Here are 10+ comparison points related to Networking Face-Face (IRL) vs Networking on LinkedIn. After doing this comparison I believe I've discovered that they are equally important and one often supports the other.

1. 10 Comparison Points
Networking In Real Life (IRL)
vs
Networking on LinkedIn
By
Teddy Burriss
LinkedIn Coach & Trainer
336-283-6121

2. #1
When Networking IRL you need to present
who you are clearly & succinctly, relevant to
your target audience.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – build a
compelling and clear LinkedIn Profile focused
on your target audience.

3. #2
When Networking IRL you need to show up
where your target audience hangs out.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – build a
LinkedIn Network of your target audience and
their influencers.

4. #3
When Networking IRL you need to get into
conversations that are relevant to your target
audience.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – engage on
content that’s relevant and useful to your
target audience.

5. #4
When Networking IRL you should
acknowledge milestone dates when possible,
birthday, job anniversary, new jobs or roles.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – acknowledge
these milestones for your primary target
audience.

6. #5
When Networking IRL you should look for
ways to help your target audience.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – introduce
your connections to each other when
relevant/possible. Offer to help them where
you can.

7. #6
When Networking IRL you should pay attention to
your target audience’s words to uncover ideas and
business opportunities.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – changes in their
roles, business, industry, communities,
employees, facilities, etc can be opportunities for a
deeper conversation.

8. #7
When Networking IRL you should not ‘barf’ your
brochures all over your target audience.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – most of the
content you share should not be about your
business, rather useful information for your target
audience. You’ll get the chance to share your
brochure in time.

9. #8
When Networking IRL you should never get into
conversations that will damage your personal or
professional brand.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – never get into
conversations that could damage your brand.

10. #9
When Networking IRL you should never do, say or
engage in any way that you don’t want to be seen,
heard or perceived of in life.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – Period.

11. #10
When Networking IRL you should always smile
and leave your problems & issues in the back seat
of your car.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – ‘lead with a
smile’, never criticize, condemn or complain.

12. #11
When Networking IRL the goal is to make a
connection, develop a mutually beneficial
relationship and look for ideas and opportunities.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – focus on making
connections, building relationships and looking for
ideas and opportunities.

13. #12
Networking IRL works better when you use
LinkedIn.
Networking on LinkedIn works better when you
Network IRL.

14. #BONUS
Often I get asked for the ROI of Networking IRL. The ROI lies
in the network of target audience and influencers who trust,
respect and even like you. Done correct, this network can
become a great source of referrals.
This applies to LinkedIn as well – build a great network of your
target audience and their influencers and do what it takes to
develop trust, respect and even like. LinkedIn will become
another source of great referrals.

15. Brought to you by:
Teddy Burriss
Burriss Consulting, Inc.
LinkedIn Coach & Trainer
336-283-6121
info@burrissconsulting.com