You want to network virtually for your business. How do you find the best events?

1 Define your purpose

Before you start looking for virtual networking events, you need to have a clear idea of why you want to network and what you hope to achieve. Do you want to learn new skills, gain insights, or get feedback? Do you want to expand your network, build relationships, or generate leads? Do you want to showcase your expertise, promote your brand, or collaborate on projects? Having a specific and realistic purpose will help you narrow down your search and focus on the events that match your needs and expectations.

3 Plan ahead

Once you have found some potential virtual networking events that suit your purpose, you need to plan ahead and prepare yourself. First, you need to register for the events and mark them on your calendar. Second, you need to check the technical requirements and test your equipment, software, and internet connection. Third, you need to update your online profile, resume, portfolio, or website and have them ready to share. Fourth, you need to research the host, speaker, and attendees and prepare some questions or comments that can spark a conversation. Fifth, you need to set some goals and metrics that can help you measure your networking success.

5 Follow up and follow through

After the virtual networking events, you need to follow up and follow through with the contacts you made and the actions you promised. You can do this by sending a thank-you note, a connection request, a feedback survey, or a resource link to the host, speaker, and attendees. You can also schedule a follow-up call, meeting, or email with the contacts you want to build a relationship with. You can also deliver on any commitments you made, such as sending a proposal, a referral, a testimonial, or a collaboration offer. You can also track and evaluate your networking results and adjust your strategy accordingly.

6 Keep learning and improving

Virtual networking is a skill that you can learn and improve with practice and feedback. You can keep learning and improving by seeking new opportunities, challenges, and platforms to network online. You can also join online communities, groups, or forums that can help you network, learn, and grow. You can also seek feedback, advice, or mentorship from other successful virtual networkers or experts. You can also review your networking performance, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and set new goals and plans to enhance your skills.

7 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?