Online networking - is it possible?

I'm also trying to control my "introvertism" - it's hard but it pays off.

I don't think there's anything that can beat real world networking - I think it's something hard wired into our DNA - we simply relate more to people, remember them and like them better when we've met them in person.

I must spend too much time online. I meet more people "here" than IRL who actually connect in a meaningful way to me and help me further my goals in terms of developing my websites and what not. IRL, I have some entry level job I can't get promoted out of and I seem to fail to impress. I am aware of some of the reasons for that, but being aware of those reasons and being able to overcome them are not the same thing.

As for the closing question of the blog:

I am still learning new ways of networking online so I would be very interested in hearing how you use the Internet to network

Make yourself available in real time as much as possible. Be actively online for a block of time participating in discussions on boards or answering emails or using live Chat or Skype if that works for you or whatever medium makes a good connection with the person you are contacting. (EDIT: If you are in very different time zones, this may mean being online at odd hours. If you are prone to insomnia, make good use of that time.) Get back to people quickly, though sometimes if you don't know what to say, waiting a little while so you can gather your thoughts has its merits. It can sound flaky to send a prompt email reply with no real content and then follow-up later with a more substantive reply -- or worse send a brief email promising more substance and never deliver. "You only get one chance to make a first impression". So in some cases, it is wise to wait a bit and reply when you are able to give it the attention it deserves. Still, don't wait too long.

Also, have patience. Online acquaintances may suddenly wind up very busy and there may be no means in place for them to feel comfortable notifying you or for you to feel comfortable asking why they suddenly dropped out of sight. Be very slow to judge. Yes, in some cases it is exactly your worst fear: They really do dislike you; they really are rejecting you and trying to avoid an uncomfortable situation and thinking they can get away with it because it's not "real life", it's just the internet; etc. But in many other cases, they had some personal emergency or other (or are just busy or forgot) and acting like an insecure, attention-mongering jerk while they are overwhelmed with events is a great way to earn their personal rejection.

Peace and good luck.