Zoom networking not working?

Over the last few months, the world has shifted it’s networking online. It’s no surprise that people report mixed success online networking just as they do in the real world.

More than ever, networking online has separated some of the more successful navigators of COVID from those who have hidden in their caves.

To be successful in Zoom networking sessions ( I say Zoom because its the most widely used with the coolest tools ) depends on what we do on the calls as much as we turn up. In some cases, people would do better not to turn up at all because they damage their brand.

Here are 10 1/2 tips even some experts know to help you get results:

1        Video is Best

Those people using video tend to be more visible than people using a holding image. In a big group, you are more visible to other people. A picture is better than nothing, People with only their “name “are the least visible in any call, and there is the possibility that you look less ‘knowledgable’ in business. It’s easier to bond using a video, and networking is ultimately about visibility marketing- being remembered favorably by as many people as possible.

2        Timing

Turn up on time or better before so that you have a few minutes with the organizer. You might get some great bonding time with the most connected person in the room. Turning up late has the same implications as turning in up late for meetings in the real world. We either look disorganized or unappreciative.

You can also make sure that you can iron out any technical glitches in advance.

3        Technology

Make sure you have good WIFI and audio. It may not be our fault, but poor connectivity does imply a lack of technology in our business or preparation ( whether it’s our fault or not). We can also not communicate very well in the meeting and may end up missing our turn and not maximizing our time.

Make sure you are in a quiet place, so when it’s your turn to talk, you can hear easily.

4        Dress to impress

It doesn’t matter if we are in a business meeting in the real world or on Zoom. We are representing our business, and while we may feel it’s not essential for us to be dressed up, it’s not about us. It’s about them. Would we turn up at the prospects in the real world in our nightshirt and lay on our side, or sit there eating breakfast?

5        Be Interested

Be present on the call and not accessing social media or emails. It is obvious when someone isn’t paying attention because their eyes are all over the screen. It’s the online version of yawning or looking out the window when being spoken to. Take notes on the other members and action points. Look to try and help as many people as possible.

6        Back up your Brand

Make sure you have a functional professional website and that your Linked IN profile is filled out. People will check you out and yes, often during the meeting ( despite #5 above ). Especially in tough times when money is limited, people will be looking to invest their money with people and companies that look like they can do what they promise and will still be in business in 6 months’ time.

7        Clear presentation.

In some meetings, you get the opportunity to present yourself. Make sure you can clearly explain what you do, for who and what makes you special. Consider the demographics of the people on the call and target your introduction to be as memorable and relative as possible.

Make sure your name and or company name is visible so people can follow up with you. No business cards are changing hands, so we need a way to connect.

8        Stand out

Be extra involved—nod when people make sense. Use the thumbs up to support comments. Help in the “chat” if people ask. Make an effort to comment in the chat, so people notice you even more. Try to keep it as a contribution rather than self-promotion.

9        Background

Consider what people see behind you. Your background can:

§ Enhance your brand (professional background with logo, awards etc.)

§ Be neutral (White background or standard from zoom)

§ Detract from your brand (showing your clothesline, sofa or have a member of the family walking in semi-dressed – Yes, it has happened )

10    Follow up

Make sure to connect with the people you met in an appropriate manner.  

1        Within 48 hours, connect by email if this is what you agreed with an individual or just email to people and say, “Hi, nice to meet you. See you at the next session” – then turn up at the next session

2        Within 1 week, connect on social media

3        Within 1 month, personally or do one-on-one Zoom call if you see a mutually beneficial outcome

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       10 ?  Go back again. 

This is actually one of the most important points, which is why I made it ?  to make you look by piquing your curiosity. Networking is the start of the relationship, not the end. It’s the same way we make friends in the real world. We see each other a number of times, we contribute to each other's lives, and we have a relationship. Networking is not about selling face to face. Selling during networking only has two outcomes, win or lose. Networking is about building relationships that can be leveraged for mutually beneficial outcomes at some point in the near, middle, or distant future.