Networking Online

Since I've been blogging and more active in social networking, I've had some neat experiences.  I want to share them to help you understand how it can work for anyone.

LinkedIn:

I was looking for a contact name at a specific company for a job seeking friend.  I sent an linkedin invitation to connect and the response I got was "call me, we need to talk". The phone call resulted in an attempt to try and recruit ME.  Now, all I was trying to do was send this guy's profile over to the company contact (giving back, sharing information). 

Blog:

I just write my blog to help others navigate the extreme terraine of job search.  I am trying to disperse my information.  I have received numerous emails/commentswhich have resulted in numerous on-line contacts whom I correspond with and consider networking contacts.  I've guest blogged on a site in England and have received mention on some noteworthy blogs. This sounds a little egotistical, and it isn't meant to.  It is to demonstrate that if you want to become a known player, you have to play.

Twitter:

I have "met" some interesting people on twitter and enjoy following their tweets.  I have learned new things about the job search world by reading tweets too. 

Facebook:

I've always considered Facebook a way to maintain contact with my personal/family network.  I sort of want to keep it personal and find that hard to do.  I do post my blog on Facebook to provide information for my family friends, some who are looking for their next job.  I have connected with family spread out across the US as well as friends from elementary school and I love see what everyone is up to.  Facebook is a great way to stay in touch or reconnect with people you haven't been in regular contact with.  The medium is great because it allows you to share pictures, articles and daily life written updates.

Staying in touch is as easy as logging in!  Don't be afraid, just be aware ALWAYS, of what you are saying.

Comments

[Career Sherpa]

Karl Thanks for the reinforcement! Good luck dangling your carrots. I don't know anyone looking for an Adobe guru, but who would need you or why? I'll keep my eyes open!

[Karl Heinz Kremer]

Thanks for bringing this issue up. I have the same experience as far as Twitter and blogging goes: Getting your name out, and associated with your knowledge is a great way to make new contacts.
I use my blog to post articles in my field of expertise. One of the problems with blogging is that people usually don't just stumble across my blog if they don't have a specific need (or already know me). That's where Twitter plays an important role: It's a tool that enables me to dangle carrots in front of the people I'm interested in drawing to my writing.
And one you have this solid connection, you can ask the innocent question "BTW: I'm looking for a job, know anybody who's hiring in our field?" - of course, in the context of a longer email that provides some very useful information to the recipient :)
Oh, BTW Hannah, I'm looking for a job, do you know anybody who's hiring in the field of extending Adobe applications via plug-ins?