With the ongoing pandemic, the switch from in-person to online networking is unusual and unfamiliar for many! Let alone those who never professionally networked before. However, what is networking? Networking is the process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.
A network can be built from our immediate circle to strangers! Thankfully, there are countless online resources for you to meet and connect with those in the profession. Here are 5 ways we network online!
Community
If you aren’t a part of an architecture group (student or professional) consider joining one and post an introduction! Make sure to find one that is active and continuing to engage their members during the pandemic.
Also, it’s just nice to join communities with shared hobbies too! It’s amazing how indirect relationships through random pages could lead you to an amazing opportunity. Facebook groups and Reddit are great online communities where you can network informally. Don’t disregard the power of community!
Social Media
Many firms and professionals have a strong online presence these days, particularly on Instagram! Find and follow them, engage with their posts and stories, and don’t be afraid to start a conversation in the DMs!
This is another great informal way of establishing a relationship that can lead to a more professional setting.
Online Event
Approach your professors about having your school host an online networking event! This situation is win-win-win: you and your peers can make connections, firms can meet potential hires, and the school reinforces their relationship with the professional community!
Don’t forget to utilize your school’s alumni chapter meetings to further expand your network too.
This is a powerful networking tool! You can connect with new people and keep in touch with those you already know! Our favorite tip is to connect with hiring managers or the HR department of your favorite firms as they keep an eye out for talent and share job postings. Also, make sure to reach out to recruiters because they usually have an inside scoop of opportunities or refer you.
LinkedIn allows certain things to pop-up on your feed based on your network’s activity. This can increase your profile’s view and introduce yourself to other professionals you aren’t connected to.
I like to use LinkedIn to find Hokie alumni in specific cities to network with. This allows a shared topic that I can begin to talk about which could lead to a new friend or colleague.
Reconnect
Start with people you already know! This is a great way to network if you are uncomfortable with reaching out to strangers! A video call with former classmates and peers is a great way to catch up with others without the typical pressure of networking.
During this period, it’s important to reach out to someone if they are in your thoughts. This will strengthen the bond that you share with the other and who knows what it’ll bring.
I used to be uncomfortable with networking because I had nothing to offer upon graduation. However, my mentor reassured me that professionals understand the present circumstances will not be my future. Don’t be shy because maybe one day you can help them back.
Whether just beginning or growing your network, it is not just about making connections, but also developing them. Think about what you can do for your contacts, not just what they can do for you. Don’t take it personally if they don’t respond right away!
Have you tried any of these online networking tips? What other tips do you have to share? We would love to hear about them in the comment below!