Networking for Writers in the Digital Age

As an introvert, the thought of large professional gatherings can be overwhelming. However, you know that networking is crucial for career growth and professional success. One strategy that has worked for me is leveraging online platforms to build meaningful connections. Sites like LinkedIn allow for thoughtful engagement without the immediate pressure of in-person events, making it easier for introverts to connect and engage. By creating and sharing content, you can attract connections naturally. Platforms like Medium, YouTube, GitHub, and X also offer great opportunities to expand your reach and showcase your expertise. Start by joining online communities related to your field and contributing valuable insights. This approach not only helps you build your network but also positions you as a thought leader in your industry. Online networking allows you to take your time crafting messages and engaging in conversations at your own pace. It breaks down the barriers to the hardest part of networking: meeting a large volume of people. For introverts, this method is more manageable and comfortable, opening doors to new opportunities and meaningful relationships. Do you consider yourself an introvert? If so, how have you thought about effectively networking? #Networking #Introvert #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment

“Networking is awkward.” You know what’s more awkward? Graduating in May 2025 and applying to 127 jobs with… zero callbacks. Let’s fix that with networking ideas no one’s talking about. and I mean actionable.. 1. “Reverse Research” Your Way Into a Conversation Instead of asking people what they do, show them what you know about what they’ve done. How to do it: Find someone on LinkedIn in your target company/role Read their posts, podcasts, or panels they’ve been on Then send this message: “Hi [Name], I came across your [talk/article/post] on [topic]—your point about [insight] made me think differently. I’m researching [industry], and would love to hear your take on [specific follow-up]. Would it be okay to connect?” That’s conversation built on respect. 2. Book Club for Industry Geeks Start a virtual book or podcast club for your industry. Invite professionals to speak at the end of each cycle. How to do it: Pick 3 peers + 1 book or podcast Create a simple calendar (4 weeks = 4 touchpoints) End with a “Wrap-Up” Zoom chat—invite a guest Post your takeaways on LinkedIn and tag them Because learning together? Is the strongest way to network. 3. Write A “Public Thank You” Post on LinkedIn You probably learned something cool from someone recently. Now imagine you posted it publicly, gave them a shoutout, and showed how you applied it. How to do it: Tag the person Share what they taught you Share what you did next Ask your network, “What’s something YOU learned from someone this month?” You just gave free visibility, created a loop, and 10 people will want to talk to you after. 4. Turn Informational Chats into Co-Creation Networking chats often stop at “thanks for the time.” What if it didn’t? What to do: After the call, send a note: “Hey [Name], based on our chat about [topic], I drafted a small idea to build on your advice. Would love your thoughts!” Create a graphic, short write-up, or project plan (just 1 page!) Now you’re not just a student. You’re someone they collaborated with. That’s relationship-building, not just networking. 5. The 5-5-5 Strategy Most people get stuck on who to reach out to. Here’s a weekly formula: 5 People You Admire (Founders, creatives) 5 People From Your School Network (Alums, professors, guest speakers) 5 Peers Who Are Also Job Hunting (Build a support circle, swap leads) Message all 15. Repeat weekly. That’s 156 conversations in 3 months. You don’t “find” jobs—you build the path to them. Reminder: Networking isn’t about who has the fanciest title. It’s about who remembers you when an opportunity comes up. Be the person who listened, learned, shared, and followed up. If you’re reading this and job searching— try one new method this week. Not next month. Not when it feels “less scary.” Now. You’re not late. #May2025Grads #NetworkingTips #CreativeCareerMoves #JobSearchStrategy #InternationalStudents #GradJobHunt #BeyondTheResume #HumanConnection #Topmate

As a business author, it's easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day, and at times, I forget how valuable these platforms truly are. Something I was afraid of on LinkedIn was merely reaching out to people I found interesting and striking conversations. Because I get pitched sales stuff a lot, I didn't want to come off like that. So, I started carving out one hour in my morning to specifically dedicate to finding connections that can be of value to me and my network. Sending out 10-25 messages per day has been a game changer once I reframed the fear I once had. I'm typically seeking people who can use my network of remarkable people with tons of value in the publishing industry. It's not about me. It's about seeing if I can connect them with others. I’ve found “warm reaching out” to be incredibly effective. This is a soft, friendly way of contacting someone directly, expressing authentic interest in their work before mentioning my own. The simple template I use has a fantastic success rate. Why? Because it's not just a sales pitch — it’s an invitation for a meaningful connection. People want to know you value their work before they invest time into yours. Be interested to be interesting. Make it a practice to read, comment, and share the works of those in your network. The reciprocity is amazing — people are far more likely to take an interest in what you’re doing when you do the same. I’ve seen an expansion in my reader base and even formed some collaborations I didn't see coming. Here's my exact outreach template. I tailor it appropriately, but you're welcome to use it if you don't have one. Hi [Name], I came across your profile and was impressed by your work in [Their field]. Your recent post about [Topic] caught my eye, and I found your insights incredibly valuable. I would love to connect and potentially collaborate in the future. I have a network full of experts in the [ industry ] If you're seeking someone to connect with to help with anything, I would be happy to make that connection. Best regards, [Your Name] I hope the template is useful! #AuthorLife #Networking #DirectMessaging #GenuineConnections #risingauthors #gardenwarrior