Remote Networking Tips #2: Ask yourself how Lockdown affected your Professional Relationships?

Whether you have jumped straight into an active (remote) networking routine during the lockdown, have recently found your feet after adjusting to the new norm or are not quick there yet, you should be aware of how strong your existing relationships are.

Hopefully, during the lockdown, you have been taken responsibility for maintaining your relationships and seeking social interaction (although if you haven’t that is okay too).

Think about the people that you’ve interacted with virtually over the last few weeks.

• Who did you check in on?
• Who have you helped and supported?
• Who has been there for you?
• Who did you have a laugh with?
• Who did you do business with?
• Who taught you something new?
• Have you grown closer to anyone on your team?
• Have you shifted any “professional” relationships into more person/authentic ones?
• Who listened?
• Who shared?
• Who cared?

This can be both internally and externally.

Reflect on how lockdown and affected and influenced your relationships.

The value is in the strength of your network (not just the size). A strong network will support you, will think of you when opportunities arise (even when you aren’t looking) and these are the people who will help you succeed and provide support, advice and introductions.

The key to building and maintaining these kinds of relationships is to reciprocate and care about these people in your network.

Be ready to be supportive and helpful. Now and in the future.

Once your have reflected on your relationships you should be able to identify where to focus your efforts.

Further Reading:

• Quick Tip: Take Responsibility for Maintaining Your Relationships
• Quick Tip: Take Virtual Coffee Breaks with your team
• 10 Ways to Build Relationships with your Existing Clients