Photo by Oleksandr P
When COVID-19 hit, networking went from in-person happy hours and handshakes to online webinars and QR codes for LinkedIn profiles. What practices did we learn during the pandemic that we should keep for 2024?
Then: In-person Events
Conferences, seminars, and mixers gave you a forum to connect. You met new people, exchanged business cards, and mingled face-to-face. This environment facilitated reading non-verbal cues, making a strong first impression, and building relationships through direct personal interactions.
Now: Virtual Events
Platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and LinkedIn Groups are essential networking tools. This shift towards virtual gatherings has reduced geographical constraints. You can network with people from around the world without leaving your home or office.
2024: Both
Online platforms are useful tools especially for follow up and staying connected. In-person still makes a bigger impact. You interpret non-verbal cues more correctly in person which is vital to meaningful communication. Whether meeting online or in person, focus on getting to know the people in the room as people. Find your common interests. What is their story? What do they do for fun? When meeting online, use the chat feature to exchange email addresses and social media handles and use them to share relevant content and resources.
Then: Transactional
The catchphrase, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” made networking feel like a soulless, necessary evil to build your career.
Now: Relational
Networking is about building community.
2024: Authenticity
Networking is about know, like, and trust. That takes time, energy, and attention. Be in person with people as much as possible, then get to know them better by connecting with them online. Keep your social media profiles up to date. They should reflect your current professional status and interests. Build rapport with your network by commenting on and liking their posts and direct messaging them. Introduce them to potential collaborators through email introductions. Mention shared connections and why you think the two of them can help each other.
Then: Stick to What You Know
In-person networking often involved going to the same type of events over and over and engaging in light conversations about the weather, sports, or current events to break the ice.
Now: Learn from Others
Networking in 2023 has shifted towards content-driven conversations. With the rise of remote work and virtual meetings, discussions have become more focused on professional topics, industry trends, and shared challenges and less focused on small talk.
2024: Stay Informed
Know enough about what is going on in the world to meaningfully contribute to discussions. Share valuable content, such as articles or podcasts, to establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. Mentor someone from whom you want to learn. Trade your expertise for theirs. Use networking events and social media platforms to seek out and connect with professionals who share your interests. Being a thought leader is networking. Presenting at a local Rotary Club is networking. Serving on a non-profit board is networking. To thrive in 2024, integrate elements of both virtual and in-person interactions and you will have the tools to exponentially grow your network.
How is your networking different now than it was pre-pandemic? Please share in the comments.