Did I really just use the words Social Networking and Professional in the same sentence?  Yes, I did, and for a very good reason!  Social Networking is becoming a way of life for us.  In fact, there are websites dedicated to social networking for specific causes, for professional networking, and of course for matchmaking.  It is time that we used those opportunities to grow our professional life.

Our Mentality

Our mentality is the first thing that we need to focus on.  If we look at everything we do both for recreation and for work as an opportunity for growth and networking, we can greatly expand our options. I began blogging as a way to have fun, share some pictures, and practice my writing skills.  It later provided me the background I needed to begin blogging professionally as well as be asked to be interviewed on other blogs.  Why?  Even though I was writing for fun, I wrote in proper English, told exciting stories, and kept my page very clean and neat as well as family friendly (which wasn’t even a question for me as I feel that Yahweh gave us a moral standard to live by).  This led to a professional appearance in my personal life.

Facebook

Facebook is a fun and could even be called “trendy” place to be.  But it can also be used professionally.  Make sure that your information page includes what you do for a living, your interests, and other pertinent information.  Think of it as a personal bio page along with professional credentials.  You never know, your Facebook friend could be your new employer!  Make sure that you don’t post any pictures you would be ashamed for your mother or spouse to see.  Also, keep what you post on there to a good standard, i.e. something you wouldn’t mind your pastor reading!  Most potential employers check your Facebook page if at all possible while considering your employment application as well as any other web presence you have.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the professional gathering spot.  You have a virtual resume and may choose to interact in peer type groups with similar professions or interests.  You can also choose to answer questions posted by other users in your areas of expertise.  Doing so, helps to show that you know your field well and are an “expert.”  There are entire books written on how to become an “expert” on LinkedIn and use it to help you build your value at work as well as to open speaking engagement opportunities.

Twitter

Twitter is like short text message central.  It is where you post a very short message about what you are doing.  While I’m not the type of person to post every single detail of my life, it is an excellent way to share exciting items in a short status message like prayer requests, the great deal you got at the local office store, or your new blog post on Social Networking.

Other Options

There are lot of other options out there that include your own website, specific networking sites to your profession, and so much more.  The main key is to realize that your web presence is a part of who you are in our modern technological savvy world and key to professional growth if used properly.