Since COVID, working remotely is normal. Everyone finds the hybrid or completely remote working model a great choice.
The reason? It can give you flexibility for a lot of things, like maintaining a work-life balance, helping out more at home, or having a second source of income. However, one thing that is affected by this is networking. Meeting people face-to-face and networking have always been the norm. However, this does not mean that you cannot network remotely. That is possible, too! The only difference is that networking in a remote setting requires a strategic approach, leveraging digital practices and tools for building professional relationships.
Virtual interactions are the norm. Right? So, you have to get creative to ensure you can network effectively from your remote setting. Here is how you can do it.
Tips for networking effectively from a remote setting
Use social media and professional networks
LinkedIn and other social media networks are great tools for online networking. LinkedIn is best for professional networking, offering multiple features that connect you with industrial professionals. However, to make the most of LinkedIn, you should optimize your profile. It should be complete and up-to-date, with a professional photo and a compelling headline, while also including a detailed summary of experiences, aspirations, and skills. Moreover, you should also join groups specific to your industry, as it will help increase visibility while allowing you to build connections. Also, be active by sharing comments and posting. This lets you be visible amongst your target audience, too.
Use digital business cards
For remote settings, you need the right tools. This includes a working Wi-Fi connection, a laptop, or a computer. Another essential tool is digital business cards, which can help you network. Similar to a paper business card, it has all your details, which you can share with the people whom you are networking with virtually. This allows for follow-ups, a necessary part of networking.
Attend virtual webinars and conferences
For remote networking, attending virtual events is super important. These events give you the opportunity to share knowledge, learn, and even connect with your peers. Start by finding the right event for you; it can be specific to your industry or unrelated. Choose from webinars, conferences, and other workshops relevant to your field. When you are at the event, you should also engage with them by asking questions and offering your opinions. If the event has a networking session, use it to meet people and introduce yourself by exchanging contact information with professionals.
Get creative with tools
Tools like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet let you have face-to-face interactions even in a virtual setting. This lets you get creative, as you can have a coffee chat virtually. Just have a strong cup of coffee brewing and invite colleagues or other industry professionals for a virtual chat. This lets you build stronger connections. You can also have a follow-up connection, which will deepen your relationship with them. Even though these are virtual events, dress well to ensure you have a good impression.
Engage in online forums and communities
Online forums and communities are great for networking. So, identify relevant communities like Slack or Discord that are ideal for hosting various communities. Also, contribute value to the organization by sharing knowledge, answering questions, and participating in many discussions. It provides you with value as it helps you establish credibility and attract connections. Also, it helps you build long-term relationships by interacting with community members to foster meaningful and professional relationships.
Email newsletters and outreach
Using email is a good tool for building professional relationships through networking and communication. Go with cold outreach, where you send professionals or potential mentors an email to reach out. You might get a reply, or you might not! That is fun! Also, subscribe to email newsletters from different people to get the opportunity to connect with them.
Collaborate on projects
Collaborating on multiple projects also gives you an opportunity to work with others, helping you build great professional relationships. There are many open-source platforms, like GitHub, that connect you with engineers and developers worldwide. Also, you can partner with professionals on many joint ventures, like writing research papers, developing products, or hosting webinars.
Maintain relationships
Building and keeping relationships is another aspect of networking. So, follow up, send congratulatory messages whenever necessary, and send emails on holidays to help you maintain relationships. Also, if you have any opportunities for the person you are networking with, share them with them.
Have a personal brand
Having a personal brand is super important. So, work on creating one on LinkedIn. To achieve this, produce and distribute content that displays your areas of skill. Blog, post, do podcasts, or engage in commenting. Also, be consistent with your messages by using the same voice quality. Lastly, engage with industry influencers by commenting on their posts, sharing your insights, or showing your appreciation for them. It helps with visibility and credibility.
Seek and offer mentorship
Remote networking is not easy, but it can be, especially if you find a mentor or offer mentorship to someone. It is mutually beneficial and helps you expand your network. To find a mentor, you can reach out to professionals related to your field for mentorship. Their connection and guidance are invaluable for you. Also, you can offer mentorship to people who are less experienced than you and require help expanding their network.
Be up-to-date
Remote work has a unique landscape that is constantly evolving. So, it is necessary that you stay informed in order to adapt to the changing landscape. For this, continuous learning of the art of networking virtually through online courses or webinars is super important. Also, you can adapt to changes by using new methods or platforms for networking.
Conclusion
Effective remote networking will require a strategic and proactive approach. As you can see, digital tools and online communities, along with virtual events, can help you build a professional network even remotely. The key, however, is being consistent and adapting to the crucial elements to ensure everything is fine. There will be challenges, but with time and the right strategies, you can do it.