Discover smarter ways to build your professional network remotely without relying on LinkedIn. Real connections happen beyond the feed.
.svg){kind=icon}
For most people, “remote networking” means endless scrolling, polite likes, and connection requests that go nowhere.
It’s networking theatre - plenty of activity, not much impact.
But here’s the truth: real networking doesn’t happen in the feed.
It happens in follow-ups, side chats, unexpected collaborations.
LinkedIn is powerful, yes - but it’s not the only way to build a meaningful professional network online. For many remote workers and small business owners, the best connections are made outside the LinkedIn feed.
Whether you’re building your career from home or growing your business remotely, here’s how to network online without relying on LinkedIn.
If LinkedIn is the networking equivalent of a big, noisy conference, then niche communities are like small, focused roundtables.
Think beyond the obvious:
The conversations here are often deeper, faster, and less performative than LinkedIn. It’s where genuine connections often start.
📝 Tip: Don’t just lurk. Introduce yourself, ask thoughtful questions, and share something useful early on.
Virtual events have exploded since 2020 - and they’re still one of the best ways to meet like-minded professionals without LinkedIn.
Then, follow up afterwards with a short, thoughtful message (email, DM, or Slack if that’s where you met).
👉 “Hey, I liked your question during the panel - would love to stay in touch about XYZ.”
These small, context-rich interactions build more genuine relationships than cold LinkedIn messages ever will.
Here’s a secret: the fastest way to build real networks remotely is to do something together.
Shared work builds trust faster than shared profiles.
Examples:
People remember collaborators, not cold outreach.
The most valuable professional relationships often start quietly - not in viral posts, but in comment threads, shared ideas, and thoughtful contributions.
Places like:
When you consistently share thoughtful input, answer questions, or contribute ideas, people start to recognise your name.
And when they recognise your name, networking becomes effortless.
Good old-fashioned email is one of the most underused networking tools in remote work.
A short, personal note to someone whose work you respect can open doors that LinkedIn can’t.
Here’s the key: make it genuine, specific, and low pressure.
👉 “Hey, I loved your talk on X - your point about Y really stuck with me. I’d love to share a quick idea with you if you’re open to it.”
Real people respond to real messages.
No algorithm required.
LinkedIn may open doors.
But the best opportunities often wait down quieter hallways.
Real networking has never been about platforms - it’s always been about people.
The most meaningful professional relationships happen in the quiet spaces - in shared projects, thoughtful questions, and real conversations.
When you stop treating LinkedIn as the only door, you’ll realise there are many doors.
Often, the doors that change your trajectory are rarely the ones everyone’s knocking on.
We're here to help. Get in touch now to start your journey towards greater capacity and growth.
