Online Networking Events

“Are you Karla?” Someone asked me that in my gym in Bali. But it’s also happened: → On a street in Manchester → In a bathroom in Amsterdam → At a wedding in Valencia → And again, in London, Paris and Glasgow Being recognised on the other side of the world is a surreal feeling 🥹 But every time it’s happened, it’s been because of one thing: Showing up on LinkedIn and building a meaningful & strategic personal brand. Each of them recognised me from photos. They had read my posts. And knew parts of my story. They were aware of my business journey. My marketing knowledge & expertise. My ADHD. My love for health and wellness. Where I've been- and where I'm going. When they saw me in real life, they felt like they already knew me. It opened the door for conversation. And immediately built trust and connection. That’s the halo effect in action. In psychology, when someone forms a positive impression in one area... They subconsciously assume you're credible in others too. It’s a powerful cognitive bias that works in your favour. Here's how I've seen it compound: → I share authentic, story-driven content → That builds emotional connection and authority online → When people meet me IRL, there's already trust → They feel safe enough to: Say hi, ask questions, share their own stories → Then they go back online and engage even deeper → That builds a stronger connection → And creates more inbound opportunities (from them directly or through referrals) That’s why building a personal brand is such a valuable business asset. It takes you from: > Silent lurker / unknown founder To: > Someone your dream clients already recognise & resonate with That’s why I don’t work with clients who just want virality. Trends and overused templates can get attention. But they rarely build connection. Emotion sells, so make people feel something. Don't believe me? The cold, hard data doesn’t lie: System1 found that emotional advertising is twice as effective as rational. It’s exactly why every LinkedIn strategy I create includes: • Real, raw storytelling • Intentional positioning • Deep emotional resonance • Value-led content that shows, not tells Client example of the halo effect in action: A founder of a high-growth agency spoke on stage at Cannes. It completely elevated their personal brand. Their ICP were: - Tagging them in posts - Engaging with older content - Visiting their LinkedIn profile - Connecting with & DM'ing them - Sending them PR & business opportunities Their offline presence fuelled their online credibility. And their online content pre-sold their value IRL. = true amplification and authority So if you're building a personal brand... Don’t just aim to “perform” online. Aim to connect online offline. Because perception comes first. With it comes trust, opportunities and growth! P.s. book recommendation: ‘Key Person of Influence’ by Daniel Priestly

If you want to grow on LinkedIn, focus less on collecting connections and more on building meaningful ones. Most people treat LinkedIn like a numbers board: “Let me hit 10,000 connections.” But the truth is- growth comes from depth, not quantity. Here’s what actually helps you build worthy, long-term connections 👇 1️⃣ Stop sending cold requests. Start sending context. “Hi, let’s connect” rarely works. A simple one-line reason why you want to connect- changes everything. People respond to intention, not randomness. 2️⃣ Comment before you connect. Thoughtful comments get noticed faster than connection requests. Engage with their posts, add a real perspective, that’s how you become memorable. 3️⃣ Share value consistently. People connect with those who help them grow. Share insights, experiences, frameworks, mistakes, lessons, and value build credibility. 4️⃣ Reach out without expecting anything. The best relationships start with curiosity, not demands. Don’t lead with “Please refer me” or “I need a job.” Start a conversation. Opportunities follow naturally. 5️⃣ Be patient and consistent. Meaningful networks don’t grow overnight. A few weeks of consistent posting + genuine engagement can change your entire reach. 6️⃣ Be authentic, not perfect. Your real voice, real experiences, and real thoughts will attract the right people into your network. LinkedIn isn’t about how many connections you have. It’s about how many you genuinely connect with. Build relationships that feel human- not transactional.

