The way we've networked has changed over the last 2 months. What do you think about the shift to online networking?

Online networking has been indispensable over the past few months.  But I don't see it replacing traditional in-person networking.  People still need interaction with one another.  It makes us feel good.  However, I do see it as another means of further expanding networking.  It may be hard to mingle with folks on the other side of a city/state, but with the right organization, it can link together people who would never have had the chance to meet.

It has been a bit challenging but with the online presence we are able to communicate with zoom, docu sign, and other tools to continue functioning as real estate agents.  Nothing beats the ability to sit down in the office or in your car and discuss a clients needs.  
I feel blessed that we have these alternative means of communication but look forward to more face to face interaction. 

Hello.

I found this interesting for an old guy like me because I began networking online. With a LinkedIn account, a list of businesses, and some determination, I began my networking journey.

1. First, The Request (for connection).
2. Second, The Thank You (for connecting).
3. Third, The Intent (why I asked for a connection).
4. Fourth, The Business Email Request (which is more like 3A).
5. Fifth, The Request to Meet (The process may end here depending on the response).
6. Sixth, The Meeting.
7. Seventh, My Best Networking partners.

Even when you meet someone Face-to-Face, it takes about seven contacts to really become networking partners. Or you do not click from the beginning, you move on.

The traditional networking method while personal and fun, has slowly become less cost effective based on the ROI.

Just my two cents.

Dr. Burl

We have always conducted a great deal of business online as we communicate with filmmakers from all over the world and that has certainly stepped up. We are experiencing email fatigue and we find our audiences are responding more positively to social media notices upcoming opportunities. When the fall gets here and everything ramps up again, I fear I will truly dread my inbox. We are finding that people are also getting ZOOM fatigue - perhaps too much sitting? The new normal is exciting, however it also brings it's own challenges  

It really depends on what you are comfortable with, in my opinion, and what you want to do while you are not able to do the things you are used to doing. I personally, am 100 percent a face-to-face networking individual. I actually host many events and co-host several other events but since the Covid crisis all networking events stopped for many months and I noticed people attempting to replace networking with online networking. I do not think this works well with a large crowd. It really works better for under 4 people. When you get too many people on an online networking group, it is hard to talk or hear what people are saying, it is also hard to carry on a side conversation and so on. This month we have started hosted the networking events again and much to my surprise, we had a lot of people attend. Many stated that they had to get out of the house and be around other people, which I completely agree with (not all people do and I understand this as well)!!! Nothing (in my personal opinion) is better than that personal, one-on-one, face to face interaction, of really getting to know someone. This is what also leads to endless referrals!

There may be more online networking because there's not much else to do, but it has never gotten me a new client. I miss in person visits where I can prove myself, introduce my material and review inhouse vehicles and paperwork. 

When trucking companies are suffering, training and maintenance usually take a back seat. 

I don't know if there is much choice to continue online networking, it's here to stay, and that's not a bad thing. To network with a few people or less, it's a wonderful tool to have. If you're trying to replicate a larger networking mixer, it can be super challenging.

I will continue doing online networking, but nothing can replace networking in person. Online networking is easy, convenient and is great for those who don't feel comfortable networking in person. Online is fantastic for one to one "coffee" meetings. It's free, there is no travel time and everyone seems more relaxed.

Networking "events" are very difficult to replicate. The biggest challenge to hosting an online networking event is attendance. It is difficult to assemble a large turnout. The more who turn out for a Zoom networking meeting the better! It's always a great time when there is a buzz and the energy is high.

Zoom is a great boon and gives a great sense of presence, however people often become fatigued while using it, creating resistance to continue. This is where the Alexander Technique, a natural skill,  comes in. I offer Alexander Technique lessons online and help people master the art of poise and ease using Zoom (or any other similar technology). 

I actually find it more effective as we are spending less time running to meetings, making and taking appointments we can actually connect more often and much easier. Remember the pre COVID19 rush trying to drive then find a parking space ( and pay for that space! );  wait for your Uber ride or get to the train, bus or carpool lane just to be late for an appointment? I must say I am enjoying the change. 

My husband and I have been selling real estate for over 30 years. If you are a Realtor, please reach out, we would love to partner with you in the Piedmont Oakland East Bay or Beverly Hills LA and pay you a 25% referral fee. Rest assured we will take care of your client referrals with the utmost care. On the flip side, we just gave 4 referrals outside of our service area. We would love to connect with you too. xxx.xxx.xxxx [email address] | [email address]

The DiMaggio & Betta Group - Piedmont, CA to Beverly Hills, LA

www.DiMaggioAndBetta.com | www.DebbiDiMaggioLA.com 

I do a lot of on line, also still meet with clients and follow the safety rules and they are aware of them also, always request mask wearing, I wear gloves once in a home and remove before leaving. Use a lot of disinfectant wipes once in the home. People have been good about all of this. It has changed some of business, it is just a matter of staying in contact with people.