Networking can be frustrating and overwhelming. There's no denying that making relationships in person works far better than making them online. In this post I'll share how to build connections online as well, and use those networks to build relationships for career success.
STEP 1: Identify Opportunities for Online Networks
The key thing about online networking is identifying opportunities for building relationships for career success.
Here are two tips to help with this process:
Don't limit yourself to finding jobs. Instead, find a list of companies you want to work for, then find individuals at those companies.
When searching for companies, keep an eye out for keywords. For example, instead of searching for the phrase "software development company", search for "software developer" or "development team". It can often be a smaller company with a smaller budget that you wouldn't find by searching for "software development company".
STEP 2: Get to Know Yourself Before You Meet People
There are two common mistakes people make when connecting with others for a professional relationship:
They think the other person will judge them
They assume they know the person before meeting them.
This is completely wrong! There are no right or wrong answers. The only question you need to ask yourself is "what am I looking to get out of this?".
What you think of yourself and what you think others think of you will determine whether you get anywhere.
You have to change your mindset and approach.
Start by writing down the 5 most important qualities you think you possess.
Now ask yourself if the people you want to connect with think you have those traits too.
What does your ideal professional partner look like? Write this down.
Next, look at yourself in the mirror. What do you think you see?
If you think you see something that doesn't reflect the traits you listed above, then you need to change your perspective.
STEP 3: Have Fun
In the past, I've talked about how important it is to have fun in your professional life.
This includes meeting new people in person.
I'm a firm believer in meeting people in person as much as possible. In fact, I've had great success meeting people at conventions and events.
But there's another part of your job that's equally important: online networking.
When you meet people in person, you can feel awkward and try to cover it up. But online networking requires that you show your true personality and tell people what you're all about. And while online networking is a little more risky, I think it's a lot more fun! So be brave and show your real self! You never know where you could end up.
Networking is important