While some areas of the country are reopening and beginning to recover, others are shutting down. Because every locale is different, we can anticipate this trend to continue for quite some time. With no industry conferences to attend in-person, many businesses still on pause, and social distancing guidelines remaining in effect, how do you maintain your personal brand and continue to establish professional relationships through networking? In this post, I share practical tips for networking from a ‘social distance’. 

The term “social distancing” permeated our modern vernacular as a way for public health officials to communicate measures intended to reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, the phrase is a bit of a misnomer. In reality, it means physical distancing— avoiding close physical contact and mass gatherings. 

Following the guidelines for physical distancing doesn’t mean you can’t network. It just means you have to be a bit more creative and make the extra effort. Here are ways to successfully network while social distancing: 

Attend virtual conferences. Any conference, virtual or in-person, offers networking opportunities. Review the attendee list (if available) and reach out to introduce yourself to others. Most virtual conferences offer live chat areas within the event platform where you can chat with other attendees. Some sessions may include a Q&A with the presenter either directly following their talk, or at a specified time. Take advantage of these opportunities to grow your network as well as your knowledge base. 

Leverage LinkedIn. If you haven’t done so recently, it’s time to update your LinkedIn bio, polish-up your headline, and give your profile page an overall refresh. There are multiple ways to elevate your personal brand on the platform. Comment on an article (authenitcally). Share industry news stories, interag with others’ posts, and publish your own articles and posts offering some content of value others. You might also set a goal for yourself, such as revitalizing past connections by reaching out to five or ten contacts per week. I learned a cool strategy called the 10-10-10 approach. Make 10 new connections and send personal messages of 10 words or less to 10 current connections. 

Take advantage of industry memberships. In the absence of in-person networking events, create your own! Volunteer to help out, even if only in a small way. Look over the membership roster to find people you haven’t yet met and introduce yourself via email (or LinkedIn InMail). A great way to break the ice is to suggest a 15-minute “virtual coffee break” via Zoom so you can get acquainted while being mindful of their time. 

Participate in social media groups, forums, chats. I belong to several different groups on multiple platforms—some are more active and robust than others. In addition to virtually meeting other professionals around the globe, these groups act as a great sounding board. Be sure you are contributing as much as you are taking from the group. You’re not there to sell or directly drum-up business. You are there to listen, learn, contribute, and forge new relationships—all with the possibility that business may come as a result, though that shouldn’t be your primary goal.

In a recent Ragan Communications interview, Walmart director of PR, Meredith Klein, said, prioritizing connection during this time is powerful, “because connection is what makes us most human.” She said, “In the absence of being able to fully connect in-person, we’re having to make a more concerted effort to connect with others in new ways. It also means being more connected with various mediums. Information can empower you, giving you a sense of control and comfort. I’ve stayed professionally informed and connected to the world and the world of communications through Twitter and LinkedIn… Once you do, consistently tap those sources and become part of those communities.” 

Whether you are interested in expanding your professional network, finding and connecting with others in your line of business, job searching, or looking to rekindle old professional relationships, there is no better time than the present.

Always remember that there is a real person behind every avatar—a human-being with their own set of stressors to which you may not be privy. Avoid appearing tone-deaf by starting out asking how they are doing and then offer ways you can help, if possible. Leading with empathy is the rule during this uncertain time.

Finally, if you see me on the list of event attendees, on social media, or would like to connect, I hope you’ll introduce yourself. I’ll be glad to meet you! 

Chris Kuban started Chemistry PR and Multimedia with a vision to effectively formulate corporate and non-profit brands across the country. In doing so, he has become an expert in Media Relations, Event Management, Social Media implementation and video production.  He engages, coordinates and oversees a diverse team of local and national suppliers, vendors, employees and consultants, allowing him to successfully coordinate over 120 national events focusing on overall logistics, media relations and his clients’ expected ROI. Follow him on Twitter or connect with him on LinkedIn.