Expanding your network can certainly be seen as a daunting task, it's an even steeper hill to climb while everyone is still meeting behind a computer screen. We put together some tips on how to expand your network while working from home.
BUILD YOUR DIGITAL PRESENCE
It might go without saying, but as everyone is working and communicating from home, building up your online presence is a great way to put your best foot forward while networking! Build out your LinkedIn profile if you still have blank sections, and increase your posts/engagement! It doesn’t have to be everyday but sharing a post here and there will make it clear that you’re active and open to network!
GET CREATIVE
One benefit of working from home is that virtually anybody is within your reach. Instead of having to network at a conference you can now send a message to someone halfway across the world!
Not only can you get creative with who you reach out to, you can get creative in how you reach out as well. Send a handwritten note or invitation, maybe link a specific article that relates to a prior conversation, or issue they’re dealing with.
REFRESH YOUR EXISTING NETWORK
Once you have a network, it’s important to maintain that network. Reach out to your peers and old contacts and just catch up. One, it strengthens that relationship and increases the likelihood of actually using that network, but it could also open doors for other networking opportunities. Maybe they know or are a part of a virtual networking community, maybe they have a peer that they think shares similar ideas as yourself. Reconnect and see what’s out there.
While the networking game has changed post-covid, there are some networking classics that remain in-style; always add value, and be authentic. Adding value is one of the most important aspects of networking, but some may find it difficult to articulate. Invite/inform them of an event that would be interesting or useful to them, share your specific knowledge, or introduce them to new people they need to know.
One of the best ways to add value to a network connection is a referral. Whether it be a candidate, a service, or a strategy, the more you give the more you will get back.
Being authentic is a theme in these blog posts, and rightfully so. Now more than ever people crave a genuine connection, so reach out and say hello. Be yourself and keep things conversational! Not every connection starts transactional, and it usually feels the most genuine when it doesn’t! You don’t have to overshare information but a little personality goes a long way in networking.
So go forth, networkers! Make new connections and strengthen your existing network. In this era of online-living, be sure to build your digital presence, refresh your network, and get creative! And always be sure to bring value to the table and be authentic, in any era.