Tips for Building Professional Connections on Social Media

I was talking with a college-age friend of the family yesterday about the hiring process for graduates in finance in 2024. One thing that was immediately clear is that the traditional model of replying to job postings is laughable broken. Then again, it always has been. I once called a New York bank to verify that they had received my resume and the HR representative acidly replied, “Well, we got about 25,000 of them. What color paper was yours on, again?” That was in 1993. A 2019 CNBC article claimed that “70% of all jobs are not published publicly on jobs sites and as much as 80% of jobs are filled through personal and professional connections.” The best resources to any job search candidate are the social media platforms they are already using daily. The critical distinction is to understand the need to change from a passive consumer of content to an active participant in trending topics within your areas of interest and, whenever possible, relevant content creation. I know people who have gotten trading jobs because of their subject matter expertise on Twitter. I have personally gotten several professional opportunities at institutions who had seen one of my LinkedIn posts. The process is relatively straightforward: 1. Research the thought leaders in your area of interest and follow them. 2. Note who the thought leaders follow and engage with and follow them. 3. Start to respond to recent posts on areas where you have something relevant to contribute. An insightful early response to a post by an account with 200k followers may be seen by a few thousand people, some of whom will like your reply and follow your account. 4. Post and re-post interesting industry-relevant content with your thoughts attached. 5. Engage with anyone who comments on your posts, if they are contributing to productive discussion. 6. If you have original content, share it, but be prepared for opposing viewpoints and criticism. The goal is to slowly build up a productive online presence within your area of interest. It takes time, but leveraging a social network is one of the easiest ways a student or recent graduate can demonstrate to an audience of potential hiring managers subject-matter expertise and real interest in a career in finance.

When experts are willing to share their knowledge on a topic, all we need to do is give them space and listen attentively. Case in point... Last night, I had the privilege of hosting Travis Tyler, one of the most talented professionals in social media today, for a fireside chat in my Social Media Marketing class. He shared incredibly valuable tips on optimizing LinkedIn and social media content. Social media is hard to get right. Content is difficult to produce. Organizations are sometimes afraid to put themselves out there, to be bold and genuine in what they share, so what you usually get is self-promotion, lots of selling, and little to no authenticity from them. I admire people who take a different approach. Chris Walker has built an incredible following here on LinkedIn for having very strong opinions on dark social and the differences between high intent and low intent demand. Andy Crestodina is a strong evangelist of how content marketing when done well can transform a business (outside his amazing advice on AI and analytics). Gaetano Nino DiNardi 🇺🇦 offers his followers actionable SEO advice that you usually don't get anywhere else. What I love about Travis' content is that he has shown us that you can have fun and almost magically weave in education, entertainment, and inspiration to create amazing content experiences on social while building a following for himself and his team. That's pure gold, IMO. During the call, Travis shared incredibly valuable tips on optimizing LinkedIn and social profiles. Here are some top highlights: - Build trust within your company first before trying bold social media strategies. Volunteer to create posts highlighting coworkers to establish credibility early on. That will give you the equity to try new things. - Show your authentic self and don't try being overly produced in posts. Use real images and videos to connect emotionally with your audience. Being yourself makes you relatable and likeable to your audience. - Comment thoughtfully on posts and have genuine conversations. Don't just post and ignore it after. Engaging with your followers is key. "Post and ghost" is not a strategy that's going to yield great results. - Find popular accounts or influencers to co-market and fuel growth quickly. Genuine collaborations and partnerships can expand your reach immensely. - Don't get into fights with trolls. Have an empathetic dialogue and allow for respectful open discussions. Getting heated or rude only makes you look unprofessional. Travis had phenomenal advice on leveraging social media to build an audience and promote your brand / business. My final piece of advice here is to always remember --- Social Media isn't a place for navel gazing. Educate, entertain, inspire, and then sell to your audience... your prospects and customers will thank you for it. If you aren't following his content, I highly recommend you do.

