Tips for Navigating Virtual Networking Challenges

I wouldn’t call myself a networking expert. BUT I’ve landed my last 8 clients because of “networking.” Here’s what’s worked for me 👇 A disclaimer before I start: “successful” networking hinges on being as invested in other people‘s success as you’re in your own. It’s NEVER a matter of quantity (“send 20 connection requests a day!”), and always a matter of connecting with like-minded people. 1. Be genuinely nice and helpful — proactively. Someone landed a role at a company you’ve admired or a product you’ve thought is cool? Reach out and congratulate them. Go beyond LinkedIn’s recommend one-liner and add a personal note. Someone’s struggling with a task you could do in your sleep? For example, setting up Monday automations. Send them a voice note with instructions or screenshots. 2. Show up on both sides — people who you can help and people who can help you. It’s not “networking” if you’re only reaching out to people who have something to offer you. Connect with others in your industry, people who have your role in a completely different industry, and people who want to be where you are. 3. Listen before you talk. Listen actively, intently, and empathetically. Seek to understand before you comment or ask for something. Always always ask “how can I support you in your goals?” Give people an opportunity to tell you — unfiltered — what they need from you. 3 “Don’ts” which you…just don’t do pls. It’s gross. 1. Don’t bait and switch: it’s the worst. People don’t hate cold pitches as much as they hate this. With a cold pitch, people might ghost you. But bait and switch and they’ll mentally block you forever. 2. Don’t get emotional in business conversations. I once recieved a follow up where the person went on and on about how they’d stayed up at night waiting for my reply. It was an unsolicited cold pitch. I don’t even remember seeing the email, I was probably too busy. They went on to call me some rather rude names and I … blocked them. Point is, they burnt a bridge for no reason. 3. Don’t fake it till you make it. Don’t exaggerate your credentials. Even if the conversation is successful, you’ll never be able to form a real relationship. It’ll always be superficial. What do you think?

I've hosted and attended a combined 50+ clinical research networking events this year, both in-person and online. These 10 mistakes still make me cringe every single time. If you're guilty of even ONE of these, you're sabotaging connections before they even start. (But don't worry—I've got the quick fixes.) 👇 Here are the 10 faux pas that make me want to pull people aside: 1. Rambling during your introduction ❌ The cringe: A 3-minute monologue about your entire career history ✅ Quick fix: 15-second rule. Name + what you do + one specific thing. Done. 2. Trauma dumping during the Q&A ❌ The cringe: Sharing deeply personal struggles with 50 strangers ✅ Quick fix: Save vulnerable stories for 1:1s. In groups, focus on lessons learned. 3. Being invisible in virtual spaces ❌ The cringe: Camera off, never unmuting, lurking like a ghost ✅ Quick fix: Show up like you would in person—camera on, engage. 4. Monopolizing the speaker's time ❌ The cringe: Cornering them for 20 minutes OR sending a 10-paragraph DM ✅ Quick fix: ONE thoughtful question. Exchange info. Follow up later. 5. Collecting contacts like Pokémon ❌ The cringe: Mass-connecting on LinkedIn with zero personalization ✅ Quick fix: 3-5 quality connections > 50 generic requests. 6. Pitching within 60 seconds of meeting someone ❌ The cringe: "Let me tell you how I can solve all your problems..." ✅ Quick fix: Ask questions first. Build rapport. Pitch comes way later. 7. Ignoring the chat in virtual events ❌ The cringe: Never typing, reacting, or acknowledging anyone's comments ✅ Quick fix: Use the chat. React to others. It's how you build visibility online. 8. Only chasing the VIPs ❌ The cringe: Dismissing everyone else to talk to keynote speakers ✅ Quick fix: Your next best connection is probably right next to you. 9. Staying glued to your existing circle ❌ The cringe: Only talking to people you already know the entire time ✅ Quick fix: Set a rule—talk to 3 new people before reconnecting with friends. 10. Arriving late and leaving early ❌ The cringe: Missing key moments by walking in late or logging off mid-session ✅ Quick fix: Show up 10 minutes early. Stay for at least 2/3 of the event. Networking, digital or in-person, isn't about working the room. It's about being present, intentional, and genuinely interested. Master these, and you'll stand out for all the right reasons. Which ones have you witnessed? 👀 Drop a number or your own in the comments, let's compare notes on what NOT to do so we can all network better.

In today's interconnected world, virtual networking has become an essential tool for professionals seeking to expand their horizons and forge meaningful connections. As we navigate through digital spaces, the ability to make a great first impression is more important than ever. So, how can you ensure that you leave a lasting impact in the virtual realm? Let's delve into some strategies that can elevate your professionalism and make you stand out in virtual networking events. Before diving into any virtual networking event, take the time to curate your digital persona. This encompasses everything from your profile picture to your bio and even your background. In virtual networking, active engagement is key to making a memorable first impression. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to others in the event, utilizing features such as chat boxes or breakout rooms to initiate conversations. Remember to actively listen to what others have to say, offering meaningful contributions and fostering authentic connections. One of the most effective ways to make a great first impression in virtual networking is by showcasing your expertise. Share valuable insights, industry knowledge, or relevant experiences that highlight your unique perspective and capabilities. The true value of virtual networking lies in the follow-up. After the event, take the time to follow up with individuals you connected with, whether it's through a personalized email, LinkedIn message, or virtual coffee chat. Lastly, remember mastering the art of virtual networking requires a combination of preparation, engagement, expertise, and follow-up. By implementing these strategies, you can make a great first impression that resonates with your audience and sets the stage for fruitful relationships and professional growth. So, the next time you find yourself in a virtual networking event, seize the opportunity to showcase your professionalism and leave a lasting impact. Your future self will thank you for it. #virtualnetworking #professionalism #networkingtips #expertiseshowcase #careergrowth #businessnetworking National University of Singapore

