The web of today is fundamentally different than it was in 1995—or even 2005. Back then, anonymity was not only commonwas often the norm. When Facebook first launched, I wasn’t interested in sharing my real name. I made a conscious effort—both online and offline—to separate my identity from my digital presence.
But that was a different internet.
Fast-forward to today, and the rules of the game have changed. In the current era of online collaboration, learning in public, and reputation-based credibility, building your network is essential. Whether you’re launching a project, growing a career, or learning in the open, your online identity is a crucial part of how you connect with others.
That’s why I’m making a shift—from secrecy to strategy. From hiding behind handles to showing up with purpose.
Here’s how I’m using Twitter, Reddit, Discord, and LinkedIn to grow my presence and contribute meaningfully to the communities I care about.
🐦 Twitter: The Modern-Day Agora
Twitter is where thought meets action. It’s where builders, hackers, founders, and thinkers throw out ideas, ask questions, and engage in fast-paced conversations. I’m using Twitter to:
- Share my learnings and challenges in real time
- Connect with others in cybersecurity, development, and startup spaces
- Learn from mentors I wouldn’t meet in real life
The key is consistency and authenticity. Even short, thoughtful posts can open doors.
👽 Reddit: Depth Over Hype
Reddit remains one of the most underrated platforms for deep, topic-specific engagement. Whether it’s r/netsec, r/learnprogramming, or niche subreddits around side projects or certifications, Reddit is where long-form discussion and unfiltered advice thrive.
I use Reddit to:
- Ask technical questions without the fluff
- Share honest progress updates and get feedback
- Give back to communities I’ve learned from
It’s less about building a following, and more about earning trust and respect.
💬 Discord: Real-Time Collaboration
Discord is where communities really come alive. Unlike forums or comment threads, Discord offers real-time conversations with people who share your goals.
I use Discord servers related to:
- Cybersecurity training and labs
- Developer and startup communities
- Mentorship groups and certification prep
It’s perfect for informal chats, accountability check-ins, and even finding project collaborators.
💼 LinkedIn: Building Credibility
While Twitter and Discord are more casual, LinkedIn is where your professional face lives. It’s the digital version of a resume, a pitch, and a personal brand all in one.
I’m using LinkedIn to:
- Document my journey in security engineering
- Connect with peers, hiring managers, and collaborators
- Signal that I’m serious about my craft and career
It’s less about corporate jargon, and more about sharing real insights and lessons learned.
Final Thoughts
I used to value privacy so much that I avoided putting anything online. Today, I see the value in selective transparency—not oversharing, but showing up with intention. Being visible is not about ego. It’s about aligning with a network of people who can challenge you, support you, and grow with you.
Whether you’re an aspiring developer, a self-taught hacker, or building something from scratch, the best thing you can do is show up.
See you online.