One of the most talked about subjects today is "Professional Networking". Whenever there is a discussion about career development, the term "Professional Networking" naturally crops up. The idea of networking for career development has grown to a high magnitude with the launch of professional networking websites like Linkedin etc. Career based portals like Naukriforwomen also have a networking aspect that puts you in touch with experts across all industries.
With the use of internet as a tool for professional networking, people often tend to make some mistakes that may jeopardise their career prospects. What seems okay for a social networking website, is not so "ok" on a professional networking website. But what may seem obvious to some, might not occur to many people. So Naukriforwomen brings you the Do's and Dont's for professional networkng on the internet.
Etiquette For Professional Networking On The Internet
Create A Friendly Profile: Your profile on professional networking websites is not a formal introduction like the resume. So make it a little informal and chatty. Your profile should say that you are there to make friends. Fill in as much information about your professional life as possible. Spend some time to create a profile that others would like going through.
Connect With People You Know: It is tempting to send out invites to every Tom, Dick and Harry. But experts say that it is best to send out invites only to people you really know. Similarly, accept requests only from people who you really know. If you are seeking an introduction to someone, approach a common friend who really knows both of you. Trying to connect with people you have no real connection with is of no use. Focus on your real connections instead of broadening a weak circle of contacts.
Refresh The Memory: If you are sending a request to someone who you have not been in touch with lately, it is best to refresh his/her memory. Tell your prospective contact how you know each other. Make your invitation a little informal and friendly.
Put Up A Suitable Picture: Anyone who goes through your profile forms an opinion about you. Your picture forms an important part of this opinion. So the picture you choose has to be just right for the job you expect it to do. Obviously, it has to be a formal picture. It would be great if you could get a professional to click you for this purpose. If that is not possible, choose a picture with a light and neutral background, that shows you as a professional. The picture should not be very old and it should look like how you really look. Don't give in to the temptation of doctoring with Photoshop!
Requests: Professional networking sites allow you to request your contacts to introduce you to their contacts. When you make such a request, add an offer to reciprocate. If you have requests sent to you, act promptly upon them. If you need to decline a request, do it decently with an explanation.
Write Your Own Messages: Most websites offer standard boiler plate text that you can use to send messages, requests and invitations. But it is more impresive if you write your own requests and invitations in your words.
Don't Make Up Stories: Sometimes people invent a work history in order to connect with certain people. This is a complete No! Sooner or later you will get caught and end up ruining your reputation.
The most important thing is to see things from the point of view of others. As in real world, you need to be empathatic in the virtual world also. Just behave in the way you would expect others to behave. Happy Networking!
