfully, celebrate milestones, and keep conversations alive. ✅ Bridge online and offline. A virtual coffee chat or meeting at an industry event can turn a digital contact into a real-life ally. ✅ Leverage trends. Use voice messages, co-create content, and explore diverse networks to build richer, deeper connections. Start small. Leave a thoughtful comment. Plan a virtual coffee. Because relationships aren’t just about who you know—but who you grow with. Read more in this week's article. P.S. How do you nurture your LinkedIn connections for long-term value? Share in the comments. 👇

In 2012, I moved to Australia with no job, nowhere to live, one friend. In 2022, I moved back to the UK and started my first business with no network. Here's my advice for building connections out of nothing: 1️⃣ Use technology as a tool to connect online but take it offline as soon as possible. In Australia, I used the platform MeetUp to socialise and make new friends. Now I use LinkedIn, Circle and Mighty Networks to meet people doing interesting stuff. Nothing beats the connection that is made when you meet an online friend in person. 2️⃣ Find opportunities to meet people with the same interests as you. In Australia, I joined a theatre group soon after I arrived. Now I’ve joined networks that specifically align with my interests: women in AI, digital nomads, tech for good. It’s easier to make friends when you have a common interest. 3️⃣ Make the first move. In Australia, I realised that if I wanted friends, I needed to be the person that made things happen. Now I’m not shy about extending an invite, suggesting a meet up or creating an event. In fact, on 12 June I’m organising my first ‘Tech for Good’ catch up in London. If you’re building in the Tech for Good space, reach out and I’ll send you the details 📩

Stop Building Lists, Start Building Relationships:  The 2025 LinkedIn Playbook 99% of professionals get this wrong: They treat LinkedIn like a numbers game. Building endless connections, chasing follower counts, and sending generic messages. Networking isn’t about numbers , it’s about relationships. The Old Way: → Send mass connection requests without personalizing → Pitch your product/service immediately after connecting → Treat LinkedIn like a digital Rolodex The New Way (2025 Playbook): → Build genuine connections by adding value → Focus on conversations, not just connections → Nurture relationships consistently over time Here’s how to shift to the new approach: 1️⃣ Personalize Every Connection Request Start with a meaningful note. Reference their work, a shared interest, or even a mutual connection. Example: “Hi [Name], I loved your post about [topic]—it really resonated with my work in [field]. Looking forward to learning more from you!” 2️⃣ Engage Before You Reach Out Comment thoughtfully on their posts, share their content, or send a message showing genuine interest in their expertise. 3️⃣ Start Conversations, Not Pitches Instead of selling, ask questions or seek advice. People are more likely to engage when they feel valued. 4️⃣ Be Consistent with Relationship-Building Check in periodically, share relevant articles or opportunities, and celebrate their achievements. Small gestures go a long way. Real-Life Example: I reached out to a founder whose podcast I admired. Instead of pitching anything, I shared a detailed takeaway from one of their episodes. That message turned into a Zoom call, which led to a collaboration six months later. Main Takeaway: Stop treating LinkedIn as a numbers game. Start building relationships that matter. The ROI? Opportunities, collaborations, and a network you can truly rely on. P.S. If you’re ready to build meaningful connections but don’t know where to start, DM me with “LEADS” to get started. ♻️ Repost to inspire your network to build better relationships.

I'm talking to you. Yes, you. We're all on video calls - Zoom after WebEx after Teams. Meeting after meeting. But are we actually connecting? Or are we just present on screen? Connection is the key to humanity. With that in mind, here are 3 simple ways to make sure we are building real connections as professionals in our new digital world: 1.) Prioritize Face-to-Face Virtual meetings are convenient, but nothing replaces being in the same room. Ask a colleague to grab coffee or lunch. Even better go for a walk with colleagues and clients when you can. The movement makes the thought process open up with increased blood flow. It also makes you focus on the conversation at hand - not another screen. 2.) Check in Beyond Meetings Don't let all interactions be scheduled. Send a quick text, ask how someone's doing, or drop a personal note. Small gestures go a long way in building connection. 3.) Be Fully Present When you're on a video meeting, be all in. Turn off notifications. LOOK at the camera. List actively. Use people's names - it's their favorite word and yes they are posted there on the screen. But it's a subtle acknowledgment that builds connection. People notice when you're truly engaged or "dialing it in" - even through a screen. Here's to strong relationships with colleagues, clients and each other. #Connection #BePresent #ClientRelationships #CollaborativeColleagues