Social Media Networking 101
Anyone who knows me is well aware that I love networking and I have a strong belief that it is so important to be networking in some form every day.
Now that we are out of college, we have to start from scratch when it comes to building our own personal brand and network. Since the term “networking event” makes most twentysomethings cringe, I suggest networking the way most of us Gen Y’ers are most comfortable: through social media outlets. Just remember to use these tools a little differently than you did in college!
Many companies preach that their most valuable asset is their people. You should be thinking the same way. Keep meeting people and you never know where it will lead you or how you can help others simply by knowing someone.
Facebook
• Are you using status updates? Use status updates to get information you need, tell others what projects you are working on, get feedback on a new idea, share a valuable article or even to get people to your page.
• Does your “About Me” section share something about your professional background, strengths and goals? You never know when someone is looking to hire someone just like you.
• Don’t be afraid of using facebook to the fullest. Make a facebook group, post an event or send out a “note” to let others know about an important event or issue you are passionate about.
• Blogs. Check out facebook’s cool blog application to see top rated blogs in your network and read about issues that affect you. Commenting on blogs, emailing the blogger, or writing as a guest blogger are other great ways to get yourself out there.
LinkedIn
Are you “Linked In”? If not, make a profile today and start growing your professional network. Your Linked In profile is basically like an online resume. Linked In is an amazing tool to meet others in your field. It is also great for networking with recruiters and finding jobs.
Twitter
I’m new on the Twitter scene, but I can already see the value of this tool, especially for entrepreneurs and/or bloggers who are trying to establish themselves and develop a personal brand and following. Twitter is simply a “micro-blog” similar to facebook’s status updates. You can send out a “Twitter” (limited to 140 characters) which is usually based on “what are you doing right now?” to those who are following you, and they can respond back. I’ve already connected with some amazing entrepreneurs through this tool. Check it out and follow me at ExecutiveVision.
I hope this helped you see the websites you log into every day in a new light! Don’t be afraid of “branding” yourself!
For more on this topic, check out this awesome article too.
