5 Tips to Network Through A Pandemic

Life and business as we knew it has changed considerably with what seems to be a nightmare you can't wake from.  Yes, the dreaded "C"word COVID or Corona, take your pick.  It has turned business upside down and inside out.  Where do we go from here and what do we do?  In my humble opinion an age old strategy is to stay connected and network, network, network!
As the creator and contagious connector of Connect Her, I have found there  are 4 key ways you can network your way through a pandemic - yes, even in lock down!

1. Stay social.  Engage with people on social media and keep up an active presence both on your personal profile and also your business profile.  Keep your posts uplifting an positive. No, you don't need to be Pollyanna, there is enough doom and gloom without seeing it on your posts too.  Avoiding political and controversial posts can also avoid you alienating your clients, customers and potential clients and customers.
2. Re-connect and check in.  With extra time on our hands it is a great opportunity to reconnect with friends and people on your "I must catch up list when I have time".  It is also a perfect opportunity to check in with those you know may be single or doing it tough emotionally.  I surprise call, face time or Google meets can brighten someones day and show them it isn't just about business, you care.
3. Follow Up - Ok, be honest, do you have a stack of business cards sitting on your desk?  Follow up on that stack of business cards, go through the pile and make contact and take the opportunity to kindle some new connections.  At Connect Her we supply a register of attendees for each meeting, I have been enjoying contacting some of the attendees and reaching out to connect.  I now have some great connections and there are a couple of joint ventures in the wings, all from following up and connecting. 
4. Update your LinkedIn profile.  I am not brilliant at this last piece of advise in all honesty.  Updating your profile is seen on your feed and I did actually update a few bits and bobs and then all of a sudden there was some interaction and movement in and around my Linkedin connections.  It is also a perfect way to connect with your connections and find find out how they are handling the current circumstances, what they are up to and how business is fairing.  You may be surprised on the little tips and tricks you both pick up along the way.
5. Networking events.  I feel like I have left the best to last.  There are many events now that have had to go online.  Connect Her saw a bridge of opportunity and moved quickly to bring our events online.  Block in networking events for the week, I recommend at least one to two.  It is easy to get "zoomed" out so be sure to schedule your events in your planner with a break time and not too many on the one day.   Enjoy connecting online and also after the official meeting.  Events that offer a combination of education and connection will keep you inspired and motivated in lock down.

So there you have my 5 tips for networking through a pandemic.  It's been tough for some, for me I have looked upon this time as a gift of opportunity to expand my connections, reach out and develop my skills.
How have you used this time?

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