3 minute read
Networking in a virtual world
BY AMENA HAYAT
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For the foreseeable future, we will not be making new connections or networking by shaking hands and exchanging physical résumés or business cards at Career Expos or conferences. We therefore need to embrace a change in mindset, adopt new networking strategies and equip ourselves with adequate preparation to effectively network virtually.
For many, the thought of relying solely on virtual networking to meet new people and make professional connections is overwhelming and one may not know where to start or how to approach it. Yes, virtual networking does come with certain boundaries and challenges, however, it also opens up many new opportunities and broadens your reach. Here are three practical ways that will help ensure that you are ready to engage in virtual networking:
1. Be switched on
Ensure that you are on top of events and that you have diarised important engagements such as the annual virtual careers expos, society industry webinars and company Q&A sessions. Find out how to register and be proactive in your approach – the more you attend, the higher your engagement and chances of meeting new people and landing opportunities.
2. Increase and enhance your social media presence
Your social media presence and activity is of paramount importance. Not only do you need to be on social media, but you need to ensure that your presence is professional and targeted. Ensure that you have updated your profiles and that your messaging is professional, targeted and appropriate.
LinkedIn is a platform that holds immense value for virtual networking – boost your activity and invest time in improving your profile. Use LinkedIn to follow companies of interest and individuals that you would like to connect with. Share content that demonstrates your knowledge, expresses your perspective and is aligned with your personal brand. Remember that even though social media platforms are free, they bolster your reach and empower you to improve your visibility from the comfort of your own desk.
3. Be prepared
Always prepare for an online event as much as you would if you were engaging in person. Prepare your space – a quiet place with a neat, presentable background. Be professional in your dress code and body language; do your company and industry research; prepare intriguing, open-ended questions and be confident in your offering and what makes you stand out.
Once you have registered for an online event or have sent an invitation to connect with an individual on social media, remember that your one-on-one time is limited and that every second they spend reading counts – ensure that what you do share is concise and delivers your message.
4. Engage
When sending a connection invitation on LinkedIn, always include a polite introductory message stating why you would like to connect. If your invitation is accepted, send a follow-up message while you are fresh in their mind and invite a conversation.
When attending an online event and engaging in a common Q&A chat box, share your contact information immediately. This serves as your invitation for others to connect with you. At the end of the engagement, thank the facilitator or organisers of the event and invite other attendees to connect with you on LinkedIn or via email – and then follow-up.
Switch your video on where possible – this is the next best thing to being in person and allows you to engage with eye-contact, body language and facial expressions.
The overall key to networking, whether in person or virtual, is that it is a give and take activity – always be on the look-out to see how you can help others be noticed, acknowledged and to connect them with people in your own network. When you lend a hand to someone, they will be far more willing to help you later on. Be open to virtual networking and embrace a change in mindset – you will soon see the vast reach and opportunities that it can bring you.
