Networking in the era of COVID-19 can seem like an impossible task. Thanks to social media, though, we are able to connect and stay in touch with others. Making new and meaningful connections online with other professionals can be very difficult. So how can you make connections with others you don’t know safely and professionally? Check out these quick tips on how to improve your networking skills in the age of the coronavirus!
Finding Others In Your Industry
Whether you’re reaching out to others on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, or any of the thousands of other social media platforms, starting with those you have something in common with will be a way to ease into a conversation. If you’re looking for a new job or just to expand your professional network, starting with those in industries you are interested in or have experience in is a way to connect over a commonality. However, if you are specifically networking to gain employment, just asking for a job is NOT the way to go. Successful networking is about building a real relationship, and successful relationships are built on genuine gestures and conversations. Asking an individual about their own experience in their industry, sharing relevant articles and posts, and offering support during this challenging time are all great ways to begin relationships via social media platforms.
Engaging With Their Posts
When trying to deepen a connection with fellow professionals, engaging with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing helps them and the relationship! Commenting on others’ posts helps their post create more traction and get more attention; meanwhile, you are seen as someone very engaged with what this person is posting about and interested in!
Private Messaging – Spice It Up (Professionally)
In the era of coronavirus, email and private messaging is the safest and easiest form of communicating with friends, family, and new connections. However, because we aren’t seeing people face-to-face often, messages can get lost in an inbox pretty easily, especially if you don’t have an established relationship with the person sending the message. So how do you make your messages stand out in a crowded inbox? Try spicing up the subject line! Instead of introducing yourself with the old “Hello there” subject lines, try “Nice to meet you,” “Let’s Connect,” or “Let me introduce myself!” These subject lines are a sure-fire way to catch eyes in an inbox!
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