How to Build a Professional Network as a Virtual Worker

How to Build a Professional Network as a Virtual WorkerHow to Build a Professional Network as a Virtual WorkerFrom acting as sounding boards and brainstorming partners to offering job leads and critical information about developments in your industry, the people in your network can be huge career assets. Knowing how to build a professional network is important. Dont let being a virtual worker prevent you from creating and maintaining these valuable relationships.Here are several strategies to build a professional network and strengthen your connections, virtuallyEvaluate who you already knowWhile you may work alone, chances are that you still know a variety of people. Former coworkers, college friends, past clients, members of your religious congregation or community organization, and the parents of your childrens classmates are all possible connections for your professional network. Learn more about whats going on with these people by inviting someone to meet for coffee or dropping a thinking of you email.Get out of the houseFeel like your network lacks depth in certain areas? Consider looking for events and groups that address those needs, such as an alumni gathering filled with other professionals, a writing circle that encourages creativity, or a civic organization that brings together local small-business owners. Taking an advanced class in your career area or attending a professional conference also can bring you into contact with potential network additions.Harness the power of the InternetSocial media and other types of online communities tear down geographical boundaries and enable connections previous generations never could have imagined. Instead of casting too wide a net, look for groups, blogs, and forums that speak to you- ones that youre excited to follow and contribute to on a regular basis. While youre at it, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date so that people who are trying to connect with you have appropriate information. Likewise, d emonstrate to members of your LinkedIn network that you truly care about their thoughts and activities by writing thoughtful comments to their posts and updates.Make following up a priorityFinally, realize that meeting someone and having the person as an active member of your network are two different things. Those business cards you collect are opportunities, elend guarantees its up to you to stay in touch.Like anything good that grows, rewarding relationships require care, feeding, and time, says Patti DeNucci, author of The Intentional Networker Attracting Powerful Relationships, Referrals Results in Business. No matter how busy you get or how successful and secure you may feel, tending to your most valued relationships should be a regular, sustainable habit. It should be an activity you intentionally engage in all year, not randomly, seasonally, or when you desperately need more business or a big favor.Readers, what tips would you offer to someone looking to build a professiona l network as a virtual worker? Use the comments section to share your tips with us