You are a networking fiend, you know all the tricks, but that was in the real world, not the online one we have inhabited during lockdown.
Lyndy van den Barselaar, MD of ManpowerGroup SA, says there are some rules to follow to ensure you make an impression.
“Just like there are unwritten rules and habits to both cultivate and avoid in face-to-face meetings, there are rules of engagement and etiquette for the online networking world as well.” She has the following advice:
- You need to ensure you get noticed. Make the effort to follow what is happening in the meeting so you can add something of value or ask pertinent questions.
- It may be really tempting to steer the conversation into a completely new area, but rather stay on topic. “Unless it genuinely adds value, don’t bring it up, as this can easily derail a productive conversation, taking it in the wrong direction or causing others to lose the point.”
- You may be the expert on the current topic, but rather wait to be asked before taking over the meeting. This comes across as arrogant. “Everyone is there to learn, share information and views, and ask questions.”
- The meeting or event you are part of is not for your benefit only, so be careful to listen to what others are saying and learn from them.
- Follow up with your colleagues or clients as soon as possible, especially if you made plans to meet again or to send some information. Show that you are someone who can be trusted.
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