As of writing this, over 20 million Americans have lost their jobs due to the global Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Virtually all so-called “non-essential” businesses have been forced to close their doors, and the majority of Americans have been forced to shelter in place. 

 

We’re in uncharted territory in many ways, facing new and unforeseen challenges in our private and professional lives. It is, without a doubt, the most sub-optimal time to be looking for a job in modern memory, far outstripping the Global Financial Crisis of 2008. 

 

Yet, here we are. Tens of millions of professionals looking for work in an environment where we can’t even congregate in groups, set up a business lunch, or attend a conference. 

 

We all know that “job search networking,” (as broad of a term as that may be), is the best way to find new employment, especially if you’re a seasoned professional operating an executive level. But how can we network in this brave new world we find ourselves living in? It is a difficult question, to be sure. 

 

According to The Wall Street Journal, “One by one, the incubators and co-working offices shut down, along with the coffee shops, convention centers, bars and restaurants that host thousands of business meetings and events every day. The abrupt end to networking has been one of the coronavirus’s brutal effects for job seekers, entrepreneurs, sales professionals, and others who depend on face-to-face interactions with potential clients, employers, and customers.”

 

Go Online

 

With traditional networking opportunities shut down for the time being, job seekers have no choice but to go online to connect with potential employers. LinkedIn, the business-oriented social network that allows professionals to connect, share thoughts, and search for jobs, is the first place to start. 

 

According to LinkedIn, member engagement such as commenting on and resharing posts, jumped 55% in the week ended March 24 from the year-earlier period.

 

The key to successful LinkedIn networking is to give more than you expect to receive. Start out by sharing articles you’ve written, or by commenting on other people’s posts and adding your thoughts or suggestions. The key is to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise without being obnoxious. 

 

Organize Digital Meet & Greets

 

Another way to network is to try and organize group Zoom chats that can serve as meet-and-greets. 

 

Think of these as a mix between a group therapy session and a networking event. You can help others while helping yourself. Start out with your friends and colleagues and invite them to spread the word. You never know who will pop on. It might just be your next employer. 

 

Don’t Give Up

 

The current environment is nothing if not frustrating, especially for the millions of job seekers in the market. Don’t give up or lose hope. It may be challenging, but sometimes challenging environments can help you showcase your creativity. 

 

Ultimately, if you set your sights on demonstrating your knowledge and helping others, you’ll be able to leverage existing digital networks to meet interesting people. This is the essence of networking, and it is totally achievable even in a pandemic environment.