How can you network with Peer Support professionals outside of your city?

1 Join online communities

One of the easiest ways to network with Peer Support professionals outside of your city is to join online communities that are relevant to your field, interests, and goals. Online communities can be found on various platforms, such as social media, forums, blogs, podcasts, webinars, or online courses. Look for communities that are active, engaging, and respectful, and that offer opportunities to interact with other members, such as chats, comments, or events. You can also create your own online community if you have a specific niche or topic that you want to explore with others.

2 Participate and contribute

Once you join an online community, don't be a passive observer. Participate and contribute to the discussions, activities, and projects that are happening. Share your insights, opinions, questions, and resources with other members. Offer your help, advice, or feedback when appropriate. Show your interest, enthusiasm, and professionalism. By participating and contributing, you can demonstrate your value, expertise, and personality, and attract the attention and respect of other Peer Support professionals.

3 Connect and follow up

When you participate and contribute to an online community, you will likely encounter some Peer Support professionals who share your vision, values, or challenges. These are potential contacts that you can connect and follow up with. You can start by sending them a friendly message, introducing yourself, and expressing your appreciation or curiosity for their work. You can also invite them to connect on other platforms, such as LinkedIn, email, or phone. Once you connect, make sure to follow up regularly, and keep the conversation going. You can ask them about their projects, goals, or challenges, share your own updates or resources, or suggest a collaboration or referral.

4 Attend online events

Another way to network with Peer Support professionals outside of your city is to attend online events that are relevant to your field, interests, and goals. Online events can be webinars, workshops, conferences, or meetups that are hosted by online communities, organizations, or individuals. Online events can help you learn new skills, discover new trends, and meet new people. Look for online events that are interactive, informative, and accessible, and that offer opportunities to network with other attendees, such as breakout rooms, chats, or polls. You can also host your own online event if you have a specific topic or skill that you want to share with others.

5 Be respectful and authentic

Networking online can be challenging, as you have to deal with different cultures, time zones, and communication styles. To network effectively with Peer Support professionals outside of your city, you need to be respectful and authentic. Respect the rules, norms, and expectations of the online communities and events that you join. Respect the privacy, boundaries, and preferences of the contacts that you connect with. Respect the diversity, opinions, and experiences of the peers that you interact with. Be authentic and honest about who you are, what you do, and what you want. Be authentic and consistent in your communication, behavior, and values. Be authentic and humble in your achievements, challenges, and goals.

Networking with Peer Support professionals outside of your city can be rewarding and beneficial for your personal and professional growth. By following these tips, you can build and maintain professional relationships online that can help you learn, grow, and succeed as a Peer Support professional.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?