Today in the pandemic era, when times are so uncertain virtual networking is your best bet to make valuable connections. For any business, contacts and customer loyalty matter the most. Having strong marketing and customer base helps your business grow ten folds.
Interactions and connecting with people digitally have a wider scope of errors. To ace yourself at effectively networking in the digital world, avoid these common mistakes;
Social Media Connections: Since social media is your top priority to connect with people, make sure that you send personalized messages to them. Simply sending a request to join you in your network won’t make an impression. Add a personalized message, introduce yourself and your work, this way a person will be keener to connect with you. Also for building a good professional network make use of LinkedIn. If you have in the past attended any event by the person you connect with, let them know that too.
Focusing On New Contacts: Since you are open to connecting with so many people, do not forget your old connections. Many are still coping with this whole digital transformation. Take time to chat with them and connect with old clients, which helps in building customer loyalty. Prioritize meaningful conversations this will help in the long run.
Make Socializing Accessible: When you are connecting with people from different walks of life, make sure that everyone can connect with you virtually. Make sure the virtual space you are building is accessible to people from different places. Make sure to use applications or systems that most people can have access to.
Two Way Conversation: All your conversations should have one thing in common, communication. Make sure that you and the person you are connecting with virtually have insights that benefit both of you. Ask questions based on their experience or try learning something from the other person. Be authentic and persistent in your conversation.
Networking Only With Higher Level Contacts: This is one mistake you should avoid at all costs. Connecting with only higher-ups sure is an asset but connecting with your peers is also important. Networking laterally will help you keep a tab on what is happening in your industry.
Dressing Casually: Although you are in a relaxed environment, but when it comes to working and networking online make sure you dress to make an impression. This will inspire your other participants to take your ideas seriously. It shows you have put an effort into your meeting and mean serious business.
Appreciate: It is important that you take time and thank the other person to give their valuable time to you. You can send an email where you can thank the person, this shows that you appreciate their help and value the relationship you have created.
Follow Through: Make sure that you have a good follow-up with your new connections. Continue to build your relationship and a strong network with a good follow-up strategy. Email your contact and call them to schedule another meeting but avoid going overboard. Click the connect button on the person’s profile you want to connect with and send over a personalized message.
Connecting virtually is not very different from connecting with people in person. Be courteous, make efforts, and don’t forget your manners. A few simple things and you can nail those connections like a pro.
