A guide to social networking

A guide to social networking
SEEK content teamupdated on 28 June, 2024
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Connecting with people and businesses is an important part of career development. One communication channel that makes it easier is your online social network. Not only does social networking help you meet new people and stay connected with your industry, it can improve your access to job opportunities and be used as a tool to build your career. 

Whether you’re stepping into the job market for the first time, a seasoned professional seeking new opportunities, or an entrepreneur ready to expand your business, social networking can open doors.

From building a compelling online presence from scratch to forming relationships with industry leaders, we guide you through the steps to make social networking a useful professional tool.

What is social networking?

The social networking definition refers to all the dedicated websites and apps that allow you to interact with others online. Users can connect, share information and build online communities, starting with casual conversations through to professional collaborations. However, with so many different platforms out there, the definition can vary. 

As a user on a social networking platform, your first step is to create a profile and a personal brand that reflects the professional identity you wish to project. The status updates, photos, videos and links you share should all contribute to the image you’re trying to convey. You can also join groups, where you can engage in discussions, exchange knowledge, and collaborate on projects.

Several social networking platforms have risen in popularity in the past decade: 

  • Facebook: originally launched as a platform for college students, Facebook is a global social networking site where you can connect with friends, share updates, join groups and create and join events. 

  • Instagram:  mostly for sharing visual content, and popular with influencers, brands and businesses, as a place to share information on products and connect with customers.

  • TikTok: this video-sharing platform allows you to create and share short-form videos. It’s gained popularity, particularly among younger audiences, and is also used by brands and professionals to reach wider audiences.

What are the advantages of social networking?  

The advantages of social networking sites extend beyond personal interactions. On these platforms, you can take advantage of a range of opportunities that will boost your professional development and build your career.

Career development and learning 

Social media can expose professionals to industry trends. You can follow industry leaders, join specialised groups, and subscribe to relevant content to stay updated on the latest developments in your field. 

Social networking sites also offer opportunities for attending online events, webinars and professional groups. These virtual gatherings allow you to gain new knowledge, develop skills and engage in discussions with experts, to help you stay relevant and competitive in your career.

Increased visibility and personal branding 

Social platforms allow professionals to build a strong personal brand by sharing their expertise and achievements. By sharing relevant content, engaging with industry peers, and taking part in discussions, you can establish yourself as a thought leader in your field. This can catch the eye of employers, clients and collaborators and bring about plenty of new opportunities.

Networking and collaboration 

The opportunity to connect with like-minded people is one of the biggest advantages of social networking sites. These platforms provide a space for professionals to access job opportunities, exchange ideas and form relationships. 

By engaging in industry-specific groups, forums and discussions, you can build on your professional network and collaborate with others. Networking on social media can lead to partnerships, mentorship opportunities, and even job offers.

How to use social networking for your career 

Using social networking can help boost your career prospects and open doors to new opportunities. Here are some tips to help you improve the potential of these platforms for professional growth and development.

Create a professional profile 

Creating a strong professional profile is the first step to using social networking for your career. Your profile should highlight your skills, experience and accomplishments. Start with a professional profile photo and a strong headline that reflects your expertise. Write a short summary that shares your professional background, achievements and career goals.

You can also optimise your profile with relevant keywords to help other users find you. Use industry-specific terms and phrases that potential employers might search for. You should also consider creating a SEEK profile, which allows you to share your experience and connect with potential employers on one of Australia’s leading job platforms. 

Content creation and engagement  

Creating valuable content helps position yourself as an expert in your field. On your profile, share insights, industry news and interesting articles that are relevant to your field. Regularly posting content can help you build credibility and attract followers who are interested in your expertise.

Engaging with industry discussions is just as important. You can do this by commenting on posts, participating in relevant groups and sharing your opinions on trending topics. This helps you connect with other professionals and thought leaders.  

Networking and building connections  

Building meaningful relationships through social networking is also important. Start by connecting with relevant people in your industry, including potential employers, colleagues and industry influencers. Personalise your connection requests by mentioning common interests or mutual connections to make a stronger impression.

It’s important to take part in genuine interactions and build long-term connections, and meeting with groups and going to events in real life. Online, engage with your network regularly by congratulating them on their achievements, sharing useful information, and offering help when needed. This makes it more likely that your connections will think of you when relevant opportunities come up.

Disadvantages social networking    

While social networking sites offer plenty of benefits when it comes to your career, they also come with drawbacks. It's important to be aware of these potential disadvantages so that the pitfalls don't outweigh the benefits.

Information overload and time management 

One of the challenges that comes with social media is managing information overload. With the constant stream of updates, news and notifications, it can be overwhelming trying to keep up with everything. 

It's important to put boundaries in place and set aside specific times for social media. Use tools like content filters and notification settings to find relevant information and minimise distractions.

Creating content is also time consuming. It takes hours to strategise, create and post content, and engage in discussions – time which may be better spent upskilling or networking in person. 

Privacy concerns and online reputation management  

Privacy concerns are a major drawback of social networking sites. Sharing personal and professional information online can expose you to risks such as identity theft, data breaches, and unwanted attention. Be sure to update your profile settings to control who can see your information and posts. 

Online reputation management is also important. Your online presence can significantly impact your career, so it’s important to avoid posting anything that could be seen as unprofessional or controversial. Regularly search your name online to monitor your digital footprint and address any negative content straight away. 

Social networking sites offer plenty of opportunities for career development and professional growth. By setting up a professional profile, sharing valuable content, and building meaningful connections, you can help your career. To make the most of social networking, adopt a strategic approach. Set clear goals, allocate time wisely and remain professional. By using these platforms thoughtfully, you can take advantage of new opportunities, stay ahead of industry trends, and build a professional network that supports your career goals.

FAQs  

What is social networking? 

Social networking is the use of dedicated websites and apps to interact with other users, find people with similar interests, and build online communities. These platforms help create personal and professional connections, allowing users to share information, join groups, and take part in personal and professional discussions.

What is an example of social networking?

An example of social networking is using Facebook to connect with colleagues, join industry-specific groups and follow companies. Facebook allows professionals to create profiles showcasing their experience, skills and achievements, making it a great tool for networking, job searching and career development. 

What are different types of social networks? 

Wondering what is a ‘social network’? There are various types of social networks, each serving different purposes. Professional networks focus on career development and business connections. Social networks such as Facebook and Instagram build personal connections and encourage content sharing for entertainment purposes. 

What is the difference between social media and social networking? 

Social media refers to the platforms and tools used to create and share content, like blogs, videos and photos. Social networking, on the other hand, involves using social media sites to build relationships and interact with others.

Is there a difference between social media and social networks? 

Yes, there is a difference. Social media refers to the content you consume through social platforms. Social networking focuses on building and maintaining relationships through these platforms.

Is it okay to connect with recruiters on social media, or is that unprofessional?  

Yes, it is okay to connect with recruiters on social media, and isn’t unprofessional. In fact, connecting with recruiters is what is professional networking sites are designed for. Recruiters use these platforms to find potential applicants, and having a well-crafted professional profile increases your visibility and chances of being noticed for relevant job opportunities.

Is it okay to use social media to connect with colleagues or even my current boss? 

Yes, it is okay to use social media to connect with colleagues or your current boss, especially on professional networking sites. You can also request to add them on Facebook or Instagram, where they have the option of accepting or rejecting.

More from this category: Working relationships

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