Adding people on social media is not networking

Executive overview

Collecting connections on LinkedIn or Facebook is not networking. Real networking is built through in-person and online communities where you show up, contribute, and help others without an ask.

Mastermind groups and events consistently deliver 10x returns. Social media follower counts do not.

Genuine networking means getting to know people's problems, passions, and goals — then finding ways to add value.

What real networking looks like

• Show up at events — in-person or online — and contribute actively
• Participate in breakouts and social sessions without an agenda
• Focus on learning and helping, not pitching or asking
• Join mastermind groups, conferences, or communities and stay consistent over years

Why social media connections don't count

• Adding thousands of contacts and then spamming them with marketing doesn't build relationships
• "Looking forward to getting to know you" messages go nowhere
• Real relationships require knowing someone's fears, passions, and what they're working on
• Cameron Herold has ~10,900 LinkedIn connections but has personally added fewer than 100 in 16 years

The ROI of real networking

• A $10,000 mastermind investment can return $100,000–$250,000 in ideas, savings, or introductions
• Expect at least a 10x return from any quality mastermind group or community
• Recommended reading: Networking Is Not Working by Derek Coburn; Mastermind Dinners by Jason Gaynard