3 Extraordinarily Easy Networking Hacks to Double Your Network Virtually

Job boards are a waste of time. They, if ever, convert to real job offers and usually are nothing more than a resume landfill. I hope this doesn’t come as a complete surprise to you. 

It’s easy to fall into that trap, to submit your resume to one of these job board sites and feel proud of yourself. You did something for your career. You committed to your future. It’s easy to feel this way but truly easy things are hard to come by.

If this is the bulk of your job search strategy it’s easy to see why you haven’t found a job yet. 

It's estimated that 80% of jobs are not advertised. So while you're uploading your resume endlessly on job boards, you are only applying for 20% of the opportunities. The other 80% can be found through networking and referrals.

Referrals are your fastest track to getting hired. While traditional hiring means can take months from job application to hiring, referral takes less than a month.

But to get a referral you need to be networking properly which requires strategic and committed communication. 

Networking is not just a one and done scenario, its long lasting, its consistent and strategic. Here are my top 3 virtual ways to continue to network after the first conversation. 

1. Set a goal and don't let your emotions stop you

Most PhDs dread networking; it’s hard and challenging. It requires connecting with people, usually not about science, and most PhDs rarely ever have the opportunity to talk about anything other than their project, their PI, or trying to explain to their family why they are still in school. This makes every PhD rusty at having a “normal” conversation. The best way to get over this is to practice.

PhDs are the best researchers in the world, but sometimes they forget to put that research to practical use. They’ll say, I’ll just read one more article on this or maybe tomorrow I’ll try to connect with someone. These are lies and excuses we tell ourselves so we don’t have to face painful situations. 

Instead speak to your logical self not the emotional one. Speak to your results-driven side that pushed you into the PhD program, that always makes the deadline, and always has a plan.

Develop some goals that seem attainable such as: “I will schedule 1 informational interview a week”. This is results oriented. 

One of the best things about virtual networking is you can connect with anyone in the world without ever leaving your living room. Now you have people expecting you to show up. 

2. Ask “how” and “what” questions

If you don’t like talking, are a nervous talker, or can’t stand awkward silences, then “how”  and “what” questions should always be on the top of your list. “How” and “what” questions beg the person to engage, discuss and expand. They cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. 

These questions really allow the other person to talk, and in doing so they will feel valued. Everyone loves to be listened to, to feel like they are contributing and helping others.

“How” and “what” questions often lead to asking for advice or their opinion.

When you ask for someone’s opinion they feel valued, trusted and helpful. All you have to do is ask, listen, and engage. 

Here are the 5 best “how” and “what” questions to ask to improve your networking relationships:

1. How did you know this was the right career path for you?
2. What is your typical work day like?
3. How much flexibility do you have in your day?
4. What skills do you think make a good candidate for this role?
5. What did you think of this article?

3. Congratulate, Compliment, Contribute 

Social media and LinkedIn makes follow up and connections very easy. LinkedIn broadcasts to your network every time you get a promotion or change positions. This is a great way to continue ongoing networking and promote your relationships. 

You don’t want to simply click the “congratulate” button or send a generic prewritten message on LinkedIn.

To really connect with people you want to send them a direct message. 

First, you need to congratulate them. You also want to compliment them. Everyone needs a compliment every once and awhile; it’s a great way to add value. What previous conversations have you had with them that exemplifies they are worthy of this transition or promotion. 

Finally you want to contribute and this can be done in a number of ways. You can ask them a question to get their opinion on something. You can offer to connect them with someone you know at the company and try to make a connection if you have one. You can show them some appreciation or make a recommendation. Basically anything that adds values and continues the professional conversation is a great thing to add. 

So even if you are not a fan of networking or you are unable to meet people in person there are plenty of ways to leverage online and social media to continuously grow your network. Always remember to add value first. Come up with and stick to a plan that is results driven. Ask how and what questions, and whenever possible try to congratulate, compliment and contribute to their achievements.

Are you a PhD?

If so, what are your favorite virtual networking techniques?

Tell me in a comment below.

To learn more about transitioning into industry, including how to gain instant access to industry career training videos, case studies, industry insider documents, a complete industry transition plan, and a private online job referral network for PhDs only, get on the waitlist for the Cheeky Scientist Association.