4 Tips for Successful Online Networking

4 Tips for Successful Online Networking 4 Tips for Successful Online Networking Pin1Online networking can be one of the most successful tools to boost any job search. We’ve all experienced the trials, tribulations, and all around time-consuming nature of a job search, yet when we smartly employ the techniques of online networking, our struggles can be greatly reduced. Successful online networking is possible with some work and patience. It is first important to understand the practice of online networking. Online networking does not entail networking with your friends around current sports or events; rather, professional online networking focuses on one thing: career success. Because you’re either trying to land a new job or find a promotion within your current company, professional networking must remain exactly that- professional at all times. Professional in your speech, appearance, online communication, and social media presence. Follow the guidelines below to develop a successful online networking strategy. 1. Create an Online Profile The days of using a word processing software to design your resume are quickly coming to an end. Consider joining this shift by building an online profile. Many professionals are turning to LinkedIn for its resume building tool, as well as its accessible networking features. If your work involves a visual component, consider using Pinterest or Instagram to support your message. Other options include Facebook, Twitter, or building your own website. 2.  Watch Your Words Before initiating any kind of online communication with industry professionals, be sure that you’re being clear, direct, and original in your language. Starting with the subject line, does it draw enough attention to catch someone’s eye? Is the body of your message concise, and are there elements that make it memorable? As you close your message, did you include a call to action or a clear request? It is also important to be mindful when initially forming working relationships with other professionals. As you continue to develop your relationship, you can dive into more details about your professional relationship and potential jobs, but jumping in with both feet and asking outright for a job will only hurt your chances of success. Before you start firing off questions, you might request an informational interview. Taking these small steps will demonstrate your interest and dedication to the company, and will display respect for the time and consideration of the professional you are contacting. 3.  Choose the Right Connections Before you reach out to any professional, consider how politics might come into play, as they frequently do in business, and if you’re reaching out to the appropriate person. There is often a pecking order of who talks to whom, and if you are a mid-level professional trying to reach out to CEO and executive-level professionals exclusively, you may be hurting your chances of forming any valuable connection. Connect with professionals on a similar career level to you; this way, you will foster relationships with the people that truly matter- the ones who can influence hiring decisions. In addition to online networking, joining a professional association in your area is a great way to network in your industry. 4.  Considering your Existing Network Reaching out to existing connections is a successful way to network online for several reasons. For the newbie networker, it can offer a greater sense of support and connection simply because of an already present mutual connection. No one looks forward to making that cold call, especially those new to networking. LinkedIn also has a convenient tool that allows your current connections to introduce you to their connections with whom they think you would benefit from knowing. Networking is one of the most complex aspects of being involved in the professional world. There are endless methods, tools, and platforms associated with the practice and it can be difficult to decide where and how to start. One constant about networking, however, is that it is about the practice of building relationships over time. There is never a right time to start networking, rather it’s something you should be developing throughout your career. You should never wait until you are out of work to start networking. Take the time to successfully network online using the tips above, and the results will be worth the wait. Readers, what are your tips for successful online networking? Share with us below!