Are you feeling lonely or socially isolated working from home? Well, I was too when I just started working remotely. It has been an incredible time because of the flexibility I enjoy and the fact that I have control of time, but the downside is I feel lonely most of the time.
There is a lot of boredom that comes with remote job but networking makes the difference. It can be very difficult though, especially when you are not used to constant interaction as a result of working remote.
What is Networking?
Networking is the process of meeting new people who seem helpful to us in our job or career. We network based on social activities. The importance of networking cannot be exaggerated. It is a crucial part of any business, job, or career because of the triggers it has on growth. With networking, business connections are generated, companies establish industry expertise, partnerships are fostered, and increase their client base.
11 Characteristics of a Good Networker
- A networker is a listener.
- A good networker is approachable.
- A good networker is an excellent communicator.
- Collaboration is a delight to a networker.
- Persistence is a characteristics that is essential to a networker.
- They are reliable, they are trustworthy.
- Focus on the help they can offer.
- Good etiquette is very essential for every networker.
- A good networker is ever ready to share their knowledge.
- A good networker knows when to ask questions and the proper way to ask.
- They focus on relationship-building opportunities.
9 Ways to Network in the Era of Remote Work
Plan Ahead: I guess this sounds weird, how do you plan to talk to people and what to say to them. For introverts like us who are so used to talking to themselves, networking and relating with people is a massive problem but planning ahead makes it easier. Setting a networking goal for an event I plan to attend is be stated. The goals can be a simple “I am going to have an awesome and fun time at XYZ event” or something as substantial as “After today’s event I will go home with 2 business cards that I will follow up on”. This preparation shifts your subconscious mind and prepare you ahead of time for the event and the people you intend to network with. Learn to plan ahead for every meeting you are attending to avoid dressing down and going late.
Leverage on Networking Technologies: The fact that they are absent physically does not mean they can’t be accessed digitally. Many digital technologies make networking fun and more manageable, find what works for you and leverage it to build your network. Be a slacker, use your Microsoft Teams and Hangout with work d connects people by their interests, profession, passions, and even location. So do not be left out.
Slack it; do not mind the phrase, but Slack is useful for every remote job. It connects the dots with your team and co-workers, and also helps connect with other people with similar interests.
Take advantage of Meetup, check online, and join communities with similar interests.
Attend and Engage in Virtual Meetings: When you attend a virtual meeting, It isn’t just about following the meeting and being an observer, asking questions, engaging in the forum, and seeing people gravitate towards you.
Practice: Good networking is learned in practice. Some things come naturally to some people, but for some of us that our curiosity leads us to Google, we need to practice networking. A conscious step taken daily kills every feeling of nervousness. Your practice of self-confidence and ability to be well-spoken is a remarkable art that can’t be stressed enough.
Late coming is a bad impression: In an ideal setting anl entrepreneur is a timekeeper, and they hate wastage of time because 24 hours may look like a lot, but it isn’t, so walking in late to an event is an impression you want to avoid giving to professionals and people you barely know. Even in online meetings, arriving within the first 15 minutes of the scheduled meeting creates room for networking while you are waiting for the host to begin the meeting. Arriving early also helps you master the digital environment.
Say it: Giving compliments and saying thank you makes a lot of difference, do not look down on these magical words, cause indeed they do magic.
Follow up: The same way you follow up on your dad when he promised to buy you a bicycle that’s is the same way you follow up on the contacts you get — these are rewards for you that will move your life and career forward. Call them, check up on them, start a decent discussion to build a reciprocal connection. Be a good listener. People like to share their achievements and be proud of the bold steps they made.
Think outside the box: There is no fixed process to networking, learn what works for you and your counterparts and then use it. Humans are different, you do not expect to relate with two people the same way, it doesn’t work. Some people are not interested in your networking — how do you relate with this class of people? Be polite and move on.
What value are you bringing to the table: The networking table is for both parties? You go into networking first with the mindset of helping others. For every contact, the first question is “how do I help,” “what value am I adding to this relationship.” No matter how highly positioned these persons look or how well knowledgeable they are. They will always have needs in their lives. Going close helps you discover these needs and how to help. So be open, be willing to help. It might just be that all they need is a partner to confide in or someone to hang out with. Networking is sacrifice, make the sacrifice now and obtain the rewards later.
Take the lead
Trying new things and networking with new people can be scary, but taking a calculated step towards your fears makes the difference. Networking, in simple terms, is building relationships, and the right kind of relationships results in growth and greatness all around.
Take advantage of every networking opportunity you have. Begin your journey today towards excellent and enriching networking, even if virtually. Do not forget to engage with our site by telling us what you think about the remote team’s networking in the comment section.
