Networking for Digital Marketers

Networking can open doors…or close them. Avoid these 7 mistakes to make the right impression. 1. Only networking when you need something ❌ Don't: Wait until you're job hunting to build connections ✅ Do: Regularly engage with your network and build relationships before you need them 2. Neglecting to follow up on advice ❌ Don't: Take someone's advice and disappear ✅ Do: Take action on their suggestions and circle back to share your progress. Show them their time mattered 3. Dominating the conversation ❌ Don't: Dominate conversations with your own achievements ✅ Do: Ask thoughtful questions and practice active listening. Aim for 30% talking, 70% listening 4. Rushing to ask about jobs ❌ Don't: Don’t rush to ask about job openings right away ✅ Do: Focus on learning about their experience and building genuine rapport first 5. Ignoring online networking ❌ Don't: Treat LinkedIn as just a resume database ✅ Do: Engage meaningfully by commenting on posts, sharing relevant content, and celebrating others' milestones 6. Forgetting to add value ❌ Don't: Focus solely on what you can get from the relationship ✅ Do: Learn about their goals and actively look for ways to help them succeed 7. Letting connections fade ❌ Don't: Let valuable connections fade away ✅ Do: Create a simple system to track check-ins and send quick, personalized notes about their achievements The key to successful networking isn't just about making connections. It's about nurturing them. Reshare ♻ to help others in your network. And follow me for more posts like this.

Our client landed a senior Marketing role with a $30,000+ raise. It took them 18 weeks. Here are 6 strategies they used to make it happen: Context: Our client had spent months applying to marketing roles without much traction. Their applications went unanswered and interviews weren’t turning into offers. The biggest challenge? Competing against candidates with direct Ed Tech experience while theirs was from another industry. We teamed up and helped them build a strategy to position themselves effectively and connect with the right people: 1. They Narrowed Their Scope Instead of applying to everything, they built a targeted list of companies by: - Outlining must-haves (growth potential, team structure, leadership style) - Using LinkedIn and industry reports to identify companies that fit - Prioritizing companies hiring for roles aligned with their skill set This gave them a focused approach rather than a scattered job search. 2. They Focused On Networking Over Apps Rather than relying on job boards, they prioritized connecting with decision-makers by: - Using LinkedIn to connect with hiring managers and peers in Ed Tech - Leveraging college alumni networks for warm introductions - Reaching out with specific, value-driven messages rather than generic requests 3. They Tracked Their Process They tracked their applications and networking messages: - They created a spreadsheet to track applications, networking efforts, and interview progress - They analyzed which outreach methods led to interviews - They refined their resume and messaging based on response rates By using real data, they quickly identified what was working and doubled down on it. 4. They Prepared Intentionally Their networking efforts led to a referral and an interview. Rather than “winging it,” with their interview prep, they: - Completed mock interviews with their coach to identify weak spots - Refined their answers based on real-time feedback - Rehearsed high-impact stories until they felt natural 5. Treated Their Interview Like A Marketing Pitch Instead of just summarizing their experience, they structured their responses to sell their value: - They used a “challenge-action-result” framework for every answer - They tied their past experience directly to the company’s needs - This ensured they stood out as a clear problem-solver, not just another candidate. 6. They Used A Value Validation Project (VVP) Instead of just telling the company what they could do, they showed them with a targeted project: - They analyzed the company’s existing marketing funnel - They built a retention strategy to increase student re-engagement - They presented a data-backed plan showing how similar strategies had driven growth in their past roles That helped set them apart and win the offer.

