I think it’s fair to say that 2020 has digitally drained us all. The non stop video catch ups, virtual meetings and conferences are probably enough to have given us digital fatigue until 2023.
If you’re like me, you are probably left craving some real life interaction, a cup of tea with an old colleague and a wander around a trade show.
But as we approach the end of the year (and do try to contain your excitement) utilising the power of technology to network will be more important than ever. Establishing, connecting and expanding upon relationships with new clients will only happen if we make the most out of the digital solutions available to us. Do you agree? Okay, so let’s jump to it.
Networking is all about building trusted relationships so that you can help each other move forwards in business. So how do you make the most out of meetings and networking opportunities when you have to build trust virtually?
Thankfully and despite the chaos and uncertainty around social gatherings, virtual summits make it possible for professionals to stay in touch with their colleagues, learn from industry experts and share their knowledge with others.
We’ve discovered many advantages to attending virtual events as an agency and even though it’s not the real thing it is a solution to help us all move forwards with business. Ecrubox has been involved with a number of sessions organised by The Chamber and we are delighted with the outcome. You can even replay our recent presentation on “Humanising your online presence” The beauty of digital- if you miss an event, there is always On-Demand.
So let’s push our digitally drained minds to the side and breathe in a list full of tips on how to maximise results and get the most out of your upcoming virtual events. And then why not go one step further, and check out our guide on how your company can seamlessly undergo digital transformation on a budget.
But first, your virtual tips.
- Block Out Time on Your Calendar. This seems like a simple tip to start off with but you would be surprised at how many people forget, cancel or just don’t show up to a virtual event, because the “real” world gets too busy. Treating your attendance at a virtual conference as if you had traveled there in person, will mean that you invest in the event and ultimately get a lot more out of it from the get-go.
- Share an “Aha” Moment. With a live virtual event, you can chat in real-time with other attendees and share insights in the chat functions without losing a minute of the presentation. If you tend to be more reserved and shy when attending a physical event, this is your time to come out of your shell without feeling any pressure to impress. And you can’t say anything wrong, because you can always edit your chat on a screen! This is a great way to participate with new colleagues in your community.
- Speakers have never been more accessible. This is a golden opportunity to interact with industry leaders and experts in the field, perhaps more so than during a conventional in-person event. Use all the networking tech tools available to “be present.”
- No more note taking when you have On Demand. It’s easy to forget the value of an hour-long presentation. But instead of frantically having to write notes on each session, you have the advantage of watching it all back on demand. There are so many “nuggets” that can come from these digital events and conferences, which can ultimately propel your career. So, don’t neglect to view, replay, and relive the presentations that resonate for you.
- Yes, build relationships with other attendees, but more importantly have fun. You never know when you’ll meet that significant person who can help further your career. Or just an interesting person who changes your perspective on a topic, and pushes you to think beyond the norm. Whatever conversations come from these virtual events, always remember to have fun. Use all the opportunities to make new friends and professional connections.
Interested in ways in which you can create content and share your experience of virtual events with your customers? Find out how you can create content that adds value here and contact us directly to find out more ways in which you can generate leads in a virtual world.
Now let us leave you with this little gem…
“Never underestimate the power of Virtual Networking. Growing and nurturing trusted business relationships is an essential part of lead generation.” Alison Holmes, Business Networking Coach
You can sign up for Alison’s next event here:“Generating Leads Virtually”