For a young professional, hearing the phrase “social media networking” might conjure up a certain blue and white square logo. However, there are many more ways to network online than just using LinkedIn.
In fact, other social media platforms might be more beneficial for your specific goals or industry. Read on to learn how to leverage social media for networking in the Dallas area.
How to Use LinkedIn for Networking
Let’s start with the aforementioned professional networking social media platform: LinkedIn.
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking. The platform enables you to connect with people you know and view professionals that they know, producing “warmer” leads than cold emailing without any common ground.
To get the most out of LinkedIn, always include a personalized note when sending a connection request. In that message, introduce yourself briefly and reference something relevant to both of you. Suppose you notice that your new connection plays the same musical instrument as you do – mention it. If you met at the same conference, definitely include that in your connection invite.
You will catch that person’s attention with a common thread, and they will be more likely to accept your invitation.
The more connections you have, the more likely your profile will be recommended to others, and the more visible you will be to employers or acquaintances. However, try your best to connect with people that you actually know or are relevant to your career goals; this will help you craft a high-quality profile.
You can (and should) also follow groups and organization pages for your professional interests. Groups based in Dallas will often use LinkedIn to promote their events, leading to in-person networking opportunities.
For example, you could join a group of alumni from your university. In doing so, you might run across new opportunities or advice that is more tailored to you.
How to Use Instagram for Networking
Instagram is not traditionally thought of as a professional app like LinkedIn. But businesses of all sizes know that Instagram is an excellent way to reach new (and often younger) clientele.
Instagram’s emphasis on visuals – both images and videos – makes posts immediately impactful. This quality makes Instagram highly suitable to promote your business, brand, or portfolio if you work in a creative field like design. Prospective patrons or employers can get a sense of your product, style, or skills within seconds.
Like LinkedIn, your feed will become more personalized as you use Instagram. Make sure your professional account is completely separate from any personal Instagram accounts you use. That way, your professional account will recommend pages that are more relevant to you, such as professional organizations posting about upcoming networking events.
Even if you are not posting any content of your own, Instagram can be a great way to stay apprised of local events in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, such as job fairs or professional mixers, as the organizations hosting these events probably use Instagram to promote them, given the reach that Instagram has.
How to Use Behance for Networking
As mentioned above, a highly visual platform may be especially suitable for featuring creative work. Behance is a platform specially designed for this purpose.
With Behance, you can showcase your illustration, design, or other creative projects, essentially producing an online portfolio. You can view others’ work as well. Behance also offers a job board with listings ranging from completely remote freelance jobs to full-time roles. Check often: the next opportunity posted could be right here in Dallas.
This unique social media platform could enhance your networking experience if you are a creative professional.
How to Use Eventbrite for Networking
Networking is so much more than sending messages to other professionals online. Sometimes, you need to really get out there.
Eventbrite is a social media platform that enables people to discover and sign up for events in their area, as well as remote events. Simply search events by location and interest, and you can easily find events in DFW for young professionals in your industry.
The caveat is that, while it is widely used, Eventbrite is far from a comprehensive catalog of local events. If the event organizer does not use Eventbrite, you will not find that event on the website.
How to Use Facebook for Networking
Facebook may have a reputation for being older or more traditional, but that does not mean it is irrelevant.
In fact, many companies still use Facebook to promote products, services, or events. This includes small businesses and nonprofits. You can also find Facebook groups for opportunities catering to your location and career goals.
Overall, Facebook may be an easier way to find more local or niche opportunities in the Dallas- Fort Worth area.
Conclusion
While it is an excellent tool for networking, LinkedIn is far from a young professional’s only option. There are several apps and websites that can help you find that next networking opportunity, especially in DFW. Try them out; you may just find a networking niche that takes your career to the next level.
For more information, check out Best Networking Practices.
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