8 Networking Tips For A Virtual World

Career AdviceHiring Hub
Written By Marie Raperto

Marie Raperto, The Hiring Hub

Networking shouldn't stop just because we are now working virtual. Meeting or having coffee with someone may be out but that doesn't mean that your networking activities must stop. Here are some tips to help:

  1.  Attend virtual networking events. Most begin with a chat or icebreaker question and the host runs the event. Try to engage with anyone of interest.

  2. Prepare for any networking event the same way. If a list of attendees is available, see who you want to meet. A virtual event gives you the opportunity to meet everyone. Prepare your intro in advance. This way you can perfect your message to the group.

  3. Get contact information so you can follow up.

  4. Tap into your networks - business/professional as well as alumni networks. Now is the time to reconnect.

  5. Use LinkedIn. Be sure to fill out all the sections in your profile so you will appear in more searches. Connect with recruiters, past co-workers, industry influencers.

  6. Be active on social media. You may not have as many face-to-face encounters but connecting will help you feel less isolated and you never know who you will meet.

  7. Activate your local network. Family, friends and neighbors can be a source of inspiration and knowledge.

  8. Help others. Now everyone will connect or be of assistance to you. Remember that relationships are reciprocal.

Marie Raperto

Marie Raperto is a leading recruiter in the integrated marketing and communications sectors, and is President/Owner of Cantor Integrated Marketing Staffing, Inc. In 1990, she joined The Cantor Concern, Inc. as Vice President and then was made President. Previously, she was a principal and vice president with Jim Cotton Communications, Inc., an advertising/public relations/design firm. Her clients included numerous Fortune 500 industrial and services companies, as well as leading hotels and consumer products companies. She is a member of PRSA, The Healthcare and Marketing PR Society and SHRM. She serves on the Girl Scout Council of Greater New York’s Board of Directors. She is currently the treasurer of the Women of Distinction Breakfast committee and is an author and lecturer on topics dealing with Public Relations Staffing and finding employment. Her company is involved with full and part-time recruitment, organizational development, communications audits, mergers and acquisitions of PR agencies and HR consulting.

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