In this episode, Brian Colburn explores the essentials of virtual networking and offers a roadmap for building genuine connections in a digital world. Virtual networking has become a key skill in today's professional landscape, enabling meaningful relationships beyond geographical boundaries. Brian shares actionable insights to make a memorable impression online, build trust, and sustain connections over time.
Key Takeaways
Intentional Networking: Set clear goals and actively prepare for virtual networking opportunities.
Make an Impact: Use video, engage in chat, and have a strong introduction to make a lasting impression.
Build Digital Trust: Consistency, resource-sharing, and transparency are essential to building online relationships.
Nurture Connections: Regular engagement and check-ins help sustain and grow virtual connections.
Next Episode
Stay tuned for Episode 13, where we dive into building a network based on mutual support. We'll discuss strategies for creating a network that benefits you and empowers those around you.
Let’s Connect
LinkedIn: Brian Colburn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancolburn/)
Transcription
Transcribed by Descript*
Good morning, everybody. And welcome back to network effect where we help you transform relationships into opportunities.
I'm your host, Brian Colburn. And today we're diving into a skill that's becoming essential in our digital first world. And that is virtual networking.
Now. I know what some of you might be thinking.
Can you build a meaningful connection without meeting face to face? The answer is a resounding yes. In fact, with the right approach. Virtual networking can be just as impactful as in-person networking. Sometimes even more so. You're no longer limited by geography, and with the little effort you can establish connections with people around the globe.
In today's episode, we're going to cover
How to approach virtual networking with intention
Tips for making a memorable first impression online.
The art of building rapport and trust digitally.
And lastly, following up to keep those online connections alive.
By the end of this episode, you'll have a game plan for making real connections in virtual spaces and using digital platforms to grow your networking authentically, and effectively.
Let's start with the basics.
Approaching virtual networking with intention.
Like in-person networking, virtual networking. Isn't something you want to do passively. It's easy to log into a virtual event. Listen with one year and leave without making a single connection. But if you can approach it with purpose, It can open doors you didn't even know existed. So before you attend a virtual event, consider these questions.
What's your goal? Are you looking to connect with potential clients, find a mentor or expand your industry knowledge.
Number two. Who's on the guest list. If the event provides a participant list, take a few minutes to identify people you'd like to connect with.
And number three, what value can you bring? Think about how you can contribute to the discussion. Whether you share insights, ask thoughtful questions or offer advice coming prepared helps you stand out.
Approaching virtual networking with a clear intention makes it more effective and helps you stay focused on building quality connections, not just collecting names on a list.
Now let's talk about making a memorable first impression online. In a virtual setting, you don't have the advantage of a handshake or body language. So making a solid impression requires a slightly different approach.
Here are a few ways to stand out in a digital room.
Use video. If the platform allows for video, use it. Video calls create a more personal connection than just voice or text. Seeing each other's face helps build rapport faster.
Be mindful of your background and appearance.
Although your background and appearance may seem minor, they significantly affect how people receive you. A tidy background and professional attire. Convey that you're prepared and taking the interaction seriously.
Engage actively in chat. If it's a webinar or a large meeting, you can often connect through the chat, share relevant thoughts or respond to other's comments, engaging in the chat shows that you're listening and participating, which helps make you memorable.
Lastly, have a quick introduction ready?
Since you only sometimes have a little time to make an online impression, prepare a short engaging introduction. Focus on who you are, what you do and why you chose to attend the event.
The digital space may have its challenges, but by being intentional with these actions, you can make a strong impression, even in a crowded virtual room.
All right. So you've made a memorable first impression.
Now let's move on to building rapport and trust digitally.
Trust is the foundation of any great relationship, whether online or in person. However building trust without face-to-face interactions can be challenging.
Here are some tips to make it happen.
Number one be consistent in your followups.
Consistency is key after you've connected with someone, send a followup message within 24 to 48 hours. Reference something specific from your conversation to make it personal.
Number two share relevant resources. One great way to add value and build trust is by sharing resources that may be helpful to them. This could be an article related to their industry. A tool you think they'd find useful or even an event they might be interested in,
Showing that you're invested in their success helps establish trust.
Number three. Use LinkedIn as a relationship building tool.
LinkedIn is a powerful platform for virtual networking, but it's most effective when you actively engage with others. Comment on their posts. Endorse their skills and share relevant content. This creates multiple touch points and keeps you top of mind.
And number four. Be transparent. Transparency goes a long way in digital interactions.
Be clear about your intentions and what you hope to achieve through the connection. People appreciate honesty, which sets a solid foundation for a trusting relationship.
Remember just because you're not face-to-face doesn't mean you can't build a strong, meaningful connection. With a bit of effort and genuine interest, digital relationships can be as impactful.
Lastly, let's discuss keeping your virtual connections alive.
It's easy for online connections to fade if you don't nurture them. But the beauty of digital networking is that keeping in touch is easier than ever.
Here's some ways to stay connected.
Number one set reminders to reach out. One easy way to maintain connections is to set reminders, to reach out every few months. This could be as simple as commenting on a LinkedIn update or sending a quick message to see how they're doing.
Number two. Engage regularly with their content. If they're active on LinkedIn or other social media platforms, engage with their posts. This keeps you on their radar without the need for a formal check-in.
Number three, invite them to relevant events. If you're attending or hosting a virtual event that may interest them, extended an invitation shared experiences, even online help deepen the connection.
And number four. Send occasional check-ins. Every so often drop a friendly message to see how things are going. There doesn't need to be an agenda, just a genuine interest in staying connected.
All right. Let's quickly recap. Today's key takeaways.
Approach virtual networking with intention. Be clear about your goals. Come prepared and consider what you can bring.
Make a memorable first impression by using video, engaging in chat and having a strong introduction ready?
Build trust online by being consistent. Sharing resources and staying active on LinkedIn.
Keep virtual connections alive through regular engagement check-ins and shared experiences.
Digital networking may differ, but it's incredibly powerful when approached thoughtfully use these tips to build strong, authentic connections and your virtual network will expand quickly.
Next time, we'll take it one step further in exploring topic at the heart of every great network. Mutual support. In episode 13, we'll talk about creating a network that benefits you and empowers others.
We'll cover how to give back. Support your connections and build a stronger community because of your involvement.
It's about turning your network into an actual support system. And trust me, you will want to take advantage of it.
Thank you for joining me on network effect, where we help you transform relationships into opportunities. If you find these episodes helpful, subscribe, leave a review and share the podcast with someone who could benefit.
As always, if you'd like to take your content even further with personalized coaching visit, bcolburn.com.
Until next time, keep connecting. Keep growing and remember that every virtual handshake can be the start of a powerful relationship.
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