A study conducted by LinkedIn revealed that 85% of job placements are a result of networking. Despite all career events and activities being moved online, networking remains an essential part of a job search, as you can tap into your connections to access the hidden job market. We have summarized some tips to help you stand out in a virtual networking situation.

Plan Ahead

First, you need to understand your reasons for attending the networking event – perhaps you want to make three good contacts for your future job search or you are looking to understand more about tech firms. Understanding this will ensure that you approach the networking event with a clear goal in mind.

Second, you want to be prepared. If the event has released a participant list or names of the panelists, see who you want to connect with. Then research the attendees to understand more about their career and company. When you are prepared with one or two well-researched questions, you show the recruiters or company representatives that you have a genuine interest in their work. Whether you have better understanding about their field of work or their experiences, try to find common ground before connecting. Doing so will provide you with a genuine reason for your interaction and allows you to build a professional relationship quickly.

In addition, in virtual events, people’s impression of you is displayed through your display, so you want to appear professional. Further preparations could include the following:

• Prevent technological issues. You don’t want to run into technological issues at the virtual event so check that your audio and camera is working! Try to run through your equipment ahead of the event to know whether it is compatible with the system that is being used.
• Be mindful of your surroundings. Make sure you find a place where it is quiet and will receive minimal interruptions while your mic and camera is on. Additionally, utilize proper lighting to ensure that you are visible on camera.
• Check your display name. Professionalism is key, so remember to change your display name. You want your actual name to be shown so they know who you are. If applicable, you may add your company name after your name, e.g. John Doe – RBC.
• Adhere to the dress code. Check if the virtual event has a dress code. If you are unsure, the best practice is to dress professionally. Treat this like how you would for an in-person networking event.
• Have back-up. Have your prepared questions and possible topics of conversation on your screen that you can reference easily in case you forget.

Stand Out at a Virtual Event

Networking with strangers may be intimidating, but remember that the best way to network is to be yourself and leverage your strengths. In addition to coming prepared for your virtual webinar or networking event, consider these additional actions that you can take to stand out.

• Turn on your camera and be present. You are networking to leave an impression! Turning on your display allows people to put a face to your name and make it easier to establish connections. Do your best to look directly into the webcam; with your video on, people can tell if you are engaged or not. Additionally, reduce your distractions by closing unnecessary programs – you can respond to that email or text after the event!

• Introduce yourself. Remembering this step is important especially when you ask a question or speak to a new person. While your name may be next to your video, it is still effective to prepare a self-introduction so participants know who is talking. It can also be helpful to prepare a short pitch.
• Offer to help. Even though you are networking to gain insight, realize that you have a lot to offer as well! Working on your active listening skills can help you build trust and identify challenges others are facing. Understanding what they are currently working on or their roadblocks can help you recognize opportunities that you can help with – maybe you can connect them to a resource or someone in your network! Building mutually beneficial connections can further solidify your relationship.

• Reach out to connect. If you talked to someone interesting connect with them on LinkedIn! Sending a follow-up message helps you stand out and solidify your new connection as many people do not proceed with this step.

After this first connection, follow up once in a while with people you are trying to build a closer relationship with – try to avoid getting in touch only when you need something! People are busy, so if you do not connect with them often you might be forgotten. Some possible follow-up ideas can include sharing articles related to what you have discussed or informing them of opportunities they may be interested in.

Utilize Other Networking Channels

Request Informational Interviews

Outside of virtual networking events, another good way to gain connections is to reach out to people yourself! Much like how you would ask for a coffee chat, as shown in step 3 of the above infographic, talk to different people to learn more about their careers. Dorie Clark, the author of Stand Out Networking, shares with HBR that “informational interviews are essential to helping you find out more about the type of industry, company, or role you’re interested in.”

Find a Mentor

Mentorship is a great way to enhance your understanding of your desired career trajectory and help you navigate the unknown through their guidance. You can reach out to your network on LinkedIn or join a mentorship program. For example, the SFU Beedie Mentors in Business (MIB) program pairs you up with a business professional for a 6-month one-on-one mentorship!

Do you feel ready for your next virtual networking event and expanding your network? Check out upcoming virtual events and more networking tips on Beedie Community!