If you know me…
you know networking is my game. Some fear or dislike networking. It’s common for even the most seasoned A-players to avoid networking situations and retract when forced to put themselves out there, not me. I embrace it. In fact, it’s been the calling card of my career. You might even say that the art of networking has laid the foundation for my professional success. Connecting with others is one of my favorite things to do, but the times have called for a pivot. Meeting face to face, love it or hate, is not an option during social distancing and the global pandemic that has uprooted our lives. This unforeseen circumstance has forced us all to adjust. While we keep our distance, networking is still important, or perhaps more important than it ever was. But, we may have to get more creative.
Tips For Networking During Social Distancing Times
Find the tech tool that works for you.
Tech tools abound to help with online networking. From Slack to Zoom to Skype to Microsoft Teams, the tools are out there for you to tap into. Do a little research to determine which one would work best for your systems and your needs. Many have freemium models but come with a price tag if you need a large number of users or other bells and whistles. If you are new at using these types of tools, I recommend that you do a little research to find the tool that’s best for you and then take a quick test run to make sure you know the functionality before trying to connect with a colleague or client.
Make a calendar of regular check-ins.
It’s easy to get stuck into our new normal and overlook the importance of checking in on your connections. The new work from home normal is likely full of distractions with children and other family members in the house with you (in the same boat). The current situation can also place drains on our focus and increase confusion about what the next steps should be. The truth is because we are all navigating the unprecedented situation, your network is more than likely in need of connection more now than ever before.
Venture out of your close-knit comfort zone.
Now is the perfect time for the more introverted among us to step out without having to the dreaded face-to-face networking event. With few other options, the world is going virtual at this moment in history. The opportunities for online networking events, attend webinars or streaming events is limitless. Make a point to take advantage of these online events and start to connect in ways that were not available to you pre-pandemic.
Follow up via different channels.
Once you have your online meeting game adjusted and up to par, be sure to use other channels to stay in touch as well. Maybe you set up a Slack channel for your clients or employees so you can drop a quick line or ask a quick question. Or maybe you start an email communication stream to offer value to your customers, network or team.
Engage more than ever on social media.
Social media has become a place for the isolated to congregate. Those who had little time or interest in social media platforms are now spending time there to commiserate, connect and seek information. Posting helpful content more frequently, engaging with others and even creating a private group are all ways that you can tap into this new way of staying connected during the Corona Virus outbreak.
Now is your chance to shine.
In times of trouble, everyone is looking for guidance. It’s easier now (also known as mandatory) to avoid face to face meet-ups. While it might be hard for those who embrace networking, it’s a chance to shine for those who normally avoid it. While we all adjust and watch with bated breath to see how things situation unfolds, you can take a leadership position and find an opportunity to shine. It’s not necessarily about lifting your bottom line, but simply about providing real, authentic support in the ways you can.
While we navigate this unchartered territory together, it is a great time to take a step back. By digging into those analytical and planning “projects” that always get pushed back due to day to day demands, you might find yourself and your business poised for a new level of success at the end of it all. Xandra Marketing is here to help you drill down on your strategy, business development and all aspects of marketing.
Let’s set up a networking meeting today!
