Virtual networking has well and truly cemented its place in our lives following a global pandemic and worldwide lockdowns. As more people work from home, and some businesses even forgoing an office space entirely, mastering the art of virtual networking has never been a more essential skill, writes Damian Blumenkranc, Serial Entrepreneur, Mentor and Entrepreneurs Organisation (EO) Melbourne Communications Chair.

The benefits of virtual networking becoming the norm are countless. Without physical barriers you can connect with anyone globally, provided you find a time that works. You can connect on your own schedule and can be highly intentional with whom you’re connecting. While some of us may have Zoom fatigue and be eagerly seeking real-world connections where we can, there is no denying that virtual networking and online events are here to stay.

Our shared knowledge, resources, connections and inspiration help us each to reach our potential and continue to learn and grow with each other. We can find communities that support our needs and connect within schedules that support our lives.

Entrepreneurs’ Organisation (EO) – the largest global community of entrepreneurs – have been connecting online for years with technology facilitating regular communication with peers and, during lockdown, increased their online events with experts across the world.

Whether it’s a virtual event, a networking group or a one-to-one catch up you’ve organised through LinkedIn, there are a few ways to make sure you get the most out of your online communication.

1. Be authentic

Just as you would in real life, be your honest, authentic self. Connection comes from vulnerability and recognising the human in each other. This doesn’t mean if you’re having a terrible day you need to share it, but be willing to be open about yourself, your business passions and why you’re in the group or meeting in the first place. When people feel connected to you they are more likely to think of you when opportunities arise.

2. Keep it professional

Being at home on Zoom doesn’t mean staying in your PJ’s with piles of washing in the background. We’ve all seen videos of reporters with their kids running across the screen – blunders and life in general happens when we are networking from our homes with the rest of our lives happening around us, but where possible – find a quiet, brightly lit space to connect from with minimal distractions. Dress appropriately and if your home office set-up isn’t ideal, you can find a fitting background filter. Just don’t accidentally turn yourself into a cat!

3. Keep focus

As with any networking opportunity, listening is critical. Listening for other’s pain points or challenges that you may be able to assist them with, resources and connections you can share with them and considering how you can help others, not just what you’re getting out of it, is the best way to network. Just because your email is right there in the next tab doesn’t mean you should check it out.

4. Be prepared

Have a few key points/ questions prepared to make the most of your time. If you’re connecting one-on-one, do your research on the person and be prepared to not waste anyone’s time!

5. Practice your elevator pitch

Virtual networking often removes the opportunity to stand around and have a chat afterwards, so making the most of your time is critical. Nailing your elevator pitch to be as clear and concise as possible is a great way to find the connections you’re seeking.

6. Share the limelight

Everyone wants to be seen. Don’t be a conversation hog on Zoom! Make sure you’re a part of the conversation without overshadowing anyone. If you see someone quiet or left out, direct a question to them and bring them into the conversation.

7. Share stories over advice

Tell stories! In EO we don’t give ‘advice’ but instead share our own experiences to communicate what has or hasn’t worked for us in the past. Sharing stories is a great way to not only make sure you aren’t telling people what they should or shouldn’t do or potentially giving advice that isn’t suited to them but it’s also a great way to stay top of mind and be remembered after a virtual meeting.

8. Connect and follow up

Make sure you connect with people on social media channels after the fact. You could organise a follow-up virtual chat as connections can take some time to build.

If you’re looking for places to connect and network, join a clubhouse chat, join a peer-to-peer networking group like Entrepreneurs Organisation or look online for events in your industry or niche.

Wherever and however you are developing relationships, remember to be authentic and generous with your time and resources! We’re here to lift each other up and learn from each other.

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