In today's digital age, networking has evolved beyond in-person events to include online platforms like LinkedIn. While face-to-face networking remains valuable, leveraging LinkedIn can significantly enhance your networking efforts and help you build meaningful connections. 

LinkedIn describes LinkedIn - Locals as "organic meetups, hosted by members all over the world. They provide an opportunity to network, build community, discuss industry trends, and share best practices for using LinkedIn." In short, it's a way for people in a community to come together and meet their LinkedIn connections face-to-face or to make new connections and learn all about leveraging the power of LinkedIn at the same time.

For example, many people spend a great deal of time networking in person but only followup with an email or phone call. What if that person saw you nearly every day? Well, with an active LinkedIn strategy, that can happen. Here are few tips to get started with using LinkedIn to strengthen your in-person networking:

1. Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile:

• Use a professional profile picture and headline that clearly define who you are and what you do.
• Write a compelling summary that highlights your skills, experience, and goals.
• Include keywords related to your industry and expertise to make your profile more discoverable.

2. Connect with People You Meet:

• After meeting someone at a networking event or conference, send them a personalized LinkedIn connection request.
• Include a brief message reminding them where you met and expressing your interest in staying in touch.

3. Join LinkedIn Groups:

• Join LinkedIn groups relevant to your industry or interests to connect with like-minded professionals.
• Participate in group discussions, share valuable content, and engage with other members to expand your network.

4. Share Relevant Content:

• Share articles, blog posts, and industry news on your LinkedIn profile to showcase your expertise and interests.
• Engage with other people's posts by liking, commenting, and sharing to stay visible in your network's feed.

5. Use LinkedIn Events:

• Create or RSVP to LinkedIn Events for networking opportunities in your area.
• Attend events hosted by others to meet new people and expand your network.

6. Request and Provide Recommendations:

• Request recommendations from colleagues, clients, or mentors to showcase your skills and credibility.
• Offer to write recommendations for others to strengthen your professional relationships.

7. Follow Up After In-Person Meetings:

• After meeting someone in person, send a follow-up message on LinkedIn to thank them for the conversation and reiterate your interest in connecting further.
• Use LinkedIn to schedule a follow-up meeting or call to continue the conversation.

8. Be Active and Engaged:

• Regularly update your LinkedIn profile with new achievements, projects, or skills.
• Engage with your network by congratulating them on work anniversaries, promotions, or other milestones.

By leveraging LinkedIn alongside your in-person networking efforts, you can enhance your professional relationships, expand your network, and ultimately advance your career. Start by optimizing your LinkedIn profile and actively engaging with your network to maximize the benefits of this powerful networking platform.