The Secret to Networking Online and In Person

Networking can feel intimidating, whether in-person or online, but it doesn’t have to be. What’s the secret to making it work? The answer is simple: Be yourself. See below for secrets on how to network online and in person to build meaningful connections that last.

How to Build Meaningful Connections

First, be likeable. Whether face-to-face or virtual, personality matters. But what makes you approachable? A warm smile can go a long way, especially in virtual settings where emotions may not come across as easily. Genuinely engage with people by asking open-ended questions. Show you are paying attention through actively listening. Nodding or paraphrasing are great! These small, intentional actions can help you form meaningful connections.

Next, bring value (knowledge) to the conversation. People love to learn something new. You have a wealth of stories, experiences, and knowledge to offer. Share relevant insights that align with the person’s interest. Provide resources such as articles or tools to help solve a problem. Don’t hesitate to share insights that could be helpful or inspiring. This not only shows your expertise, but it also makes you memorable.

In addition, be authentic in the conversation. I believe people can tell when you are not genuine in the discussion. From body language to facial expressions, it is easy to tell how someone feels about you. When discussing your career journey, don’t be afraid to mention the ups and downs. Vulnerability can humanize you, making others feel comfortable doing the same. It may inspire a discussion you never imagined!

Finally, when networking, whether in person or online, it’s essential to connect on a deeper level. Look for common ground, whether through your professional journey or shared personal experiences. Find broad categories to bond over, whether it’s your career path (working at small vs. large companies), your goals and ambitions, family life, or shared hobbies. Both similarities and differences can spark genuine conversations and lasting relationships.

Online vs. In-person Networking Events

The reality is that you will always get a better connection when you’re physically together. That’s the only time you are communicating and listening with all your senses. There are facial expressions, body language, word choice, and atmosphere drawing you into the conversation.

But let’s be honest, in 2025, much of our communication is online. I attend board meetings, advisory council meetings, PTO meetings, parent-teacher meetings, mentor/mentee meetings, and sometimes family meetings over Zoom! It’s important to connect online as well using the same characteristics — be likeable, bring value, be authentic, and really connect. It’s the same skills used to network online and in person to build meaningful connections.

Online interactions can be just as powerful if you make the effort. Using video calls helps replicate in-person interactions, and tools such as LinkedIn make following up and continuing the conversation easy. After meeting people in person, drop them a note on LinkedIn. Following up and including a part of your conversation and interaction shows genuine interest from your conversation. The key is consistency; just like in-person, show up, be present, and stay engaged.

Networking: How to Start?

To start building a powerful network, begin by reaching out to the people who have influenced your career. Reconnect with 10 former colleagues or mentors. Then, attend in-person events to expand your network with people who align with your goals. Whether virtual or in-person, follow up and nurture these relationships regularly to keep them strong. As your list continuously grows, be intentional about keeping the relationship warm.

Now that you know the secret to effective networking, it’s time to take action! Choose one networking opportunity this week and make an effort to connect with at least three people. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your network can grow and evolve.

Amber Kodish is the managing member of GovCon Tech LLC, a services company that helps commercial businesses navigate and secure government contracts. In addition, she holds several board positions, including the University of Maryland Master of Business Analytics (MSBA) advisory board chairperson, Targa AI board member and investor, Springboard Enterprises CEO mentor, and Idea VillageX entrepreneur mentor. She is former CEO of a data science company, and successfully built and led a new public-sector team from the ground up for a SaaS company as VP of Public Sector Operations, among other roles.

Amber holds a master’s degree in business administration from Drexel University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Rutgers University.