Social Networking: More than just a “Buzzword”
Networking
has been around for centuries. Nowadays, however, it plays a large part in our society,
particularly in relation to social media. Different age groups, individuals and
companies are using social media to communicate, network, build brand awareness
and share information.
Social networking
has become more than just a “buzzword”. It is part of
our vocabulary and lives, in both personal and professional situations. In today’s connected world, social networking
is not just about staying in contact with friends and family, it has become, for
many, a personal branding tool or skill.
Research has shown, however, that in a
professional context, the size of your network is not the only factor in finding success
or building a lasting career. Individual
expertise and accomplishments are major factors in developing and maintaining a
career or business.
Looking globally at networking from a professional point of view, questions
to ask are: how can networking help, how should it be approached and what are
the benefits.
How can networking
help:
Not everyone
is born a natural networker. For many, it is a difficult and frightful task. Attending social events can be nerve-racking.
Many dread the moment when they must approach people. Writing a message on a
social network can also be a moment of anxiety.
Yet, if done
correctly, networking can help build a valuable network, where one can receive
as well as deliver support and advice. When job hunting, a network can keep you
aware of opportunities and contacts.
How should networking
be approached:
A network is
a two-way route: that of giving and taking. It is not just about being visible;
asking and benefiting and/or the size of a network. The best networkers are
those who give their time to others and who share their expertise. By their own personal achievements, they also develop
a more meaningful, intimate and lasting relationship with others. Those who
give and share freely, are more likely to receive from others.
Benefits of Networking:
Building relationships and friendships
Sharing expertise and giving support
Having a network in one’s domain to find jobs or
opportunities
Learning new things
Conclusion:
Networking is
a 2-way relationship. It is a question of giving and taking. By creating and
accomplishing things, you will get noticed and appreciated for your expertise. Staying
connected with people in your industry and/or an inner circle of contacts, is likely
more beneficial than a large network that is barely aware of you or your
skills. Lasting connections are relationships that are
based on attributes such as trust and dependability.
Not to be forgotten
is the importance of face-to-face interaction. This leaves a more personal contact,
where it is easier to later re-initialize a contact via an online social
network.
For the last
years, online social networking has played a big part in our lives. Recent
trends are, however, shifting to more private and closed circuits of contacts.
The example of this can be observed, for example, among teens and third cultural kids, many of whom are using closed networks on social media. If this is
the way social networking is evolving, then it is probably prudent to keep a
good balance between face-to-face relationships and virtual online
relationships.
Developing a Profile and Personal Brand on Linkedin www.linkedin.com
is a topic which will be discussed in a future article.
Thanks to Tracy Le Blanc on Pexels for the photo