The New Way of Connecting: A Deep Dive into the Power of Online Networking

From feed comments to virtual coffees — how the rules of connection have changed

“This is all in reverse,” I said.
“Yep! It's like that, isn't it?” replied Luke.

We were talking about networking. Not the old-school handshake-and-business-card kind, but the modern, digital-first kind — the one where connections are built through comment threads and DMs before any in-person handshake happens. And honestly? It’s kind of brilliant.

Let’s take a deeper look at how online networking is turning the traditional model on its head — and why that might be the best thing that’s ever happened to relationship-building.

The New Connection Process: From Content to Coffee

The Steps of Online Networking

Here’s how most connections unfold now:

• You come across someone’s post on LinkedIn.
• It resonates. So you drop a comment.
• They reply. You go back and forth over a few more posts across a few weeks.
• Then one of you says: “Hey, should we actually jump on a call?”

This digital dance might take weeks or months. But by the time you hop on Zoom, it already feels like a warm handshake. That’s powerful.

Embracing the Change

Yes, it’s “in reverse” compared to what we’re used to. But as Luke said during our call, “we should all just get on more calls and do this.” And he’s absolutely right.

Because real connection doesn’t have to start face-to-face anymore. It can begin in comments, evolve in DMs, and deepen on a call. That’s the magic of today’s networking.

The Power of Going Deep

Discovering Common Ground

Here’s the moment it clicked for Luke and me. We were talking about LinkedIn strategies when I mentioned I was a Golden State Warriors fan.
“I’m a Warriors fan too!” Luke said. Instantly, we were off to the races, talking about playoffs, Steph Curry, and how much we both love the game.

That’s what takes a networking call from “business chat” to “real human connection.” It’s the shared passions, the life experiences, the personal quirks — these are the glue that makes relationships stick.

The Value of Shared Experiences

This is what going deep looks like. It’s not just about exchanging job titles and asking, “What do you do?” It’s about understanding the person beyond the profile. Because shared values and interests are what open doors — not just shared industries.

So next time you’re tempted to stay surface-level, don’t. Go deeper. You’ll be surprised how many meaningful connections are waiting beneath the small talk.

Shaking Things Up: Changing Posting Times

Embracing the Curveball

This month, I decided to change when I post on LinkedIn — shifting to midday in the UK. Why? To see who else shows up. To engage with new people. To welcome a curveball into my content rhythm.

Change creates space for fresh engagement. It pushes you to explore new connections and stretch into unfamiliar territory. And that’s where magic happens.

Building a Diverse Audience

Changing my post time isn’t just an experiment — it’s a strategy. By reaching people in different time zones or work rhythms, I’m inviting a more diverse mix of perspectives into my world.

Because the more diverse your audience, the more diverse your insights, your conversations, your ideas. And in today’s world, that kind of diversity isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Final Thoughts: The New Way Works

This “reverse” model of connection — from content to conversation — isn’t a lesser version of networking. It’s a better one.

It allows you to:

• Build warmth before you ever get on a call
• Engage on shared values, not just job roles
• Create stronger, deeper, more natural relationships

So stop waiting for a networking event or a handshake to make your move. You’re already connected. Now start engaging. Comment. DM. Hop on a call. Go deeper.

Because in today’s world, the best relationships start long before you “officially” meet.

And sometimes, they start with a single comment.

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