Online Career Networking: How to Get Noticed, Be Remembered, and Singled Out for the Job
by Hallie Crawford, MA, CPCC
Interested in doing some online career networking? This is a great idea. In addition to in-person networking events, the web is the perfect place to meet professionals who are searching for your brand of talent. If you're nervous, don't be. Here's why online networking rocks:
- Network any time of day - even in your pajamas! (no one has to know)
- Get to know people slowly - makes for a better "fit" when they finally decide to hire you or solicit your services
- Share your website link - add subscribers to your mailing list if you have one
- Meet people outside your locale - ideal if you are considering relocating or want to freelance for people in other states
- Break the ice - online networking is perfect for shy networkers who feel more comfortable writing than speaking at in-person events
Some tips for making the most of your online career networking experience:
1. Join networks that contain a cross-representation of related professionals.
Let's say you're a web designer by trade. Your ideal networking group might consist of entrepreneurs from a variety of fields, plus copywriters, virtual assistants, and computer experts. This way you're not competing with a group of other people who do the exact same thing as you. Instead, you're making contact with folks who may one day need your service, or recommend you to their associates. Think team building potential!
2. Participate on a regular basis.
Many of my career coaching clients say that they benefit the most from the groups where they put forth the biggest effort. Meaning, they log in on a regular basis (once a week or more), take the time to craft thoughtful responses, and ask lots of questions. Asking questions not only helps to broaden your own knowledge, but it gives others the opportunity to share what they know. Your curiosity and genuine interest in others will help you to be remembered later.
3. Be friendly, respect the opinions of others.
You may come across some shy people in your networking experiences. If you're a tad more experienced or outgoing, consider take these newbies by the hand and show them the ropes. One thing that can happen in online career forums - sometimes people get a little overly heated when expressing their opinions and it can put you on the defensive. Make up your mind to steer clear of conversations that are not productive for you. Remain pleasant and professional toward everyone while offering your help and honest insight whenever you can.
4. Be a giver.
Ready to take your online networking effort to the next level? Then make up your mind to be a giver. Volunteer your time and/or your professional assistance. Networks such as Ryze.com are always in need of group moderators. Being a network leader can be hard work, but the end result (high quality contacts - real relationships with terrific professionals like you) is well worth the effort. Or, if you don't feel like leading, you can always offer your services/expertise to other members of the group who may need them. This is a terrific portfolio/credibility builder. Finally - don't forget to write letters of recommendation/give testimonials to those people who help YOU.
5. Don't be afraid to toot your own horn!
Many of us, especially women, are taught at a young age to be modest, humble and unassuming. But then later when we're doing something like trying to get a foot in the career door... this advice works against us. Career networking is a time to market yourself and your abilities (tastefully, of course). Whether you are searching for full-time work, want to begin freelancing and develop your own website, or are planning to launch your own business... the online career network is the place to share great things about you and what you do!
Top Online Career Networking Sites:
For more career tips, teleclasses and career coaching information, visit Hallie Crawford at the website below. All the best in your career networking endeavors!
Copyright 2007 Hallie Crawford. All rights reserved.
NOTE: Feel free to "reprint" this article as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the "about the author" info at the end).
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