You're new to SEM and want to get ahead. How can you build a professional network?

1 Join online communities

The first step to building your SEM network is to join online communities where you can interact with other SEM practitioners, ask questions, share insights, and learn from their experiences. There are many platforms and forums where you can find SEM-related discussions, such as Reddit, Quora, LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and more. Look for groups, hashtags, or topics that are relevant to your niche, industry, or goals, and follow or join them. Then, participate actively by commenting, liking, sharing, or posting your own content. Be respectful, helpful, and curious, and avoid spamming or self-promoting.

2 Attend events and webinars

Another way to expand your SEM network is to attend events and webinars that are related to your field. These can be online or offline, depending on your location and preferences. Events and webinars are great opportunities to learn from experts, discover new trends and tools, and meet other SEM enthusiasts. You can find events and webinars on platforms like Eventbrite, Meetup, or Google Ads, or by following your favorite SEM influencers or blogs. When you attend an event or webinar, make sure to introduce yourself, exchange contact information, and follow up with the people you meet.

3 Create and share valuable content

One of the best ways to showcase your SEM skills and knowledge is to create and share valuable content that can help others in your field. Content can be in any format, such as blog posts, podcasts, videos, infographics, or case studies. The key is to provide useful and original information that can solve a problem, answer a question, or inspire an action. You can share your content on your own website, social media, or online communities, or by guest posting on other reputable SEM sites. By creating and sharing valuable content, you can establish yourself as an authority, attract more followers, and generate more leads.

4 Connect with influencers and mentors

Another strategy to build your SEM network is to connect with influencers and mentors who can guide you, inspire you, and support you in your career. Influencers and mentors are people who have achieved a high level of success and recognition in the SEM industry, and who have a lot of experience and expertise to share. You can find influencers and mentors by following their blogs, podcasts, videos, or social media accounts, or by reaching out to them via email or direct message. When you connect with influencers and mentors, be respectful, genuine, and appreciative, and avoid asking for favors or spamming them. Instead, try to offer value, feedback, or compliments, and ask for advice or feedback.

5 Maintain and nurture your relationships

The last step to building your SEM network is to maintain and nurture your relationships with the people you meet. Networking is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process that requires effort and attention. You need to keep in touch with your contacts, follow up with them , and provide value to them. You can do this by sending emails, messages, or calls, sharing their content, giving referrals, or offering help. You can also use tools like CRM software or calendars to keep track of your interactions and reminders. By maintaining and nurturing your relationships, you can build trust, loyalty, and mutual benefit with your SEM network.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?