A year ago, if you asked an outgoing colleague about virtual networking, they might have looked at you strangely and responded, “Isn’t that for introverts and wallflowers?” 

What a difference a year makes. As a result of the pandemic and lockdowns, businesses and professionals have had to adapt quickly to a socially distant world, where virtual networking via video platforms like Zoom, social media and online events is now the “new normal.” 

Virtual vs. in-person networking

At WTIA, the pandemic has presented an opportunity for us to connect with more of our community, in more places, than ever.

Before the shift to virtual networking, “WTIA events were somewhat limited to Seattle — not only with attendees, but with speakers and subject matter experts,” according to Callie Chadwell, WTIA’s Event Manager. “The move to a virtual model has enabled us to bring stories and perspectives from a broader community — both state-wide and nationally — while also allowing us to extend the reach of our events to our members outside of the Seattle metro area.” 

Of course, the tech industry may have a slight edge when it comes to virtual networking. After all, tech professionals tend to be early adopters, and using technology and online platforms to communicate and do business is fairly commonplace. 

Still, it can be a challenge to develop meaningful connections with new contacts through these media. While there are similarities to in-person networking, there are also some differences to keep in mind when it comes to making a good impression and building new relationships in this brave, new virtual world. 

Tips for Success

Here are six tips to maximize your virtual networking success:

Tip #1: Be mindful of your appearance and surroundings

Treat online networking the same as you would an in-person event. Make sure your clothing, background and camera angle are all appropriate for a professional setting. 

Tip #2: Prepare something interesting to say

When it’s your turn to speak up, be sure to say something meaningful and memorable that can help you connect with others. Read the headlines before the event — you never know when the news, weather, sports and other current events will come up in conversation. That way, you’ll appear like you’re well-informed.

Tip #3: Be proactive

Be prolific about attending virtual networking events. The more events you attend, and the more you share with people who you are and how you can help them, the more connections you’ll make. Think outside the box  — your next connection could be anywhere. Webinars, virtual mixers, and online workshops and conferences are all potential places to meet new contacts. 

Tip #4: Eliminate distractions

When you’re sitting in front of your computer, it can be tempting to answer emails, scroll social media, or glance at your to-do list. Refrain from outside distractions — you wouldn’t give them your attention during an in-person networking event; the same etiquette applies during a virtual gathering. 

Tip #5: Follow up

Tell everyone you meet that you’re looking to network, then send them a request to connect on LinkedIn after the event. 

Tip #6: Be yourself

Most importantly, be authentic. Letting people get to know the real you can translate to meaningful connections that have the potential to last a lifetime. 

Upcoming Virtual Events from WTIA

If you’re looking for an opportunity to flex your newfound virtual networking skills, WTIA has some options for you:

Startup Speaker Series – WTIA will be hosting fireside chats with successful, local CEOs, who will share their expertise with earlier stage founders — part of our effort to help level up the local startup ecosystem and create cycles of mentorship.

International Demo Days – International startups will have the opportunity to present to and connect with local companies, experts and community leaders during a number of “Demo Days” hosted by WTIA throughout the year.

Quarterly CISO Panel Discussions – WTIA is kicking off a roundtable series focused on our community of Security and Information executives. This series (and other panel discussions at WTIA) provides tech professionals opportunities to connect with peers on topics that impact and drive our businesses, industry, and community. 

According to Callie, here’s what you can expect when you attend one of our virtual events:

“We recognize the value of our members’ time and want you to get as much as possible from our events. Because of this, each event is very agenda-driven — we tell you what to expect in advance, and we do our best to deliver on it every time. In addition, the people you’ll hear from are knowledgeable and experienced in their fields. Our goal is to make sure you’re getting as much value as we can deliver in a thoughtful way, as quickly as possible.”Keep an eye out for these upcoming WTIA events, and see our event calendar for more.