It’s safe to say that things are not the way they used to be. Virtual is the new normal and all of your WFH dreams have now become a reality. “Six feet apart” may have made it difficult to grab a coffee with your buds or happy hour drinks after work, but you can still boost your connections, exchange contact info, be the life of the party, and have even more Boost Friends in your social circle!

Are we crazy??

No, we’re SUPERCHARGED! And we want you to know that you can still build a powerful network...even in the middle of a global pandemic.

It’s time to start taking charge of the things that you CAN control. Although networking effectively might be relatively low on your list of to-dos, it can still benefit you personally, and professionally.

But how can you network effectively in this high stress time? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Read on for a few of our top tips for getting yourself out there - even if “out there” means that you’re only dressing nice from the waist up.

1. Step up your online presence

If you want to be a boss, you’ve got to build a brand - and that’s never more true than online. Your presence online IS your brand and whether you like it or not, it’s going to make people feel some kind of way about you.

The good news is that it’s easier than ever to control your public image online. Take a look at what you’re presenting, and curate it. Are you saying things in public that should be kept private? If in doubt, make a personal, private profile for your family and friends and a public profile for your new and professional contacts.

We’re not telling you to change who you are (would we ever?!) but instead, we’re advising you to put your best foot forward. Be loud, be proud, be political - if that’s who you are as a person, and make sure that your online profiles rep the best version of you!

2. Clean up your contacts

If you’re the social butterfly of your crew, and have the contact details of everyone you’ve ever met - including the one-time hookup that you haven’t spoken to in 3 years, it might be time to do a little cultivating.

We’re not saying you have to cut everyone off, but it’s important to ask yourself if you’re currently interacting with your next-level network. If not, make a list of who’s missing from your list, and how you can get in touch.

We’ll give you a hint…the SUPERCHARGED Boost Friends™ community! Our exclusive yet inclusive network is reserved for goal-getters only. It’s a perfect way for you to spruce up your connects if you ask us.

3. Know your tech

TECHnically speaking, there isn’t a right or wrong way to connect with people. With so many new updates and gadgets, it can be easy to fall behind on the latest video calling software or social media app. However, everyone is pretty much using gadgets from home these days so it’s important to be on point with your tech.

You don’t want to set a bad tone and become the unreliable one who is still stuck in 2001. If your screen suddenly goes black in the middle of typing an email, then maybe it’s time to look into an upgrade.

Don’t worry, people will always be understanding if there’s genuine issues like your speakers not working or internet glitches so…cut yourself some slack! Just remember to turn your mic off when your dog is ferociously barking at the mailman...SERIOUSLY.

4. Be Genuine

You’ve got the online presence, the new and improved network, and your tech is up to date. Now it’s time to make your new connections personal. If there’s anything to be said about COVID-19, it’s that people are finally talking about how they’re really feeling.

When you’re reaching out to people, don’t be afraid to be a human. Take time to talk to people, and be your best, most empathetic self. Just like you may be struggling with what comes next, everyone else is along for the same confusing ride. That said, don’t take it personal if your new contact goes M.I.A for a much needed mental health break.

5. Keep your follow up game strong!

It sucks when you make a new connection and then it’s nothing but crickets after a few days, but don’t be afraid to make the first move when the conversation goes idle. Networking is a two-way street. While you might feel humbled that somebody is willing to converse with you, and you don’t want to come off as annoying, remember that you have value and they’ll get something out of talking with you too!

Networking online isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but we are in a more supportive environment. People want to feel less isolated and more connected. Don’t go into anything thinking ‘what’s in it for me?’ but instead, how can we mutually boost each other to get to the next level?

You’re all set! Now you’re ready to be the master connector that you’re meant to be!