Building Your Professional Self: A Guide to Networking Online
Networking is not easy, especially not now. On top of the normal stressors, anxiety and nerves that come with networking, we are currently in a pandemic, which further prevents us from meeting people, co-workers, or potential employers in person.
However, we do know that this does not stop life from continuing on. Without meeting people ‘in real life,’ we are left with the options of video chatting, phone calls, and socially distanced meet ups — with masks of course. On the flip side, networking online can decrease social anxiety that comes with meeting unknown people in real life. Networking online (even during the pandemic) is crucial to continue moving forward with our careers.
So, here are some tips on how to best utilize the virtual world we live in now to network online.
Use Social Media to Build Your Digital Presence
Social media can be a double edged sword. While we tend to focus on the negative aspects of the highlight reel, social media can present many opportunities that we may not find otherwise. Companies, organizations and other individuals looking to grow professionally (or personally) are beginning to look at social media as a tool to network.
If you are into social media and are in the creative field, use your page as a visual portfolio. Utilize your platform and build your digital presence to showcase how your professional expertise and your passions tie together. Since I started freelancing, I began creating a personal brand on Instagram for potential clients to see my abilities. I discuss topics I’m passionate about, like identity, culture and social issues, through my writing. By doing so, I’ve gained traction in the writing space but also acquired a few clients.
If you follow inspirational individuals in your specific field who host networking events, sign up and engage. These events are great ways to meet with experts as well as other people who are in the same boat as you. Reply to their posts with thought-provoking comments or message them asking for their expertise on a specific topic. By doing so, you become recognizable and relevant to these individuals, and they might have a connection down the line or offer to help you.
Use Your Current Network
Don’t be shy. Reach out to family and friends to ask if the companies they work at or people they work at are hosting online networking events. We often don’t realize how valuable our personal networks are. Ask for any leads to help you get started. People are more willing to help now than ever. Generally speaking, many professionals are empathetic towards those of us who are just starting our careers.
If you’ve interned at any organizations or companies previously, reach out to old teammates or managers who supported you there. They may know of professional organizations you can become involved with or connect you with people that will be relevant to your field.
Use alumni college networks, professors, or other students as well! Remember to connect with people who have similar ideas or visions as you — together you can make something happen, even living through a pandemic. You can certainly get the support and help you need. You just need to ask.
Be Personal and Patient
The last year has been difficult for everyone in different capacities. What you don’t want to do is come across as cold, ingenuine or inconsiderate. When approaching someone virtually, be sure to ask how the individual is doing and mention how you hope that they are staying safe and healthy.
Be personable and empathetic. These kind gestures go a long way, and they will remember you as a kind person whether or not they are able to help you out. Don’t go into meetings or virtual chats with expectations that they will get you your dream job. It takes work, consistency, patience, and expanding your network.
Set goals for yourself weekly, bi-weekly or monthly, and stick to these goals. Aim to talk to one person each week. Even if networking doesn’t lead to a job opportunity as quickly as you would like, it is always worth it. These people will put in a good word for you whenever is possible, and you’ll have more people on your side.
It has been an extremely difficult year. At times it may feel like time is at a pause and other days it’ll feel like the past year has gone by in a blink. What you don’t want to do is regret not using this time to build relationships with people and work on your skills.
Build your digital presence if you can, and if you have the time and ability, sign up for classes online that are relevant to your field - there is always something to learn. Work on projects that can help expand your creative skills, technical skills, and your knowledge of the specific field you are pursuing a career in.
Be patient, consistent and don’t lose hope. You can never go wrong with networking, and it only becomes more second-to-nature with time.
Header photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels
