How to build effective meaningful relationships in a virtual world?

How to build effective meaningful relationships in a virtual world?

You have commenced building your professional network utilising the steps we have outlined in the above article, however, now you are asking yourself how do I make these relationships meaningful and effective and can I even do this in a virtual world?

The short answer is yes, however, virtual relationships require patience and persistence. You need to do some ground work before a new connection will become a trusted a connection. What do we mean by that, in the physical realm, making new connections is all about connecting with people we know like and trust. Virtually, we want to be able to do the same thing, however different rules apply.

When reaching out to interact with new peers and industry professionals in a virtual world you need to still be able to demonstrate your transparency (getting to know you), likeability (shared interests) and your credibility (trust). This needs to be done through your social presence. Your first step in this process is ensuring that your social profiles say who you are, what interests you have and where you are looking to grow your career. In essence you need to be authentic to be able to connect at a human level.

Here are some tips on how to add the human connection not only to your profile but also when communicating to your new connections.

Be personal

At the start of any new relationship there is always barriers and hesitancy that is broken down as trust is built. That is no different in the virtual world, and is possibly harder to do because of the technology between you. This is where you need to demonstrate to like-minded professionals what your passions and interests are so there is a common ground in the beginning for trust. This could be sharing the same passion for a football team, liking old movies or spending time at the beach.

Be helpful

It’s the old age adage of what’s in it for me? When you connect with individuals in person there are a number of ways you can be helpful and it comes across naturally and sincerely. In the virtual world you need to think a little outside the box, share a post that you believe will resonate with your audience, donate your time or assistance. For example, during the recent pandemic, a number of marketing professionals donated their expertise in digital to assist those businesses that needed to diversify their offerings to remain relevant in their space.

Be bold

Looking to build deeper connections with your network. Let them see who you are through pictures and videos instead of just words. An emotional connection becomes more imminent when you can showcase your realness through these medias.

Be authentic

Be yourself, you don’t have to be all things to everyone, honesty and transparency go a long way to creating a relationship built on trust.

Be consistent

You don’t just meet up with a person for one coffee and expect a lifelong mutually beneficial relationship. It is the same in a virtual environment, you need to be consistent with your communication. Reach out and create virtual coffees once a week or month, depending on the type of relationship you are trying to build with your network. The more influential the relationship, the higher the consistency and engagement.

Be engaged

Ensure you are engaged with not only your audience but with the networks you would like to become part of. You need to demonstrate to the individual that you are paying attention to them and are interested in what they are doing or have to say. You can do this by re sharing posts to your audience, commenting on their posts or even tagging them into some content you think they may be interested in.

There is an abundance of opportunity in growing your network virtually. Don’t be shy, you never know who that next person you reach out to is going to be, maybe your next prospective employer! Remember, networking leads to professional growth, new skill sets and will continue to grow your industry experience.