A large and vibrant professional network is vital for the long-term prospects of your technology career. This golden rule applies no matter your specific tech discipline; software engineers, network administrators, scientists and data analysts all benefit from knowing how to network. Colleagues in the STEM world are an invaluable resource in a myriad of ways, especially when it comes time to look for new position.
What follows are a few tips to help supercharge your networking efforts. Soon your professional network will be the envy of your co-workers!
Make LinkedIn the Focus of Your Online Networking Efforts
Leveraging all social media networks makes sense for any online networking effort, but LinkedIn needs to be your focus. It offers an easy mechanism for connecting with current and former co-workers, as well as professionals working in your field of expertise. You are also able to follow innovative companies in your industry.
LinkedIn Groups provides another means to network with like-minded professionals, in addition to learning about interesting topics. Additionally, consider publishing some of your own articles to position yourself as a thought leader in your specific tech discipline. Soon, other professionals will be connecting with you!
Charitable Volunteering Is a Great Way to Network
Spending time engaged in volunteer work gives you the chance to meet and connect with others from a variety of industries. Additionally, consider contributing your technical skills to a local charity or maybe attend an event like GiveCamp, where developers and other tech professionals build solutions for nonprofit organizations. Growing your network for a good cause offers the best of both worlds.
Don’t Separate Your Personal and Professional Lives
Combining your personal and professional lives helps you stay true to yourself without having to shift gears or change personalities once leaving the office. Staying kind, helpful and authentic at all times makes it easy to connect with anyone. Attend social professional events outside of the tech world to meet different people with a variety of viewpoints.
In this scenario, leveraging Facebook to build your professional network makes sense. Just be sure not to share any potentially embarrassing material to your Facebook page.
Hopefully these networking ideas help grow your technology career to new heights. Good luck in your efforts!
When you need other insights on a career in the world of science and technology, talk to the knowledgeable team at Synerfac. As one of the top tech staffing agencies in Wilmington, DE and the rest of the East Coast, we want to help you succeed in both life and work. Connect with us as soon as possible!