Treat LinkedIn Like a Networking Event: Why Engagement Builds Trust, Credibility, and Opportunities

When people ask me the secret to LinkedIn success, I always say the same thing: treat LinkedIn as if it’s a networking event.

Because at its core, LinkedIn is not just about posting content — it’s about building human connection. And just like in-person networking, it’s the conversations, introductions, and support that lead to opportunities.

Engagement Is Networking

Engagement is more than “likes.” It’s:

• Having conversations in the comments

• Sharing your expertise and insight

• Supporting and encouraging others

• Asking thoughtful questions

Every time you engage, you’re strengthening relationships. Those relationships turn into trust. And trust is what leads to referrals, collaborations, promotions, and sales.

💡 I even know people who make sales on LinkedIn without ever posting their own content — purely through smart engagement.

Why Engagement Matters on LinkedIn

1. Expand Your Network

When you comment or interact with posts, you’re seen by your connection’s connections. That ripple effect increases your visibility and gets your name in front of people you might never meet otherwise. It’s often the start of new introductions and opportunities.

2. Unlock Collaboration

So many of my speaking invitations, partnerships, and project collaborations have come through LinkedIn engagement. When you’re visible and generous online, people think of you when opportunities arise.

3. Get Your Name Mentioned in Rooms of Opportunity

One of my favourite recent examples: a connection shared her new business idea with me. Later, I attended an event I’d seen on LinkedIn and connected her with someone else there. A week later, they were already collaborating.

That’s the power of having your name spoken in the right rooms.

4. Build Credibility and Trust

Even if people aren’t engaging with your posts, they’re still watching. I often hear from people who’ve followed my journey silently for years, then suddenly reach out to refer work or collaborate. Consistent engagement builds a quiet reputation long before you see results.

5. Gain Advocates and Allies

LinkedIn isn’t just about business — it’s about community. The more you give support to peers, the more they’ll advocate for you when opportunities appear.

LinkedIn Is a Giver’s Game

Here’s the truth: LinkedIn rewards generosity.

You can’t expect to post once and be seen as a thought leader. You need to show up, support others, and nurture your network consistently. Over time, those small daily actions compound into visibility, credibility, and recognition.

Practical Ways to Network on LinkedIn

👉 Spend 10–15 minutes a day engaging with others’ posts

👉 Comment thoughtfully (go beyond “great post!”)

👉 Join LinkedIn groups to find events, workshops, and like-minded peers

👉 Share resources, introductions, and encouragement without expectation

It’s the same as in-person networking: you don’t go to one event and expect instant results. It takes time, consistency, and a genuine interest in others.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been building my LinkedIn network for over 5 years, and I still treat the platform as an ongoing networking event. It’s not about quick wins — it’s about long-term relationships that open doors you didn’t even know existed.

If you want to learn how to leverage your LinkedIn network for visibility, credibility, and recognition, I’d love to help.

👉 Get in touch to find out how I can help you with your LinkedIn.