Networking online can be a powerful way to advance your career, find new opportunities, and learn from others in your field. But how do you network online without being spammy or annoying? How do you build genuine relationships and add value to your connections? Here are some tips to help you network online effectively and respectfully.
Not all online platforms are created equal when it comes to networking. Some are more professional, such as LinkedIn, while others are more casual, such as Twitter or Instagram. Depending on your goals, industry, and personality, you may prefer one platform over another. For example, if you want to showcase your portfolio, you may use Behance or Dribbble. If you want to join discussions and share insights, you may use Reddit or Quora. Choose the platforms that suit your style and where you can find your target audience.
When it comes to networking for the job search, LinkedIn is the only platform for me. The key to not being spammy is focusing on finding people at desired companies that you have something in common with: education, location, previous employers, veteran status, volunteer work, or passions (via their posts). Reach out based on that shared background or interest, connect, and ask for advice, not a job. If you get to a call and demonstrate genuine interest in what the other person has to say - they will make the offer to introduce or refer you.
Your online profile is your digital resume and your first impression. Make sure it is complete, accurate, and attractive. Use a clear and professional photo, a catchy headline, and a summary that highlights your skills, achievements, and interests. Include relevant keywords, links, and credentials that showcase your expertise and credibility. Also, make sure your profile is consistent across different platforms, so that people can easily recognize you and follow you.
You never get a second chance to make a first impression. This means the profile picture and headline are the key to even getting us to click on your profile. Once there, completed background images (banners), About, experience and education sections are what tells us if you put the time and effort into doing it well (and are worth our time to reach out). We aren't going to typically invest time in people with incomplete profiles.
The key to networking online is to engage with value. This means that you should not only consume content, but also create and share content that is useful, relevant, and interesting to your network. For example, you can write articles, post comments, share resources, answer questions, or give feedback. The goal is to provide value to your connections and demonstrate your knowledge and personality. Engage with value also means that you should not spam, pitch, or sell to your network. Instead, focus on building trust, rapport, and relationships.
It all starts with being genuine. Do you really think that the person you're engaging with could bring you value? Start with doing some research about the person and the company is working for. Read the content the person is posting and engage by sharing a personalised message. Don't be afraid to be direct and share the reason why you are contacting, so you would make it clear on the reason why you're reaching out. Just as one wouldn’t approach a stranger with a sales pitch, bombarding connections with unsolicited promotions online is counterproductive.
You can comment or message people point-to-point and still find opportunities, but posting original content is the only way you become KNOWN to people and... They think of you when opportunities come up!
Networking online is not a one-way street. It is a two-way conversation that requires authenticity and respect. Be yourself and show your human side. Don't pretend to be someone you are not or exaggerate your accomplishments. Be honest, humble, and curious. Respect the rules, norms, and etiquette of each platform and each community. Don't be rude, aggressive, or intrusive. Don't send unsolicited messages, requests, or invitations. Don't make assumptions or judgments about others. Be polite, friendly, and supportive.
Authenticity is absolutely key when building relationships and trust, but I have one cardinal rule: Treat people exactly as you would if you were standing right in front of them. I think we lose that sometimes with what appears to be an "easy button" of outreach in front of us, but it is vital to building relationships.
Networking online is not a one-time event. It is a long-term process that requires follow up and follow through. Don't let your connections go cold or forget about you. Stay in touch and keep the conversation going. You can do this by sending a thank you note, a congratulatory message, a referral, a recommendation, or a relevant article. You can also ask for feedback, advice, or an introduction. The key is to show interest, appreciation, and value. Follow through on your promises and commitments. If you say you will do something, do it. If you say you will contact someone, contact them. Be reliable and trustworthy.
Lack of follow-up is what dooms most job seekers. Want to build a network of mentors and sponsors? Follow these steps: 1 - say thank you in the call 2 - if they recommend you do something, write it down 3 - send a thank you note after the call 4 - do the things they recommended 5 - send a note letting them know you did it and the results 6 - rinse and repeat This shows people that you value their advice, gives you multiple reasons for creating touchpoints, and makes them more willing to invest time in you in the future.
Networking online is not a closed circle. It is an open network that allows you to expand your connections and reach new people. You can do this by joining groups, forums, events, or webinars that relate to your field or interests. You can also follow influencers, thought leaders, or mentors that inspire you or challenge you. You can also introduce your connections to each other and help them grow their network. The key is to be proactive, open-minded, and generous. Expand your network and you will expand your opportunities.
Don't just ask for things, instead, start by giving value to others. Give insights. Give your time. Give value. Then, people will naturally be drawn to you.
When I was job searching I started mentoring people who were just starting their career. I signed up at an NGO for that which provided free mentoring sessions. By doing that I could not only bring value to others but also had the chance to learn more about different industries, different roles and benefitted greatly doing that.