Why I Ditched Networking Events and Doubled Down on Social Media Engagement

For years, I did what every business owner and entrepreneur was told to do—I went to networking events. You dress up, print business cards, pay to get in, buy drinks, maybe even dinner, and then spend the night shaking hands and making small talk.

And after all that? Maybe—just maybe—you walk away with one actual lead.

That’s when I realized something: traditional networking is outdated, inefficient, and limiting. Social media is a 24/7 networking machine that allows you to reach thousands of people, without wasting time or money.

Here’s why I stopped going to networking events and doubled down on social media engagement instead.

The Problem with Traditional Networking

Let’s break it down:

• You’re limited by time. You can only talk to so many people in a few hours.
• You’re spending money. Tickets, food, drinks—it adds up.
• You’re forced into awkward small talk. Most conversations go nowhere.
• You’re competing for attention. Everyone is there to push their own agenda.
• You have to “sell yourself” every time. Nobody knows who you are, so you have to constantly prove your credibility.

Even if you have 10 conversations, maybe only one person is actually interested in what you offer. That’s not scalable.

Why Social Media is the Ultimate Networking Tool

Now compare that to social media:

• One post can reach thousands. A well-made video, reel, or tweet can get in front of hundreds or thousands of potential clients—instantly.
• Your content works 24/7. Unlike a networking event, your posts stay online forever, continuously bringing in new leads.
• You build authority before the conversation even starts. When someone lands on your page, they already know who you are, what you do, and why you’re legit. No need to sell yourself from scratch.
• Engagement is quick and efficient. Instead of spending hours in a room full of random people, you can hop on Instagram or LinkedIn, leave a few meaningful comments, send a DM, and start real conversations with potential clients—in minutes.

Pre-Qualifying Leads with Social Media

One of the biggest advantages of social media is that it warms up your audience before you even talk to them.

At a networking event, you’re just another face in the crowd. Nobody knows who you are. You have to pitch yourself every time and hope they’re interested.

But when you use social media correctly:

1. You engage with someone’s content. Maybe you like, comment, or share something valuable.
2. They check out your profile. Now, instead of you explaining what you do, they see your content, your expertise, and your personality firsthand.
3. They reach out to you—already interested. Because they’ve already seen what you’re about, the conversation is smoother, more natural, and way more likely to turn into business.

It’s networking on autopilot—and it’s infinitely more scalable than showing up at another overpriced networking event.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still relying on old-school networking tactics, you’re leaving money on the table.

Social media is the most efficient way to build relationships, showcase your expertise, and attract the right clients—without wasting time or energy.

✅ Your content works for you 24/7.
✅ Your audience gets to know you before they even reach out.
✅ You can engage with potential clients in minutes—not hours.

I’m done with traditional networking. Social media is the future of relationship-building in business.

Are you still spending time at networking events, or have you shifted to social media? Let me know in the comments.