By now, you already know: the best roles are rarely filled through job boards. They’re filled through relationships. Over the years, I’ve refined a method I call the “Strategic Access Framework.” Here’s how it works: 1️⃣ Identify the right people inside your target company Don’t just think about recruiters. Instead, ask: Who has insights about the team, culture, and challenges I want to be part of? These are the leaders and decision-makers worth building a connection with. 2️⃣ Initiate a conversation to learn, not to pitch Set up meetings with genuine curiosity. Ask about the company’s direction, leadership priorities, and what success looks like in their roles. When you focus on learning, you naturally leave a stronger impression. 3️⃣ Position yourself for a referral Referrals don’t happen by accident. They come from thoughtful conversations. By asking the right questions and sharing relevant experiences, you’ll naturally open the door for them to connect you to the right opportunity. 4️⃣ Nurture the relationship long-term A single meeting isn’t the end. It’s the beginning. Stay in touch, share insights, and keep the dialogue going. That way, when opportunities arise (and they will), your name is already top of mind. I’ve seen professionals land interviews and offers within weeks by applying this approach. The key is to stop relying on online applications and start investing in the relationships that drive hiring decisions.

🤝 Networking feels awkward? You’re not alone. If the idea of reaching out to someone for “networking” makes you cringe, you’re not the only one. Many of us associate networking with forced small talk, sales pitches, or feeling like we’re asking for favours. But here’s the truth: Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional. When done right, it’s about building authentic, mutually beneficial connections that can open doors and provide value to both parties. Here’s how to make networking feel natural and effective: 1️⃣ Start with Common Ground When reaching out, mention something you genuinely admire or have in common. This could be their work on a specific project, attending the same school, or even shared connections. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I recently read about your work on [specific project], and I found it fascinating! As someone interested in [related topic], I’d love to hear about your approach.” 2️⃣ Shift the Mindset from “Getting” to “Giving” Instead of asking for favours, think about how you can offer value. Sharing helpful insights, articles, or even thoughtful comments on LinkedIn posts can create goodwill and start a genuine conversation. 👉 Example: Commenting on their post: “I really appreciate your take on [topic]. It reminded me of [specific example/experience], and I’m excited to apply this in my own work!” 3️⃣ Ask for Advice, Not Favours People love to share their expertise, and asking for advice shows respect for their knowledge. It’s a low-pressure way to connect while learning something valuable. 👉 Example: “Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [industry/role], and your career journey is inspiring. Would you be open to a quick chat to share advice on [specific topic]?” 4️⃣ Follow Up with Gratitude Networking doesn’t end after one conversation. Send a thank-you note, share how their advice helped, or engage with their updates online to maintain the connection. 👉 Example: “Thank you for taking the time to chat with me! Your advice on [topic] was so helpful—I’ve already started applying it and am seeing progress. Let’s stay in touch!” 💡 Final Thought: Networking isn’t about collecting connections; it’s about building relationships. Approach each interaction with curiosity, authenticity, and a genuine desire to add value, and you’ll find it feels much less awkward—and a lot more rewarding. How do you make networking feel natural? Let’s share ideas below! 💬👇 #NetworkingTips #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalConnections #JobSearch

Your network is worthless when you actually need it. Unless you’ve cultivated it over the years. Everyone's talking about layoffs, job anxiety and career security. Your network is your lifeline. But not if you only think about it when you're in trouble. After 25 years of coaching executives through multiple economic downturns, I've seen the same pattern. The people who land on their feet aren't scrambling to build relationships when the writing's on the wall. They spent years building authentic connections when they didn't need anything. Most networking advice is superficial. Here's what actually works: 1️⃣ Proactively share others’ wins  When something goes well, highlight  the people who helped make it happen. Send their boss a note. Tag them in your success post. This single habit builds massive  goodwill. 2️⃣ Make introductions that surprise people Don't just connect people in your industry. The VP of sales who loves hiking needs to meet the operations manager who leads wilderness trips. Unexpected connections create value. 3️⃣ Remember what they actually care about Someone mentioned  their daughter's career  search six months ago. When you see a relevant article, send it. Stand out by remembering the human details. 4️⃣ Ask for their opinion on your challenges  "I'm thinking through this issue and could use your perspective" is a form of sincere flattery. People love sharing expertise. 5️⃣ Amplify their voice, not just their achievements Don't just comment on promotion posts. Share their insights. Quote their smart takes in your own content. Make  them a thought leader in your network. 6️⃣ Follow up on the hard stuff When someone mentions a difficult project or family situation remember to check in about it.  "How did that restructuring announcement land with your team?" “How’s your mom?” Real relationships aren't built when you need something. They're built over time with sincere interest in others’ success. It’s a good moment to check in with someone to see how they’re doing.

