Professional Social Networking Success
The following article was inspired by a post made by Dan Klamm, Outreach & Marketing Coordinator at Syracuse University Career Services.
Years ago, networking didn't get much further than asking a friend at another company to submit your resume to her HR department. With social media professional networking has been made exponentially easier and now networking has the potential to give rise to hundreds of relevant connections with a simple click. But this wide open world of opportunity also puts your reputation to the test with every online communication. So when you venture into the world of professional social networking, do so with caution and clarity of purpose.
Social media can be messy
Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social networks, connect us to a blend of bff's, acquaintances, associates current friends and childhood classmates, close friends bundled with co-workers, bosses, former bosses, and virtual "friends" never even seen face-to-face. This dynamic combination of people who see your profile and read your postings can indeed create disorder in the presentation of you; the social you, the family you, the professional you. It's important to always think ahead for while your Facebook friends might enjoy a dirty joke status your Linked In connections would probably appreciate a link to a work related article. Your image is always at risk.
Customize all communications
That means, don't copy and paste generic emails and direct messages to dozens or even 100's of recipients. All communication should be customized with a personally addressed header. By doing so you send a message that shows you aspire to get to know that person or a more personal level and that you value your unique connection with the recipient. For example, when requesting a recommendation on LinkedIn always customize the request to reflect how you value the person's endorsement. For new relationships, show that you've done your homework. Explain why you want to connect, what it is about the person's background and anything career-related you two might have in common.
Express yourself clearly
Be specific when you approach someone for career help via social media. Know exactly what you wish to gain from the interaction, ask targeted questions that show you've done your research and express yourself clearly. Working professionals are strapped for time. Want to pick their brains, an introduction, advice, a critique, an endorsement? Make it easy to get the help you're seeking. Be polite, direct and to the point!
Take it offline
Social media platforms are wide open portals to making introductions and warming up relationships however, if never taken to the next step these newly found relationships weaken and fizzle to nothing more than just another number in your list of connections. To actually connect with your connections it would be advisable to reach beyond the superficial for some real time voice-to-voice or yes, even face-to-face interaction, time zones and geography permitting, of course.
Remember...use the magic words
When someone does something nice for you online, whether it's responding to a few questions, retweeting a link to your blog post, or even connecting you with one of their friends it's never ok to not say thank you! A show of appreciation for social media influence is a must. Continuously look for ways to give back to the people in your online networks. Networking is a two-way street and at the end of the road, your reputation is part of the landscape.
