A big part of my work is to help you get more clients and grow your business.
Ideally, your Quietly Iconic Brand Elevation will pay for itself within 3 months.
But it isn’t as simple as just waving my magic wand to make it happen. (As much as I would LOVE to have that much power, lol!)
When my clients and I get to the I.C.O.N. Marketing System part of their Brand Elevation, I almost always discover that they’ve been neglecting the most tried and true method for bringing in new clients. It’s old-school. And, it still works better than most other marketing tactics.
I’m talking about in-person networking.
But not the ick-factor kind! No speed-networking, BNI style mixers. I would never ask that of you, my Quietly Iconic friend.
Here’s why it’s the most effective thing you can do, and how to make it work for you:
Although it’s positively vintage in a world where screens rule all, there’s something transformative about connecting in person. For those building a body of work — whether you’re writing a book, hosting a podcast, or quietly commanding your space as a leader — face-to-face connection can be a powerful catalyst for visibility, memorability, and resonance.
Even if your business is set up to be primarily online, national, or even global, IRL connections remain a powerful tool for amplifying your authority and expanding your reach.
Think about it… a warm smile; natural eye contact; an energy exchange you just can’t replicate online. When we’re in the same physical space as someone, there’s a shared experience that creates safety, trust, and understanding on a level a screen can’t deliver. Virtual communication has its magic, of course, but in-person connection builds profound familiarity, fast.
Research supports this, too. Studies from the HeartMath Institute show that we emit an electromagnetic field detectable several feet away. Sharing the same 3D space deepens resonance — allowing people to sense you, not just see or hear you. Add to this the intuitive ability to pick up on body language and micro-expressions, and you have a foundation for empathy and trust that no algorithm can replicate.
Not to mention the fact that we are now dealing with AI profiles on Facebook and AI-generated videos and images being passed off as real. Our level of suspicion about everything we see online has never been higher.
So, how can you weave this timeless strategy into your leadership presence, without the ick-factor?
1. Find aligned allies.
Look for professionals and organizations already serving the people you want to reach. Think wellness centers, yoga studios, community hubs, local bookstores, or even colleagues in parallel industries. An introduction here isn’t about pitching — it’s about extending your circle of care and influence.
2. Host a gathering.
Offer a workshop or salon-style conversation in a coworking space, community venue, or as a guest for an existing group. When people experience your energy firsthand, they connect with you far beyond your words.
3. Attend mixers or local events.
Business fairs, author readings, or small community gatherings bring people from all walks of life. No hard sell required — show up as yourself, share your perspective, and let your humanity do its work. If you feel awkward stay curious, ask questions, and then look for opportunities to introduce others — a big part of building authority is being a connector.
4. Spend time in third spaces.
Cafés, libraries, and coworking hubs are underrated networking grounds. Leave the AirPods at home, lift your gaze often, and be open to conversation. These environments invite natural introductions and remind people that leadership isn’t only about being online — it’s about being present.
Ultimately, the goal of local networking isn’t about hustling for clients. It’s about showing up, being authentic, and letting the magic of real human connection expand your impact — whether that’s filling a room, launching your book, drawing listeners to your podcast, or inviting the right clients into your orbit.
