Now that technology is changing the way we work, remote work is redrawing the rules of how we interact in our jobs. These days, you won’t find anyone gathering in the office’s lounge or chatting in the hallways. Considering the new trends, people now have to think more about who they want to interact with professionally.
There is some good news. It’s possible that remote networking is just as strong or better than being together in person. If you have the right attitude and support, you don’t need to go to a conference room to connect.
This is how you can excel at networking from a distance.
Focus on a New Approach: Networking Is Useful for Everyone
When starting with remote networking, realize that it’s not limited to finding a new position. Working on your network means forming true friendships, picking up new knowledge, collaborating, and finding growth opportunities.
Regardless of whether you’re a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or work full time, your network can:
- Explain what is happening in the industry right now.
- Help you get to know new people you could collaborate with.
- Connect with others who can either guide or learn from you.
- How you share your work is very important.
When you shift your approach to focusing on relationships instead of transactions, networking feels more comfortable and with a goal.
Use LinkedIn, but Don’t Limit Yourself to Likes
Many professionals use LinkedIn for networking, but it doesn’t get as much attention as it should. Rather than only liking on Facebook, make real conversations with your connections.
- If something on social media resonates with you, don’t hesitate to share your thoughtful comment. Post your view or ask something to encourage discussion.
- Send your message with a specific purpose. Whenever you talk to someone for the first time, don’t go with the usual message. Try, “I found your article on leading remotely very interesting. Want to learn about what you do and have a chance to connect?”
- Write posts about your opinions, projects you’re most proud of, or what’s happening in your industry to encourage others to reach out to you.
Register for and attend online meetings and presentations.
More people are attending online events these days, and they’re great for remote networking. At virtual events, you can meet experts from all over the world without having to cover the costs of travel.
For the best results from virtual events:
- Take advantage of having discussions in breakout rooms. You’ll find that lots of platforms now have smaller groups—it’s worth exploring these.
- Greet everyone you see in the chat room. Hi, I’m Priya and I’m a UX designer who lives in Bangalore. Being excited to learn is a way to start connecting.
- Talk to the candidates after you meet them. After someone asks a good question or you have a quick chat, follow up via LinkedIn or email to continue.
If you want to discuss these skills, join (or start) online groups about them.
- On Slack, Facebook, Discord, and Reddit, you can find professionals sharing ideas on marketing and machine learning.
- Look for special interest groups that are related to what you do.
- When you enter the group, tell others what you’re currently working on.
- Do something for the other person first. Assist them or share helpful recommendations that strengthen your reputation.
Compared to LinkedIn, these groups are more informal and allow users to keep talking over time.
You may either organize or attend coffee chats online.
Remote networking doesn’t need to happen only when you are part of a group. Doing a video call one-on-one helps you develop close relationships for the long term.
- Send a quick message to people whose lives or work you respect.
- Remain short, and informal, and make sure it’s an easy affair.
- Gather some good questions ahead of time, and respect when your interviewer has other duties.
- Say thank you again and stay in contact by sending updates or links to relevant news.
Don’t Stop Being Involved
- Subsequent meetings are important—meeting just once doesn’t create a bond.
- Try to get back in touch with a new contact within 48 hours.
- Send them a message every couple of months with:
- I found this article and remembered you—hope all is good at [Company]!
These little things help the relationship stay comfortable.
All Things Considered: Being Remote Does Not Mean You’re Far From Your Team
While you won’t be able to meet people in person or shake their hands, networking remotely gives you the chance to create relationships with people worldwide. What matters is that you are intentional, remain your true self, and are always on the same path.
The people in your network make a serious difference in your career, no matter where you work.
No need to wait for a future live conference to build your social circle in the industry. It doesn’t matter where you begin as long as you start. Let’s deal with each relationship separately.
