INTHEBLACK October 2021 - Magazine - Page 69
“I don’t think online networking will
take over entirely, because I think
there’s a certain amount of normalcy
that goes along with actually physically
interacting with other human beings.”
GRAEME BEATTIE FCPA,
WORRELLS SOLVENCY & FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS
You never know, you could end up connecting
with someone across the country and expanding
into a new market.
“We have the systems now to take on clients from
anywhere in Australia, so if we begin to limit ourselves
according to geography, there’s actually a huge limit on
our ability and capacity to grow,” Plant says.
THE FUTURE OF IN-PERSON NETWORKING
Plant predicts the best in-person networking events will
be akin to festival experiences, offering opportunities
that are not possible over videoconferencing.
Her business, for example, held a Festival of
Networking early this year at the Gold Coast head office,
overseeing 24 hours of engagement through a range
of activities.
“If you’re asking people to travel to you, then you want
to make sure that experience is going to be something
that they’re going to remember,” she says.
“The future of networking is going to involve using
technology, but never forgetting the really basic human
follow-ups with people that are required to land a client
or to engage and retain someone.”
Beattie agrees and says that, while online networking
is here to stay, it will struggle to replace in-person
networking altogether.
“I don’t think online networking will take over entirely,
because I think there’s a certain amount of normalcy that
goes along with actually physically interacting with other
human beings,” he says.
“For me, you just don’t get that extra depth of
connection online as you do in person.”
GRAEME BEATTIE’S TOP SIX TIPS
FOR HYBRID NETWORKING:
• Don’t be afraid to open up and share your personal life.
That doesn’t mean you need to go into intimate detail, but
it doesn’t hurt to express an interest in a sport or a hobby.
• Treat online networking as if you are there in person. Keep
your camera on at all times and staying engaged.
• Networking does not have to be serious all the time.
If you’re not sure whether to elbow bump or shake
hands, then make a joke about it to lighten the mood.
• Focus on one-to-one networking and building connections
on platforms such as LinkedIn before building up to hosting
webinars or more complex online networking.
• Ensure your digital presence, including your LinkedIn
profile, is up-to-date and flattering.
• Adapt your networking style to your clients’ needs. If
you have a client who prefers to meet up for a coffee,
then take their lead. If other clients are at home, then
network online in these instances.
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intheblack.com October 2021 69