Digital networking has exploded in the last few years. LinkedIn connections, virtual coffee chats, DM introductions, QR code exchanges at events — the ways we connect professionally have multiplied. But as the channels have changed, many professionals haven't updated their approach. They're using old-school tactics in a new-school world, and it's costing them opportunities.
The Golden Rule: Lead with Value
The single most important rule of digital networking is this: give before you ask. Every connection request, every DM, every follow-up should lead with something valuable. Share an article relevant to their work. Compliment a specific project they've done. Offer an introduction to someone they should know. When you consistently lead with value, you become someone people want to stay connected with — not someone they want to ignore.
The Dos of digital networking:
- Personalize every connection request — reference something specific about their work
- Follow up within 24 hours of meeting someone new
- Share your digital business card instead of asking people to search for you
- Keep your profiles and digital card updated — stale information erodes trust
- Engage with people's content before asking for favors
- Be genuinely curious about what others do and how you can help
The Don'ts of digital networking:
- Don't send generic connection requests ('I'd like to add you to my network')
- Don't pitch your services in the first message — build rapport first
- Don't spam the same message to dozens of people
- Don't ignore messages or connection requests for weeks
- Don't treat networking as purely transactional — relationships are investments
- Don't share outdated or inconsistent contact information across platforms
The Art of the Follow-Up
The follow-up is where most networking connections die. You meet someone at an event, exchange cards or QR scans, and then... nothing. The fortune is in the follow-up. Within 24 hours, send a short, personalized message referencing your conversation. Something like: 'Great meeting you at [Event] yesterday. Loved your take on [Topic]. Here's my digital card if you need to reach me: [Link].' Short, specific, and actionable.
Networking is not about collecting contacts. It's about planting relationships. The follow-up is the water that makes them grow.
Virtual Events and Online Networking
Virtual networking events present unique challenges. You can't read body language as easily, sidebar conversations are harder, and the post-event connection can feel forced. To stand out, use the chat actively during sessions, ask thoughtful questions, and share your digital business card link in the chat so people can connect with you effortlessly. After the event, reference specific discussions in your follow-up messages — this shows you were genuinely engaged, not just collecting contacts.
Drop your BrizCard link in event chat rooms, Zoom breakout rooms, and virtual networking spaces. It's the fastest way to turn fleeting interactions into lasting connections.
Building a Network That Matters
Quality always beats quantity in networking. Having 5,000 LinkedIn connections means nothing if you can't name 50 people who would take your call. Focus on building deep, genuine relationships with a smaller group of people you genuinely respect and want to help. Share opportunities, make introductions, celebrate wins, and show up when it matters. That's the kind of network that transforms careers.