Networking and building meaningful connections in a digital and physical world

By Sebina Noreen Malik, Consultant Solicitor

Networking has been a vital part of both my personal and professional growth. My favourite saying is “Friendship before business”.

This mindset has shaped how I connect, build trust, and form lasting professional relationships.

Online networking and turning a challenge into an opportunity

During the Covid-19 pandemic, traditional networking events were put on hold, and like many professionals, I had to pivot and turn to digital platforms to stay connected, engage meaningfully, create new contacts, interact with others and continue to grow my professional circle. Although I missed the in-person spontaneity and conversations, I soon realised virtual networking could be just as powerful and there were countless opportunities to connect online no matter where we were based globally.

Adapting to online networking meant rethinking how I communicate, modify my chats and my approach to fit in with the social media world of networking.

I immersed myself on platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and GoToWebinar, participating in conferences, panel discussions and meetings. These virtual rooms allowed me to start conversations with people I genuinely wanted to get to know professionally and what mattered most was the quality of the engagement.

How did I encouraging online engagement?

a. Choosing the right platform for my audience.

b. Encouraging video participation with cameras switched on allowed me to see faces and hear voices and this helped create a sense of personal connection.

c. Creating space for interaction by inviting questions, welcoming live feedback, and opening the chat for discussion.

During the pandemic, I attended a professional international legal forum as a virtual speaker and the virtual speaking opportunity transformed my online presence. I began conversations with new contacts, encouraged them to come off-mute and get involved to interact, or participate via chats because people value communities where they feel seen, heard and valued. My approach was to remaining authentic, supportive, sincere and by simply being myself. In doing so, I attracted like-minded professionals.

In person networking

Whilst I embrace digital networking, in my view, nothing truly replaces face-to-face conversations. Being physically present builds trust and deepens relationships in a way that online interaction sometimes can't replicate. People remember the human connection, a smile, a handshake or some humour and this creates a personal touch.

You are your personal brand, so always turn up authentically and professionally whether online or offline. Authenticity and professionalism go hand in hand, and being present with purpose is key to lasting impressions.

Why Network?

For me, networking is not about collecting business cards or growing social media numbers, it is a powerful way to build genuine relationships with people, collaborate, share opportunities, connect and reconnect with contacts to share ideas and opportunities and to give, give, give.

I've developed a habit to seek feedback and create space in which people feel comfortable to respond, feel connected and engage. I want my contacts to see me as approachable and valuable, someone who offers support and interesting content.

I make a conscious effort to follow up and remain authentic. One connection can transform your business. Staying visible ensures I stay fresh in the minds of my new connections.

Conclusion

Online networking, when done well, can be just as powerful, if not more so, than in-person events and I continue to leverage both digital and physical spaces to connect. Having the skills to develop meaningful connections both online and in person are valuable for any professional or business person.