Purpose of This Step: To warm up your potential partners—especially those in Tier 2 and Tier 3—before you reach out. The goal is to make your name familiar and show up with value, so when you do send a message, it feels natural and relevant, not cold or opportunistic.

What This Step Involves

Instead of immediately messaging someone you don’t know, this step helps you become visible in their world in a thoughtful and respectful way. It’s about initiating small, low-pressure interactions that create familiarity and goodwill.

Instructions

1. Select Who to Engage
2. Choose 5–10 names from your Tier 2 and Tier 3 list.
3. Start with a manageable batch to keep your outreach intentional and consistent.
4. Map Out Where They’re Active
5. Visit their LinkedIn profiles or websites.
6. Check if they’re active on Instagram, LinkedIn, or other social platforms.
7. If they host a podcast, see if they post clips or updates.
8. Begin Engaging Thoughtfully. Over a one- to two-week period, start interacting in a way that signals genuine interest. Here are options:
9. Like and comment on their posts with thoughtful input (avoid generic “great post!” comments).
10. Share their content with a short message about why you found it valuable.
11. Leave a positive review for their podcast, tagging them in a story or post.
12. Reply to their Instagram or LinkedIn stories with a relevant comment.
13. Attend a webinar or event they’re hosting and follow up with a thoughtful message afterward.
14. Use the Worksheet (Optional). If you’re tracking interactions in the worksheet:
15. List each partner’s name and platform.
16. Document the specific actions you’ve taken to show up in their orbit.
17. Time Your Engagement. Focus on consistent interaction for 1–2 weeks before sending a direct message. The goal is to create a soft introduction—so they’ve seen your name, noticed your interest, and are more likely to respond when you reach out.

Pro Tips

• Avoid overdoing it. Aim for genuine engagement, not spamming every post.
• Personalize all interactions. Reference something specific to show you’re paying attention.
• If they’re not active online, look for other channels—associations they’re part of, newsletters they publish, or mutual contacts you could mention later.

What Success Looks Like

• You’ve engaged meaningfully with at least 5 partners across Tier 2 and Tier 3.
• You’ve created initial visibility and recognition for yourself or the firm.
• Your upcoming outreach message will feel more organic and welcomed.

Next Step

Move on to Step 4: Reach Out. Now that you’re on their radar, it’s time to send a direct, service-focused message to open the door to collaboration.