Networking today looks a lot different than it did a year ago. In the Covid-19 era, large conferences and indoor gatherings are off-limits for the foreseeable future, and there aren’t as many opportunities to meet new contacts in person.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still network. There are countless opportunities to meet people virtually, and when done the right way, it can be just as effective as in-person networking.
To help you, we asked a panel of Forbes Coaches Council members what common mistakes people should avoid when networking virtually. Steer clear of these 14 faux pas when you're connecting with industry peers and prospective clients online.
Members of Forbes Coaches Council share ways to make the most of virtual networking.
Photos courtesy of the individual members.1. Dressing Casually
A common mistake when networking virtually is dressing and speaking casually due to the comfort level people feel, especially when connecting from home. Dressing like you are attending an in-person networking event can help to establish a professional mindset and demeanor during virtual meetings. This can inspire other attendees to take your ideas seriously and cultivate new business relationships. - Shelley Hastings, Your Hospitality Partner
2. Not Following Through On LinkedIn Connections
Realize that connecting with people on LinkedIn is not networking. Networking is about building relationships and helping others before asking them to help you. While grabbing lunch is unrealistic for most of us right now, you can pick up the phone or have a virtual coffee break. You can meet and get to know people at virtual events. The bottom line is you have to make the effort. - Annette Richmond, career intelligence Resume Writing and Career Services
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3. Asking For Too Much Help
A common mistake when networking virtually is to make a personal request where the recipient may not be able to help. Instead, put yourself in the recipient's place and ask, "What can the recipient actually share?" Instead of asking, "I'm applying for a job at your company, can you help me?" try, "I'm interested in working at your company. I would appreciate you sharing your experience working there with me." - Johanna Wise, Connect•Work•Thrive
4. Overselling Yourself
A common mistake is to come across as if you are selling something. There is no greater turnoff. Instead, build authentic relationships and connections online. This is possible and when done well, it is worth its weight in gold. See how you can truly help the other person and stay in contact over time. Virtual networking involves real relationship building just like in-person networking. - Christine Allen, Ph.D, Insight Business Works
5. Cold Pitching
If you want 10 minutes of someone’s time, you need to first put in 10 minutes of getting to know them. Avoid reaching out cold to connect with someone through social media with a generic ask or an immediate sell. Networking is about nurturing relationships, so just because you have an immediate need, don’t act upon it. Review profiles, read posts and comments and then offer value when connecting. - Laura DeCarlo, Career Directors International
6. Using Generic Messages
Let’s start with the basics. If you are sending a request to connect with someone on LinkedIn who you have not had a direct working relationship with, always include a custom message with your request. Spend a few minutes reviewing their profile and mention something related to it that caught your attention. It can be something that you both share like a common interest, a place of work or even a mutual friend. - Lital Marom, UNFOLD Media Group
7. Keeping Your Guard Up
Drop your guard. A big mistake people make when reaching out to their professional network is that they neglect the human side of connection. Share something of yourself that goes beyond your work. Like velcro, this gives them a loop to hook into. - Sundae Schneider-Bean, Sundae Schneider-Bean GmbH
8. Having An Unprofessional Virtual Setup
Like figuring out what to wear to a networking event, having the right virtual setup is key. Check your connectivity, sound and visual elements. If you need to pull an ethernet cable from router to laptop, do it. Test both microphone and speakers. If they can't hear you, it is a no go. Finally, make sure the view behind you is prepared as the "room" encompasses their full view and sit up so your head touches the top of the screen. - Cara Heilmann, Ready Reset Go
9. Relying Too Much On Technology And Tools
Effective networking in a remote world doesn't have to be different from face-to-face networking. Don't get caught up in technology or tools. In fact, a phone is often the best tool for the job. Have a plan as to what you'd like to learn from this person and be ready to listen. Make it about them, and never forget to ask what you can do for them. - Darcy Eikenberg, PCC, Red Cape Revolution
10. Not Building Genuine Connections
Focus on building relationships. One of the challenges with networking in person is that it often turns into a very impersonal exchange. Virtually, it is even more important to focus not on what benefit a connection may present, but instead on creating a genuine connection with others. Consider any potential benefits that develop organically from those connections as a bonus. - Tonya Echols, Vigere
11. Jumping Right Into The Pitch
The biggest mistake I see in my inbox and on LinkedIn every single day is people jumping right in to pitch or sell me without genuinely building any relationship first. If you pitch me or sell me, I will decline/delete your message. Make the effort to "warm up" the outreach by having someone I know and trust personally introduce and recommend you to me. I will then happily respond and most likely connect. - Ann Farrell, Quantum Endeavors, Inc.
12. Using A Generic, Shotgun Approach
The shotgun approach to virtual mentoring (or any mentoring) doesn't work. I receive LinkedIn messages from people wanting to network daily. If they are personalized messages, I am happy to respond and have a conversation. Unfortunately, these messages are usually generic and ones that were probably sent out to many. Tailor your message and consider how you can add value when you reach out. - Jonathan H. Westover, Ph.D, Human Capital Innovations, LLC
13. Ignoring Your Workspace
Your workspace/office tells people about you. The background on your screen does too. An unmade bed with laundry piled up, an open closet door with everything jammed in, a pile of dishes in the sink, etc. Ensure your background sends the message you want. Then, look at how others see you on the screen. They don't want to be looking up your nose from your phone on the desk. They want you face-to-face. - Brian Gorman, TransformingLives.Coach
13. Not Providing Context
Give your target networking prospects a reason to connect within a context that is relevant to who they are, what they do and how it creates value. This means you will be required to do your homework and research. Create a group opportunity for people to virtually meet to gain specific insights, tips or tools. Invite an influencer to speak at the virtual event you are hosting. And, make it fun! - Lori Harris, Harris Whitesell Consulting
