5 Ways to Remain Sane and Strategic when (Virtually) Networking

The networking world we once knew has changed; there are now more opportunities to connect with others worldwide. While that is correct, and there is so much potential in truly establishing connections that matter, if you are not careful, you can overextend yourself and feel completely exhausted and unproductive. Below I have compiled five tips to help you out.

1. Look at your calendar and determine which events you are committed to that you will not miss. Just like when we were able to meet in person. Example FABWOMEN 2nd Friday of the month (yes, had to put a plug in there)

2. Think about your ideal client or centers of influence that you would like to meet. Where can they be? Is it a Chamber event, or a meetup, or a social event? Remember, distance is no longer an issue. Expand your reach and think of all the possible places.

3. Look at the different organizations that you were interested in and now can attend their meetings. Again, pick only 2 or 3 meetings and look at the time they meet. Will it work with your schedule? The frequency of their meetings, and what are their core values, do they align with yours?

4. When looking at an organization that you can now interact with, think about how you can remain connected once we go back to in-person events. Do they have an online component or membership? Is there a chapter that is close enough to you?

5. Lastly, have a strategy- just like you did when networking in person. Remember that you had time when traveling to an event while driving to think about the event and when leaving to decompress. Now, yes, you are home and don’t have that luxury, but give yourself time between meetings to jot some notes, send email follow-ups (THIS IS HUGE), stretch, and, if possible, go for a quick walk. This way, when you need to reengage, you are focused and ready for your next event.

Most importantly, have fun! Know that change is good and that we can benefit from all the new connections we make.