Effective Digital Networking Tips
By: Lauren Marsicano
Insta: @networkingmaverick
Effective Digital Networking Tips
Pre-pandemic, we could attend face-to-face networking events without a care in the world. But, even back then, the world was becoming increasingly more digital. Webinars were becoming more commonplace, and many were making connections on social media. Now, with social distancing guidelines in place, digital networking has become the only viable way for many to continue networking. Luckily, networking in the virtual world is very similar to traditional (face-to-face) networking in the real world, only with some minor nuances.
Here are some tips that will help you make the best of digital networking to succeed in business - during the pandemic and beyond.
1. Make a plan.
Set goals for who you like to talk to, what you would like to accomplish, and think of ideas for collaborations before making first contact or attending an event. If attending an event, look at a list of attendees, and choose with whom it would be most beneficial to connect. Ask them how they prefer to communicate - LinkedIn, text messages, email, etc. If you’re connecting on social media, do your homework on what they do, and how you can add value to their business. Ask them what kinds of problems they have in their business, and brainstorm ways to solve them. Having a plan helps everyone save time, and facilitates the formation of a business relationship.
2. Use social media properly.
LinkedIn is mostly for B2B. Instagram is usually for influencers, B2C, and personal brands. Facebook can be used for friends, family, and business. Make sure to communicate appropriately, depending on the platform and level of intimacy. DM and comment as if you are speaking to the person face-to-face. All face-to-face communication rules apply to social media too. If the relationship is more personal, use a more intimate tone in your communication. If the relationship is strictly business, keep communication cordial and professional. And, never use a message template or auto-reply suggested by the platform. Personalize all contact and responses for maximum impact and connection.
3. Follow up!
This is often the most forgotten step of networking effectively. Absolutely do not forget to follow up after the event, especially if you made a connection that will be mutually beneficial. Contact them a maximum of 24 hours after the event through their preferred form of communication. Remind them where and how you met, and recap what you discussed at the event and what you would like to continue exploring with them. Suggest ideas to meet on a video chat or for a socially distanced coffee (if it is safe to do so). Taking the connection from a virtual conversation to a face-to-face or one-to-one video call will help build a stronger business relationship.
4. Be a giver.
This is one of our Top 5 Tips to Networking by Building Relationships. Just like with any other relationship, you need to give before you receive. Share interesting articles that will help the person level up, connect them with people in your network who can help them, put them in touch with potential clients or employers, etc. Add value to their business, and the relationship will grow to a point where they are a part of the network that creates your “net-worth.”
With the shift to primarily digital networking due to the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to hone this skill to succeed in business. Be more intentional with your networking. Focus on adding value to every business interaction. Use social media to your advantage. And follow the tips above to build a digital network that will turn into your “net-worth.”