BE honest and tell me HOW do you feel when someone at a networking event just tries to sell you something? Lets have an honest conversation about this.. Because WAY TOO MANY PEOPLE ARE PITCHING without context. This does not work... The Problem with Traditional LinkedIn Selling Most professionals have experienced it: the connection request immediately followed by a sales pitch. This approach rarely works because it: +Ignores relationship-building fundamentals +Assumes the recipient is qualified and interested +Creates a negative impression of both you and your brand +Feels transactional rather than relational 7 Value-First Alternatives to Cold Selling 1. Become a Thought Leader in Your Space Share your expertise through thoughtful posts, articles, and comments. When you consistently provide valuable insights, potential clients come to you rather than you chasing them. How to do it right: Post weekly insights about industry trends, challenges, or solutions. Focus on education rather than promotion. 2. Engage Meaningfully with Others' Content Taking time to thoughtfully comment on others' posts shows you're interested in dialogue, not just broadcasting. How to do it right: Set aside 15 minutes daily to leave substantive comments on 3-5 posts from your network or industry leaders. 3. Create and Share Valuable Resources Develop free tools, templates, guides, or research that addresses common pain points in your industry. How to do it right: Create a simple resource that solves a specific problem, then share it with no strings attached. 4. Facilitate Connections Between Others Becoming known as a connector adds tremendous value to your network without any direct selling. How to do it right: When you see a potential synergy between two connections, offer a warm introduction (with permission). 5. Host Virtual Events or Conversations Organize small roundtable discussions, AMAs (Ask Me Anything), or interviews with industry experts. How to do it right: Select narrow topics that address specific pain points and invite a targeted, relevant audience. Im hosting an event on Friday.. see it in the comments! 6. Ask Thoughtful Questions Demonstrate genuine curiosity about others' work, challenges, and perspectives through thoughtful questions. How to do it right: When connecting with someone new, ask about their current professional challenges rather than launching into your pitch. 7. Offer Limited Pro-Bono Help Providing a small sample of your expertise can showcase your value more effectively than any sales pitch. How to do it right: Offer a 15-minute consultation or a quick review of something in your area of expertise. Which one of these resonate with you the most?! #selling #sales #success

Making time for professional networking, even when you're busy, requires being intentional and creative. Here are some strategies to help integrate networking into a packed schedule: 𝟭. 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗘𝘅𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 Work-related Events: Use conferences, workshops, or training sessions you’re already attending to network. Engage with speakers, other participants, or organizers during breaks or networking segments. Lunches & Coffee Breaks: Instead of eating alone, invite colleagues or industry peers to join you. It’s a productive way to network without adding to your schedule. 𝟮. 𝗨𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 Social Media Platforms: Engage with professionals on LinkedIn, Twitter, or industry-specific forums. A few minutes each day to comment on posts, share insights, or respond to direct messages helps maintain visibility in your network. Virtual Networking Events: Participate in webinars, virtual conferences, or industry meetups that allow you to network from your office or home, saving travel time. 𝟯. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 Join Professional Groups: Attend webinars, book clubs, or online discussion groups in your field. You’ll not only grow professionally but meet others with shared interests. Mentorship Programs: Mentoring (or being mentored) is a form of networking that integrates personal growth and relationship building into your routine. 𝟰. 𝗦𝗲𝘁 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹, 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀 Dedicate 15 minutes a day to reach out to someone in your network. This could be commenting on a post, sending a quick email, or updating someone on a shared project. 𝟱. 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿-𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 Look for networking events that occur after work hours or more informal meetups, such as dinners, happy hours, or weekend coffee meetups. These fit into your schedule without interfering with work obligations. 𝟲. 𝗕𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 Prioritize the most valuable networking events or groups. Instead of attending every event, choose ones where you’re most likely to build meaningful connections that align with your goals. 𝟳. 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗮𝘀𝗸𝘀 Use tools like LinkedIn's reminders or email scheduling tools to automate follow-up messages or stay in touch with your network regularly. 𝟴. 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲 Use commutes, workout sessions, or even downtime to listen to industry podcasts, participate in group chats, or send quick messages to check in with connections. Interested in getting involved in CAMP IT Conferences to expand your IT network, feel welcome to DM me on LinkedIn.

