Effective Networking While Working from Home

From video apps to professional development, networking while working from home takes focus and planning.

You think that you have it all figured out, right? Then life gets in the way. Whether it’s an illness or a family matter that takes precedence over being in the office, you might be asking how you can keep your networking alive and well when you are out.

It doesn’t have to be hard to network while away from an office or other business setting. Using available tools will help you gain control over your networking. And by using these tools, your remote working experience will be better than you expect.

We live in a time where networking is one of the primary keys to making a business work. And, when you use networking properly, not only will your business flourish, but it will also make an impact in your community. So, here are several easy ways to make sure that your networking while working from home doesn’t fall short.

Staying in a Routine

Whether it’s setting up a home office (desk and computer included) or just making sure you keep to regular hours, staying in a routine will help with networking while working from home. First things first, make sure getting dressed (and even putting on a name tag) remains part of your daily schedule. This routine should also help you keep out distractions, like TV or phone use. If you have kids, make sure you sit down and talk to them about your working hours.

Video Conferencing and Phone Calls

While getting together may not always work for other people, you still need to make yourself available for face-to-face connections. These connections should include video and phone calls. And, by using online tools and apps to increase the time you spend talking to people, your networking will still thrive even if you are using a home office.

Keep Messaging Alive (Texts, Emails or Apps)

Just like video conferences, sending written exchanges is still a great way to network while working remotely. Texts, emails or using other apps to stay connected are important to any business. You can communicate with employees, colleagues and customers alike via these online channels. Make sure when using this form of communication that you remember to edit your text before hitting send. When it comes to networking, you need to make sure you are putting your best foot forward, and your grammar and voice in these emails are important.

“Meet” Colleagues for Coffee or Drinks

Staying social is just as crucial as using video or phone calls when working. Your social efforts may be limited to a video chat through your favorite social media channel or another easy-to-use app. But, these connections are just as important to your networking goals.

Make an effort to remember birthdays and congratulate colleagues on a work or life accomplishment during the next team call. When you learn about upcoming vacations or weekend plans, make it a point to ask them how their trip went. Remembering the small things will make everyone feel appreciated and more connected.

Use Social Media

From LinkedIn Groups to Reddit, utilize every platform you can when using social media for networking. Make sure your profile is designed appropriately for networking and then jump in. Most social media sites are easy to use and require very little time to set up. Just remember to keep your networking goals in mind while using social media. Without focus, you can end up surfing instead of working.

TIP: Join a LinkedIn Group that can benefit from your specific knowledge and skill set.

Continue Professional Development and Pursue Your Hobbies

Keep learning. And keep dreaming. From hobbies (like crafting holiday wreaths) to distance learning, your brain is your most valuable asset when networking while working from home. Keep yourself sharp in your understanding of how your business needs to run. And, keep your creative side available to combat any stress or distractions.

Overall, remember that networking while working from home isn’t as hard as some people think it is. Keep your goals in mind, and keep working. You’ve got this!