This is a common phrase: Your network is your net worth. I know you might be thinking, “But, how am I actually supposed to network right now without being able to go to large events?”
Social distancing does not signal the end of networking. Yes, you can’t go to large social gatherings which may feel like the norm of networking, but you CAN network online.
There are a million ways to network online, and there are also a million ways to keep yourself top of mind with your clients.
How?
Utilize Your Social Media
Look for networking opportunities in your already existing social network. If you’re using LinkedIn, you likely haven’t contacted 10% of your connections. People are eager to talk and network, so now is a perfect time to reach out. Contact people in your existing network. Start a conversation. Invite them to a virtual coffee. Use Zoom and Skype–something people are becoming more and more comfortable with–to have meaningful conversations and build those important relationships within your network.
Follow Up
How many business cards have you received with the genuine intention of connecting but then didn’t? Life gets in the way and we’ve all been there. However, at this moment, life has given us time. Time to accomplish those well-intentioned follow-ups, and in a more genuine way.
At traditional networking events, you have maybe three to five minutes to make an impression and get to know someone before moving on to the next person. Now you have TIME.
Consider using this time to have a 20-minute conversation with someone. How would that open up your network? Doing so allows you to build a genuine connection and create a foundation of new contacts, new potential clients, or new power partners in the future. Putting in the time now to foster a relationship with these people that can really help move your business forward down the road.
Reach Out and Take Risks
Do you have a Scared List? You know, a list of people that you’d love to chat with but didn’t or couldn’t work up the nerve to contact. Take this time to take a risk. Reach out to those people on your Scared List. A simple email or chat. Step out of your comfort zone and take the initiative to start a conversation.
A lack of social events is not an excuse to stop networking. Now is the time! You have the time and opportunity to really go for it.
Grow your network, grow your influence, and connect with people.
I am also looking to connect with new people, so I would love to connect with you! Contact me today to set up a 20-minute networking call to see how I can help you jumpstart your network.
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