A solid professional network could be the key to you moving up in your career or finding a new gig. Which is all well and good, but you're probably thinking ‘how exactly do I build or maintain one if I am not allowed to see them.” Well, there’s this little thing called the internet, and here is how you can use it to build a robust network from home.
- Identify Worthwhile Connections.Don’t just mass follow everyone on LinkedIn. You’re going to have much better results by targeting a select group of strategic connections. These are the folks you share substantive interests and specific characteristics with. It's a small group of 12 to 19 people that includes mentors, colleagues, and former coworkers who aren’t afraid to give you some honest feedback.Don’t waste your time trying to convince the people from “Shark Tank” to follow your blog.
- Be Confident.When it comes to networking, you can’t just let your work do the talking for you. You’re going to have to show off a little and make sure when you do that you’re coming across as a confident person with talent and warmth. You can do this via LinkedIn by posting on your feed or dropping some humblebrags of your own on other people’s posts.
- Ask someone you know to introduce you.If you’re friends with someone working with a person you admire, ask them to connect you. Or look into professional associations, alumni groups, or service organizations to see who you might be able to add to your network. Ask them if they’d like to have a virtual coffee with you or if they’d like to get interviewed for your podcast.Also, side note, better start a podcast before you ask them.
Source:Fast Company