How to Build Professional Connections Within an Organization While Working Remotely

Working remotely has its perks - no commuting, the freedom to design your workspace, and a flexible schedule. However, one challenge I've faced is staying connected with colleagues and building the kind of professional relationships that typically develop naturally when you’re in the office. Over time, I’ve figured out a few ways to stay connected and make meaningful professional connections, even when I'm not physically in the same place as my coworkers. Here's what works for me:

Attend Every Meeting You Can (Without Overloading Yourself)

I’ve found that attending meetings - even if I’m not directly involved in the conversation - is one of the best ways to get to know people and understand the inner workings of the company. While I do have to be careful not to overburden myself with too many commitments, I try to attend every meeting that I can. The goal isn’t necessarily to contribute to every discussion but to put a name to a face, see who the key players are, and get a sense of the different personalities and areas of expertise in the company.

It’s often in these casual settings where relationships start to form. You can get a feel for how people communicate and collaborate, which helps me later on when I need to reach out to someone in another department. By attending these meetings, I also get the chance to observe who the go-to people are in various areas, which is crucial when I need to identify the right contact for a particular question or issue.

Make Use of Virtual Office Hours or "Drop-Ins"

Another way I’ve built connections is by taking advantage of virtual office hours or informal "drop-ins." Many companies offer casual, open-door hours where employees can hop on a call and chat about anything — from work-related projects to personal updates. This is a great way to stay connected and show up for your colleagues, even if it's just for a quick hello.

I try to attend these sessions regularly, even if I don’t have anything pressing to discuss. It’s more about staying visible and being available to support others. These informal chats often lead to new opportunities for collaboration and help me understand different perspectives on what’s happening in the company. Plus, I always learn something new, which can be incredibly valuable when you’re looking to build rapport with people from other departments.

Build Relationships Through Collaboration

To deepen professional connections, I make it a point to offer help whenever I can. Collaborating on projects - even if it’s not a direct part of my job description - is a great way to strengthen ties with colleagues. I offer my assistance in a way that makes sense for my current workload, whether it’s lending a hand on a small task or contributing to a larger initiative.

I’ve also found that reaching out to other team members with thoughtful questions or feedback fosters a sense of teamwork. It shows that you value their input and are invested in the project’s success. These small acts of collaboration go a long way in building trust and respect with others, even in a remote setting.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Tams (or Other Communication Tools)

While video calls and meetings are essential, the real key to remote relationships often lies in day-to-day communication tools, like Slack, Teams, or whatever your company uses. I make an effort to connect with colleagues through casual messages, whether it's sharing a resource, offering a quick thank you for their help, or even sharing something fun or interesting related to our work.

I also try to avoid being too transactional in my messages. Sometimes, just asking someone how their day is going or congratulating them on a recent success can make a world of difference. It humanizes the interaction and strengthens the connection.

Follow Up and Stay Consistent

Building professional relationships remotely requires consistent effort. If I’ve had a good conversation with someone, I make it a point to follow up. Whether it’s sending a quick email to check in or thanking them for a helpful chat, it shows that I value the connection and am interested in nurturing the relationship. Over time, these small gestures build a strong foundation for long-lasting professional connections.

While building professional relationships in a remote environment is a bit different from the traditional office setting, it’s far from impossible. It takes a combination of visibility, collaboration, and genuine interest in others. By attending meetings, connecting in informal settings, and actively participating in your team’s communication channels, you can create meaningful connections that help you grow professionally and personally.

What about you? What’s your strategy for staying connected remotely? I'd love to hear what’s worked for you!