A lot of the value of attending or speaking at a conference doesn’t come from being there. It comes from what you do afterwards. How many times have you come back from a conference or event and thought, “I should’ve done more to maximize that experience”? Not just attending the sessions or showing up at the networking receptions, but turning it into something meaningful for your visibility, your relationships and your business development efforts. Me too 🙋🏼♀️ It’s easy to get caught up in our busy lives, especially after returning from a conference and then move on to the next thing without following up. What you proactively do after the event is what can turn conversations into relationships and visibility into opportunity. Here are some ways to make the most of attending your next conference: ✔️ Prioritize the people you met and follow up with context on LinkedIn or by email, referencing your conversation and suggesting a clear next step ✔️ Follow up with organizers to share feedback and express interest in speaking or getting involved in future programming ✔️ Turn your conference notes into key takeaways and share them as content (LinkedIn post, blog post or short video) connected to your work, your clients or what you’re seeing in the market ✔️ Host your own webinar to recap key themes and extend the conversation ✔️ Interview speakers or attendees whose perspectives stood out and use that content in a webinar, blog post or on social media ✔️ Host an internal recap to share key insights and connect them to your team’s work ✔️ Turn questions or conversations from the event into content or targeted outreach ✔️ Share insights from the event in an email newsletter ✔️ Add relevant new contacts to your email list so you can stay visible with them ✔️ Create a simple system to stay in touch with the people who matter most ✔️ Review the attendee list and reach out to people you didn’t meet ✔️ Follow up with speakers you admired, even if you didn’t connect in person ✔️ Identify one trend or theme you kept hearing across conversations and proactively share that perspective with clients or colleagues You already put in the time and energy to be there. This is how you carry that momentum forward. Which of these ideas resonated most with you? #LegalMarketing #ClientDevelopment #LinkedInTips #BusinessDevelopment #PersonalBrandingTips

In my early career, I thought networking was all about building as many connections as possible. But I quickly learned that effective networking isn't about the quantity of your connections—it's about the quality. Throughout my career, the connections that have truly made a difference weren’t the ones where I just asked for help—they were the ones where I made it easy for others to want to help me. If you want to make others genuinely want to help you, it’s crucial to move beyond simply asking for favors. Instead, focus on creating value and building relationships where both parties benefit. So, how can you do the same? Here are four tactical tips to help you network effectively: ✅ Do Your Homework Before reaching out, research the person or company you’re interested in. Understand their work, challenges, and how you can add value. For instance, instead of asking a connection for job leads, do your own research first. Identify specific roles and companies you’re targeting, and then ask if they can help with an introduction. This approach shows initiative and respect for their time. ✅ Be Specific in Your Ask Whether you’re asking for an introduction, advice, or a referral, be clear and concise about what you need. For example, instead of asking, “Do you know anyone hiring?” say, “I noticed [Company Name] is looking for a [Role]. Would you be open to introducing me to [Person]? I’m happy to send you my resume and a brief write-up you can pass along, too.” This shows that you’ve taken the initiative and makes it easier for your contact to say yes. ✅ Offer Mutual Value When requesting a meeting or advice, frame it as a two-way conversation. Instead of saying, “Can I pick your brain?” try something like, “I’d love to exchange ideas on [specific topic] and share some strategies that have worked for me.” This not only makes your request more compelling but also positions you as someone who brings value to the table. ✅ Follow Up with Gratitude After someone has helped you, don’t just say thank you and disappear. Keep them in the loop on how their help made an impact. Whether you got the job, secured the meeting, or just had a great conversation, let them know. This closes the loop and makes them more inclined to help you in the future. Your network is one of your greatest assets—nurture it well, and it will be there for you when you need it most. What’s one networking tip that’s helped you build stronger connections? *** 📧 Want more tips like these? Join Career Bites - free weekly bite-sized tips to supercharge your career in 3 minutes or less: lorraineklee.com/subscribe 📖 You can also get behind-the-scenes stories, updates, and special gifts for my upcoming book Unforgettable Presence: lorraineklee.com/book

