Most People Network Like They're Speed Dating. That’s the Problem

Quick intros. Generic pitches. Fast exits. Next!

Sound familiar?

That’s how most people “network” on LinkedIn. It’s fast. It’s transactional. And it’s why it doesn’t work.

Here’s the real truth: Networking isn’t about getting lucky with the right person at the right time. It’s about layering trust over time—like a slow-burn friendship.

Speed dating tactics lead to shallow connections. Slow-drip consistency builds real ones.

So how do you build relationships that actually last?

1. Stop pitching. Start planting. Every comment, message, or share is a seed. Not a sale. Give it time, water it with value, and stay present.

2. Focus on one person, not a hundred. You don’t need to mass-connect. You need to meaningfully engage with 5–10 people consistently. That’s where referrals and collabs come from.

3. Create content that sounds like a conversation starter. Instead of “Here’s what I offer,” try:

“Here’s something I’ve been noticing in my client convos this week…” Invite connection. Don’t perform.

4. Let your follow-up feel like friendship. It doesn’t have to be, “Circling back…” Try:

“Saw this and thought of you.” “Curious how that project turned out.” These little check-ins build deep memory.

5. Play the long game. The best connections come from staying in someone’s orbit— not barging into their inbox with an ask.

Networking that works? It feels more like building a band. Less like speed dating at a bar.

You don’t need to impress everyone. You just need to resonate with a few—deeply and consistently.

That’s how relationships (and referrals) actually grow.

What’s one small thing someone did that made you want to stay connected? Drop it below. That’s the good stuff.

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