The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the way we work and interact with others. With travel restrictions and physical distancing measures in place, in-person conferences and events have become increasingly rare. However, the need for networking and professional connections remains as important as ever. In fact, with the rise of virtual conferences and social media, there are now more opportunities than ever to connect with others in your field.
If you're looking to network in this new environment, there are a few things you can do to adjust your approach and make the most of these virtual opportunities.
Get Comfortable with the Technology
One of the most significant changes to networking during the pandemic has been the shift to virtual events. To make the most of these opportunities, it's essential to get comfortable with the technology. Before attending a virtual conference, take 10 minutes to learn the features of the conference platform. Familiarize yourself with your camera and microphone, and make sure that you can be seen and heard clearly. This will ensure that you can communicate properly and give and receive valuable feedback.
Engage
One of the benefits of virtual conferences is the ability to use the chat function to interact with other attendees. This feature elevates networking opportunities to the next level. You can ask questions at any time, answer questions others have raised, build upon their input, and share information of interest with the entire group, such as a link to a related paper. You can also use the private messaging function to make one-on-one connections with others. For example, you can send a message to someone you met at the conference to say, "Great seeing you again!" or "Great comment. I'd love to discuss this in more detail. Drop me an email at…." These small gestures can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities down the road.
Follow Up
Finally, take the initiative to follow up with those you connected with during the conference. Take advantage of the virtual environment and invite the people you are most interested in connecting with for a virtual one-on-one. It's important to remember that we are all in the same boat, looking for opportunities to meet new people and network in this virtual world, so it isn't a strange request. Don't be afraid to ask!
Networking through Social Media
In addition to virtual conferences, social media can be an effective tool for networking. With platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook, you can connect with others in your field and build relationships that can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and other professional growth.
Here are a few tips for using social media to network:
Keep your profile up-to-date: Make sure your profile reflects your current work experience, skills, and interests. This will make it easier for others to find you and understand what you have to offer.
Connect with others in your field: Look for people who work in your industry or have similar interests. Send them a message introducing yourself and explaining why you'd like to connect.
Share relevant content: Share articles, blog posts, and other content that is relevant to your field. This will help you establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry and attract others who share your interests.
Engage with others: Like, comment, and share other people's content. This will help you build relationships with others in your field and increase your visibility.
Participate in online groups and forums: Join groups and forums related to your field and participate in discussions. This will help you meet new people, learn about new developments in your industry, and establish yourself as a knowledgeable and engaged professional.