Top techniques for your next online networking event

Thanks to video communications technology, like Zoom and social platforms, online networking has remained on the table and uninterrupted (internet connection withstanding) in today’s socially distanced world. Here at the Canadian Marketing Association, we know the importance of networking for marketers and so we decided to launch a new a virtual networking series: CMA Happy Hours. These networking events are hosted entirely online and include a variety of activities for marketers to get comfortable and make connections within the Canadian marketing community.

With our first Summer Happy Hour being a hit, we’ve compiled some virtual networking techniques to help get you ready for your next online networking event, while also getting rid of even the worst camera jitters.

1. Check your technical requirements

Even the most comfortable working from home veterans should never skip this step. Confirm your internet connection, camera settings, background checks and microphone. With our Summer Happy Hour, participants were provided a 5-minute grace period before the event kicked in just in case there are any glitches.

2. Dress to impress still applies

Although dress code expectations are more casual for virtual networking events, there is a key benefit of making the extra effort. By dressing a bit more formally, attendees will be in the right professional mindset and be distinct for others to notice.

3. Know when to mute

Unlike indoor networking events where participants can mingle with ease, virtual networking events need more coordination. Muting yourself is a courtesy that allows organizers to make announcements and introductions without background noise distraction. Like this moment in our Summer Happy Hour where Certified Cicerone® and Head of Beer Education at Labatt Breweries of Canada, Michelle Tham, guided us how to mix-up their 2Four Sangria using Bud Light Strawberry Lemonade. Muting was vital to not miss any of this fun mixology lesson!

4. Express yourself correctly

As with in-person networking, talking over someone is considered a faux pax virtually as well. Understandably, it may be difficult to find a moment to make a comment or ask a question. Use your video conferencing chat features to get the attention of the (zoom) room.

5. Video background setup

Having a video background setup is also a key detail in establishing your professionalism and displaying your creativity. A clean video background avoids any embarrassing misconceptions and demonstrates an organized persona. Or, if you are more technically inclined, a virtual background could display your playful side and demonstrate brand support. Our Summer Happy Hour Presenting Sponsor, draftLine/Labatt, featured some virtual backgrounds so everyone knew who they were the moment the event started.

6. Make connections – beyond LinkedIn

It may be the first instinct to look up fellow attendees on LinkedIn as their names are clearly available through the video conference app. However, that’ll only provide distraction and not allow you to stay present in the moment of the virtual networking event. Our Summer Happy Hour featured two separate sessions of breakout rooms where participants were grouped to make introductions and find a commonality amongst themselves. Don’t be the person that misses their moment to make a genuine connection.

7. Follow up

Take a moment after the event to think about who you’d like to speak further with from the virtual event. Beyond LinkedIn connections, a thank you email to fellow attendees or hosts is not only a courtesy gesture but provides a great opportunity to set up that virtual coffee chat.

8. Share your experience

Once all the fun was ready to wrap up in our Summer Happy Hour session with one last virtual cheers, many participants took to social channels to share their experience. This acts as another connection touchpoint that’ll encourage further engagement. Be sure to check out #CMAevents and view our Happy Hours Highlight on Instagram Stories to relive some of the fun.

We hope you can join us at the our Fall Happy Hour on September 29!

The CMA Marketing & Strategic Initiatives Team