You don’t need to attend awkward networking events to build connections. Here are 10 ways to network online (from your couch) to land your dream job, mentorship or just to stay in touch: 1. Start with warm calls, not cold DMs Reaching out to strangers is intimidating. So, begin with people you already admire or respect: past colleagues, old classmates, mentors, or anyone you’ve gotten value from. Reach out, share your goals, ask for advice, or simply reconnect. — 2. Build (or join) a 3-6 person mastermind Invite people you admire to check in monthly or quarterly. Ask 3 simple questions in each meeting: • What’s your biggest win? • What’s your biggest challenge? • How can we help each other? This becomes your personal board of advisors, and their networks become yours, too. — 3. Make intros within your own network Instead of always trying to add new people, try connecting two people you already know. It builds goodwill, and often sparks reciprocity. Some of my best opportunities came from introductions I made first. — 4. Be the tortoise, not the hare Strong networks aren’t built in a week. They come from consistency, trust, and staying top of mind. Check in. Celebrate small wins. Be helpful, even without asking for anything.  — 5. Send snail mail Want to stand out in a sea of LinkedIn messages? Send a handwritten card or even a fun comic with a note. The person will always remember your “extra” effort. — 6. Elevate the interaction • Only chatted with someone online? Try a call. • Had a few calls? Try a Zoom meeting. • Know them over Zoom? Meet up in person. Each upgrade strengthens the connection. — 7. Pick one platform to dominate Instead of being everywhere, go deep somewhere. For example, if it’s LinkedIn: • Endorse people • Write thoughtful comments • Share niche insights your network actually values   This depth pays off more than shallow visibility. — 8. Curate, don’t just connect Curate the best insights, tools, or articles in your niche, and share them regularly. You’ll become a trusted source people keep coming back or referring to. — 9. Do something fun together Shared activities build bonds. This could be as simple as playing a game, joining a sweepstakes, or co-hosting a webinar.  People remember who made them feel something. — 10. Swipe right (yes, really) Apps like Shapr or Invitly are designed for warm outreach — you match with people who want to meet others. It’s cold networking without the awkwardness. Networking isn’t about pitching. It’s about planting seeds. Start with one person. Reach out. Reconnect.  Then keep showing up, helping others, and making connections that count.

I used to scare clients away (without knowing it). Don't make the same mistakes I did. Trust me, it's not as fun as it sounds. I used to wonder why no one replied to my emails or hired me. Turns out, I was doing everything wrong. Here’s a list of my biggest missteps (and how to avoid them). 1. Never Follow Up One email is enough, right? If they don’t reply, they’re not interested. 2. Target Everyone Don’t bother with “ideal clients.” Pitch to anyone with a pulse. 3. Neglect Your CRM Why organize when chaos is fun? Trust your memory to recall every lead. 4. Avoid Cold Outreach Reaching out is overrated. Wait for clients to magically find you. 5. Take “No” Personally Feedback? No thanks. Let rejection crush your soul. 6. Rely Only on Referrals Who needs a strategy when you’ve got luck? Hope for word-of-mouth to work forever. 7. Chase Likes, Not Leads Focus on going viral. Revenue? That’s a future-you problem. 8. Don’t Create Content Why share value when silence is golden? Let your expertise remain a mystery. 9. Do All the Talking Skip the listening part. Clients love being ignored. 10. Promise More, Deliver Less Overpromise, underdeliver. It’s the perfect recipe for disappointment. 11. Wait for Perfect Conditions Action can wait. Perfection is key (even if it never comes). 12. Ignore Feedback Clients don’t know what they want. Why bother listening to them? 13. Repeat Mistakes Learning is optional. Keep doing what doesn’t work. 14. Focus on Features, Not Benefits List every technical detail. Value? They’ll figure it out. 15. Don’t Ask for Case Studies Why show proof of success? Keep your wins a secret. 16. Ignore Data Decisions don’t need logic. Follow your gut—every time. 17. Copy the Crowd Blend in and expect to stand out. Genius strategy, right? 18. Quit When It Works Find success, then stop. Why bother scaling? If this list feels familiar... Maybe it's time to flip the script. ✨ Pro Tip: Want to actually land clients? Do the OPPOSITE of this list. Seriously. It works. ______________________________ Like the post? Repost ♻️ to help others Follow Arpit Singh tap the 🔔

