How can you build strong professional relationships in a virtual work environment?

1 Be intentional

One of the key factors for successful networking and relationship building is intentionality. You need to have a clear purpose and goal for each interaction, and make sure you follow up and follow through. Don't just rely on random or occasional chats or emails; schedule regular meetings, calls, or video conferences with the people you want to connect with. Prepare some questions, topics, or ideas to share, and show genuine interest and curiosity in their work, challenges, and goals. Also, don't forget to express appreciation, gratitude, and feedback, and offer your support and assistance when possible.

3 Be personal

A third factor for creating lasting and meaningful professional relationships online is personalization. You want to show that you are not just a faceless or generic contact, but a real and unique person with a personality, background, and interests. Share some personal stories, anecdotes, or insights that relate to your work or the topic of conversation, and invite others to do the same. Use humor, emojis, or gifs to add some fun and warmth to your messages. Also, celebrate milestones, achievements, or occasions with your network, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or promotions, and send them personalized cards, gifts, or messages.

5 Be adaptable

A fifth factor for enhancing and improving your professional relationships online is adaptability. You want to show that you are flexible, open-minded, and willing to learn from your network, and that you also appreciate their feedback and suggestions. Be ready to adjust your communication style, frequency, or mode to suit different situations, preferences, or needs. Use different tools, apps, or software to facilitate and optimize your online collaboration, such as cloud storage, project management, or document sharing. Also, seek and accept constructive criticism, feedback, or advice from your network, and use it to improve your work, skills, or performance.

6 Be proactive

A sixth and final factor for growing and expanding your professional relationships online is proactivity. You want to show that you are not just a passive or reactive contact, but an active and proactive one who initiates, contributes, and adds value to your network. Don't just wait for others to reach out to you; reach out to them first, and offer your help, expertise, or resources. Don't just accept the status quo; look for opportunities, challenges, or innovations that can benefit your work, your network, or your industry. Also, don't just stick to your existing network; look for new contacts, connections, or collaborations that can enrich your professional development and growth.