Networking In A Virtual World

You don’t need to attend awkward networking events to build connections. Here are 10 ways to network online (from your couch) to land your dream job, mentorship or just to stay in touch: 1. Start with warm calls, not cold DMs Reaching out to strangers is intimidating. So, begin with people you already admire or respect: past colleagues, old classmates, mentors, or anyone you’ve gotten value from. Reach out, share your goals, ask for advice, or simply reconnect. — 2. Build (or join) a 3-6 person mastermind Invite people you admire to check in monthly or quarterly. Ask 3 simple questions in each meeting: • What’s your biggest win? • What’s your biggest challenge? • How can we help each other? This becomes your personal board of advisors, and their networks become yours, too. — 3. Make intros within your own network Instead of always trying to add new people, try connecting two people you already know. It builds goodwill, and often sparks reciprocity. Some of my best opportunities came from introductions I made first. — 4. Be the tortoise, not the hare Strong networks aren’t built in a week. They come from consistency, trust, and staying top of mind. Check in. Celebrate small wins. Be helpful, even without asking for anything.  — 5. Send snail mail Want to stand out in a sea of LinkedIn messages? Send a handwritten card or even a fun comic with a note. The person will always remember your “extra” effort. — 6. Elevate the interaction • Only chatted with someone online? Try a call. • Had a few calls? Try a Zoom meeting. • Know them over Zoom? Meet up in person. Each upgrade strengthens the connection. — 7. Pick one platform to dominate Instead of being everywhere, go deep somewhere. For example, if it’s LinkedIn: • Endorse people • Write thoughtful comments • Share niche insights your network actually values   This depth pays off more than shallow visibility. — 8. Curate, don’t just connect Curate the best insights, tools, or articles in your niche, and share them regularly. You’ll become a trusted source people keep coming back or referring to. — 9. Do something fun together Shared activities build bonds. This could be as simple as playing a game, joining a sweepstakes, or co-hosting a webinar.  People remember who made them feel something. — 10. Swipe right (yes, really) Apps like Shapr or Invitly are designed for warm outreach — you match with people who want to meet others. It’s cold networking without the awkwardness. Networking isn’t about pitching. It’s about planting seeds. Start with one person. Reach out. Reconnect.  Then keep showing up, helping others, and making connections that count.

Your network is useless if no one remembers your name. When I started my career, I thought networking was everything. Attend the right events. Add the right people. Have coffee chats. And yes, I did all of that. But here’s what no one tells you: Most people forget your name by the time they get back to their desks. It frustrated me. I was doing the work, meeting people, yet I wasn’t standing out. Then I asked myself a simple question: “Why should anyone remember me?” That’s when I realised – people don’t remember business cards. They remember what you stand for. They remember your brand. When you have a clear personal brand: → You create a first impression without even being in the room. Someone searches you on LinkedIn, and your work speaks before you do. → You attract the right people, not just more people. Your brand filters out the noise and draws those who resonate with your values and skills. → You build trust. A strong brand says, “This person knows their craft.” And trust opens doors faster than any networking event. For me, the shift happened when I started writing online. Until then, I was “just another CA.” But when I began sharing insights, mistakes, and even humour around finance and life, people started to remember me. Opportunities followed. Conversations became warmer. Doors opened that coffee meetings never could. Your network can fade if you don’t nurture it. But your brand? It’s like compound interest – it keeps growing quietly in the background. So ask yourself – If someone Googled you today, would they find a list of connections… or a story worth remembering?

