What is one strategy you've used to successfully network and build relationships within the marketing community? Share one specific example of how networking has benefited your personal brand.

Question

Discover the art of building a strong personal brand through effective marketing networking strategies. This comprehensive guide draws on insights from industry experts to reveal proven techniques for forging powerful professional connections. Learn how authenticity, genuine curiosity, and consistent value creation can transform your networking efforts into lasting partnerships and collaborative opportunities.

Lisa Raehsler · Answer

One of the most meaningful networking outcomes I've experienced came unexpectedly through a former client who recommended me to serve as a mentor for professionals entering the digital marketing field.
This has become a powerful way to deepen my presence in the industry. Not only has mentoring been incredibly fulfilling, but it has also introduced me to ambitious, emerging marketers who bring fresh ideas and often grow into valuable collaborators.
That experience reminded me that relationships built through great client work can lead to opportunities far beyond referrals. Sometimes your best connections open doors in ways you never planned for, and those often have the biggest impact on your personal brand.

Lilian Santini · Answer

I treat networking as relationship-building, not lead-hunting. One strategy that's worked well for me is reaching out with genuine curiosity—whether that's commenting thoughtfully on someone's work or sending a kind, non-salesy message on LinkedIn. For example, a simple DM I sent to a museum director, just to compliment her past work, turned into a discovery call and eventually a collaboration. That one message also led to multiple referrals down the line. It's never just about who you know; it's about how you show up.

Andrea Simonton · Answer

One of the most effective strategies I've used to network in the marketing community is simply showing up as myself and treating others like people—not leads, not titles, just humans. I've found that when you drop the overly polished, "corporate" mask and have real conversations, that's when the best connections happen. Creativity thrives in spaces where people feel seen and safe to be themselves, and I carry that mindset into every event, meeting, and random coffee chat.
A great example: I once met someone at a local panel discussion and instead of the usual "what do you do" back-and-forth, we ended up talking about our shared love of live music. That sparked a genuine friendship, and months later, they brought me in on a project that became one of the most visible wins for my personal brand that year. None of that would have happened if I had stuck to the script.
Networking doesn't have to feel like a chore or a pitch—it's just connection. And when you lead with authenticity, the rest tends to follow.

Daniel Lynch · Answer

One networking strategy that has transformed my marketing relationships is strategic content collaboration. Rather than just attending events and exchanging business cards, I intentionally seek opportunities to co-create content with other marketers I admire. This might involve co-hosting webinars, appearing on podcasts, writing joint articles, or developing case studies together. The collaborative process naturally builds deeper relationships than surface-level networking ever could.
A specific example that significantly boosted my personal brand was when I approached the marketing director of a SaaS company to co-author a comprehensive industry report. We combined our expertise, data, and audience insights to create a resource neither of us could have produced alone. The collaboration not only expanded my network to include their entire marketing team but also positioned me as a thought leader in our shared industry space. The report generated over 2,000 qualified leads for both companies and led to speaking opportunities at three industry conferences I hadn't previously accessed.
What made this approach particularly effective was how it created mutual value. Instead of asking for networking favors, we built something beneficial for both our brands while establishing a genuine professional relationship. Now I have a trusted peer I can call for advice, opportunities, or further collaborations. This single relationship has since opened doors to an entire network of similar professionals who trust their colleague's recommendation of me.

Melanie Borden · Answer

One of the most effective strategies I've used to build genuine relationships within the marketing community is leading with value before asking for anything in return.
It sounds simple, but in an industry filled with noise, quick wins, and constant outreach, it's rare. And that's precisely why it works.
Rather than jumping into DMs with a pitch or a favor, I focus on showing up consistently: commenting on posts, amplifying others' work, and offering support or ideas with no expectation attached. Years ago, I started engaging regularly with a marketing executive whose content I genuinely admired. I didn't lead with a sales pitch or a cold message. I just added thoughtful insights to her posts, shared her content when it aligned, and stayed visible in a way that felt natural.
Many months later, she messaged me, not only to thank me for the support but to ask if I'd be open to collaborating on a branding initiative her team was struggling with.
That single connection led to a partnership that spanned several years, included multiple speaking opportunities, resulted in five client referrals, and landed me a spot on a panel that positioned me as a thought leader in the space.
The key lesson?
Network like a human. Serve first. Stay consistent. Show up where the people you want to connect with are already spending their time. You never know who will need you and the impact you'll leave on them.
Because your brand isn't just built by what you post; it's built by how you show up for others when there's nothing to gain.
And in the marketing world, where everyone's busy selling something, being a genuine connector is your biggest advantage.

Vincent Gonzalez · Answer

One of the most impactful networking moments for me happened at a co-working space here in Las Vegas. I was working on a local SEO report for a client when someone nearby asked what I was doing. We got to talking—it turns out he ran a small design studio and had clients constantly asking for SEO help.
I didn't pitch—I just shared what I'd done for a local HVAC client who tripled inbound calls after we cleaned up their Google Business profile.
A week later, he referred me to a client, and over time, we ended up collaborating on half a dozen projects. That relationship also led to speaking at a local business workshop, which helped get my name out in the Las Vegas small business community.
For me, networking works best when it's one-on-one, low-pressure, and rooted in just being helpful.

