Day 74 and 75 #pitchtopaywithben
We missed yesterday's due to an event I attended.
Relationship 101 for newbies who don't understand how to build relationships in the career space.
How to Build Real Relationships on LinkedIn (Especially With Strangers)
Let me be honest with you. Most people don’t get opportunities on LinkedIn because they don’t know how to build relationships. They think posting every day is the key. It’s not. The real power is in the people you build with.
Here’s the data pack you can teach:
1. Attention first, conversation second
People won’t talk to you if they don’t notice you. Engage with their posts in a meaningful way. Not “Nice post.” Actually contribute. This makes your name familiar before you ever DM them.
2. Your first message should not be a request
Stop jumping into someone’s inbox asking for referrals. Nobody owes you anything. Start with a simple context message:
“Hey, I’ve been following your posts. I like how you broke down X. I’m trying to learn Y.”
Keep it human.
3. Build consistency, not pressure
Relationships don’t grow in one day. You follow up by checking in, engaging with their content, and sharing updates about what you’re working on. Let them see your growth.
4. Give value before you need value
This is the biggest hack. Share a resource. Send them an insight. Celebrate their wins. Even something small like “Saw you got promoted, congrats” goes a long way.
5. Let people see your work
People refer to those they trust. People trust those they understand. If you create content around your skills and journey, your network starts seeing your competence without you shouting.
6. Don’t act desperate
Even if you need a job badly, don’t make it their problem. Have confidence. Show clarity. Clear people get picked faster.
7. Stay top-of-mind
You don’t need to disturb them. Just show up. Comment. Post. Share. Many referrals happen because “your name came to their mind at the right time.”
8. Be a good communicator
If someone gives you advice or connects you, update them. Close the loop. This alone separates you from 90 per cent of LinkedIn users.
9. Focus on people, not numbers
You don’t need 50,000 followers. You need 5 to 10 strong relationships in the right places. That’s where the opportunities come from.
10. Relationship building takes humility
Be teachable. Be respectful. Don’t argue unnecessarily on people’s posts. People watch how you behave, even when you don’t know it.