Remote work is the new normal, and it’s here for the foreseeable future. There are some definite perks to working from home–like not having to actually change out of your pajamas–but there are some difficulties as well. Networking is one of those.

How do you network virtually? Enter the virtual coffee break.

A virtual coffee break is a substitute for the type of socialization you would normally enact if not for stay-at-home orders and social distancing. You invite one or a few people to have coffee, but in this case, you all meet virtually rather than at a coffee shop. Video chat app, such as Daylo Meet, can enhance the experience.

Of course, virtual coffee breaks aren’t quite the same as in-person communication, but it’s better than letting important networking connections slip past you this year. Networking is critical to bolstering your career, leading to new job opportunities, investment opportunities, and collaborations. You can’t afford to isolate your career while you isolate from COVID-19.

Do a practice virtual coffee break with friends first. This will give you the chance to try out the Daylo video chat tools. Some things to consider are conversation topics, a time limit, and how to handle awkward pauses. All of these are slightly different in a virtual coffee break as compared to in-person meet ups.

Another thing to consider is group size. Just like a normal coffee break in a small coffee shop, there are limitations to how many people you should invite. In person, this is limited by table size and physical space in a small shop. Virtually, group size should be limited as well. Groups larger than four can become complicated by technical issues, such as feedback and reverb, and by ease of conversation. People get left out when groups are large and meetings are virtual. Sticking to a small invite list is best for effective virtual coffee breaks. If you want to network with a lot of people, it’s better to set up numerous small breaks than one large break with everyone.

Once you’ve practiced and worked out the kinks of hosting a virtual coffee break, decide who you’d like to network with and schedule a meet up. Make sure you include a Daylo Meet meeting link. This is equivalent to sending directions and an address for an in-person coffee meet up.

One advantage to virtual coffee breaks is the ability to invite people located anywhere in the world. That is obviously not possible when it comes to in-person coffee meet ups. You should be aware of differences in time zone and specify which time zone you are setting your meeting to.

As the virtual coffee break host, it’s good to identify an agenda, topic, or theme for the break time. Make sure you start with introductions so everyone knows each other’s name. However, don’t fret if the conversation gets off topic, because the real goal here is just making connections and getting to know each other better.

Some ideas for topics include the following:

• What conferences are you attending this year?
• What is the biggest challenge facing your industry?
• Would you like to introduce us to your pets?
• What’s working well for you with remote work?
• What’s your favorite coffee drink?
• What project are you currently working on?
• What’s your favorite social media platform?

The point is to break the ice with new people and truly get to know them. This might lead to follow up conversations or connections on social media, but it may not.

It takes a little courage to invite people you don’t know well to join you in a virtual coffee break, but most people are feeling eager for a social opportunity these days.

Be brave and make that first move.