3 Tips for Virtual Networking

Although pandemic restrictions are starting to lighten, it may be a while before many large organizations make the jump back to in-person office work. On top of that, networking events that we have all come to enjoy may stay virtual for a while!

Many workers across the world have embraced the new norm of virtual networking, but sometimes it can be difficult. Have you asked yourself these questions recently?

How can I network during the middle of a pandemic?

Is it awkward to Zoom call someone new?

What networking etiquette carries over into the virtual space?

We have you covered with 3 top tips to keep in mind when networking from home. Over 80% of jobs are found through networking, so follow these tips if you are looking to find a great new job!

1. Attend Virtual Events

One mistake that many inexperienced professionals make is that they do not find the right people to network with. Cold outreach on LinkedIn may seem like an easy way to build connections, and although it may work well occasionally, it can be difficult to actually connect with people.

One easy way to meet and talk with a variety of different professionals in your field is to attend virtual events and conferences. Besides being easier to approach than cold outreach, conferences will allow you to speak with others that are in your field of specialty.

With the ongoing pandemic and rise of virtual work, most conferences can be easily attended through the comfort of your own home.

“The overall number of professional events and conferences doubled in 2020.”

-Wild Apricot (30 Virtual Event Statistics)

Given that there are so many virtual opportunities for networking available it is certainly easier to network virtually right now. However, simply attending the conference is not a networking guarantee. Here is a quick list of tips that can help you find new friends and colleagues at your next virtual conference.

Virtual Conference Networking Tips

1. Come Prepared- Make sure to come prepared with an elevator pitch, work samples or experience, and anything else that can set you apart.

2. Speak Up in Chat- In between events, speak up over video or text chat. Let others know that you are engaged and looking to chat with others about the event.

3. Find Small Groups- If you are anxious about talking with others, try to break into smaller groups and network that way. Or, bring a friend and tackle networking together.

Virtual conferences are a great way for beginners to learn about basic networking skills. Remember to be yourself and be confident in your skills and abilities.

2. Personal Zoom Calls

After making initial professional connections at a conference or virtual event, you may be wondering, where do I go next?

Although an easy answer is to simply connect on LinkedIn and chat a bit over text, there are a few better solutions that can help build strength and trust with your new connections. Video chatting and using Zoom is a great way to learn more about your new networking connection, and make things a bit more personal at the same time.

“In 2020, total Zoom users surpassed over 300 million worldwide.”

-Business of Apps (Zoom Usage Statistics)

With over 300 million people utilizing Zoom, it is now no longer a strange ask to invite people to network utilizing the platform. Always be sure to be kind and respectful and come prepared with topics to discuss.

Group networking events over Zoom are another great way to professionally network if you are weary of one on one conversations.

One fun idea is to network with another similar department of a different industry! For example, have your B2B marketing team network with a B2C marketing team in your city. You will not only gain valuable insight into current trends, but meet some friends along the way.

3. Tell Stories

If you find yourself struggling to find conversation topics with your new connections, it is completely understandable! One of the best ways to help conversation flow naturally is to tell stories.

Everyone has professional and personal stories to tell. You will find that networking is much easier if you can prepare some entertaining stories to share ahead of time. Here are some quick storytelling tips to help!

Networking Storytelling Tips

1. Talk About Your Work- One great way to approach storytelling is to turn your recent projects into stories. Present them to others and feel free to exaggerate a bit for dramatic effect! People don’t want to hear that you had a recent presentation, they want to hear how your recent presentation in front of thousands completely changed the course of a company!

2. Be Personal- Telling personal stories is certainly encouraged. People want to learn more about you! Make sure to not get too personal, but feel free to share your recent family accomplishments and personal achievements.

3. Ask Questions- After telling a story, make sure to ask something and get feedback from your connections. Have you ever had something happen like this? or What would you have done if you were me? are great follow ups that can help engage your network.

If you are ever feeling stuck in professional networking, go back to a great story. Everyone loves a well thought out story, and you will find networking will soon become a breeze.

At the end of the day, virtual networking is the new norm for many professionals. It can seem daunting at first to network online but we hope that these tips help you! Let us know what you think about professional networking in the comments!

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