‘It used to be so easy’: How networking has been reshaped by the coronavirus

While virtual networking meet ups have become common and create space for less formal conversation, agency execs say that at times it can feel hollow as people are sharing their stories but there’s no need to connect further. Jen DaSilva, president of creative agency Berlin Cameron and founder of the networking group Connect4Women, believes part of the problem with virtual networking is that it doesn’t feel actionable.

“A lot of the networking groups you go to over Zoom you’re talking and introducing yourself to each other but it doesn’t take that next step,” said DaSilva, adding that she attends a number of other networking groups. “Giving networking a path forward is something we need to do in a digital environment.”