Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our world has become a lot more “hybrid.” The rise of work-from-home and online collaboration tools has significantly impacted the workplace environment. Similarly, the way people network has also changed. With everyone stuck at home, people searched for other ways to develop and maintain human connection. Consequently, we started seeing more and more virtual networking events and spaces. Considering the improving global health circumstances and the ability to meet again face-to-face, how can young professionals balance online and offline networking? The guide below aims to assist individuals in their careers as they navigate “hybrid networking.”
Online vs. offline networking
There has been an ongoing debate between online and offline. Each side has its pros and cons. Online networking boasts convenience, accessibility, and time efficiency. However, Team Offline argues that “real” connections can only be formed face-to-face. But why do we need to choose between one or the other? Instead of focusing on which is better, why don’t we focus on learning how to utilize both online and offline opportunities to expand our network and form meaningful relationships?
Attend offline events near you
A great place to start networking is your own backyard. Get to know the professionals in your local community. If you don’t know what networking events are happening in your area, you can use an online event tool called Eventbrite to learn about upcoming events. Alternatively, you can attend any of the events hosted by DJCC, which are open to members and non-members. Feel free to join our monthly Fireside Chats, an excellent opportunity to meet young professionals in the Dallas community. Sometimes schedules can be hectic and in-person events are not always feasible, which makes virtual meetings a wonderful alternative. Offline events are not necessarily better than online events. You never know when, where, or how you’ll form your next connection. However, we encourage individuals to try their best to participate in a good mix of offline and online networking opportunities.
Join a networking group
Whether online or offline, joining a networking group provides both personal and career benefits. Networking groups offer professional advice, insightful conversations, and a close-knit community. You can find an organization or association that aligns with your interests and goals. These associations create spaces for like-minded individuals to come together and share a sense of belonging. There are groups focused on a specific industry, groups for current and aspiring entrepreneurs, and groups committed to empowering and supporting women professionals. Use Meetup.com or LinkedIn Groups to find a networking group that is right for you.
Social media is your networking tool
The whole purpose of social media is to create and facilitate connections, making it the perfect tool for networking. Platforms, such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and Meetup, can give you access to a broader and more diverse network because there are no geographical constraints in the online world. You can gain the attention of companies, groups, and individuals from all around the globe. Social media is also a way for you to talk and converse about topics of interest. It’s essentially one big online discussion board where you can simultaneously learn from others and form connections. Social media can also be leveraged to develop one’s professional brand. Your LinkedIn account allows you to share content that showcases your skills, knowledge, and personality with a professional network. Furthermore, after attending an in-person event, we highly suggest young professionals connect online as well. This way, you can maintain and nurture these relationships even when you cannot meet face-to-face.
Authenticity in Networking
No matter if you are networking offline or online, it’s important to be genuine and authentic. We’ve all heard the phrase, “just be yourself.” Despite being cliché and overused, the advice remains relevant. Throughout your networking and career journey, stay honest, open, and don’t pretend. Ultimately, that’s the only way to yield the benefits of networking and create meaningful relationships. Take great care and effort to ensure that the offline and online representation of yourself is true and authentic.
Balance is key. Your approach to networking shouldn’t be an all-or-nothing mindset. It’s okay if you cannot attend an offline networking event every month. It’s okay if your LinkedIn account experiences an in-activity period. Opportunities to connect present themselves all around us. Rather than relying on only one form of networking, understand that both have value. Online networking is not meant to substitute offline networking. Instead, they complement each other. Therefore, to effectively build professional relationships, learn how to apply both forms of networking throughout your career.
For more information, check out Best Practices for Networking for Young Professionals
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