Identify the Right Influencers. Target individuals who align with your goals, values, and industry niche. Use LinkedIn, Twitter, podcasts, and conferences to find thought leaders and rising voices. Engage Authentically With Their Content. Regularly comment on their posts with thoughtful insights or questions. Share their content with your audience and add your unique perspective to it. Offer Value Before Asking for Anything. Share helpful resources, invite them to panels or collaborations, or offer introductions to other valuable contacts. Build Your Own Thought Leadership. Post original insights, case studies, or industry analysis. Hosting podcasts, panels, or LinkedIn Lives can attract influencers to your platform.

Start by identifying those aligned with your goals. Follow their work, read their posts, articles, and interviews. Engage meaningfully: comment insightfully on their content, share their work with your thoughts, and join conversations they’re part of. Attend industry events, webinars, or panels where they speak and ask thoughtful questions. When reaching out directly (like on LinkedIn), personalize your message mention mutual interests or how their work impacted you. Offer value before asking for anything, whether it's sharing useful insights or connecting them to someone relevant. Be genuine, consistent, and patient real relationships take time to grow.

One of the best things about social media is you have access to some of the most success people in your industry. Rather than showing up wanting something from them. This is what you should do instead. 1 - Engage in their posts. Be a part of the conversation. Add your thoughts in comments. Be willing to go beyond the generic “love this post” commentary. 2 - Send connection requests to people you generally admire and want to connect with. Do not just ask for their time. Find ways to give give get. 3 - Share your point of view. Post about relevant topics and share what you know or think. Tell your story - thats the only one no one else can.

I build lasting connections by offering value first, being authentic, and engaging in meaningful conversations. Consistent follow-ups and finding common ground help turn initial contacts into long-term relationships.