You’re new to IT Outsourcing. How can you use social media to build your professional network?

1 Choose the right platforms

Not all social media platforms are equal when it comes to IT outsourcing. Depending on goals and preferences, one or more of these platforms might be better suited for sharing portfolios, engaging with peers, or finding opportunities. LinkedIn is the most popular and professional network for IT outsourcing; here, you can create a profile that highlights experience, skills, and projects, and connect with potential clients, partners, and mentors. Twitter is great for staying updated on news, trends, and tips in IT outsourcing; follow hashtags, experts, and organizations that interest you and share your own insights. GitHub is a must-have platform for IT outsourcing developers as you can showcase code, collaborate with other developers, and contribute to open source projects. Finally, Medium is a platform for writing and reading articles on various topics including IT outsourcing; use it to share knowledge, opinions, and stories as well as build your personal brand and authority in your field.

2 Optimize your profile

Your social media profile is your online resume and portfolio, and it's the first impression you make on your network and potential clients. Therefore, you should optimize your profile to reflect your skills, achievements, and personality. Use a clear and professional photo that shows your face and smile. Write a catchy and concise headline that summarizes your value proposition and specialties. Include relevant keywords and hashtags that describe your skills and niche, as well as links to your website, portfolio, blog, or other platforms where you showcase your work. Highlight your experience, education, certifications, and awards, and don't forget to ask for recommendations and endorsements from clients, colleagues, and mentors. Lastly, make sure to update your profile regularly with your latest projects, achievements, and interests.

3 Engage with your network

Social media is not a one-way street; you have to engage with your network and contribute to the conversation. To do this, follow, like, comment, and share posts from people and organizations that interest you. Join groups, communities, and forums that are relevant to your niche and participate in discussions, polls, and events. Create and share valuable content that showcases your expertise, insights, and stories in different formats such as articles, videos, podcasts, infographics, or slideshows. Ask and answer questions, offer advice, and provide feedback to others. Tag, mention, and thank people who help you, inspire you or collaborate with you. Be respectful, friendly and authentic in your interactions; avoid spamming, self-promoting or criticizing others.

4 Grow your network

Social media is a powerful tool for expanding your network and finding new opportunities. You can use it to connect with people who can help you, hire you, or partner with you. To grow your network, use the search function to find people and organizations that match your criteria, such as location, industry, role, or interest. Send personalized and relevant invitations or messages, explain who you are and why you want to connect. Hashtags, keywords, and filters can help you find conversations, events, and opportunities that interest you. It's also useful to use referrals and introductions from your existing network to reach out to new contacts. Follow up and nurture your relationships with your network by sending updates, greetings, congratulations, or recommendations. With social media, you can build your professional network , learn from others, showcase your skills, find new clients, projects, and partners - so start using it today to boost your IT outsourcing career!

5 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?