Feeling isolated while working from home? Check out these 5 quick ideas for networking and expanding your social and professional networks as a freelancer.
How to Network When Working From Home: 5 Quick Ideas
Being a freelancer might at times feel lonely, especially if you work from home or remotely. And while going out and "mingling" may be the last thing you want to do after spending 12 hours in front of a computer screen, networking is a crucial goal that every freelancer should embrace.
It's crucial for generating new business, but it's also vital for your health because social isolation has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, according to study. Yikes! However, networking should not be a nuisance, despite the fact that it may appear to be another item on an infinite list of things to do.
It doesn't have to be difficult, either, even if your only real-world colleagues are some plants or a fish tank. In fact, working from home is a terrific conversation starter when networking.
Here are five quick ideas to widen your social and professional networks.
1. Put it on your calendar and be sure to stick to it!
As a freelancer, you're frequently constrained by the plans and goals of others. The truth is that networking is worth the effort even while it's simple to say, "I'm going to forgo that party because I have a project due in the morning," or "There will always be another event I can go to, but I've had to get revisions to this client right now."
Employing someone they know and trust is popular. Select a networking event, send an RSVP, schedule it, and honour the commitment just like you would any other meeting or appointment. By downplaying the significance of a networking event, don't bail on yourself the way you wouldn't cancel a last-minute lunch date with a client.
2. Use networks you might not be using.
Exists a local chapter of your university's alumni in your town? What about your church or business chamber? There is a good likelihood that there are already business gatherings taking place nearby. Send a note to the group's leader asking to be included to the email list for future events if you can't find anything online.
3. Join a fresh club or professional group.
No pre-existing events in your nearby network, are there? No issue! The moment is now to broaden your network by affiliating with a business club or group. You can look up your city and profession on Google, or you can get recommendations from colleagues.A fantastic method to acquire advice and suggestions for things that will make your job easier is to socialise with other professionals who have similar skills to your own.
4. Follow the leader.
Following individuals on social media is one of the simplest ways to learn about exciting events taking place in your community. Whose work as a thought leader do you admire? On Twitter and Instagram, follow them. Even better, engage them in conversation when they share anything you find interesting. You can network online around-the-clock, after all, but what's more essential is that I can let you know when those folks will be at conferences, expos, and other events you can attend.
5. Remember to follow up.
The hardest part is getting out the door and to the event, but the labour doesn't end there. The networking process doesn't end with meeting people. Make sure to add information on the people you met into your CRM (even if it's just a spreadsheet) when you return home so you don't forget to follow up. Did someone throughout your talk go above and beyond? Send a handwritten note of gratitude.
Has anyone mentioned a desire for outstanding Thai cuisine? Send a suggestion along with an email. Has anyone mentioned they could be interested in your services shortly in passing? Send a message with more details via email. Networking does require time.
But over the course of your freelancing career, strategic, purposeful networking will more than pay for itself. Make the time commitment to yourself, and the outcomes will come.
What is your best advice for making new friends at networking events? Post a comment below with it!