Peter Wootton · Answer

Being involved and helpful in niche online forums and LinkedIn groups where marketers share their thoughts, problems, and successes is one way I've been able to network and make connections in the marketing community. Instead of just pushing my own work, I make it a point to leave intelligent responses, answer questions, and share useful resources, even if I don't get anything in return.
This helped my personal brand in a very clear way during a discussion in a LinkedIn group for digital marketers. Someone wrote that they were having trouble with local SEO for a business with more than one location. I gave a thorough, useful answer that didn't use any jargon or promote myself; I was just trying to help. A few days later, that person got in touch and put me in touch with the head of their business. We have been working together ever since. And because of how well known that post was, I got a few show invites and a lot more profile views and connection requests from other SEO professionals.
That experience taught me that networking isn't about selling yourself—it's about being present, helpful, and letting others learn about your skills by seeing what you do. When you do that, interactions tend to be much more real and last longer.

Alec Loeb · Answer

Show up consistently and follow through. That's the only networking strategy that has produced long-term value for me. I've stayed connected with people by responding quickly, keeping promises, and being useful without asking for anything in return. Most marketing leaders don't need more people in their inboxes. They want people they can trust. That only happens over time, through repeated exposure and shared outcomes. I've relied on coffee chats, follow-ups after conferences, and Slack groups—but none of that works unless you're dependable.
A few years ago, I reconnected with a former colleague. We hadn't worked together in a decade, but we stayed in touch through quick check-ins and sharing resources. When their team hit a wall with performance marketing, they reached out to me directly—not because I asked, but because I had delivered in the past and kept the relationship alive. That introduction led to a side consulting role that expanded my reach and credibility in the tech space. It gave me a stronger reputation among operators who move fast and expect results.
None of it was accidental. I built that trust through small actions over time. No pitch decks. No outreach campaigns. Just being responsive, useful, and consistent. That's the only way my brand has gained traction. People remember what you did, not what you said. If you want real relationships in this field, show up, do the work, and give more than you take. The rest takes care of itself.

Steven Mitts · Answer

I don't network for exposure. I network to build leverage. One strategy that works every time: host your own table. Don't wait for an invite. I launched a monthly virtual huddle for marketers focused on scaling acquisition without paid ads. Each session had a tight theme, a vetted guest list, and one goal: share what works right now. No fluff. No slides.
The first one had 11 people. By the third, it was 60+. CMOs, growth leads, consultants, and early-stage founders started showing up because they heard real strategy was shared behind closed doors. One attendee introduced me to a product-led growth team struggling with activation. That led to a paid engagement, three case studies, and a referral pipeline worth six figures.
That's the compound return of smart networking. Your brand becomes the room, not the guest. People associate you with results because they've seen you build ecosystems, not echo chambers. My name started showing up in Slack groups, podcast pitches, and invite-only channels because I gave people a reason to say it.
Do you want to stand out in marketing? Create something people miss when they're not in it. Don't chase popularity. Build gravity. Let your work pull the right people in. Then follow through, as your reputation depends on it, because it does.

Riana Malia · Answer

As someone who guides high-achieving women through reinvention in life, love, and leadership, I've learned this:
Relationships are the new currency—and the depth of connection matters more than the volume of contacts.
That's why I created Brilliance Brunch, a curated, invitation-only experience for ambitious women navigating personal or professional pivots. No panels. No pitches. Just intimate, facilitated conversations around alignment, identity, and expansion.
My strategy was simple:  
Create a space I would actually want to attend.  
One where marketing leaders, founders, and creatives could exhale, get real, and build relationships that felt less transactional and more transformational.
The result?
I've had women leave the brunch and immediately refer clients, open doors to podcasts and stages, and even invest in my VIP offers—because the connection was built from genuine resonance, not a sales script.
One guest said: "I came for the networking. I left with clarity, confidence, and new collaborators."
That's the power of aligned community.
The best relationships in the marketing world haven't come from collecting business cards.  They've come from creating experiences that allow others to feel seen, feel safe, and feel something real.
Brilliance Brunch isn't just a strategy—it's a movement. And in today's landscape, authentic energy and intention are your strongest marketing tools.

Lisa Walthers · Answer

I invest in giving first. When I meet someone in the marketing world, I offer something useful like an introduction, a job lead, or a resource. I don't wait for a reason. This approach builds trust and keeps relationships active. People remember generosity, not pitches.
This strategy has paid off in unexpected ways. One connection led to a key partnership opportunity through a mutual introduction. Another brought in an advisor who strengthened a go-to-market plan. These results didn't come from formal networking events. They came from small, consistent actions like sending a note to congratulate someone, sharing an insight, or making a quick introduction.
My brand has grown because people know I bring clarity, urgency, and focus to every conversation. I don't try to meet everyone. I stay in touch with people I respect, and I try to help without expecting anything in return. That's what builds a reputation others trust when decisions are on the line.