Let’s be clear, when it comes to business success, one truth stands tall: Your network is your net worth. But you and I both know, networking is no longer about collecting business cards at events or sending cold messages on LinkedIn. It’s about leveraging the right platforms and opportunities that put you in front of the right people—consistently and impactfully. And that’s where the power of strategic networking comes in. Because Visibility is Not Just About Being Seen—It’s About Being Remembered. Let's say, you might be an expert in your field, have years of experience, and offer incredible value, but if people don’t see you, hear you, and experience what you bring to the table, you’re the best-kept secret in your industry. So, how do you make sure you’re not just another name in the crowd? The key…leveraging the right networks, BUT where are they? In a world that has changed and is changing, constantly, traditional networking events, while still valuable, are no longer the only way to build relationships that lead to business growth. My discovery of Virtual Expos, which I’ve experienced as living, breathing networking and expertise presenting spaces where you’re not just showing up for an hour, or a day, but where you are creating an ongoing presence—available 24/7 for the right people to see and connect with you. Think of it in this way: Instead of hoping someone remembers you from a fleeting networking or speaking event, your expo booth offers deeper levels of connection, building familiarity and trust. Instead of spending time and money traveling to conferences, you can connect globally without leaving your office. Instead of one-time interactions, the expo creates multiple touchpoints—people see your videos, book calls, attend your live presentations, and keep engaging with you. So, for example, let’s say you’re a Nutrition Expert and you’re looking for more recognition in new ways. You’re helping women balance their hormones and feel their best, here’s how you’d leverage the expo platform: - Host an interactive workshop on “How to Eat for Energy & Hormonal Balance." - Offer a free assessment where visitors get personalized tips. - Display downloadable PDF’s and success stories inside your booth. - Use live networking sessions to connect with potential clients or partners—other exhibitors and they may not even be within your industry. So, you see, traditional networking is like throwing a business card into a room full of people, hoping it lands in the right hands. While being and exhibitor at a Virtual Expo is like setting up a powerful, interactive business hub that does the heavy lifting for you and you’re part of a network of high-value connections. If this resonates and you’d like to explore if there’s a seat at the table of my May Virtual Expo, DM me today and we’ll check how you can leverage this opportunity. …and if you’ve not attended a virtual expo yet, what questions do you have, now that you read my post?

Most people tell you to network, but they don’t teach you how. Here’s what you can do: 🔹 Quality Over Quantity: Before attending, study the event's attendee list and identify 2-3 people you want to meet. This focused approach can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. I’ve recently done this myself at a TED event. 🔹 Adopt a Giving Mindset: Offer to share your expertise or resources. For example, if someone is working on a project you have experience with, volunteer to provide insights or introduce them to someone who can help. This shows you're invested in their success. 🔹 Research Smartly: Look into their recent projects or publications. If your contact has recently published a paper or given a talk, read it and mention specific points you found intriguing or valuable. This demonstrates genuine interest and sets you apart. 🔹 Make the First Move: Send a message acknowledging a challenge they mentioned in a public forum or LinkedIn comment. For example: "Hi [Name], I saw your post about the challenges of remote team management. I've faced similar issues and found that regular virtual coffee breaks helped. Would love to share more if you're interested. Best, [Your Name]" 🔹 Build a Habit: Set a weekly reminder to engage with your network on social media. This could be liking, commenting on, or sharing posts from your contacts. Regular engagement keeps you top of mind and builds a foundation for deeper connections. Tomorrow’s newsletter is packed with actionable insights to turn casual contacts into valuable connections. ➡ Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/eE-aFmFy 💜 Career Well-being is the best work-life newsletter, according to my readers! Join us! #NetworkingTips #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #careerbutterfly #CareerWellbeing

**Digital Networking: My Lifeline in the Remote Job Hunt** Alright, job seekers and professional wanderers, let's talk about the *new* networking game. Remember when networking meant balancing a drink in one hand and a stack of business cards in the other? Well, welcome to 2024, where your best networking events involve pajama pants, a strong Wi-Fi connection, and maybe your cat making an unexpected cameo. Here's the deal: digital networking is where it's at. I can't tell you how many webinars I joined while muting myself to avoid background chaos (shoutout to my kids and their impromptu volleyball practice in the living room). And guess what? It worked. **Tip #1: Webinars Are Your Friend** I hopped into webinars like they were virtual gold mines. Pro tip: Engage in the chat and make sure your name is memorable. I may or may not have changed mine to “Job Hunter Extraordinaire” once or twice. No shame. **Tip #2: Online Communities – More than Just Memes** I found some fantastic professional communities online where people actually *help* each other (wild, right?). LinkedIn groups, Slack channels, and even a Facebook group for job-seeking moms. These spaces aren’t just for cat memes; they’re for sharing real opportunities and advice. Also, the memes are still a nice bonus. **Tip #3: Social Media Stalking (The Good Kind)** I became a LinkedIn sleuth—followed companies, engaged with posts, and even sent a few DMs. It was like digital speed dating without the awkward small talk. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help if you just ask! In a few short weeks, I landed my new gig, thanks to some serious digital networking hustle. So, whether you're in pajamas or a blazer, remember: your next opportunity might be just a Wi-Fi signal away. Now, excuse me while I join another webinar—I've heard there's virtual coffee, and I’m not missing that. ☕