How to Network on LinkedIn in 2025 (New Rules)
Discover updated LinkedIn networking strategies for 2025 to build genuine relationships, get noticed, and land opportunities in a competitive job market.
Networking has always been a cornerstone of career advancement, but in 2025, the rules of engagement have drastically changed. Gone are the days of cold messaging recruiters or attending massive career fairs hoping for a breakthrough. The job market is more competitive than ever, with three job seekers vying for every open position in North America. To stand out, professionals must adopt a smarter, relationship-driven approach to networking - one that prioritizes authenticity, long-term connections, and strategic engagement.
This article breaks down transformative networking strategies shared by careers coach Emily Durham, helping you navigate LinkedIn and in-person networking in an era where relationship-building is the key to success.
Why Traditional Networking No Longer Works
For many, traditional networking feels uncomfortable and transactional. It typically involves cold emails or messages, awkward career fair conversations, and impersonal requests for referrals. In today’s job market, these methods yield diminishing returns. Recruiters are overwhelmed with requests, and transactional outreach often leads to being ignored or ghosted.
The new model of networking flips the script. It focuses on building genuine relationships first and asking for favors later - shifting the objective from short-term results to long-term professional growth.
The New Approach to LinkedIn Networking
Step 1: Prepare by Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile
Before diving into networking, it’s essential to polish your LinkedIn profile. Your profile is your digital first impression, so ensure it reflects your skills, experience, and aspirations. This step is foundational because it sets the stage for meaningful interactions.
Step 2: Identify Your Target Network
Start by listing 30 companies you aspire to work for. Research individuals who currently hold roles you’re interested in or occupy managerial positions relevant to your goals. These could be, for example, finance managers or senior marketing executives.
Once you’ve identified key individuals, connect with them on LinkedIn or follow their activity. This allows you to observe and engage with their content in a way that feels organic.
Step 3: Engage Before You Reach Out
Relationship-building requires a warm-up phase. Spend one to two months regularly interacting with your target connections’ posts. Like, comment thoughtfully, and share insights that add value to the conversation. Use the "Rule of Sevens" from marketing - an individual typically needs seven interactions with a product (or person, in this case) before developing familiarity. By gradually building your presence, you become a known entity, making future outreach more effective.
Step 4: Craft Your Outreach Message
Once you’ve established some familiarity, it’s time to send a thoughtful message. Instead of requesting a favor outright, frame your communication around curiosity and respect for their expertise. Include a personal touch referencing their recent posts or achievements. For example:
"Hi [Name], I’ve really enjoyed reading your insights on [topic] over the past few weeks. Your recent post about [specific topic] really resonated with me. I’d love to learn more about your career journey and how you’ve navigated [industry challenges]. Would you be open to a brief conversation?"
This approach significantly increases the likelihood of a response because it feels personal and genuine.
Step 5: Maintain the Relationship
Networking doesn’t end after one conversation. Follow up with a thank-you note within 24 hours, referencing specific takeaways from your discussion. Continue engaging with their LinkedIn content and touch base every few months with thoughtful notes or relevant articles. This ongoing effort transforms a one-time interaction into an enduring professional relationship.
Rethinking In-Person Networking
While online networking is invaluable, in-person connections remain powerful, especially in niche industries. Unlike large-scale career fairs, which are often oversaturated, smaller, industry-specific events offer higher-quality interactions.
Finding the Right Events
Search platforms like Eventbrite, LinkedIn, or even local Facebook groups for targeted events such as tech meetups, women in STEM gatherings, or company-hosted open houses. These events foster intimate, meaningful conversations compared to the chaotic atmosphere of larger fairs.
Tips for Navigating In-Person Events
- Bring a Friend: Having a plus-one can reduce anxiety and make the experience less intimidating.
- Be Proactive: Take the initiative to start conversations. Look for open body language (e.g., uncrossed arms, wandering eyes) to identify individuals who may be receptive to chatting.
- Start with a Compliment or Question: For example, "I love your blazer - where did you get it?" or "Did you attend the earlier panel discussion? What were your thoughts?" These openers break the ice and create a natural flow.
- Plan Your Exit: After a brief interaction, leave graciously. For instance, "It was so great chatting with you! I’d love to connect on LinkedIn and perhaps grab coffee sometime."
Following Up After Events
Within 24 hours, connect with new contacts on LinkedIn and send a personalized message reminding them of your conversation. This follow-up reinforces the connection and keeps you top of mind.
Networking for Introverts: Finding Your Comfort Zone
Networking often rewards extroverted traits like confidence, outgoingness, and ease with strangers. However, introverts can excel at networking by leaning into their strengths - thoughtfulness, preparation, and deep one-on-one conversations.
If large events feel overwhelming, focus on LinkedIn interactions or small meetups where conversations are more manageable. Tailor your networking strategy to suit your personality, ensuring it feels authentic and sustainable.
Key Takeaways
- Shift from Transactional to Relational Networking: Focus on building genuine connections before asking for favors.
- Optimize Your LinkedIn Presence: A polished profile is essential for attracting attention and credibility.
- Engage Consistently with Your Target Network: Use the Rule of Sevens to establish familiarity over time.
- Personalize Outreach Messages: Reference specific posts or achievements to make your message stand out.
- Prioritize Niche Events Over Career Fairs: Smaller gatherings foster deeper, more meaningful interactions.
- Start Conversations with Questions or Compliments: Break the ice with approachable and authentic openers.
- Maintain Relationships Over Time: Follow up regularly by engaging with content and touching base.
- Adapt Networking to Your Personality: If you’re introverted, focus on online networking or small group interactions.
Conclusion
In the hyper-competitive job market of 2025, networking is no longer a matter of sending mass messages or attending crowded events. Success lies in building meaningful, long-term relationships that unlock opportunities over time. Whether you’re engaging online or in person, the key is to approach networking as a process of mutual value and genuine connection. By embracing these new rules, you can transform networking from a dreaded chore into a powerful tool for career growth.
Source: "How to Actually Network in 2025 (The New Way People Really Get Hired)" - Emily Durham, YouTube, Dec 2, 2025 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1W-En6U2T8