Starting over can feel lonely. Especially when everyone else seems connected already. And the advice you'll find online? "Just put yourself out there." "Go to events." "Reach out to people." As if the problem was never knowing that. The real difficulty is showing up when your confidence is still catching up with you. When you don't have a clear answer to "so what are you doing now?" When the version of you that networked easily feels far away. That's the part nobody writes about. So here it is. 10 ways to network when you're starting over: 1️⃣ Reach out to old contacts ↳ Message former colleagues, classmates, or friends ↳ Familiar connections are often easiest to rebuild 2️⃣ Let people know you're starting a new chapter ↳ People can only help when they know your direction ↳ Share where you are and what you're working towards 3️⃣ Ask for conversations, not opportunities ↳ Seek advice, perspective, or lived experience ↳ Strong relationships start without an agenda 4️⃣ Join communities that match your interests ↳ Find groups where people share similar interests ↳ Common ground makes conversations flow easier 5️⃣ Focus on one connection at a time ↳ Build one meaningful relationship before the next ↳ Depth creates more value than large numbers 6️⃣ Follow up after meeting someone ↳ Send a message while the conversation feels fresh ↳ Mention something specific you spoke about 7️⃣ Offer value whenever you can ↳ Share resources, introductions, or useful ideas ↳ Strong networks grow through mutual support 8️⃣ Stay visible and engaged ↳ Join discussions and share your perspective ↳ Consistent interaction strengthens relationships 9️⃣ Don't wait until you feel ready ↳ Confidence usually follows action, not waiting ↳ Start before you feel fully prepared 🔟 Remember networking is about relationships ↳ Focus on trust, not collecting contacts ↳ Genuine connections create lasting opportunities You don't need a polished story to reconnect. You just need the courage to start the conversation. Everything else can come later. If this helped, pass it on ♻️ And follow me, Lauren Murrell, for more like this.

A shy person's guide to building a personal brand on LinkedIn. Short version. A lot of shy, thoughtful professionals ask me this: “Do I really need to build a personal brand on LinkedIn?” My answer? Yes. But do it your way. LinkedIn is already crowded, and it's tough to stand out. And it will get exponentially tougher each year. Back to the shy person and being active on LinkedIn. You don’t need to become loud or performative. You need to become visible. Consistently. Authentically. Here’s how shy or introverted folks can build a strong personal brand—without pretending to be someone else: 1. Start small Comment on posts. Share an article. Post once a week. Small steps compound. 2. Play to your strengths If writing is your zone, write. If it’s 1-on-1 conversations, start there. Use your natural style. 3. Pick the right formats Not a fan of videos? Try carousels, blogs, infographics. There’s no single “correct” format. 4. Be consistent You don’t need to post daily. But you do need to show up regularly. 5. Engage deeply, not loudly Don’t chase likes. Build real connections. A thoughtful comment is more powerful than a viral post. Shy ≠ Invisible. Your personal brand is simply what people remember about you. Start shaping that—on your own terms. Why does this work? 1. Low‑pressure approach: No forcing extroversion—just small, sustainable actions. 2. Authenticity first: You lean into your true style and skills, which builds trust. 3. Quality over quantity: Engagement, not audience size, determines impact. And here is a Checklist for you to get started.... 1️⃣ Reflect on what gets you excited and where you excel 2️⃣ Choose content that aligns with your comfort zone 3️⃣ Commit to a regular cadence—e.g., weekly posts 4️⃣ Engage actively—reply, thank, acknowledge 5️⃣ Digitally network: follow, share, message thoughtfully Now, what is stopping you? Waiting for the perfect time? Perfect day. Today is that day. ++++ I used this exact same plan to build my brand. And now you can too.

Meaningful partnerships are important to me. Lately, a significant portion of my work has involved connecting professionals in the healthcare innovation sector. My trip to Dallas last week started with organic introductions I made in 2024. Some may view making business introductions as a simple and quick process. The process takes time, and time has a cost. In healthcare, innovation doesn’t thrive in isolation; it takes the right connections to move ideas forward. But real impact happens when we prioritize relational partnerships over transactional exchanges. It’s about building trust, fostering mutual respect, and creating opportunities that solve real problems. Here are my thoughts on how to make meaningful introductions: ✅ Lead with Value, Not Ego. Don’t focus on what’s in it for you. Prioritize how both sides benefit from the introduction. Relationships built on genuine value last longer and go further. ✅ Know the Gaps Before You Fill Them. Understand the pain points of both parties. High-impact connections happen when you address a critical need or opportunity. ✅ Vet Ruthlessly, Introduce Thoughtfully. Not every connection is worth making. Be selective and introduce only when there’s a clear alignment of values, goals, and capabilities. Protect the integrity of your network. ✅ Do Your Homework. Before making an introduction, ensure you have a thorough understanding of both parties to effectively explain why the connection is significant. ✅ Frame the Introduction with Context. Set the stage. Provide both parties with sufficient background information to understand the relevance and potential of the relationship. Clarity upfront fosters respect and avoids wasted time. ✅ Stay in the Loop (But Don’t Hover). Follow up to see if the introduction was valuable, but don’t micromanage the outcome. Relationships that thrive are built on trust, not control. ✅ Be a Problem Solver, Not Just a Connector. Your role doesn’t end with the introduction. Be available to offer insights or guidance if needed as the relationship develops. ✅ Protect Your Network’s Trust. Introduce only when it makes sense. One mismatched connection can erode trust and weaken your credibility. Guard your network’s reputation as carefully as your own. ✅ Build for the Long Game. Relational partnerships aren’t built overnight. Consistently show up, add value, and nurture trust over time. Sustainable impact comes from authentic, long-term connections. ✅ Celebrate the Wins. When a connection you made leads to something great, acknowledge it. Recognize the impact and reinforce the power of trusted relationships. Relational partnerships move healthcare forward. When trust and respect are the foundation, introductions become catalysts for real change. If you’re serious about advancing innovation, be intentional with your connections. It’s not about quantity. It’s about quality, trust, and lasting impact. 🔥 #healthcareonlinkedin #partnerships #innovation #sme

