The Power of (Virtual) Networking
For the introverts amongst us, there has never been a more perfect time to network with everything shifted to the online forum. But regardless of whether we are living in a virtual or face-to-face world, networking is key - and as the founder of blueumbrella, I’m living proof that the connections you make and nurture along your business journey are pivotal in creating a successful business. I’ve collated my top tips to help you along your way as we navigate through the virtual way of living.
Craft your profile
Before you even think about reaching out to certain contacts, make sure your professional profile is up-to-date and decide where you want to be seen – the places where your target audience hangs out the most (LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter and so on). Make sure your experiences and interests are detailed, and even better if you can manage to get a few recommendations from those you have worked with. See what those similar to yourself are doing and be mindful over what you choose to post. You don’t want to be posting anything you wouldn’t want a future employer to see – which includes your profile photograph. Keep it professional but friendly.
Figure out what networking style works for you
For some of us, networking doesn’t come naturally but there’s no set way of doing things so it’s a case of trial and error to see what works for you. Introverted people might not like large events (which now extends to large online video networking groups) and would prefer to approach on a one-to-one basis. Figure out what suits you best and then consider how to find the right people to have these conversations.
Start local
When you’re just starting out, don’t run before you can walk. You might be set on reaching a global market or certainly expanding beyond your immediate geography, however, people are more likely to connect with you if you’re local and it’s important to build a solid network locally to help establish quality connections which you can build from in the future. Personally, I spent 4 years waking up at 5:30 am every Wednesday to attend a local networking event and the connections I made there still serve me well to this day.
Find common ground
It’s easier to make connections if you can find something you both have in common and then referencing this when you make the approach. It might be a previous employer, hometown or a membership organisation, but making mention of this instantly helps build a rapport and gives a reason for them to connect with you.
Engage with relevant postings
Take the time to comment on people’s blog posts, articles and general LinkedIn posts particularly if what they are posting interests you or aligns with your offerings. This is a great way to let people know that you exist as well as showing the type of person you are based on the comments you make. It also makes sense to write your own blogs to enable current and potential connections to get to know you better. It’s a great way to raise awareness in the business community.
Be helpful and pay it forward
Look for ways to invest in your relationships and provide value to those in your network before you make an ask. For example, provide recommendations, free advice or make an introduction to someone in your personal network. The more you give, the easier it will be to make an ask further down the road and you might just get something in return.
Follow-up and maintain the connection
If you’ve had a good conversation with someone in a networking group, follow up afterwards by sending them a quick email or linking up on LinkedIn. Grow the connection by commenting and sharing their articles and really invest in the relationship. You never know where it could lead and what connections you could gain from it.
Every day there’s a networking opportunity
In many ways, building connections in the digital world is easier. There are no awkward silences to fill or awkwardness you might get from a face-to-face setting. Viewing online profiles allows you to filter down to those who might be in or have connections to your target market. Actively speaking about your business to those around you and those within your social media networks keeps up your brand awareness and you never know who might be watching or listening. Be brave, be kind and don’t give up.