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Too many people sit inertly on social networks sites – enabling others to build their connections but failing to utilise the extraordinary power of online networking themselves. Here are 7 social networking tips that can turbo-boost your career.
Social networking tip #1: Connect with everyone you ever met
This might seem self-evident but you can’t really network without a network. Do you only expand your network when someone makes contact with you? If you’re serious about taking your career to the next level you should connect with everyone you’ve ever met professionally – with the possible exception of:
- people you’ve fired
- people who’ve fired you
- convicted fraudsters
- proven plagiarists
- former spouses.
Social networking tip #2: Turn cards into contacts
When you get a business card in a meeting or conference, what do you do with it?
- Stick it in your Rolodex?
- Shove it in your drawer?
- Use it to level up a rickety table at your café?
If you want to make the most of that connection, you’ll immediately send that person an invitation to your network. That way they’ll keep up to date with your professional movements so down the track when you reach out to them, they won’t go, “Helen who?”.
Social networking tip #3: Seek out people you admire
Who in your industry or profession do you admire? Social networks give you the opportunity to get in touch with people who could act as mentors – if only in an informal capacity.
But don’t just make contact. Demonstrate your knowledge and appreciation of their professional accomplishments – without lapsing into sycophancy. If your admiration is honest and sincere, it’s likely you’ll get a positive response. If not, the social network will deliver karmic retribution with lightning speed.
Social networking tip #4: Get your CV in shape
If you belong to a social network, you don’t have to make a decision to look for a new job. The position can come looking for you. If you choose to make your CV visible, it’s there online, 24/7, beaming out your qualifications and professional achievements to the headhunting universe.
So your CV should represent you in the best possible light – even if you have no intention of changing jobs. Because a compelling resume will encourages others to join your network, and enhance your credibility in forum discussions.
But go light on the padding. Exaggerations that might go unchecked by the sloppy recruitment firm will be uncovered in moments by the online community.
Social networking tip #5: Participate in forums
Social networks are a great way to voice your opinions and raise your industry profile – if you’re able to articulate intelligent positions and maintain a civil tone.
However, if you’re poor at spelling, have minimal knowledge of grammar, and have a tone that tends towards sarcasm or condescension, your prospects – such as they are – will probably be best enhanced by maintaining a dignified silence.
Social networking tip #6: Join or create groups
We tend to be at our best when we pursue our passions. What most interests you about your profession? What subjects get the blood coursing through your veins? Use your online network to find others who share those interests. Not only will your career advance – it’s more likely to head in a direction that you find more stimulating, satisfying and financially rewarding.
Social networking tip #7: Be a regular
Members of social networks are no different from people in the real world. They’re more likely to help someone who’s in regular contact rather than someone they only hear from when they want something. Build social networking time into your diary. Regular participation and consistent application of these tips will inevitably help advance your career in new and interesting ways.
Social networking is the greatest career booster since boot polish. Make the most of it.
Related topics
How to use social networking (without feeling used)
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