How to Network and Build Meaningful Connections Remotely
With the introduction of COVID-19, remote work became the new normal nearly overnight. Even during these interesting times, the benefits of working from home have American workers warming up to the experience.
According to a survey by FlexJobs, 80% of those working from home experience less stress, while 78% believe virtual networking can foster connections and boost collaboration. The study also reveals that remote workers are more productive, healthier, make more money, and have a better work-life balance.
While we spend more time at home, building meaningful connections with others may not seem black & white. But, with a little creativity and these 5 remote networking tips, your remote networking success may surprise you.
How to network and build meaningful connections remotely from ProNet, professional networking events near me:
Join LinkedIn groups.
If you’re not on LinkedIn, it’s time to incorporate the professional network into your online presence. Although you may have heard of LinkedIn as a popular tool for job inquiries, the platform is also heavily geared towards business networking. A wide variety of groups let you meet like-minded professionals by interests, location, profession, passions, and much more.
Get on Slack
Slack is one of the most valuable tools in your work-from-home tool kit. In fact, 77% of the Fortune 100 uses Slack. The instant messaging platform was designed specifically for a remote workforce and lets you easily create groups to communicate with your team or share ideas with new colleagues. Explore the Slack community to connect with those with similar interests, professions, hobbies, and more.
Be a Reddit-er
When we say there’s a Reddit thread for everyone - we mean everyone. Reddit boasts over 330 million active users per month and over 138,000 active communities. Find or create a group in your local area to start discussions with those that have similar interests, ask for advice, or find and promote your business. Remote work subreddits are the perfect place for instant community and digital collaboration
Find online meetups.
Meetup is a popular online tool used to connect you with people who share similar interests right in your local community. This can be especially effective in narrowing down niche markets and setting your firm apart as a credible leader. Volunteer as a speaker or sponsor your own meetup to connect with like-minded individuals and connect with potential clients. The possibilities are endless - professional networking events near me.
Attend virtual networking events.
Today, industry seminars, trade shows, and professional networking events near me are taking place online. From local-virtual events in Dallas to online conferences like Remote-First 2020, thousands of virtual attendees are joining forces in the digital world to learn from thought-leaders on the future of remote work and beyond.
Follow ProNet, the Professional’s Referral Network in Dallas, Texas for more great tips on navigating and networking new norms in the remote space.