The Strength of Weak Ties: Career Growth in the Gen-Z Remote Workspace

Remote work can be challenging even in the best of circumstances. In the evolving landscape of the post-pandemic era, however, an emerging challenge has surfaced: an influx of recent graduates, whose entire professional experience is grounded in remote work. Many have never had the opportunity to set foot in an office and this does have consequences. They lack the traditional reference points for how to further their career. “It’s less intuitive, more isolating and requires more self-initiation and accountability,” noted one of my colleagues in this situation, “Because so many of us are home alone, it can feel as though progressing your career is also a solo act.” As virtual interactions and networks have replaced in-person ones, this shift poses critical questions for leaders, mentors, and newly minted professionals alike.

How do we facilitate career development for those who have yet to step foot in an office?

How can we bridge the gap of physical distance and foster a thriving professional network for these remote workers?

For remote and office-based staff alike, one of the keys is to a successful career is building a robust network, and one particular strategy for this stands out: enhancing the strength of weak ties.

In sociological terms, 'weak ties' refer to professional acquaintances or distant connections (see Mark Granovetter’s seminar work “The Strength of Weak Ties”).? These connections might be former colleagues, friends of friends, or contacts made at networking events. They are characterized by lower emotional closeness and infrequent interaction.

However, these weak ties can be instrumental in your career development. They can bridge you to different social circles and networks, introduce you to new ideas and opportunities, and are easier to scale in number due to their less emotionally demanding nature.

?Weak ties provide access to fresh information, diverse perspectives, and new opportunities. They help prevent the 'echo chamber' effect and enable you to broaden your professional network efficiently.

An advantage those in Generation Z (born 1997 to 2013) ?have over other generations is that they have grown up in a fully digital world, with social media platforms, smartphones, and other digital tools being integral to their daily lives from an early stage. This has made them particularly adept at leveraging online platforms for networking, leading to a more global perspective in building both strong and weak ties. They tend to prefer quick, efficient communication methods, such as messaging apps and social media, over more traditional methods. The oldest of this generation were just 23 when the pandemic lockdowns changed our office-based work world. More adept use of these online tools is an important launch point for younger professionals who work remotely to build their network of weak ties.

It also requires a mindset shift among all of us in the remote or office workspace in interacting with each other. As my colleagues goes on to note: “It really is all about connecting with others and putting your face out there ….it can be increasingly hard to do because it can put us outside of our comfort zones when we’re so used to operating within such a space of comfort (literally, our homes!) and again, we don’t always have reference points (am I doing the right thing?).”

So how can those who work remotely and are new to the profession help to build their network? And how can those of us who work with, supervise and/or mentor these folks do so more effectively in today's work environment? Here are a few strategies to consider:

1. Use video calls wisely: Whenever possible, opt for video calls instead of phone calls or emails – and always have your camera turned on. The visual connection can foster a stronger bond, making it easier to build strong ties.

2. Follow-up: After meeting someone new, follow up with a message to express your interest in keeping in touch. This could potentially transform a weak tie into a stronger one.

3. Volunteer to participate in cross-group, cross-company, or even cross-industry tasks: Getting involved in projects that include team members from different parts of your organization or across the industry can expand your network beyond your current organization.

4. Be proactive: In a remote setting, it's essential to be proactive in reaching out and initiating conversations. Don’t wait to be noticed.

5. Offer value: Whether it's sharing knowledge, providing support, or connecting people, always look for ways to add value to your connections. And everyone, in any role or position, has value to add.

6. Attend virtual networking events, forums and webinars: Professional organizations and industry groups often hold virtual networking events. Participation in such events can help you meet new people and broaden your network.

7. Utilize social media and professional networking sites: Platforms like LinkedIn are powerful tools for connecting with other professionals. Engage with content, share your thoughts, and connect with individuals who share your interests.

8. Host virtual meetups: If you have specific expertise or interests, consider hosting a virtual meetup. This can help establish you as a thought leader in your organization and attract others with similar interests. This can be with colleagues at work or industry acquaintances (or folks you don’t even know yet).

As seasoned professionals and newcomers alike navigate the dynamics of remote work, it's imperative to understand how the professional environment has evolved and to adapt accordingly. The development of a diverse network remains a crucial element of career growth, although the strategies to achieve this may differ from those traditionally used in in-person office settings. By leveraging the strategies outlined, remote workers can cultivate a robust network of both weak and strong ties. This network is essential in remaining proactive and engaged within one's organization and professional community, thereby driving career advancement and catalyzing new opportunities.

How have you expanded your professional network while working remotely? In what ways have you assisted remote workers in identifying career guidance or 'reference points'?

Love to hear your perspectives!