By: Ericca Victoria

Building a network is not a one-time effort — it requires continuous nurturing and maintenance. Knowing how to navigate The Career Network plat- form well is a necessity. Know the best practices on how to stand out — and what you need to avoid.

DO — BUILD A STRONG ONLINE PRESENCE
When it comes to online networking, building a strong online presence is crucial. It is essentially your personal brand, and it should reflect your values, expertise, and unique perspective.

DON’T — OVERSHARE PERSONAL INFORMATION
While it’s important to be authentic and share aspects of your personal life, it’s also crucial to strike a balance and avoid oversharing personal information. Remember, your online presence is a professional representation of yourself and your brand.

DO — ENGAGE ENTHUSIASTICALLY
It’s not enough to simply share content and wait for others to engage with you. To truly make an impact, you must actively participate in conversations, respond to comments and engage with your audience.

DON’T — ENGAGE IN NEGATIVE OR CONTROVERSIAL DISCUSSIONS
While it’s okay to express your opinions and engage in healthy debates, do so respectfully and constructively. Avoid personal attacks, offensive language and heated arguments.

DO — COME FROM A PLACE OF RESPECT
Be mindful of your behavior and interactions to ensure you are creating a positive and professional impres- sion. First and foremost, be respectful of others’ time and boundaries.

DON’T — SPAM OR EXCESSIVELY SELF-PROMOTE
One of the biggest turnoffs in online networking is excessive self-promotion or spamming. While it’s important to promote your brand and share your achievements, you can do so in a tasteful and strategic manner.

 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Online networking presents endless possibilities for individuals and businesses to connect, collaborate and grow. By mastering the do’s and don’ts of online networking, you can make meaningful connections, showcase your expertise and expand your reach.

To succeed in the world of online networking, it’s crucial to strike a balance between authenticity and professionalism. Craft a strong online presence that reflects your unique brand voice, engage with your audience actively and follow networking etiquette to build genuine relationships.