HOW TO NETWORK VIRTUALLY
How to Network Virtually
In this new normal that seems to be caught in between two worlds, the conversation of virtually networking is more common and can be quite successful to build relationships that lead to business growth. It’s obviously a bit different than networking face-to-face, but networking virtually can truly be a great way to grow your connections and develop more opportunities to benefit your business. While conventional networking appears more casual and perhaps unintentional due to the social atmosphere, virtual networking has its own flair and strategy that can be even more beneficial.
Here are three ways you can virtually network and make it work in your favor:
Social Media Groups : LinkedIn and Facebook have plenty of industry focused online networking groups that can serve as great platforms for you to meet other people who are also looking to expand their network. Search for groups that are local and in your community, discover groups outside of your zip code that are focused on connecting people, or even those that are more social in nature and based on hobbies and/or interests. Networking is always about connecting to other people and it doesn’t necessarily have to happen in a purely networking label of a group. Just like we can network at a kids soccer game, birthday party, or social clubs, the same holds true with virtually networking. Pick a few groups that interest you and start connecting! Post topics that you feel will be of interest to the group for discussion, comment on posts in a beneficial way, and be of service to as many as you can in that group or groups. You are building relationships and developing your influence within the group. Be intentional with your post and always remember it is a reflection of your integrity and professionalism. Don’t be that spammy person posting about your sales or your promos. Be there to connect and help others through the knowledge you have and the expertise that you bring to the table.
Go through your rolodex and personally reach out to those already in your book of business. Dedicate a certain amount of hours in your week just to virtually network by reaching out 1:1 and checking with those who are in your circle already. Ask them how they are doing, send them an article that may be of interest to them, and let them know you are there to help them with anything they may need. This will help you stand out in their mind as someone who is considerate, helpful, and mindful of others. Don't just reach out to them with your latest sale. Take the time to reconnect with them and offer your assistance with no expectation in return. This helps to also remind them of you, your business, and perhaps it will lead to a new referral. Networking is about helping one another and people referring you to others because they find value in your connection.
Create your own virtual networking group and stand out even more from the crowd. There is great value in starting your own virtual networking group because you can give it the community feel, the platform for others and a way to show off your leadership skills. By creating your own group, whether on LinkedIn or Facebook, you are creating your own stage for others to get to know you. Create engaging posts that get others on the stage to show their expertise, post content that will help them, be of service to them by sharing and helping them connect with others.
There is no reason you can’t network a few hours a day in a virtual way. Keep moving forward, building relationships, sharing and referring businesses to others and it will lead to more opportunities and growth for you and your brand.
Violette de Ayala is the Founder and CEO of FemCity, a women's networking organization that infuses gratitude, positivity, purpose and soul through local gatherings, virtual networking and online connectivity. Violette is a spiritual self-help international best seller and the author of "The Self-Guided Guru, Life Lessons for the Everyday Human". She is also a motivational speaker, business advisor, investor and entrepreneur. Violette's been quoted in Forbes, Success, Entrepreneur, Fast Company and CNBC as a business expert. She has been seen in Parade, US News and World Reports, MarieClaire, BareMinerals "Women we love", People and InStyle publications and campaigns. FemCity has been seen in AP, Vogue, Gilt, Fast Company. Connect with her on IG, FB, Twitter : @violettedeayala