Most professionals I meet tell me the same thing: “I’m on LinkedIn… but I’m not getting opportunities.” The truth? LinkedIn isn’t just a platform for scrolling, it’s your career accelerator if you use it strategically. I’ve helped hundreds of professionals transform their LinkedIn presence, and here’s what actually works: 1. Profile Optimization is Non-Negotiable Your headline must show your value proposition. Your “About” section should tell your career story. Your experience should highlight achievements, not just responsibilities. And yes, add a professional photo (it increases views by 14x). 2. Content Strategy Matters Post 2–3 times per week. Share: ✔ Industry insights ✔ Career wins ✔ Lessons learned Key rule: 80% value-driven content, 20% personal branding. And don’t wait for people to engage with you—comment on their posts first. 3. Strategic Connection Building Don’t connect with everyone. Be intentional. Target professionals in your desired role or industry. Send personalized connection requests. And always follow up within 24 hours when someone accepts. 4. Engagement is Everything Spend 20 minutes a day engaging. But make it meaningful, “Great post” won’t cut it. Add thoughtful, valuable comments to conversations. Pro Tips I give my clients: → Join 3–5 relevant industry groups → Follow and engage with company pages you admire → Use LinkedIn search filters to find decision-makers → Share wins, but always include what you learned → Post during peak engagement (Tue–Thu, 8–10 AM) The winning formula? Consistency. I’ve seen careers transform in just 90 days when people follow this systematically. Remember: LinkedIn isn’t a sprint or a marathon. It’s about showing up daily and consistently adding value. P.S. If you want more updated insights, proven strategies, and step-by-step frameworks to grow your visibility.  👉 Join my Career Spotlight Group. 📌 Join here - https://lnkd.in/gB22r3_b

Networking can feel difficult, but it doesn't have to be. Following a few simple guidelines can 10x your results. The primary reasons most people struggle with networking is because: - They focus on the wrong people - They make it all about their own needs If you want better results from your networking? 1. Talk To People You're Genuinely Excited To Engage With Don't just reach out to someone because they might be able to help you get a job. Reach out to people who will help you level up no matter what. Reach out to people who are doing things you're genuinely interested in. That will make things much more authentic. 2. Give 3+ Times Before You Ask Don't get stuck on the number 3. The lesson here is to focus on giving value or making it about the other person first. The more you do that, the more social capital you build. That makes you more likely to get a "yes" when you do ask. 3. Engage In Ways That Create Energy For You Networking doesn't have to be a 30 minute Zoom call. It also doesn't need to be a boring email. Networking can be: - Engaging with LinkedIn content - Connecting with someone at a virtual event - Going for a walk while you chat with them on the phone - DMs on a social platform - Etc. You'll be most effective when you do this in ways that feel good to you. 4. Always Open The Door For The Next Interaction Way too many people finally land that networking convo, but have no idea what to say after to keep things going. Make a point to have a few questions or strategies that keep the door open. One of my favorites is to ask for a small piece of advice. Then you can act on it and follow up with your results. 5. Thank Everyone Who Helps You Not just the people who refer you in. Not just the people who actually got on a coffee chat with you. Thank the people who replied, who introduced you, who offer small pieces of advice, and everyone in between. Thank them when they initially help you. Then thank them again when you land that job. A small thank you note goes a long way.

