Social networks are not just for socializingToday's social networks continue to gain new members, not just with teens and college kids, but with business professionals as well. As more people are unemployed, or afraid that they may be, online networking provides an excellent way to be prepared.
Social media can be the most cost-effective way to build your personal brand. The top social networks are Facebook and LinkedIn. Facebook is more personal. LinkedIn, however, is just for business networking.
Here are some tips to get you started:
Your headline: This appears under your name and is your response when someone asks, "What do you do?" Keep it personal, short and succinct.
Your profile URL: Set your name as your profile URL extension. Consider adding it to your e-mail signature.
Your photo: Get a good professional headshot to build your online image.
What you are working on: Add a short sentence about what you're doing professionally and update it frequently. Highlight your expertise and any current, interesting projects.
Your Web site or blog: Either you or your company have one, so make sure you include it in your profile.
Online networks have many groups that may interest you. However, don't join just for the sake of joining.
Social networks are also very important tools for sales and marketing professionals. By devoting time each week to invite customers, prospects and vendors to your network, you create connections with them.
Donna DeClemente is currently president and founder of DDC Marketing Group, a member of RWN and their Marketing Committee and editor of their e-newsletter. You can connect with her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or email at ddeclemente@ddcmarketing.com.
This column is written by members of the Rochester Women's Network, whose focus is to help women connect, grow and succeed. For more information, go to www.rwn.org.
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