How LinkedIn Networking Is Reshaping Local Business Growth in 2025

by | May 15, 2025 | Digital Marketing, Grand Rapids, Property Marketing, Small Business Support, Social Media Marketing

Local business owner connecting with clients on LinkedIn through content and strategic networking in 2025

As someone who genuinely enjoys listening to some of the sharpest minds in marketing—people like Gary Vaynerchuk, Michaela Alexis, and Michael Stelzner—I find real value in applying what I learn to help local businesses thrive. Each episode or keynote I hear leaves me with one major insight: the future of local business growth lies in visibility and connection.

That’s why I created this second installment of our local LinkedIn marketing series, building on Gary Vaynerchuk’s keynote strategy with a new focus: strategic networking and relationship-building—as powerfully outlined by Michaela Alexis.

The Evolution of Local Marketing

Social media isn’t just a tool for exposure anymore—it’s the front door to your business. And LinkedIn is that door.

While our previous post emphasized Gary Vaynerchuk’s call for daily content on LinkedIn to grow your brand, Gary also talked about a deeper truth: your long-term success is tied to the quality of your internal team and your relationships.

“Over 50% of my time in the first five years was spent with my employees—not customers.”

He stressed the importance of one-on-one engagement, retention, and building a “family business” culture to create sustainable growth.

Now, let’s look at how Michaela Alexis builds on this with a playbook for powerful, scalable networking.

Level Up with Strategic Networking: Michaela’s Method

Content alone isn’t enough. Relationship-building amplifies your content strategy.

Michaela Alexis—LinkedIn strategist and author of No Fear Networking—teaches how to form real connections that lead to business.

SEO Pro Tip: Why This Matters for Local Search

When you consistently post relevant LinkedIn content and build authentic connections, Google recognizes your brand’s activity and authority. This increases your:

  • Brand mentions across the web
  • Backlink opportunities from podcasts, partners, and referrals
  • Local pack ranking through LinkedIn profile traffic and engagement

Add links from your posts to your website and Google Business Profile for extra SEO strength.

Before You Begin: Power Prime Your Mindset

Not confident? Feel awkward reaching out? Try this:

  • Reflect on a moment where you felt proud or powerful.
  • Write it out—or just pause and visualize it.
  • Smile while typing. It changes your energy.

“You don’t need external validation. You need a mindset shift.”

How to Connect With Strangers on LinkedIn (Step-by-Step)

  1. Follow first – Start passive. Let them notice you.
  2. Engage thoughtfully – Leave genuine, personalized comments.
  3. Research – Read their About section. Use tools like Crystal or AI to understand them better.
  4. Send a tailored connection request:
    • Mention a specific post or podcast.
    • Reference a shared interest or challenge.
    • Be human—not automated.

“I loved your post about [X]. It really resonated—would love to connect and learn more about your work.”

After They Accept: Staying Top of Mind

Avoid hard selling. Instead:

  • Don’t send a pitch.
  • Don’t just say thanks—add a question or comment.
  • Send a short video or voice message.
  • Invite them for a 15-min virtual coffee—no strings attached.

Use the MICK Framework for Connection-First Conversions:

  • M – Make it mutual: Frame it as value exchange.
  • I – Invite, don’t impose: Let them opt-in to chat.
  • C – Clarify the vibe: No-pitch zones. Make it clear.
  • K – Keep the door open: Respect a “no” and stay in their orbit.

“You want to water the plant—not drown it.”

Bonus Strategies from Michaela:

  • Use AI to hype yourself up before reaching out.
  • Set calendar reminders to follow up after 2–3 weeks.
  • Reference podcast episodes when messaging guests.
  • Use the Save feature on LinkedIn to revisit posts and engage later.
  • Be a connector—introduce people to each other.
  • Leave LinkedIn recommendations and testimonials proactively.

From Brand to Business Growth

This isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about leading with visibility and earning your audience’s attention and trust.

The future belongs to local businesses who:

  • Post like media companies
  • Network like leaders
  • Care like humans

“Marketing is offense. Everything else is defense. Even sales.” – Gary Vee

Final Thought

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present.

Show up daily. Start conversations. Build relationships.

In 2025, your LinkedIn presence can outshine competitors, attract better leads, and elevate your business faster than any billboard or ad ever could.

Now is the time to go from invisible to influential—one post and one connection at a time.