Even for committed networkers, the pandemic has wreaked havoc on the typical opportunities for making professional connections, with cancelled conferences, a shift to virtual and remote work, and far fewer opportunities for in-person networking events. As a result, many of us have doubled down on our existing relationships, radically reducing the number of new people we’ve met over the past two years, and have let our loose connections go. In one study, weak ties dropped 21% at companies that shifted to remote work arrangements.
Haven’t Networked in a While? Here’s How to Jump Back In.
Making new connections — and reviving old ones — doesn’t have to feel awkward.
May 17, 2022
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Summary.
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, many of us have been cocooned, talking primarily to our existing colleagues and contacts. But for the sake of our long-term professional growth, it’s time to start meeting new people and rebuilding loose ties once again. To reprioritize networking, the author offers strategies for easing back into networking when we may feel rusty and out of practice: rebuild your dormant ties, ask a friend for connections, identify commonalities, choose targeted events to attend, and recruit a co-host when hosting your own event.
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New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Leveraging Your Networks Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leveraging Your Networks. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Map, assess, and strengthen your professional relationships.