The internet is a 24/7 networking opportunity that allows you to stay in touch and deepen connections with people you meet in person. Here’s how:
First, review your online presence monthly on all social media platforms you are using. Make sure your profile picture is current, your cover photos are relevant and your “About” section has something about your clients. It’s not just your resume. Make sure your content is a reflection of your message, your brand.
Second, get out that stack of business cards you’ve been meaning to deal with and invite those people to be friends. If you think they’ll know who you are, just send them a friend request. If not, send them a Facebook private message asking them if it would be okay to send them a friend request, and that you would like to stay connected. Then, connect with them on LinkedIn.
Third, after you meet people at networking events, or wherever, connect with them on LinkedIn, send them a Facebook friend request and connect with them on any other social media platforms you’re active on. Use the same procedure as described with the business cards.
After you become Facebook friends, visit their pages and see what they’re up to, and if there’s anything you can LIKE, comment or share. Go to their business pages, see if there’s anything there that you can LIKE, comment or share. Go to their websites and check them out. Send them an email or private message through Facebook and invite them for coffee or a phone call-something to take the next step in connecting. Or, you can invite them to another networking event you are going to that you think they might be interested in. Stay connected on social media until you meet again in person!