How to Network Virtually

We all know how important networking is for our career, especially if you are thinking about relaunching or transitioning, and post pandemic, this is now more challenging. However, the good news is that despite this challenge, it is still possible through technology and social media to maintain your connections, and even create new ones.

It’s understandable that many people may find it challenging to build a great network virtually. But, it’s important to remember that strengthening existing professional contacts and pursuing new ones could be beneficial once the pandemic is over.

Here are four tips on how to network virtually:

1. Contact people you haven’t heard from in a while

Simply spending a few minutes each day contacting people you haven’t spoken to in a while and asking them how they are doing is a friendly gesture that they will remember and keeps you in touch.

2. Update your LinkedIn Profile

Now is an excellent time to make sure your profile is up to date with a professional looking picture. Ask your current connections for recommendations, join groups and engage with your connections by liking and commenting on posts.

It is essential that you are visible on LinkedIn, especially if you are thinking about relaunching or transitioning your career, as companies and recruiters are currently spending more time than ever on social media.

3. Approach new contacts

Why not use the extra time you have gained from not commuting to think about new contacts you could add to your current network? But ensure that you build a broad network of knowledgeable connections, both inside and outside of your own field and industry, as research by Rosina Racioppi, CEO of the US firm Women Unlimited, shows that you will be more successful if you do this.

According to Racioppi, women especially are more likely not to approach someone whose work they admire out of fear of rejection or feeling reluctant to impose on someone else’s time and attention. But as she says, you should never assume rejection as most people are receptive, so consider sending a LinkedIn request with a thoughtful note that briefly asks for advice on a specific business issue or situation.

4. Set up phone or video calls

Now is an excellent time to find out more about a job or career that you have been considering for a while. Reach out to old and new contacts and set up phone or video calls to gather information, especially from those who already work in the field you are interested in.

Most people are working from home at the moment and some will have time on their hands, so should be more than willing to help you.

Remember, what you do now will have a strong impact on future opportunities, so staying connected is more important than ever.

Sources:  Fortune.com  Forbes.com

* The Return Hub is an executive search firm that places professionals who want to relaunch or transfer their careers with employers in the financial services sector. They also advise on and implement practical strategies that companies can use to target, assess, hire and support returning talent.

Find out more about how The Return Hub could help you with options to Relaunch or transition your career at www.thereturnhub.com and join us on LinkedIn, Facebook,Twitter, Instagram