Networking Without the Desperation How I Build Real Connections That Don’t Reek of Neediness Let’s be honest - most “networking” is just transactional begging wrapped in LinkedIn buzzwords. You can smell the desperation through the screen. If your outreach sounds like: ❌️ Let’s connect! I’d love to pick your brain. ❌️ Just looking to build my network! ❌️ Would be great to collaborate! …you’re not networking. You’re panhandling with a profile picture. Here’s how to do it right: ✅️ Stop Asking for Favors from Strangers No one owes you their time, contacts, or advice. If you wouldn’t walk up to someone at a bar and demand free coaching, don’t do it online. ✅️ Bring Value First Before you ask for anything, offer something useful: - Share a relevant lead - Introduce them to someone in their network - Send a resource that solves a problem they’ve mentioned ✅️ Ditch the Generic Outreach “Hi [Name], I came across your profile and…” is the equivalent of a robocall. Personalize or don’t bother. ✅️ Build Before You Need Real networking happens long before you’re job hunting or pitching. If your first interaction is an ask, you’ve already failed. ✅️ Know When to Walk Away Not every connection will turn into something. Chasing people who clearly aren’t interested makes you look needy - and worse, forgettable. The best networkers don’t collect contacts. They build relationships. And that starts with being someone worth remembering, not just another name in an inbox. Want to stand out? Be the person who gives before they take. The rest will follow. Do you agree?

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?  

Most job seekers get LinkedIn wrong. They treat it like an online résumé… when the real magic is in networking. If you’re only updating your profile but not building relationships, you’re leaving opportunities on the table. Here’s a 6-part checklist to turn LinkedIn into your networking superpower: 1. Optimize Before You Connect – Make sure your profile clearly communicates who you are, what you do, and what kind of opportunities you’re seeking. First impressions matter. 2. Build with Intention – Connect strategically with alumni, recruiters, peers, and industry leaders. Always personalize your connection requests with a note explaining why you want to connect. 3. Engage Consistently – Don’t just like posts. Comment thoughtfully, share insights, and add value to conversations. Engagement keeps you visible and top-of-mind. 4. Start Conversations – After someone accepts your connection, send a short thank-you note. Ask questions to learn from their experience, or invite them to a brief chat or virtual coffee. 5. Nurture Relationships – Networking doesn’t stop after one message. Celebrate milestones, check in periodically, share resources, and offer help without expecting anything in return. 6. Leverage for Job Search – When the time is right, reach out to employees at companies you’re targeting for informational chats. Warm introductions often open doors far faster than cold applications. Networking on LinkedIn isn’t about collecting contacts ~ it’s about building trust BEFORE you need it. Question for you: What’s one LinkedIn networking habit that’s worked really well for you?

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 💸

Making true connections on LinkedIn isn’t about collecting contacts — it’s about building relationships that actually matter. Here are best practices that work: 1. Personalize every connection request Skip the default message. Mention why you want to connect — a post they shared, a role you admire, or a mutual interest. People respond to relevance. 2. Lead with curiosity, not an ask Don’t pitch in the first message. Ask a thoughtful question, acknowledge their work, or simply thank them for something they shared. Relationships come before transactions. 3. Engage before you connect Like, comment, or share their content before sending a request. When your name is already familiar, the connection feels natural — not random. 4. Be consistent, not performative Show up regularly with genuine comments and insights. Thoughtful engagement builds more trust than viral one-liners. 5. Share value openly Post content that helps others: lessons learned, resources, encouragement, or clarity. When you give without expecting immediate return, people remember. 6. Follow up like a human After connecting, send a short note — not a sales pitch. A simple “Glad to connect — looking forward to learning from your posts” goes a long way. 7. Play the long game True connections aren’t built in a week. They’re built over time through repeated, authentic interactions. LinkedIn works best when you treat it less like a marketplace and more like a community.