Online Networking 101

Networking! It is a dirty word, but you've got to do it. Grades alone won't get you a job. You've got to know people. But how do you meet people? Here is a quick step-by-step on how to use online tools to land a job. (Hopefully the first in a series on networking.)

1. Join LinkedIn.
2. Upload your resume, edit your profile, search for friends/ colleagues/ anyone that you would remotely have any sort of professional contact with.
3. Join any group that you may have some sort of professional/ academic (alumni) interest in. For example I am interested in the environmental law group, so I joined the group "Environmental Attorneys."
4. Post a discussion to the group such as "I am looking for a mentor in the X metro area," or "I am looking for an internship in the X metro area. Does anyone know of places I should apply?" Do NOT ask for a job. People are inclined to give advice, not handouts.
5. Sit and wait for responses.
6. Be prompt with a follow up to any responses.

If you were not familiar with LinkedIn, it is sort of like Facebook for the professional world, so you will post details about your professional work, things you did at work, etc. etc. Although you won't be divulging any of that useless crap about yourself, like that your all time favorite band is Fall Out Boy. Also, people can post recommendations for you. The cool thing is when you upload your resume, most the work of putting in your work and educational history is done for you.

Happy Networking!