What is Professional Networking?

LinkedIn is a great place to begin the practice of professional networking. In fact, LinkedIn was designed for the purpose of networking via a social media platform. Although I have had the pleasure of having some great conversations with my connections here on LinkedIn, and I’ve also had my share of many people who either haven’t learned professional networking skills, or don’t care to.

I can relate to those who really haven’t had the education or mentorship on networking in a way that’s productive, professional, or beneficial to both parties involved. Years ago, I started a business and had a mentor that advised that I begin networking. Having to get out and interact with other people in the marketplace was a total 180° from my personality.

But I jumped in with both feet and man did I make a lot of mistakes. But, throughout the years I’ve learned a lot and have polished my skills where I have been able to teach others how to be productive in professional networking.

(If you would like some one-on-one advice, send me a DM!)

What is professional networking anyway? Is there a difference in the way you are networking now and professional networking?

Networking is an interaction between two or more people that provides a mutual benefit. ?While I prefer networking face-to-face and in-person in the marketplace, I also enjoy interacting with others on professional platforms like LinkedIn. After all, networking on a social media platform like LinkedIn can open the door to meeting new people from anywhere in the world that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet by just networking in the marketplace.

Since I enjoy marketplace networking over sitting behind a computer, I plan to share some of my insight from what I’ve learned from my 30+ years of experience in additional articles. But before I left this introductory article, I thought I’d share a couple of tips when it comes to networking on LinkedIn.

1.?????? Why you are on LinkedIn and what your purpose is for even having a profile?

Are you on LinkedIn to network??Some people have a profile because they were required to set one up for a class and once the class is over the profile is left dormant. Others are only looking to post their resume to be found for a job.

2.?????? ?What are you trying to accomplish by networking on LinkedIn?

Are you hoping to gather more sales leads? Are you hoping to reach people in HR to get a better job? Or, are you just looking to make professional contacts?

If you asked me why I have a profile, it’s a way for me to network. (If you aren’t a connection of mine and would like to be, please connect with me!)

I have three things I am trying to accomplish by networking on LinkedIn:

1.?????? Interact and give back by sharing my experience and knowledge.

2.?????? Publicize my books and seminars and swap ideas with other people.

3.?????? Identify link-minded people who are ambitious and may be looking for additional opportunities.

As I mentioned earlier, I will be posting more articles soon. These will be on the pillars to professional networking, how to have a 0-pressure approach to networking in the marketplace, and why you would want to network in a professional manner.? If this is of no interest to you, no worries. But if it is, stay tuned.