5 Ways to Build Connections in a Digital World

Building connections in today’s digital world is hard. We are all busy with Zoom calls, Slack messages, and insanely long email threads. But here’s the thing: knowing how to build and grow relationships is still the secret sauce of professional success.

Early in my career, I thought tools to build connections were all I needed — just add people on LinkedIn and watch the magic happen, right? Wrong. Let me share what actually works, based on real experience and data.

Why Your Network Matters More Than Ever

The stats don’t lie — 85% of jobs are filled through networking. But it’s not just about job hunting. Every major business deal I’ve been part of started with a connection. Tools for building connections help, but they’re just that — tools. The real work happens in how you use them.

1. Start With the Basics: Be Present

Building a professional relationship starts with something simple: paying attention. Put down your phone during meetings (yes, even virtual ones). Listen more than you speak. When someone shares something important, write it down.

Use Rumo or a simple notes app to track key details about people you meet. Their kids’ names, their favorite coffee spot, the last project they were excited about. These details matter more than any build relationship tools you might find online.

2. Follow Up Like a Pro

Here’s a secret about following up: timing matters less than authenticity. I used to stress about the “perfect” time to send that follow-up email. Now I focus on making it genuine.

Quick tip: Save templates for different types of follow-ups, but always customize them. People can smell a copy-paste job from miles away.

3. Give Before You Ask

The fastest way to build connections? Help others without expecting anything in return. Share that article you think might help them. Make that introduction they didn’t even know they needed.

Keeping a “giving list” is also a good idea. Whenever I read something useful, I think “Who in my network would benefit from this?” It’s a simple way to stay top of mind while actually adding value.

4. Use Social Media Mindfully

Social media can be a great tool to build connections, but you need to be real. No one wants to connect with a walking LinkedIn buzzword generator.

Share your actual experiences, including the failures. Comment on others’ posts with genuine insights, not just “Great post!” The goal is to start conversations, not collect likes.

5. Keep Your Connections Warm

A good relationship isn’t a one-time thing. It’s like a garden — you need to tend to it regularly. Set reminders for check-ins if you need to, but make them count.

I use a simple system: every week, I reach out to three people I haven’t talked to in a while. No agenda, just checking in. It’s amazing how many opportunities have come from these casual check-ins.

Next Steps to Better Networking

Start small. Pick a person you may want to connect with this week. Don’t overthink it — send that email, make that call. Track what works for you. Some people love coffee meetings, others prefer quick video calls. Find your style.

Remember: the best tools to build connections are the ones you’ll use.

That’s why Rumo made it as easy as possible to keep track of contacts and interactions by integrating with your WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and emails.

The digital world hasn’t changed the basis of human connection — it’s just given us new ways to make them happen. Focus on being genuine, helpful, and consistent. The rest will follow.

Stop hiding and start having real conversations. Your network (and your future self) will thank you.