Provided by Alyssa Gelbard, Founder & President, Point Road Group
We all miss in-person networking with fellow FEI members (and others too). Just because you can’t be in the same physical space with other people, it doesn’t mean that your networking shouldn’t slow down to a crawl. While virtual networking is more challenging than doing so in person at conferences, meetings, networking events etc., with the necessary adjustments, you can –
and should -- actively meet new people, develop relationships and stay in touch with contacts.
The benefits of networking are considerable, as a strong and continuously growing network is critical for business and career success.
Here are some ways to “get out there” virtually:
1. Check in with colleagues at your company.
People often communicate with a narrower group of colleagues when working remotely. Informal conversations that you’d normally have at the office fall by the wayside when teams are distributed. These interactions are important though because they contribute to your visibility and connection to the company, so make time to touch base with those you haven’t seen or heard from in a while. A quick email or video chat is a great way to catch up, be top of mind and stay informed about what’s going on elsewhere in your organization.
2. Contact former peers & bosses.
These are great people to catch up with whether or not you’re preparing for a job search. Set aside some time every few weeks to reconnect with those from your past to see how they’re doing, learn what challenges they’re facing and ask how you can help. If you’re looking for a job, or considering a job search, these people may be vital resources -- they know you professionally and might know of opportunities that are a good fit for you. Plus, it’s never too early to think about references.
3. Don’t forget about other key contacts.
Touch base with past auditors, bankers, attorneys, other professional service providers and vendors. Consider those with whom you worked closely at one time and had a good relationship with. This can reignite the connection plus keep you better informed on trends, opportunities, issues and challenges other companies, industries and functional areas are facing. It’s also a good idea to ask how you can be helpful to them right now. You never know what you might easily be able to help with and that can go a long way in enhancing a relationship.
4. Say “Yes” to events.
Events are still happening virtually, so make time to attend. While you may have Zoom fatigue, virtual networking events are a good source for making new connections and staying in touch with contacts -- if you actively participate! Don’t join passively (meaning, you’re logged on but really checking email or reviewing a report). Remember to practice a personal, relevant introduction, as well as ask questions, make comments or even write a message in the chat box – these all drive visibility and show interest and engagement. Identify participants whom you’d like to meet, and just the way you would if you met them in-person, email or connect on LinkedIn afterwards.
Article Links:
https://pointroadgroup.com/virtual-networking-essentials/
https://hbr.org/2020/05/how-to-host-a-virtual-networking-event
https://www.forbes.com/sites/shelcyvjoseph/2020/05/18/four-ways-to-make-the-most-out-of-your-virtual-networking-events/