Eleshia V. Cash, Author of " The Little Red Networking Book" The Women's Empowerment Edition
Social distancing urges us to physically disengage from each other. But although we can't physically interact doesn't mean we can't be creative in our social interaction. Due to the Outbreak of COVID-19 we’re forced into work-at-home , e-learning situations, and virtual interactions. I am very grateful for technology that allows us to continue provide value and feel some type of connections with others as possible, even as we’re asked to disconnect and practice social distancing.
I know that many of you are missing out on your meet ups, brunches with friends, after work hang outs, sorority meetings, conferences, movies, tea clubs, book clubs, shopping bus trips and this list goes on. I know that suddenly everyone's communication has been interrupted and you're trying to figure out.... The What NOW?
For many of you, it may not feel the same, but there are ways to still be sociable with one another and nurture your networks while practicing social distancing. I talk a lot about nurturing your networks in " The Little Red Networking Book" and how It requires work and now it requires a different level of innovation and creativity. But if we get out our comfort zones and take a different approach of how we establish new relationships and nurture our current relationships it can be done. This is the season where we need our networks more than ever!
Step #1 Transform social media contacts into real life contacts. Schedule Virtual Coffee Chats, Phone Calls, and etc. to catch up on what people in your networks are doing and how you could potentially help.
Step #2 Schedule a Virtual Hang Out with Your Current Network or Friends
Last night, I was on a zoom call with my sorority sisters. It was fun, relaxing, refreshing, and great to virtual check in to see how everyone was doing.
Step #3 Because I am big on building relationships and speak a lot about networking and making connections, I am encouraging you to use your online social networking tools; LinkedIn and Facebook provide many networking groups and activities to choose from where you can interact with others. I have recently created two online community networks
1. GLCC Job Network ( You can find on Linkedin & Facebook) . This group is managed by Volunteer HR Professionals that provide support for people looking for a new job or career, to grow in their current jobs /careers , as well as needing support during a job search due to job loss.
2. National WE Ministry ( You can find on Linkedin) This an accelerated group for women ,willing to walk in their power, and embrace a collaboration model approach with non noncompeting women or organizations that are committed to developing their leadership skills, business skills to grow their business, organizations, or ministries to the next level. In this confidential & educational forum, members will leverage their collective expertise, hold one another accountable for goals and growth as well as empower each other to build a successful culture for women.
God's greatest asset is his people, and we need each other more than ever. From support, laughs, advice, news, the ear of those who will listen, this is our time to do more than social distance, this is the time to #netconnect, the perfect marriage between networking and building a genuine connection to grow meaningful relationships.
