Today, virtual networking for female CEOs has become more crucial than ever. Working from home can be difficult, but it does not have to grind your operations to a halt. As female CEOs work from home, the task of managing family, young children, and their businesses is no mean task.
For that reason, embracing creativity in your networking efforts is critical if you want to strike a balance in all your responsibilities at a time like this. Virtual networking is one of the approaches that you can consider adopting when working from home because it will prove an invaluable resource.
Since the networking needs of female CEOs are unique, working from home demands the adoption of creative ways of connecting with the outside world. Here are some of the virtual networking tips you can consider adopting as a female CEO working from home.
1. Consider Your Online Connections
One of the advantages of virtual networking is that it can serve as a built-in support system when working from home. Believe it or not, you actually have access to most of the things you need when working from your office as a female CEO. With your tools, you will be able to build online connections.
Online connections with Facebook and LinkedIn are invaluable resources when it comes to virtual networking. If you want to find other women CEOs who share your interests on Facebook, click on “Groups” under “Explore.” Once the “Discover” tab appears, scroll down to “Professional Networking,” and you will find like-minded individuals there.
In the case of LinkedIn, click on the “Work” tab, then “Groups,” and you will be all set to connect virtually with women CEOs.
2. Find A Virtual Group or Create One
Taking time to research online can lead you to some of the existing networking groups that you can join. Technology makes networking online super easy for us. Essentially, the need to strike a balance between work, family, and other responsibilities is the other reason why virtual networking is an ideal option.
You may discover that there is a networking group you can relate to after doing the research. If you find the online groups available do not align with what you are looking for, you can create one. Once you create a virtual networking group, invite other women CEOs with your same interests at heart to join in so you can build one another.
Avoid focusing on your core circle only. The beauty of virtual networking is that you can still win the confidence of the women you wish to engage even before you meet them. Open your group and start connecting with people all over the world.
Here are a few FaceBook Groups I am a part of. Check them out to see if they are a fit for you:
3. Be Strategic. Be Real.
Virtual networking is not about adding contacts to your mailing list; it is about connecting to the right people.
To get the most from your virtual networking engagements, consider developing real relationships. Start by introducing a new connection to a contact that will be beneficial to them. Sending your virtual contact an article or a resource you believe they will appreciate or congratulating them for their recent achievements is also a positive.
When your virtual contacts discover that you are a useful resource, they will never hesitate to give you support when you need it. Becoming strategic in virtual networking is one of the aspects you should not overlook because it will pay off sooner or later.
The fact is that virtual networking is now becoming an indispensable aspect of daily operations regardless of your location. Working from home does not have to be so difficult or lonely, thanks to technology.
Additionally, you do not have to worry about how your business will cope as a female CEO working remotely. Virtual networking brings a sigh of relief when you discover that you can still connect to other female CEOs and advance your skills right from your house. For more CEO tips, be sure to visit our website today!