-: While social distancing may present additional challenges
to the already stress-inducing practice of networking,
you must do everything possible to adapt
to these new challenges
with a few easy adjustments, you'll be able to prepare
for any kind of virtual networking opportunity.
(gentle music)
(soft music)
In many ways, networking has been made easier
and more efficient thanks to our virtual landscape.
We can now form strong relationships and expand our network
from the comfort of our own living room.
Let's take a look at some of the ways
virtual networking is changing the professional environment.
One, stay comfortable.
Networking without ever leaving your home
can allow you to situate yourself,
prepare properly and put yourself in the right frame of mind
to help alleviate any nerves that are often present
during networking events.
Two, meet more people while cutting down
on time drainers and expenses such as commuting,
parking and out of town travel.
This also allows you to easily expand your network globally.
Three, make faster and more direct digital connections.
The ability to request a connection online
and send pertinent information electronically
enables you to both increase
and keep track of your connections more effectively.
Here's some ways that you can take action right now.
One, social media.
Familiarize yourself with platforms
like LinkedIn and Facebook
and increase your activity on them.
If you like, you can use tools like Hootsuite
and Sprout Social to automate your calendar of posts
for organization and frequency sake.
Doing so can promote online interactions
with your existing network
and help you make new acquaintances.
One final point is to make sure
that you update your profiles
so that they can appropriately fit your personal brand.
Two, online groups.
Join online alumni groups that may be found
on your school's website or known groups in your industry.
Engage the community by participating in discussions
to expand your network and encourage follow up.
Three, emerging technologies.
There are always new platforms emerging
so keep up with the latest technology.
For example, Xing is similar to LinkedIn,
but it's based out of Germany,
offering an international perspective
for new far-reaching networking opportunities.
Four, webinars.
Sign up for industry webinars
to ensure you're keeping up with professional trends,
improving your skills
and taking advantage of any networking opportunities
that may present themselves.
Five, write.
Write a blog or publish a piece of your work.
This could be an op ed about a topic in your field,
an article or a blog.
Doing so will not only allow you
to exhibit your knowledge and skill,
but will also open the door for discussion with other people
who have similar interests.
Some options you have are to write a blog
in an online forum related to your topic of choice
or publish independently by using Jew Mag, Medium
or LinkedIn articles.
Just as handwritten letters
were once the primary method of communication,
we're transitioning into a new mode of connectivity.
Virtual networking may afford some easier
and more efficient options for meeting people
but the importance level remains the same.
You must take it seriously and you must take action.
(upbeat music)