5 Ways to Ease Your Nerves Before Virtual Networking Events

Networking in the age of COVID-19 looks a lot different than many of us are used to.

As we’re forced to socially distance for the foreseeable future, networking events have had to transition from in-person event spaces to virtual event platforms. Unfortunately, regardless of all the fancy features you can find on these event platforms such as Zoom, it really isn’t the same.

Not only does networking look different, it feels different! I mean, aside from the fact, we’re likely wearing our sweatpants and slippers paired with our most Zoom-worthy top, showing up on screen seems to require a lot more mental effort than casually mingling with someone over hors d’oeuvres. (I never thought I’d say this but I think I kind of miss the little appetizers at events!)

These virtual events can be quite nerve-wracking, especially if you consider that reading body language is a lot trickier to do virtually than it is in-person.

So how can you ease your nerves and successfully make virtual connections? Preparation before the event is the name of the game.

Here are 5 things you can do to ease your nerves:

Make online connections prior to the event

Even before the pandemic, it was always a bit nerve-wracking to enter a room when you don’t know anyone, right? My fellow introverts, you know what I mean! The best way to alleviate that feeling is to make connections before you attend. When you register, go through the guest list and make a note of anyone you’d like to connect with. Additionally, if the event has a hashtag, do a search on Linkedin, Twitter and Instagram as another way to find people that are also attending. I also recommend publicizing your attendance on social media before and during the event! This will potentially encourage people to reach out and let you know they’re also attending or maybe you’ll inspire them to register!

Set your intentions

Take some time prior to the event to determine why you’re actually attending and what you’d like to get out of it. In a pre-pandemic world, I used to like giving myself little challenges before I stepped into an event. For example, I’d have to talk to at least 5 new people before I would let myself leave. This could definitely work in a virtual world so try giving yourself a challenge as a way to keep calm and engaged!

Practice makes perfect

Like many things in life, you will become better and more relaxed with virtual networking as you get more practice. If you have an event coming up, why not try to book some virtual chats prior to it? Maybe there’s an acquaintance or colleague you haven’t caught up with in a while? Reach out to them and plan for a 15–30 minute chat. Ideally, it should be with someone you don’t talk to often and aren’t fully comfortable with so it feels somewhat like it would during a virtual event. Another way to practice? Do a test call on Zoom. I actually have been using this before I have any virtual speaking engagements to loosen my nerves and see how my outfit and background appear on screen. I highly recommend using this as well.

Determine your conversation starter

Breaking the ice with someone at a networking event can often feel very awkward, especially online. To alleviate this, I’ve always been a big advocate for wearing statement pieces as an organic way to get people to start conversations with you! There are 2 things you can use for this. First, your outfit! What can you wear that will be eye-catching on screen from the waist up? This could be a cool shirt, a necklace or even a pair of glasses. Second, your background! Choose to do your call in a space that is visually-appealing and ensure it compliments your outfit. For example, if your background is white, avoid wearing a white shirt as it will look like you’re blending into the background. If you’re uncomfortable with having your space on display, use a virtual background if the event is hosted on Zoom. A simple Google search will uncover a ton of sites with free downloadable Zoom backgrounds. You can also use which allows you to create your own!

Pump yourself up

So, the event day has arrived! You’ve connected with a few people already, you’ve set your personal challenge and you have a Zoom-worthy outfit ready to wear. Yet, you’re still feeling nervous, right? Get those nerves out your system by listening to your favourite music! Create a playlist with high-energy songs that hype you up so you’re feeling great before you sign on to your event. After all, it may be hard to remember now but most in-person events would have music playing. Try to create the same vibe at home!

I know, virtual networking can be tough. However, with a little preparation, it’s nothing you can’t handle.

Originally published at https://www.dowelldresswell.com on November 10, 2020.