If your job search strategy is “apply and pray”, it’s time to wake up. You’ve got the polished résumé. Your tracker is even color-coded. But if nobody knows you, nobody hires you. Welcome to Part 2 of this no-fluff series on how to actually land that job/internship quickly, the smart way. Let’s talk networking, not the awkward, copy-paste DM kind. I’m talking warm, strategic, “this-person-stays-in-my-head” networking. Here’s how the ones getting callbacks are doing it: ➤ Go where the energy is. Stop hiding behind applications. → One event a week. That’s it. Virtual or physical just show up. Tech talks. Product meetups. Twitter Spaces. Anything. Because you can't get seen if you’re never in the room. ➤ Ask that question. You don’t need to be the loudest. Just be thoughtful. → “What’s one mistake interns make when starting out?” → “How can someone without traditional experience break in?” That question puts your name in lights. And opens doors for real convos after. ➤ Talk to speakers. Sponsors. Panelists. Not to beg(very important because they can see if you will be a liability or an asset) but to build. “Hey [Name], I loved your take on X. I’m working on Y and your insight helped me rethink Z. Mind glancing at my résumé for 2 mins?” (I should add that some of you are doing this to me already 😂) That 2-minute ask has started careers. And the follow-up? That’s where the relationship begins. ➤ Start showing up online. → Follow 5 people in your dream industry → Engage with their content (thoughtfully) → DM after a few days: “Been learning a lot from your posts. I’m hoping to break into [industry], could I ask a quick question?” That’s a warm DM. And warm gets answered. ➤ Make your name hard to forget. → Post weekly (your journey, insights, challenges) → Comment daily (meaningful, not spammy) → DM with purpose, not desperation → Attend events like it’s your part-time job You don’t need magic. You need memory. And memory comes from consistency. TL;DR: Stop job hunting like everyone else. Start job building — with strategy, visibility, and genuine connection. So before Friday ends and vibes take over, do one thing from this list today. → Drop a comment with your favorite tip. → Share this with someone who needs it. → Or better, go network smart. Because the job isn’t just on LinkedIn. It’s in the minds of the people you’re not talking to, YET.

In a world where every executive has a firm handshake and a stack of business cards, how do you become the person everyone remembers after a conference? After attending dozens in the past decade, I've developed a strategy that transforms conferences from transactional meetups into relationship goldmines. ♟️Pre-Conference LinkedIn Strategy The real networking begins weeks before the event. Review the speaker and attendee lists, then connect with key individuals on LinkedIn with a personalized message: "I noticed we’re both attending the Stand & Deliver event. I'd love to connect. See you soon." This pre-conference connection creates a warm introduction and significantly increases your chances of meaningful engagement. 👗👔The Memorable Wardrobe Element In my early career, I blended in at conferences. Now? I'm known for wearing a little more color (often D&S Executive Career Management teal) or patterns that are professional yet distinctive. When someone says, "Oh, you're the one with the great dress," you've already won half the networking battle. 🤝Contribute Before You Collect** Instead of collecting business cards, focus on providing immediate value in conversations. Can you connect someone to a resource? Share relevant research? Offer a solution to a challenge they mentioned? The executives who stand out aren't those who take the most cards—they're the ones who solve problems on the spot. What networking approach has worked for you at recent conferences? Share in the comments below! #ExecutiveLeadership #NetworkingStrategy #ConferenceSuccess #ProfessionalDevelopment