Hugh Dixon · Answer

One strategy I've found really effective for networking is attending industry-specific events and engaging in meaningful conversations rather than just exchanging business cards. A great example of this was when I attended a global shipping and relocation conference last year. I took the time to chat with other marketing professionals in the relocation industry and shared insights on how we tailor our marketing efforts for expats and overseas movers. This led to a partnership with a relocation service provider, where we now collaborate on content that speaks to families making international moves. That partnership not only expanded our reach but also boosted my personal brand as someone who genuinely understands the nuances of international moving and can contribute to the wider conversation.

Aquibur Rahman · Answer

Link building isn't only about outreach—it's about building an ecosystem. You don't ask for links; you create reasons people want to link to you.
One method that consistently works for us is the "Strategic Co-Creation Series." We identify complementary B2B SaaS tools—like webinar platforms, survey builders, or automation tools—and create joint resources that solve real workflow challenges.
Examples:
"How to Drive More Webinar Signups with Email Automation" (with a webinar tool)"The Complete Guide to Post-Campaign Feedback Loops" (with a survey/form platform)"From Lead Magnet to Onboarding: Mapping the Full Email Journey"
Each partner promotes the content through their blog, social media, and newsletter—generating organic backlinks, referral traffic, and warm relationships that often turn into more collaborations.
The key is: we don't lead with a backlink ask. We lead with, "Let's build something that helps both our users win." That positioning turns one-time collaborations into ongoing partnerships—the kind that Google (and your audience) trust.

Maksym Zakharko · Answer

One of the most effective strategies I've used to build strong relationships within the marketing community is speaking at conferences. Being a speaker not only puts you in front of the right audience but also instantly builds credibility and opens doors for deeper connections.
For example, I was invited to speak at an Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) event. After my session, I had the opportunity to meet and connect with a wide range of marketers, agency leaders, and tech experts. Those conversations quickly turned into long-term relationships, partnerships, and even collaborations that have helped strengthen my personal brand over time.
Besides speaking, I also stay active in various industry associations and communities, and on social media. But honestly, if I had to recommend just one strategy—becoming a speaker is a game-changer. It not only grows your network but also positions you as a trusted voice in the industry.

Quint Boa · Answer

Looking back, it's curious to me that I once believed psychotherapy (my original and current career) and marketing had nothing in common. When I started my (now global) video production agency twenty years ago, I assumed I was leaving one world behind to enter another. What I've discovered—gradually, and then all at once—is that the skill of attending closely to what people really need, often beneath what they say they want, is as relevant in boardrooms as it is in therapy rooms.
One strategy that's helped me build meaningful connections in the marketing community has been showing up not as a marketer, but as a human being with a background in helping other human beings. At a recent industry event, I spoke about how storytelling can serve as a kind of mirror, reflecting back to audiences the parts of themselves they've been waiting to see. That conversation led to a collaboration with a major healthcare brand—not because I pitched, but because I listened.
Networking, for me, has never been about collecting contacts. It's about making space for genuine conversations—and trusting that, if you're paying close enough attention, the right connections will find their way to you.

MaryAnn Pfeiffer · Answer

Many of us are part of online groups, such as a Slack channel, Facebook or LinkedIn group, with other professionals in the same field or who use the same software solutions. While these communities are great, they can sometimes feel impersonal or not quite "human," since interaction is often not in real-time and is typically focused only on business challenges or opportunities.
For one of my Slack groups, we created a spin-off channel and invited only those people who are the most frequent and vocal participants. We brought in conversation threads that have nothing to do with our work and just share our personal lives (vacations, new babies, hobbies, side hustles, etc.). This was the first step to add humanity to our channel.
From there, we expanded to scheduled, monthly online meetings. With cameras on and recorded (so that people who miss it can still feel connected), these meetings help us put human faces behind all those chat screens. While some of us have met in person, even for those who have not, these meetings make us feel very connected to each other. We may choose to talk about work, but often our topics include personal interests, world events, or whatever is on our minds at that moment. It's become a fun, comforting space that makes us feel connected to each other and helps to build a sense of community among people with varied lives and interests.

Marketing Networking Strategies: Building a Strong Personal Brand

Marketing Networking Strategies: Building a Strong Personal Brand

Mentoring Deepens Industry Presence

Genuine Curiosity Sparks Meaningful Connections

Authenticity Fosters Powerful Professional Relationships

Co-Creating Content Builds Lasting Industry Partnerships

Consistent Value Leads to Collaborative Opportunities

Organic Conversations Yield Fruitful Business Relationships

Online Engagement Cultivates Valuable Professional Networks

Dependability Transforms Connections into Lasting Partnerships

Create Exclusive Spaces for High-Value Networking

Curated Experiences Foster Transformational Marketing Relationships

Generosity Builds Trust in Professional Networks

Industry Events Spark Collaborative Partnerships

Strategic Co-Creation Generates Organic Backlinks

Speaking Engagements Open Doors to Industry Connections

Authentic Listening Cultivates Meaningful Marketing Relationships

Online Communities Foster Human Connections

subscribe

Join our email list to receive the latest events, news, and updates from AMA Phoenix.