Dear Dennie #3 - Covid-19 and networking

A monthly letter/column as written for & published also by Women in Transportation Services

Dear Dennie,

Covid-19 has a lot of us working from home. I can figure out how to talk with my mentor but how do I build my network with limited social contact?

Alone with computer

Dear A/C,

Networking is about building a community you can call on in times of need. That means there are always times and ways to add to and deepen connections.

We often associate networking with events, coffee meet ups and in-person exchanges. Yet, there are lots of ways reach out, even during Covid-19.

Deepening

• •      Send an email checking in on friends
• •      Send a meal package to someone who can’t get out
• •      Make a call
• •      Recommend reading or research – articles; books; videos
• •      Make a video greeting on your phone to send
• •      Offer yourself up as a coach, editor, or just an ear

New

• •      A simple opening call, even just to compare work from home styles
• •      Informational interviews (kept to 15 minutes, that do not end in a job request)
• •      Join a Facebook or LinkedIn group that interests you and ask questions
• •      Host a webinar for your community and urge them to bring someone you do not know to the call

Networking can be small, cumulative gestures. You may be working from home but you are still surrounded by a community.

Now, ask me anything.... :-)

dennie