Build Your Inner Circle: How to Attract the Right People to Your Business

You didn’t start your business just to make money.
You started it to make meaning.

You wanted to share something that truly matters. You sought freedom, yes - but even more, connection. You longed for a business that feels like home, not just another sales funnel with a fresh coat of paint.

But if we’re being real? A lot of what’s out there in online business world feels… hollow.

You join the masterminds.
You post the content.
You show up in the DMs.
And still - it feels like shouting into the void.

Here’s the good news: it’s not you.
It’s the approach that’s broken.

You don’t need a bigger audience. You need a better-aligned one.
And virtual events - when done with intention - can help you find and build that magnetic inner circle.

Let’s stop networking like we’re at a stale conference buffet, and start creating spaces that spark real connection.

Stop Trying to Be Popular - Start Getting Personal

Let’s call it like it is: You’ve probably been told to chase reach, growth, visibility, and going viral. But here’s the truth:

A hundred engaged humans are more valuable than ten thousand silent followers.

You don’t need to become an "influencer." You need to become known - by the right people.

You want to attract:

• Aligned clients who truly get you.

• Supportive collaborators who see your vision.

• Peers who make you feel safe and seen in this wild entrepreneurial world.

Soapbox moment: Enough with the bro-tastic funnels and cold DMs. You’re not a lead machine. You’re a real human with a message - and the people who need that message are craving authenticity, not marketing jargon.

Why Virtual Events Are the Ultimate Connection Catalyst

Live events are magical. And I’m not just saying that because I’m obsessed with them.

There’s something about being in a moment together - even across screens - that activates connection in a way static content just can’t.

Here’s what happens inside a great virtual event:

• People truly see each other.

• There’s shared laughter, shared insight, and sometimes even shared vulnerability.

• That chat box becomes a hub of energy, validation, and celebration.

DMs and comments? They’re great, but they’re 1:1. Events are many-to-many - and that’s where community truly starts.

It’s the difference between reading a book and going to book club. You show up together. You feel part of something. That’s what creates not just leads - but loyalty.

Designing Events That Bring Your People Together

The magic isn’t just in hosting any event - it’s in choosing the format and structure that fosters belonging.

Not every virtual event needs to be a masterclass or a slide-heavy webinar. In fact, the most connective formats are often the simplest:

• Live Q&A Sessions: Show up and answer questions live - no presentation needed.

• Community Panels: Bring a few voices together and invite the audience to participate.

• Hot Seat Coaching or Audits: Offer real-time support in front of the group.

• Micro-Workshops: Teach something small and powerful, with breakout discussions or journaling prompts.
  
  

Example:
One of my favorite formats is a monthly Community Roundtable. Everyone comes on camera. We open with a grounding ritual—something simple but centering, like a deep breath or a shared affirmation. Then each person gets a few minutes to share a win, a challenge, or a question. No selling. Just space-holding.

Guess what?

People come back every month. They refer friends. They eventually ask to work with me - because trust was built first.

Turning Conversations into Collaborations

Here’s something I wish more people said out loud: You don’t have to be the loudest in the room to be the most memorable.

You just need to be real.

During your virtual event, pay attention to:

• Who’s active in the chat?

• Who’s nodding on camera?

• Who drops a "this really resonated" comment?

Follow up with those people. Not with a pitch - but with presence.

Try:

• "Hey, I really appreciated your insight during the event. Want to connect?"

• "I noticed you shared [something meaningful] - thank you for that. If you ever want to brainstorm together, let me know."

That’s how you move from audience → ally. From follower → friend.

Some of the most fruitful collaborations I’ve had came from tiny post-event DMs. A compliment. A thank you. A quick Zoom chat that led to something bigger.

Creating a Culture Around Your Brand

Here’s the deeper layer most event hosts skip: Every time you go live, you’re not just teaching - you’re shaping the vibe of your brand.

Your event is a microcosm of your business culture. If you want to build community, connection, and trust - you have to create an environment that feels safe, fun, and grounded.

Some of the ways I like to do this:

• "Armor Check" at the beginning: A gentle reminder to leave your inner critic at the door.

• End-of-Session Rituals: A group affirmation, a moment of gratitude, or simply a shared breath.

• Using Names in the Chat: "Yes, Andrea, that’s a great point." Personal connection, even in big groups.

What you’re doing is modeling how you want people to show up - not just in your event, but in your world.

That’s what builds a culture around your brand. That’s what builds belonging. That’s what makes you unforgettable.

You don’t need a million followers. You don’t need to crack the LinkedIn algorithm. You just need a space - a container - where people feel safe enough to show up as themselves.

That’s what a powerful virtual event can be. Not just a marketing tactic. Not just a content funnel. But a community portal.

Your next client? Your next collaborator? Your next best biz friend? They’re already looking for you. Host the space. And let them find you there.

Ready to ditch the digital noise and build real connection through virtual events?

Let’s do it together - follow me on LinkedIn: Claudine Land