Networking without feeling pushy after 5 years as a mechanic

I sent 5 messages on a professional network and got two replies. It has been weighing on me all week. I worry about bothering people. Did any turn into leads?

Follow up with a thank-you and a short update. One of my chats led to a referral a month later.

I asked what they wish they had known at my stage. People enjoy answering that.