Rules Of Business Networking in the Remote World
The global pandemic has brought about radical change that affects every aspect of our lives, including our careers. Fortunately, though, technology has allowed us to adapt quickly.
Companies are embracing remote connectivity, and with the majority of us working from home, network opportunities have also evolved. So, how do we navigate these new waters while still making meaningful business connections?
With some expert tips from Alex Lysak of Scanteam, you’ll learn the importance of networking in business and the rules that apply to the remote world.
Use them to your advantage, and you’ll find out just how enriching a collaborative culture with your colleagues can be.
What is Remote Business Networking?
Before you can reap the benefits of networks that you’re going to build, it’s crucial to understand what the virtual form of this age-old strategic tool entails.
Essentially, remote business networking is about building valuable connections online. It goes above, and beyond the organic virtual relationships you might’ve already established.
Whether you’re looking for a mentor, business partner, clients, or fellow peers, you can find and make lasting associations with the right people.
When done efficiently, remote business networking also unlocks massive potential that its traditional counterpart just can’t compete with. Some of these advantages are as follows.
An Omnipresent Presence
With the standard form of networking, you’d have to be physically present to make it worthwhile. Conversely, remote network connections can be cultivated even when you’re not in front of your computer.
If someone’s looking for like-minded individuals, chances are that they’ll reach out, especially if your online presence demands it.
An Online Oyster
The remote world is your oyster - without any geographical limitations. You can find entire online communities dedicated to your niche from all around the globe.
Additionally, the exposure to infinitely more people means that you have better chances of establishing significant connections.
Whether you want to share your expertise or gain insight from another’s, you can have your cake (or oyster) and eat it too.
Targeted Connections
With traditional networking for business, you could have a well-crafted gameplan, attend a dozen events, and still end up with minimal results.
On the other hand, the online alternative comes with AI-backed platforms filled to the brim with features to search and find connections based on specific criteria.
Rules of Online Engagement
While networking for business in the remote world comes with its definite advantages, it won’t amount to much unless you have the right approach. Apart from professionalism and etiquette, there are a few crucial rules to keep in mind.
Rule No. 1: Be Authentic
Networking is about establishing human connections. People respond to and engage with others that are transparent, trustworthy, and authentic.
Amid a global pandemic where we’re all a little more vulnerable and unsure of the future, these qualities are even considered a competitive edge in business.
When you’re clear about your objectives, honest about your intentions, and genuine in your networking, you’ll garner long-lasting professional relationships.
Rule No. 2: Stick to Your Niche
The internet is vast and seemingly limitless, so it's crucial to narrow down your search using the right channels. When you can connect with anyone in the world, you’ll need to zero in on your industry if you’re going to establish valuable relationships.
Find out where the influencers and thought-leaders of your niche hang out online. Perhaps there’s an upcoming virtual seminar, a forum you could join, or a webinar you could attend.
Maybe there’s a motivational speaker you admire or an expert you look up to? Figure out when the next online event is, and use it as an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals.
Rule No. 3: Let Your Passions, Values & Goals Guide You
One of the points of networking is to find people with common interests. Professionally, this could be any aspect of your business or career.
Whether you want to develop your skills, learn about the latest trends, or even bring new ideas to the table, you’ll make lasting connections with people that share the same passions.
Similarly, having mutual goals and values also harbors healthy business relationships. People that don’t align with your ethics or aspirations won’t bring much to the table, and you won’t want to engage with them, anyway.
Rule No. 4: Set the Tone For Generosity & Appreciation
If you have a clear objective in mind about what you want to get out of networking, it can be tempting to sell yourself straight away. Instead of leading with a pitch, though, rather take the time to learn about your new connections. What do you appreciate about them? Why do you look up to them?
When you acknowledge the value a person brings to the table, they’ll usually end up reciprocating. Similarly, if you’re eager to lend a hand by offering insights, making a referral, or simply showing your support, the other person, will be too.
Rule No. 5: Nurture Your Connections
It might seem like a no-brainer, but nurturing your connections requires dedication, patience, and effort. Even an established relationship can fade if it isn’t cultivated with care.
Building rapport takes time, too. It’s not something you can rush or force. Engage with people regularly, even when you don’t need anything from them.
Avoid generic exercises and rather opt for a more personal approach. Instead of just “touching bases,” ask them how they’re doing, bring up the latest news in a certain topic, or mention something recent about their brand or business.
When you make every interaction valuable, you’re creating an impression of care. This will serve you well later on - when you do actually need a hand.
The Bottom Line
Networking for business in the remote world has its benefits. With an omnipresent presence and targeted connections, the internet is your oyster. To make the most of it, though, it’s crucial to apply a few rules of engagement.
Find the right connections in your niche and remember to be authentic, generous, and appreciative. Share your wisdom, help out where you can, and acknowledge the value in others.
With genuine intentions, you’ll grow your business relationships and reap the rewards - all while working from home.
