50 ways to network without LinkedIn

There’s no denying that LinkedIn is useful. But between the CEOs posting their 4 am cold plunge routines, the “humbled and honored” promotions, and the guy you met once at a conference in 2019 asking to “pick your brain over coffee,” the noise is relentless.

Digital networking has its place, of course. But with 95% of people saying that the most meaningful networking happens IRL, here are 50 ways to get off the screen and into the room.

Start with the classics

1. Trade shows. You know this one. But are your Business Cards actually doing the heavy lifting?
2. Conferences. The best conversations happen between sessions. Be ready for them.
3. Networking events. Yes, the ones with warm Pinot. Go anyway.
4. Industry meetups. Smaller, more focused, better conversations.
5. Chamber of Commerce events. A little old school. Still very effective.
6. Business breakfasts. Ungodly hour, but surprisingly good ROI.
7. Speed networking events. Two minutes to impress, no pressure.
8. Workshops and masterclasses. You’re already in a room full of people who want to learn, so go make friends.
9. Panel discussions. Sit near the front. Say hello after.
10. Award ceremonies. Everyone’s in a good mood. Even the people who didn’t win.

Attend different kinds of events

11. Pop-up stores. Whether you’re running one or shopping at one, there are people worth meeting.
12. Art fairs. People with taste know people with taste.
13. Book launches. Niche, yes. But very good at finding your people.
14. Food markets. Networking, but with snacks.
15. Local business expos. Low pressure, high potential.
16. Festival stalls. Bring Business Cards. You’ll be surprised who’s wandering around with budget.
17. Charity galas. Generous people who want to connect with other generous people.
18. Sports events. Corporate boxes exist for a reason.
19. Open studios. Artists and makers have fantastic networks. Get into them.
20. Fashion shows. Even if you’re only “industry-adjacent.” No one’s checking credentials at the door.

Look closer to home

21. Your grandma’s book club. Genuinely. She knows everyone, so give her a stack of your Business Cards.
22. Your local quiz team. You’d be surprised who’s on the other team.
23. Sports clubs and fitness classes. Shared suffering builds fast bonds.
24. Volunteering. Meet people who share your values, not just your job title.
25. Local school governors. Community leadership. Real relationships.
26. Religious or community groups. Long-term trust, built in person.
27. Your neighbors. You already live near them. Say hello.
28. Parent groups. School gates are basically a local business directory.
29. Evening classes. Learn pottery. Meet a CFO.
30. Toastmasters or public speaking clubs. Ambitious people who want to get better. Exactly the kind of people you want to know.

Get creative with your networking

31. Leave a Business Card with your tip at a restaurant. They might just call. Just make sure it looks the part.
32. Tuck one into a library book you loved. For the next person who picks it up. Networking for people who believe in fate — and overdue fines.
33. Pin one to a community noticeboard. Classic for a reason!
34. Include one in every parcel you send. Your packaging already makes an impression. Let your card do the follow-up.
35. Give a stack to a complementary business. Your florist recommends your print partner. It works.
36. Add one to a gift. Thoughtful and strategic.
37. Leave one at the hotel front desk. You never know who’s checking in.
38. Pin one to your jacket at an event. Bonus points if it matches your socks.
39. Pop one in a birthday card. They’re already in a good mood. Use it.
40. Give them to your team. Every employee is a walking brand ambassador.

Go online

41. Instagram DMs. Start the conversation online. Continue it in person.
42. Clubhouse or audio networking apps. Real voices = real connections. Back it up with a physical card when you meet.
43. Industry Slack groups. Organize a local meetup. Bring cards.
44.  Niche forums. The internet’s best-kept networking secret.
45. Reddit communities. Yes, really. Some subreddits are full of brilliant people.
46. WhatsApp groups. Organize the meetup. Be the connector.
47. Email newsletters. Build your own audience, not someone else’s platform.
48. Podcasts. Appear on one. Or host one. Bring cards to the live recording.
49. YouTube. Put your contact details in the description. Speak at events where fans show up.
50. Your own website. Make it easy to get in touch. Then bring cards everywhere else.

The best conversations happen in person.

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