Over the next 3 months, I’m hosting 4 major events in France, UK, USA and KSA. Beforehand, I want to share my top tips on how to get the best out of networking. 1. Set Clear Targets Action: Make a hit list of the top 10 companies or people you need to meet. Research what they care about—know their wins, pain points, & what they’re hunting for before you walk through the door. Outcome: These conversations won’t just happen by chance. By doing your homework, you’ll turn a five-minute chat into a deal-building moment. Schedule meetings in advance, & after the event, send a tailored follow-up email that shows you were listening. 2. Take the Stage (Literally) Action: Get on the agenda. Whether it’s a keynote, panel, or fireside chat, nothing says “I’m the one to watch” like holding the mic. Use this time to address the industry’s biggest challenges & position yourself—& your company—as the answer. Outcome: Speaking builds instant credibility. It’s not just exposure; it’s authority. Post-event, share the highlights on LinkedIn & invite attendees to continue the conversation, turning an audience into a lead pipeline. 3. Own the Floor Action: Don’t just lurk—work the room. Engage with key exhibitors, ask questions, & position yourself as a resource, not just another pitch. Be direct but curious: “What’s your biggest challenge this year?” and “How can I help?” are powerful openers. Outcome: You’ll stand out as someone who listens. Take notes during conversations, & follow up within 48 hours with a personalised message. Not a generic “great meeting you”—send actionable insights or specific ideas that move the ball forward. 4. Host the Inner Circle Action: People bond better in a more relaxed setting than over Wi-Fi. Organise an exclusive dinner, roundtable, or cocktail event for a curated group of heavy hitters. Keep it intimate—this is about building relationships, not just showing off. Go easy on the heavy sell. Outcome: People remember who brought them value & connections, not who handed out free pens. Post-event, share any key takeaways & book one-on-one follow-ups to solidify what you started over drinks. 5. Hack the Tech Action: Use every tool at your disposal—event apps, LinkedIn, QR codes. Pre-event, reach out to attendees & book meetings. At the event, swap contacts digitally to keep things seamless, & use a CRM to track every interaction. Outcome: You’ll leave the event with an organised roadmap of leads, not just a stack of business cards destined for a desk drawer. Follow up strategically with segmented, value-driven emails & keep the momentum alive. The Bottom Line: Trade fairs & exhibitions aren’t just networking. Preparation, presence, & follow-up separate those who close deals from those who just collect swag bags. Be human. Don’t think of this as just a branding exercise but an opportunity for long term partnerships. Be genuine - your new contacts will become close contacts, if not friends. Make it count! #revenuegrowth

I’ve been having lots of conversations about LinkedIn for events from organisers wanting to drive visibility and engagement, to exhibitors heading to upcoming tradeshows, and everyone in between. Whether you’re hosting, exhibiting, or attending LinkedIn can help you get more out of every event: ✨ More visibility 🤝 More connections 📈 More business outcomes Yet LinkedIn is often underused in the event space. A one-and-done post. A quick thank you. A flurry of activity... then silence. But here’s the thing: the event isn’t the beginning and it shouldn’t be the end. To get the most value, LinkedIn should be part of your strategy before, during and after the event. Here’s how to make the most of it: 🌠 1. Be LinkedIn Event Ready Your profile and company page shape your first impression often before anyone meets you. They should tell a clear, credible story that aligns with your event involvement. Organiser Tip: Create a LinkedIn Brand Kit for your speakers, exhibitors, and team – banners, hashtags, talking points, and example posts. Exhibitor Tip: Use an event-themed banner to show your stand details or branding. 🌠 2. Build Relationships Before the Event The most valuable connections rarely start cold on event day. The lead-up to the event is prime time to increase visibility, build familiarity, and position yourself as someone worth connecting with or visiting at the stand. Organiser Tip: Spotlight speakers, exhibitors, and sessions early and use tags to amplify. Exhibitor Tip: Shortlist people you want to meet - clients, prospects, collaborators, media and start connecting early. 🌠 3. Maximise the Event Experience Use LinkedIn to take people behind the scenes, amplify moments as they happen, and make your presence visible to those who couldn’t attend. Organiser Tip: Have someone live post from the floor, tagging participants and sharing session soundbites. Exhibitor Tip: Make it easy for people to connect with you it creates immediate pathways to keep the conversation going. 🌠 4. Keep the Momentum Going This is the stage where most people go quiet, but this is when the real relationship-building begins. Use LinkedIn to keep the conversation going. Share your takeaways. Follow up with new connections. Repurpose content into future posts. Organiser Tip: Share a highlight post and set the stage for what’s next even a “Save the Date” works. Exhibitor Tip: Send a personalised follow-up message referencing your chat. 🌟 Key Takeaways LinkedIn is one of the most powerful tools you have to extend your event beyond the room. It allows you to build relationships before the first handshake, stay visible throughout the event and strengthen credibility and connection long after the banners are packed away. And if you'd like support to develop your own LinkedIn event strategy that's more than one and done, I’d love to help. Because showing up is just the beginning. #linkedin #events #eventmarketing