003 | The Future of Networking

📓 Online Networking Today

As a baby millennial, I remember getting my first laptop. Unfiltered access to the internet.

My first order of business: DeviantArt. This was the place to be if you enjoyed drawing online. Artists from all ages and experience levels. It felt fresh.

To me, the best part of DeviantArt was the people. I made connections with people from across the US, and the world, who had likeminded interests. I cared about these people. I even did some digging. Take a look at my circa 2009 super sappy ‘journal entry’ (viewer discretion advised; re: 14 y.o. me).

As I have aged, I have tried, tested, succeeded, and failed at connecting with people online. The below information will help set you up for success in the nuanced world of online relationship building in the Future of Work.

🖥️ The Platforms

This list goes from the greatest > smallest number of individuals. Virtual audio/video events are the best way to connect with people online because it feels the most human.

1. Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram, X, TikTok | Great for discovering people online, but not for long-term relationship building.

2. Online Communities: Discord, Slack, Facebook groups, Reddit threads, Skool communities | Great for niche interest groups, usually these communities lead to in-person, and thus strong, networking.

3. Virtual Meetups: Zoom, Google Meet, Roblox (yes), Gatheround (recently discovered) | In the future, these may become VR.

🛜 The Methods

This list goes from the easiest > most difficult way to connect online.

1. Direct Message | The easiest method because you can take your sweet time, scan their online profile, and pinpoint something of value you both share.

2. Video/Audio Intro [known] | This usually happens after a DM. You have time to prepare, also scan their profile, maybe pull it up during the call, but keep present with the conversation.

3. Video/Audio Intro [unknown] | This is likely a random Zoom breakout room. Focus on the binding aspect between you two — why are you both there? How'd that person arrive here?

🗣️ The Conversation Topics

Networking online requires a strategic approach. Whether you are sending a direct message or having a live conversation, consider the method used and now focus on the topics of conversation. Below are tips to better connect:

• Find common ground | What is the similarity between you two? Similar industry, interest, city, the medium of connection?

• Add value | Always aim to offer something — whether it's advice, a resource, or an introduction. Giving before asking is key. However, give 1-2 reference points. Limit the number to avoid overwhelming tasks.

• Be authentic: People can sense insincerity. Be genuine in your interactions, and focus on building relationships, not just contacts.

• Be vulnerable | Open up about a current personal/business issue (stay positive). Recognize whether they can help: by connecting you with someone else or knowledge. If this results in sympathy, move on.

• Set clear goals | Know why you’re networking and share that, without ever using the word ‘networking’. Whether it’s finding a mentor, exploring job roles, or learning, having a goal will guide your efforts.

• Be present | Easier said than done. Listen.

🚫 What to Avoid

While there are many effective strategies for building connections online, there are also pitfalls that can hinder your efforts. Here’s what to steer clear of to ensure your networking endeavors are successful:

• Too self-promotional | Constantly talking about your achievements or pushing your agenda can turn people off. Focus on building genuine relationships by showing interest in others first.

• Generic messages | Avoid sending out the same copy/paste message This comes across as insincere. Take time to personalize your outreach, mentioning specific details about the person or their work. In the Sales space, some use Clay tables and Ai-personalization.

• No follow-Up | Failure to follow up if promised to do XYZ is a bad look and sets the tone off if you'd like to continue being in their network.

• Information overload | AKA - spamming in the DM sense. On a call, share what is necessary to keep the flow of the conversation going.

• Failure to prepare | Before reaching out, do some research on the person and think about what you want to discuss or achieve from the interaction.

👥 The Power of Connecting

I've been known to be ‘the nexus’ in my network. With this power, comes a lot of responsibility. But here, we'll talk about the sub-powers associated with connecting 2 people online. Perhaps, you'll strengthen this muscle yourself 💪🏼

• Reinforce your value | By connecting 2 individuals, you position yourself as a valuable connector and resource. Both parties will appreciate your effort, and this can strengthen your relationship with each of them simultaneously. 2 for 1 combo.

• Win together | Foster collaboration. Introducing people with complementary skills or shared interests can lead to new projects or partnerships. You’re helping to create something greater. So, always ask to be a guest of their (potential) future joint parties 🎉.

• Build trust | When you make thoughtful introductions, it shows that you understand both individuals' needs and goals. This makes others more likely to think of you when they need help or guidance.

• Encourage reciprocity | When you make introductions, people often feel a natural inclination to reciprocate. This can lead to more intro's & opportunities your way.

• Ripple effect | You benefit a larger community — us humans on Earth. Feel good yet?

🎁 Wrapping Up

Human connections are hidden opportunities to interact with complex networks — and I'm not being technical here.

Always remember to focus on quality connections in the Future of Work.

Find your likeminded group of DeviantArt friends. Find your community.

As always, thank you for being part of this network of 97 subscribers.

And let me know what you think by replying to this email.

🔗 Links

• 💻 (LinkedIn) 5 Predictions for The Future of Work

• 💻 (HBR) Gen AI is Coming for Remote (Digital) Workers First

• 💻 (NYT) Will A.I. Kill Meaningless Jobs?

Shout out to the following link contributors:

• Dexter Zhuang | Fractional Head of Product, author of Money Abroad

• Steve King | Researcher on Future of Work, freelance, gig economy

⚡️ Updates | Let's Network

Interested in online networking, speed dating style?

One month ago, I posted about this kind of event, and I got a handful of interested individuals. Well, the time is now!

Simply respond to this email with “I'm interested” to allow me to coordinate a time with you and the others.

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