A variety of social networking tools have sprung up on the Internet. MySpace, then Facebook, and now Twitter. The line between social and professional uses smears as users have various motivations ranging from connecting with friends to networking with colleagues. Although the methods may be new, the basic concept and benefits of professional networking still apply.
Dave Barrett, a civil litigation lawyer from Massachusetts, has mastered the art of professional networking, building the largest LinkedIn network, which includes over 20 million people, many of whom are lawyers. The LinkedIn Lawyer (Dave’s blog) features a nice PowerPoint explaining how developing a strong profile, sharing personal interests and signing up for many different groups related to your career are techniques for building your network.
Why build an online network? Well, as in the case of Mr. Barrett, there are many benefits to having a large network. Aside from referrals, professional networks may present opportunities that never would have happened otherwise. Offline establishing a network is limited to local functions or conferences filled with many with the time and money to attend those conferences. The internet allows broad interactions across the globe between likeminded professionals, without a lot of time commitment (in person, away from work, etc).
Online networking is not a one-way street. Many wait until they need something and then go around soliciting strangers for help. This is not a network. Sincere interest in other professionals and a two-way nurturing relationship is fruitful and doesn’t happen overnight. Short of life as a hermit, building a network is inevitable, maintaining and growing a professional network online or otherwise takes time and input.
In her response article entitled, “Networking your Way to Partnership or an In-House Job” Lauren Krasnow mentions the importance of an “elevator pitch”. As she puts it, this is a “a self-promoting yet non-arrogant way [of telling people] who you are, what you do and what you bring to the table.” This provides others with a brief, but interesting synopsis of who you are. She goes into detail about building and maintaining these relationships (interesting read).
Using the techniques described or already used in offline networking, one can succeed in putting together a vast online network of professional acquaintances. Some can become close friends, others could revitalize a stagnating career and who knows you might actually have fun doing it.
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