If you’re a military veteran and you want a job, you may or may not know how to network. However, networking is important when trying to find a job. Even if you’re not into networking, there are ways to network without making it so difficult. Since the age of technology is here, you don’t have to go to networking events or pound the pavement to find a job through networking.
Introverts can now use some online methods to help with networking. Here are a few ways to network better online.
Represent the True You! Get Real! Stay Real!
Make sure the image you put out there is really you with any online profiles, such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. Show off your accomplishments and make sure it’s clear what you’re capable of and what you’ve done. Your profiles need to be easy to read and contain keywords that will help other find you.
Don’t Be Shy! Contact Professionals in your Field!
Once you’re set up on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and other social networking sites, reach out to the professionalism your field. Connect with them and find a way to start a conversation online. You never know when a simple online conversation will lead to something much larger. Bottom line, get busy. Stay busy.
Start Building Your Credibility Now!
Using freelance work, classes and internships will help to build credibility. You want start working on this immediately and with good classes and work to help build your resume. Take online classes and start a dialogue with colleagues. Some of these classes can be done via Skype, which can help with starting online conversations. Make sure you follow all your new connections online with social media, as well.
Follow Up! Follow Up! Follow Up!
Following up is vital when networking on or offline. You can easily follow up online by sending a private message or commenting on a social media post. Stay active and follow up with your new contacts.
Remember, networking doesn’t have to be scary. You don’t have to do it in person and you can certainly make plenty of good connections online.