Networking is not what it used to be, and in the digital world of today it become much more than shaking hands with someone at a work event. Building robust and diverse networks is also an essential strategy for lifelong learning, career advancement as well as higher level role or succession planning both within education in general but with a particular focus on the educational entrepreneur market.
The platform we get from LinkedIn is significant enough to bond with people who share similar wavelengths and increase our professional presence. In this article, we want to reveal tips on how you are able in order to network online as well since possible through LinkedIn and additional platforms.
1. Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile
Our Identity is a virtual resume and personal branding platform. This can be done first and foremost with a professional photograph, followed by an interesting headline that communicates who we are professionally (and where were going).
The section summary is for showing off our relevant experience, skills and career ambitions. A well-written and informative profile helps us inform other users who are connecting with our interests.
2. Building a Strong Network
LinkedIn networking is not only about adding the people we know as connections. Because it is using that to grow its tribe strategically with professionals who have insights, opportunities and collaborations in their pockets. This starts with networking, reaching out to colleagues, mentors and industry leaders.
Get involved with LinkedIn groups and pose questions to the masses. Making your connection request personalized with a short introduction, why you would like to connect can also help in accepting it.
3. Sharing Valuable Content
Sharing valuable content consistently on LinkedIn is a solid form of thought leadership and engagement in our network. We can publish articles, findings in researches, educational resources and personal experience related to a field. Regular posting keeps our profile looking busy, and it also shows how much we know (and care) about education.
Another way is to get a conversation going by asking questions etc. which will also then in turn drive more engagement and visibility of our posts.
4. Engaging with Connections
Networking is all about engagement. By commenting on and liking posts from our connections, we are ensuring that they remember us while also keeping a few of these relationships alive. Showing off is of course not encouraged but congratulating your connections for their achievements, endorsing hole skills and providing recommendations are some ways to show gratitude.
This shows that we were not just silent followers but actively contributed to the professional community.
5. Utilizing LinkedIn Features
LinkedIn also provide us with several features that can amplify our networking initiatives. For example, LinkedIn has a publishing platform that lets us write and publish longer articles so we can explore topics of interest to us in greater detail. Completing courses on the LinkedIn Learning platform, and then showing your certifications in our profile can also help boost professional credibility.
Moreover, we can also partake in LinkedIn Live events or conduct our webinars to reach a wider audience and prove our competence.
6. Exploring Other Platforms
LinkedIn is a fantastic online tool for networking and professional growth, but in all honesty, there are other platforms that we can use to grow our network too. For example, different forms of real-time discussions or following industry hashtags will attract attention on Twitter.
Participating in group talks on platforms like Facebook, can be nearly as functional for educators to associate with different instructors. Different platforms have different advantages, and using multiple platforms could expand our audience.
7. Attending Virtual Conferences and Webinars
There has been an increase in virtual conferences as well webinars that allows us to learn and network from the comforts of our homes. These events are an opportunity for us to network with experts and peers in our industry, learn new things and exchange ideas about the future trends. Take full advantage of the Q&A sessions, breakout rooms and follow up with speakers or attendees on LinkedIn to make these connections even deeper.
8. Leveraging Alumni Networks
A great source of networking and job market for graduates is belonging to an alumni network Most universities have platforms online or LinkedIn groups for alumni to be able network and share opportunities, as well.
Connecting with alumni for informational interviews, mentorship or just a chat can also led to new experiences and partnerships.
9. Practicing Digital Etiquette
Online etiquette and professionalism are really important when it comes to networking online. This includes courtesy and respectfulness in all communication, resisting pushy self-promotion tactics that may be more aggressive than necessary, managing our own expectations (i.e. being prepared for a no reply: injunction to make time), etc.
Being meaningful and thoughtful in your interactions will help you with an online reputation that is positive, as well genuine relationships.
10. Tips for Successful Online Networking
To gain the most of online networking. Here are some additional tips:
- Authenticity: be as authentic as possible so that you create an environment of trust and genuine human interaction.
- Keeping our Profile Active: engaging with others and regularly posting content (this one is as simple being consistent in your effort)
- Respond: Don’t let any messages or connection requests sit idle on your profile.
- Strategic Networking: Enroll a network that services the purpose of our professional objectives.
- Solicit Feedback: Constantly refine our networking techniques based on feedback and outcomes
Being lazy while networking virtually and using LinkedIn or other similar services will not suffice. We can do this by fine-tuning our profiles, interacting with others in our networks, adding value through content creation and promotion, as well as utilizing numerous platforms to maintain a strong online presence while advancing further into the educational sector. Adopting these really keep us” in the loop to remain relevant, knowledgeable and an influence in our niche.
