Networking in the New Digital World
/As with all other elements of the working world, networking has changed dramatically since the pandemic hit. Being physically present with a large group of unknown people is no longer an option. So how can we continue to successfully network in the new era of work?
Networking has to now happen virtually but at a more personal level with an emphasis on shared knowledge, as opposed to shared physical space. Knowing how and when to share your knowledge and to the right audience is key as content knowledge has never been so vast and accessible.
Be Authentic
Due tor social distancing and being removed from normal social settings, people are craving real connection. When communicating with your current network, or creating new contacts, it is more important than ever to be your true self.
Create content of value
Begin your new digital networking by sharing knowledge and information that other people will value and seek out. Post information in the form of a post, a blog, an infographic etc. to your pre-existing networks, such as LinkedIn.
Begin insightful discussions
Share thought provoking articles or research by others, with your own comments, to initiate a discussion and highlight the subject area as an interest to you.
Reach out to people
If you come across someone online, in work, at a virtual event etc., that you feel you can either benefit from their knowledge, engage in important conversation or you can assist them with valuable knowledge, just reach out. Gone are the days of having to have a ‘mutual contact’ to initiate the introduction – be your own hype team!
Have a specific networking target
Consider what you are trying to achieve and what kind of people would be most beneficial for your network at this time – make the networking meaningful.
Look for online communities
Join webinars that focus on the topics you are interested in or are related to your career and aim to connect with at least one other attendee. Join a social media group and actively interact with the members. Partake in forums or discussion boards to continue your learning in the subject matter and meet likeminded individuals.
Get social
Whilst LinkedIn is usually the first, and often the best, platform for networking, other social media channels should not be overlooked. Friends, family and other personal connections can be a great starting point and sounding board for many ideas and discussions. A lot of social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram have some fun interaction and engagement tools that can lead you to great contacts.
Utilize your current connections
If you know the type of person you need to connect with but don’t know of a specific person, ask your current contacts for suggestions. You can then get an introduction and seek them out and introduce yourself.
It is a major positive that that it is still possible to connect with colleagues, clients and other key contacts to maintain and build strong relationships, whilst we go through such a global shift. Networking can now extend outside of the traditional borders and can open up exciting new discussions, connections and opportunities!
Blog post by Martha Fallon
Martha is a Social Media Coordinator for YWiB Vancouver. Martha hails from Ireland and is a keen traveler (when safe to do so) who enjoys exploring the vast landscapes of Canada.