Networking is an interaction that often occurs in person over a cup of coffee, at a formal meal, or
at a function where participants have a shared interest. There's nothing like making a first
impression with a strong hug, expressing genuine interest in the conversation and making the
connection after just a few minutes. Nevertheless, in the present situation, these in-person
gatherings have had to switch to a virtual environment, making both students and practitioners
nervous and apprehensive about digitally seeking networking.
Here are some suggestions for digitally setting up your professional network, as well as
directions for the near future to encourage networking in this way.
1. BE ACTIVE ON THE SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORKS, LIKE THE LINKEDIN
LinkedIn’s a perfect place to grow your network of professionals. You can start small by
connecting with friends you’re going to school with and expanding your reach to supervisors,
conference speakers, partners and so much more. With social media networks, the possibilities
are really quite endless, as Instagram, Facebook etc. took on professional roles in a variety of
ways.
2. FOLLOW COMPANIES INTERESTED IN, WORK FOR, OR HAVE WORKED FOR
INTERESTS
In the professional workplace brand loyalty is huge. When companies notice your dedication and
strong affiliation with a particular brand, you will be recognized as dependable and trustworthy
— two qualities in the professional world that definitely would benefit you.
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3. DON'T GET AFRAID TO REACH OVER PROFESSIONALS
Especially at this period it can be overwhelming to reach out to professionals. Since everybody is
trying to understand this new way of doing business and communicating online, it can be
difficult to know ways to reach out to those working in your field of expertise. However,
reaching out does improve the quantity and consistency of responses,
4. PARTICIPATE IN ALL NETWORKING PROFESSIONAL EVENTS THAT APPEAL TO
YOU
Seek to contribute to numerous online activities. The best thing of online activities is that if you
don't want to join entirely, you can sit back, listen and gain more input into how you would be
able to network in the future effectively. Online events, such as virtual career fairs, major-
specific panels, and so much more, are great ways to build connections in the professional arena.