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

🤦🏼♀️You don’t know what networking is. Sending a cold dm to a stranger on LinkedIn isn’t networking, it’s asking a stranger for help. It’s telling someone you need a job. And that’s fine and you need to do that but don’t get it twisted that is NOT networking. 🟢Networking is building relationships. 🟢Networking is getting to know other people. 🟢Networking is not about YOU. Here are some tips on how to network 1. Shift Your Mindset 🧠 Give first: Don’t just ask for favors; ask, "How can I support you?" or share helpful resources.   2. Be Selective 📈 Quality over quantity: One meaningful conversation is better than cold emailing 50 cards strangers. Personalized outreach: Never send a generic connection request. Add a note mentioning a shared interest, a recent article they wrote, or a mutual connection.   3.Long-term focus 📆 Networking is a marathon. Cultivate relationships before you actually need a job or a favor.     4. Be Ready 💃 Have your pitch down. Know your unique value proposition. Be memorable. 5. Leave the house 🚗💨 Go to in person industry events, conferences and happy hours. Play pickle ball. Go with your friend to their work event. Join a chamber of commerce. Make friends at a café. 6. Don’t be shy 🤝 How to break the ice: Approach people standing alone or in groups of three (they are easier to enter than pairs). Introduce yourself simply and ask open-ended questions like, "What brought you out here tonight?" or "What exciting projects are you working on?" 7 Follow Up 📱 The 48-hour rule: Always follow up within 48 hours of meeting, send a thank you note or a thank you. Better yet send an article or resource that connects back to the conversation you had. (Go back to step 1 be a resource) Mention something specific you discussed (e.g., "I loved hearing about your experience transitioning into tech") to jog their memory   8. Be active on social 👩🏼💻media: Share industry insights, comment on others' posts, and reach out to professionals for 15-minute informational interviews.   9- Nurture consistently 🎯 Check in occasionally with a quick text or email just to share a relevant article, say congratulations on a milestone, or see how they are doing   10- It’s not about YOU🤗Networking is about building a relationship that is mutually beneficial. GIVE VALUE. #howtonetwork #careeradvice #jobsearchtips #linkedin

Your colleagues are not your friends. Do your job. Get paid. Go home. I completely agree with this… If you want work to be a place of cold isolation that may eventually impact your wellbeing and productivity. Some of my oldest friends today, are people I worked with, from bosses to peers and even external collaborators (vendors & suppliers). And they made work better, happier, more engaging and satisfying for me. Humans by nature are communal creatures; we need to connect with others, feel part of the group. If you think about it, all the levels in Maslow’s hierarchy of needs are essentially about human connection; physiological needs, safety, love and belonging, esteem and self-actualisation all require human connection with others. In the past it was easier to create friendships at work because you saw people and interacted with them daily. Today, with remote and hybrid work, it’s a little harder but still doable. Here are some tips on building relationships with colleagues even when you rarely see them physically: 📌 Make the Effort: If you want to build relationships at work, you have to be intentional about it; reach out, communicate, interact, participate. 📌 Offer Value & Build Trust: As selfish as this may sound, people gravitate towards those who add value to their lives. And since value is subjective, start by being generally optimistic, positive, friendly and willing to be helpful. Make sure to follow through on promises. Consistency and reliability are important for building trust 📌 Use the Tech: Most of today’s workplace interactions happen with the use of technology; emails, instant messaging, video conferencing, etc. Use them. Don’t wait for a time when you can interact physically. 📌 Communicate Effectively: Because it’s harder to connect virtually than physically for most people, you’ve got to communicate more often and leave no room for ambiguity as virtual communication can be open to interpretation (and misinterpretation). 📌 Virtual Socials: Don’t limit workplace interactions to work stuff. Share personal interests and hobbies to find mutual interests you can bond over. I love the idea of a pyjama coffee meeting or virtual lunches with colleagues. Who doesn’t relax while drinking a beverage? Or in PJs? 📌 Celebrate Colleagues: Celebrate your colleagues’ achievements or milestones, professional and personal. Even small gestures of recognition go a long way in relationship-building. Building relationships in a remote work environment requires being proactive, patient, and empathetic. By actively engaging with your colleagues using remote tools, and finding ways to connect beyond work stuff, you can create strong and lasting professional relationships, even when you rarely meet in person. Do you believe in work-friends? How do you build and maintain friendships with remote colleagues? #LinkedInNewsEurope