How to make valuable connections without meeting in person

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was easier to network with people. You could meet them in person, shake their hand and have a dialog face to face. Now, networking is a little trickier.

Thankfully, with technology, many networking strategies can continue to be strong outlets for professionals to make valuable connections. One of the ways you were probably networking before the pandemic that continues to be a strong avenue is through social media. You can represent yourself as a thought leader on social media, by posting valuable content that your audience would find helpful. You can also join Facebook groups that are tailored to a topic that aligns with your business. In these groups, don’t make selling a prerogative, but instead, set yourself up as a thought leader when people have questions or create a discussion on a topic you know about. This can allow you to build trust with potential future customers. Another way to network through social media is by reaching out to the right people on LinkedIn and creating solid connections. Don’t just send a request to connect, but follow up with a message introducing yourself. Don’t be too salesy though, as it may turn people away from responding and connecting.

Another way you can continue to network and make valuable connections is through live videos on social media. You can also see about hosting podcasts where you bring on special guests. Or, on the flip side, you can look for people hosting live shows that would welcome you to be a guest on their show. This allows you to further show your audience that you are a thought leader in the industry.

Continue to communicate with your audience through newsletters as well. Make sure you’re being transparent in your communications with your audience and encourage them to share your information with their friends and family. You can also do this on social media. Ask the audience to support you during this time by sharing and liking your posts. This allows more people to see what you have to say and build a stronger following.

If you do consultations with clients, you can also offer these over the phone or via a virtual meeting room (i.e. Zoom). This allows you to continue to keep in touch with clients without having to meet in person.

Even though things may be a little difficult now, there are still plenty of ways you can network and grow valuable connections. This may take a little extra effort, but it will be worth it.