The Dos & Don'ts of Virtual Networking
All networking events include a virtual component, whether it’s email follow-ups or connecting on LinkedIn. Now, more than ever, it’s important to understand the etiquette of building virtual connections.
DO: Update your social media profiles.
It’s important to make a good impression, even virtually. Networking contacts and future employers alike will often check your LinkedIn profile before reaching out, so it’s important that your page is on brand and up to date.
DO: Be respectful and professional.
Networking is all about making connections, and people are more interested in connecting (and helping) people that are respectful and professional through every interaction. Be mindful of your tone, grammar, and punctuation in written communications, even just quick messages through social media or text.
DON’T: WRITE IN ALL CAPS.
We often want to emphasize a point or show we are excited when connecting virtually, but ALL CAPS is never necessary to do so. Writing in all caps typically signals you are upset or angry; you can emphasize a point through text options like bold or italic, or use an exclamation point to show excitement.
DON’T: Let your emotions control your virtual networking.
We are often multitasking when utilizing virtual platforms for connecting, both with professional and personal tasks. Don’t let a rushed morning or project gone wrong overshadow your communications. It’s okay to step back, take a breather, and rejoin the conversation when you’re in the right state of mind.
DO: Update your social media profiles.
It’s important to make a good impression, even virtually. Networking contacts and future employers alike will often check your LinkedIn profile before reaching out, so it’s important that your page is on brand and up to date.
DO: Be respectful and professional.
Networking is all about making connections, and people are more interested in connecting (and helping) people that are respectful and professional through every interaction. Be mindful of your tone, grammar, and punctuation in written communications, even just quick messages through social media or text.
DON’T: WRITE IN ALL CAPS.
We often want to emphasize a point or show we are excited when connecting virtually, but ALL CAPS is never necessary to do so. Writing in all caps typically signals you are upset or angry; you can emphasize a point through text options like bold or italic, or use an exclamation point to show excitement.
DON’T: Let your emotions control your virtual networking.
We are often multitasking when utilizing virtual platforms for connecting, both with professional and personal tasks. Don’t let a rushed morning or project gone wrong overshadow your communications. It’s okay to step back, take a breather, and rejoin the conversation when you’re in the right state of mind.
Andrews & Cole is a certified woman-owned boutique executive search and consulting firm with a focus on accounting and finance professionals. Clients range from start ups to Fortune 100 in nearly every industry.