Networking is an essential element of the modern job search. Whether you’re actively looking for a new job or not, it’s important to build and maintain a strong professional network. As we’ve been looking at the the dos and don’ts of personal social media, it’s worth looking into how we can use it on a career level. LinkedIn is an excellent tool for professionals to build their network online which can help with their present or future job searches. To ensure your LinkedIn network is as strong as possible, follow these simple steps to building your contacts.
Determine what you want from your contacts.
What do you want from your network? Are you looking for a window into a new career? Are you looking to rise up the ladder in your own industry? Ask yourself what kind of contacts will help you achieve these goals and then you can go about building the ideal contact list.
Find contacts with commonalities.
Connecting on LinkedIn is a two-way street so unless you’re offering someone else some value by connecting with you, why would they bother? Find contacts you share some common ground which makes it easier to connect and get the conversation going.
Let people know why you’re connecting.
As with any form of social media, it can be awkward connecting with a total stranger. Therefore, be sure to write a message to each new contact explaining why you are reaching out to them and why you hope to connect with them. This will not only ease the mind of your new contact but will also serve as a nice ice-breaker.
Be a presence online.
Social media has become such a large part of the hiring process, that having a lack of an online presence puts you at a disadvantage. When you connect with people, chance are they are going to search for you online so take that as an opportunity. Be active and engaged online. Share your work, join conversations and have your voice represented.
Don’t be pushy.
I’ve seen people make a contact with someone and immediately message them to discuss any opening in their company. That is a sure-fire way to scare off any contacts. People don’t want to feel like they’re running a service just by connecting with you. Develop a relationship before even approaching the notion of them helping. And even then, don’t expect the world from them.
Take it offline.
While you don’t want to rush things by any means, it is important that your relationship with your LinkedIn contacts progresses. After corresponding for a while and developing a rapport, see if they would be interested in meeting up for coffee. That can then develop into a more frequent meetings, leading to a solid and valuable professional contact.