Job Search During a Quarantine, Edition 3: Creative Virtual Networking
by Marie Bankuti, ClearRock Career Consultant
Networking. To some, it’s a dirty word, almost as painful as public speaking. Others are like fish in water, navigating easily and enjoying themselves along the way. Still others don’t necessarily feel strongly about it, but may not be sure how to go about it the best way. Regardless of which camp you fall into, most of us know it’s one of the necessities of conducting a successful career search.
Networking effectively can be challenging in the best of times. Add the restrictions of a quarantine—i.e. remove the ability to meet in person—and you need to be creative. If you’re amid a job search, know that there are still opportunities to connect with new and old colleagues and contacts. You don’t have to jump through hoops, but you may need to step outside your comfort zone a bit differently than in pre-pandemic times.
Even though coffee shops, restaurants, professional events, conference halls and offices are closed for the usual types of networking interactions, you can leverage technology (old and new) to stay connected.
It’s always a good idea to keep your network current and growing; tended to like a garden. And now is actually a great time to fertilize and grow that network. If you make the effort now to initiate and strengthen your professional relationships, you’ll reap the benefits once the job market fully opens again.
Why it’s a great time to network:
- Many people have more time on their calendars with their commute, business travel and other in-person activities canceled.
- If you’ve let your network atrophy for some time, you now have a built-in excuse to reconnect and check in on folks. Let go of the guilt and focus on thoughtfully renewing those relationships.
- Indeed, companies are not hiring as much now and have had to lay off some of their workforce. But, prior to the economic shutdown, the job market was active. If we’re able to bounce back as all are hoping to, hiring should pick up again. If you’ve been actively networking, you’ll be top of mind with your connections when hiring managers look to regrow their teams.
Who you should reach out to:
- Previous colleagues, clients, customers, vendors, classmates, and those you know from other circles.
- Folks you would have met at canceled professional events, whether you know them already or not.
- Professionals in your field, new to you, who you can ask for advice, information, or referrals (AIR).
- Connections you might be able to assist. Why not ask how, while you have time?
How to Approach Virtual Networking:
- Send a personalized invitation (email, LinkedIn, text, handwritten note, phone call)
- Start close in, those easy for you. Then challenge yourself to stretch your comfort zone and network.
- Do not ask for a job. Lead with curiosity (remember AIR). This is an opportunity for good will and relationship building. Be sincere and offer to help if you can.
- Offer a virtual coffee, after work beer, group happy hour, phone walk & talk, or peer-led discussion.
- Engage on LinkedIn; post and respond to meaningful content, join groups, and participate in discussions.
- Challenge yourself to daily and weekly goals for outreach, meetings, and other networking activities.
Don’t forget to send thank you notes and keep your network updated on your search if the topic come up. You might even consider sending a coffee card as a thank you. You would have bought them a coffee anyway, right?
