Networking Online to Find a Job

One of the best things the Internet does is enable people to connect. There are dating websites, retail websites, support forums, educational website, medical websites and a host of other websites which enable Internet users to interact with those who share a common interest. Likewise there are also websites which put those who share career interests in contact with each other. Through these websites Internet users can communicate with others in their own industry or in an industry they hope to break into. These websites are essentially the cocktail parties of our generation. However, users of these websites should exercise caution when using the Internet to network. This article will provide some useful tips for how to successfully network online for the purpose of finding a job.

One very important tip we can offer for networking online is to keep all communications professional. This is very important because Internet users never really know who they are going to encounter when networking online. Failing to maintain an air of professionalism while networking online can really negatively impact an Internet user抯 chance of landing a job because they will not be taken seriously. Another reason why it is so important to avoid unprofessional behavior when networking online is it may be possible for potential employers to access these unprofessional communications for years to come. Unlike an inappropriate comment made at a cocktail party which may be forgotten over time online comments may be available for all to see for awhile to come.

Another tip for networking online for the purpose of finding a job is to cast a wide net. Internet users should not be afraid to reach out in as many ways as possible to network with those in the same career field. This does not mean you should register with every career networking website around and begin posting your contact information and career details with reckless abandon. However, it also does not mean you should be overly cautious and optimistic about the types of contacts you make. Obviously you should make efforts to network with those in your direct industry but you should also consider networking with those in related fields or fields which often work in close conjunction with members of your field. This is important because these individuals are likely doing the same type of networking and can put you in contact with influential people in your own industry.

It is also extremely important to avoid burning bridges when you are networking online. It may be tempting to cut ties with someone who has said something negative about you or someone who has offended you in some way. This can be tempting because the Internet is so expansive that you may think you will not likely encounter this person again. However, even though the Internet is enormous the size of your industry is a greater indication of whether or not you will encounter these individuals again. If you are in a relatively small industry it is very likely you will encounter this person again and again during the course of your career. It is also likely that you have common friends, acquaintances and even colleagues. For this reason you should avoid these types of relationship breaks.

When networking online you should always remember to avoid speaking negatively about your previous employers. This is a problem many job seekers make and it can really make a bad first impression on potential employers or on those who may be in a position to put you in connection with influential people in your industry.

Finally, those who are networking online for purposes of career advancement should be careful of networking websites which allow users to remain anonymous to a certain degree. This is important because it is possible you may encounter someone from your own company who is also networking online. This can be damaging to your career because if your company learns you are looking for a new job, it can negatively impact your job status.