The Future of Networking: Virtual Events and Digital Platforms

With the rise of virtual events and digital platforms, the professional networking landscape has rapidly changed over the last few years. This has created new opportunities for professionals around the world to connect. It’s not just about connecting over Zoom, or other Video conferencing platforms but also via social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

How can we use these new tools to build meaningful connections and advance our business connections and growth?

Embracing the Digital Transformation in Networking

How is the digital world reshaping networking practices?

The shift to online platforms offers almost unlimited access to networking opportunities that were previously limited by geographical boundaries. Virtual events and platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, in particular, provide a space for professionals to connect, share knowledge, and collaborate without the constraints of physical location.

Making professional development accessible and convenient for everyone is a great way to level the playing field, making it more inclusive and available to all.

The Advantages of Virtual Networking Events

Why choose virtual networking events over traditional in-person ones?

Virtual events can host a diverse group of attendees from various backgrounds and locations, enriching the networking experience with a broader range of perspectives. They also allow for targeted learning experiences tailored to specific interests or industries, coupled with the flexibility to participate from anywhere in the world. This level of accessibility and customisation enhances the value of networking events for participants. I’m hosting one on April 16th 2024, at 11 am with Abigail Tiefenthaler, known as the “Launch and Leverage Strategist,” the Co-Founder of Savvy Sales Strategy. We will be networking and learning about how to make sales conversations comfy and enjoyable instead of icky and uncomfortable. Interested join here 'Sales without the Ick'

Navigating Digital Platforms for Professional Growth

In what ways can professionals use digital platforms to enhance their networking?

Platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook serve as a medium for connecting with other professionals and as a tool for personal branding and thought leadership. By actively engaging in discussions, publishing insightful content, and showcasing achievements, professionals and business owners can attract like-minded individuals and opportunities. Optimising your digital presence through a well-crafted profile and strategic engagement can significantly boost your networking efforts. By strategic engagement, I do mean engagement in community-focused networking communities, which means commenting and posting questions and sharing advice- adding value. Just in case that wasn’t clear!

Challenges and Solutions in Virtual Networking

What challenges do virtual networking present, and how can we overcome them?

While virtual networking offers many benefits, it also comes with challenges such as the difficulty of forging genuine connections in a digital space and combating digital fatigue. To overcome these hurdles, prioritise the quality of interactions over quantity, and make an effort to follow up on connections made online with personalised messages, if you attend one of my events, you can also continue the relationship and connection via our group chat and through commenting and engaging in our Community Networking Group. Remember, the goal is to build meaningful relationships, not just to amass contacts. If we connect for the sake of vanity metrics we will lose sight of our ideal clients, collaborators and connections.

The future of networking lies in embracing virtual events and digital platforms as integral components of our professional and business development toolkit. By adapting to these changes and utilising them to our advantage, alongside in-person events, we can continue to forge meaningful connections, learn and grow in our careers, and contribute to a more inclusive and accessible professional world. Remember, back it up and solidify it with 121s and in-person meet-ups where possible.