Tips For Successful Virtual Networking
why is networking important for entrepreneurs?
For years all of my customers came to me as a result of networking. I didn’t run a single ad. I’ll say it again: I didn’t spend a single dollar running ads to get business. I just networked. Back in pre-pandemic days, my most successful networking strategy was to set up coffee dates.
Let’s set the scene: you’re at a networking event with about 60 other people. Everyone is wearing a name tag, making the rounds, collecting business cards. Great first step, but this won’t land you any deals. Once I’ve identified someone with whom I wanted to build a strategic networking relationship with, I reached out to set up a coffee date. These are great because you’re meeting face to face in a casual setting, and they allow you to get to know the person sitting in front of you before you get down to business.
Now that meeting face-to-face for networking is no longer an option, you have to make the most out of the virtual opportunities you have.
FOUR TIPS TO WIN AT VIRTUAL NETWORKING
TIP #1: prepare like you would for an in-person meeting
The internet is a wonderful research tool for networking. Leverage LinkedIn to see if you have mutual connections and to learn more about the professional background of the person with whom you’re meeting. Research the company they work for or the field they are in if it is something you are unfamiliar with. Be prepared with your life story “elevator pitch” when they ask you about yourself.
TIP #2: ask insightful questions
Put your online prep to good use by asking insightful questions ad not hogging the conversation. What questions should you ask while networking? Think about things that you are curious about. How did they get into the field they are in? What is an interesting project they have worked on lately? Go deeper than the generic “where are you from?” and “what do you do?”.
TIP #3: BE CLEAR ABOUT YOUR GOALS
Why are you meeting with this person? Know what you want to get out of the conversation before you begin so that you can steer the conversation in that direction. Do you want an introduction? Make sure you ask for it. Do you want to continue the conversation? Set that expectation. And sometimes it can be better to give than receive, at least at first. Ask what you can do to help them.
TIP #4: FOLLOW UP
Follow-up is the most important part of networking. Always send a follow-up email thanking them for meeting with you and taking action on anything you said you would do. Are you supposed to make an introduction? Do it! Did they ask you to send your resume? Send it! No matter the take away, make a note to reach out to them again in a few months to check in.
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