Stay six feet apart. Don’t travel unless it’s necessary. Oh, and don’t forget to wear a mask! By now, we’re all familiar with the social distancing guidelines and the “new normal”.
While it’s important to stay safe and keep our physical distance from others, there’s no reason to stop connecting with others personally and professionally. Sure, you can’t grow your network by grabbing a cup of coffee with an acquaintance or making new connections at a conference or industry event. But you can still strengthen your network from the comforts of your home.
Here are a few tips to help you network safely during the era of COVID-19.
Network Outside Your Area
Location is no longer a barrier. Take advantage of this. With events going virtual and meetups shifting to online conferencing, you no longer need to worry about commuting.
Use this to your advantage. Be open to networking opportunities outside of your general area. With the stigma changing around remote opportunities, who knows – maybe you’ll find a new opportunity across the coast!
Strengthen Existing Connections
Chances are, you probably don’t personally know every single one of your LinkedIn connections. Take some time to audit your network. Look through your existing network to find new opportunities to connect. That person you connected with on LinkedIn a year ago and forgot about completely may be working in a position that interests you or a company that you aspire to be at.
This is also a great time to reconnect with old mentors, classmates, and coworkers that you’ve lost touch with over the years. LinkedIn Surveys show that 35% of users have found a new opportunity from a casual conversation on the platform Rekindling connections with just one or two people a month is a great way to start.
Network on Social Media
As people are working remotely, they’re increasingly turning to social media channels to connect with each other. Outside of networking on LinkedIn, you can tune into livestreams across other platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Follow your favorite agencies, brands, and entrepreneurs on social platforms. Also follow relevant hashtags like #digitalmarketing, #professionaldevelopment, or #smallbusinesstips on Instagram for quick and digestible content.
Don’t Forget to Say Thanks!
Just like you would send a thank-you note or email following a job interview or informational session, make sure you send your appreciation to those taking the time to network with you. Whether it’s a quick 10 minute phone call or an half-hour long zoom call, a thank-you goes a long way. Let them know you’re grateful they took the time out of their day for you. Trust me, people remember that.
Take, But Also Give
Networking is all about making connections and building relationships. You can’t build a meaningful relationship with someone if you are only looking to see what you can gain. Realize that you have something valuable to offer. Seek out opportunities to help others, whether that’s through mentoring someone, sharing advice with your network, providing a job referral, or introducing a friend to a connection in your network. People remember those who help them, and later down the road they may even be able to return the favor!