Preserving professional networks

With the onset of a global pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus, most countries in the world had mandated lockdowns and shelter-in-place orders. Working from home is now commonplace and virtual learning has become a necessity for students. While many economies are beginning to re-open, physical distancing remains as important as ever.

Most careers rely on the ability to build professional relationships within the organization as well as the broader industry, but COVID-19 has made it nearly impossible to network in person. Although most conferences and networking events have been cancelled or postponed indefinitely, there are still ways to maintain your existing professional network – and even add to it.

In this month's Ivey Business Journal, The Ivey Academy's executive director, Mark Healy, examines the value of professional networks and the importance of maintaining them in both good times and bad. Additionally, Healy shares helpful tips and advice on how to network virtually.

“Since the personal and professional challenges brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak represent an unprecedented common experience, anyone who puts a little time and thought into virtual networking can easily build a more robust professional network.”

The article concludes with the story of a professional network formed at the Management Training Course (now the Ivey Executive Program) in 1979. The professional network formed by Ivey classmates 41 years ago continues to thrive today.