Navigating your Network in the Virtual Workplace
Every public relations professional is currently learning how to adjust to this new reality of work. Nobody could have expected this change. Many companies are even contemplating moving employees online permanently. Although it can seem ideal to not have the morning commute or to get to spend the day in pajamas, it is going to change how us, young professionals, enter our first real jobs.
This summer I’m a public relations intern for Comcast. When the internship moved online, I was a little hesitant. I honestly had no idea what to expect, and I got nervous that I would not be able to build my network.
I have had the opportunity to adjust to the virtual workplace along with the professionals. This has given me insight into how to navigate my network virtually. Here are a few tips I have discovered:
Learn LinkedIn
As a young professional, LinkedIn can seem overwhelming. My own profile had no direction and I didn’t understand how helpful the platform could be.
LinkedIn is going to be a recruiter’s go-to now. They are going to be searching proactively for candidates. A recruiter is not a rocket scientist, show them through your profile that you meet their needs. Use buzzwords in your past experience sections. Look at job postings and take those key words and insert them into your profile. This is an easy way to illustrate you are a great fit.
Connect with someone on LinkedIn right after you meet them on a work call or video chat.
Stay relevant and be remembered. If you send a LinkedIn request a week or two after, they might not remember who you are and this makes it less likely to form a relationship.
As we continue to adjust to the virtual work world, LinkedIn is going to be our best friend.
Create “Coffee” Chats
Another great way to navigate your network is through conversation. Usually we would be told to set up in person conversations, but that is not as easy right now. This does not mean that these conversations aren’t possible, they just look a little different.
Send a message on your company platform or LinkedIn. Say you are interested in setting up a phone call to pick their brain. This can be about their past experience or how they got to their current role. With working from home being more common, professionals love to chat about the field. This helps you build a connection even though you aren’t literally with them. This can then later circle back for job opportunities.
Additionally, a lot of professionals are willing to let you virtually job shadow. This could look like sitting on a zoom or conference call. You can gain more experience and connect you to even more people- just ask.
There are so many opportunities hidden within this time. I think I’ve had more conversations with professionals now than I did before.
Take advantage of the technology we have today.
About Morgan:
Morgan Layne is a rising senior at Grand Valley State University. She is an advertising and public relations major with an emphasis in public relations. This will be her first year as an Account Associate for GrandPR. Morgan is excited to work with clients and grow relationships with the team.