Networking changed my life. It helped me secure my first big consulting deal that let me quit my full-time job. Here's how to build relationships on LinkedIn (the right way): Networking can either make or break your career. Do it wrong: You’ll ruin your reputation. Do it right: You’ll have people speaking well of you when you’re not around. Here’s how to network like a pro: 1) Be genuine People can sense fakeness from a mile away. Instead, speak with them to get to know them. Not just because you want something. Besides… There’s no point in building relationships with people you don’t like. 2) Be a friend We want to feel cared for. Reach out once every 3 months to see how they’re doing. • Offer help • Schedule a coffee chat • Ask about their recent trip Don’t build connections. Build friendships. 3) Change your intent Turn your “I want this” mindset into a “I want to help” mindset. Start conversations without trying to sell something. But because you want to help them. Stop asking. Start giving. 4) Think long term It doesn't matter if they can’t help you now. In the long run… …you’ll be able to reach out when you need it. Be there for them now. They’ll be there for you later. That’s a real relationship. 5) Don’t ask for immediate favors This is where most screw up. They’ve barely met someone and immediately: • Ask for a job • Request a resume review • Or want some other big favor You wouldn’t do this to a stranger on the street. Why do it on LinkedIn? 6) Be mutually beneficial Start by building foundations. When/if it makes sense, think of how you can collaborate. Just like in business… This isn’t a one-way street. I help you. You help me. That’s how the world works. 7) Create on LinkedIn You never know who’s watching. Share your thoughts on the feed daily. And give people a glimpse into what you’re doing. You may not realize it… But others are going through the same as you. One of them might just come back with a life-changing opportunity. P.s. - What's one more tip you'd recommend for people networking on LinkedIn? Thanks for reading. Enjoyed this post? Follow Jordan Nelson And share it with your audience.

Are you an Introvert? Do you want to grow your network or community, but are uncomfortable with group interactions? I work with a number of professionals who feel the same way, and my goal is to provide optional action steps that can guide you and support you as you create your personal brand & network. Here are a few things that I hope may help you if you connect to this post: 1-Use LinkedIn for all of its value. This is the place to be for professional growth and networking outside of in-person events. 2-Think of LinkedIn as your public resume. Make sure that your work, education and volunteer work is up to date. 3-Remember that YOU get to decide how much to share. That means YOU are in control of your profile, your narrative and who you connect with. 4-Start off slowly. 1 post a week that reflects your expertise. That can be your own thoughts, sharing an article or a post from an organization in your industry. 5-Interact with others by commenting on 2-3 posts from your network each week. You will be surprised how your network may grow from others reaching out to you based on what you commented. 6-Join 1 or 2 LinkedIn groups per month that fall into your expertise, passions or hobbies 7-Invite at least 1 person a week to connect. DO NOT send an empty connection. Connect with a message that tells them why you are looking to link with them. "We have a number of connections in common.... We both work in the XYZ industry.... I really loved your post on XYZ topic." Remember that you would not walk up to a person, hand them your business card without a word and walk away. Virtual connections are the same way. As you follow the items above, you will grow a comfort level and can begin to increase the posts, comments and sending LinkedIn connections to others. To start, feel free to send me a connection request 😊. I'm happy to be a support as you get comfortable and grow your network #linkedin #networking #branding #personalgrowth #introvert #beautyandbeastinbusiness #frasco

In early December, I had the pleasure of speaking to a large group of students at Yeshiva University about how to optimize your LinkedIn to create an engaging and professional presence. I told these students that the main purpose of creating a professional LinkedIn presence is to build professional connections, discover career opportunities, connect with potential employers, recruiters, or people who might be helpful to you in the future, and establish a clear portrayal of who you are professionally. Here are some of the key takeaways: ☑ Firmly stand behind your professional goal, and curate your profile to that audience by using keywords, a strong title, and updated resume to show your strengths. ☑ Think about what you want your Personal Brand to stand for. What characteristics do you want to convey? Think about traits like reliability, creativity, persistence and how you can convey these implicitly in your profile and posts. ☑ Apply some of the business concepts that you are learning in your classes to your personal brand in LinkedIn. In your posts and comments, for example, use concepts like Value Proposition, which is a statement of what makes your product superior to others. It is the articulation of the Benefits that your product provides to the Customer. You need to be thinking the bundles of Benefits or Value that you can provide to your ‘Customer’ (i.e., your potential employer or key contact). ☑ Always have a pipeline of content ready to be edited and posted. Talk about current events, events occurring in your industry, or things that might interest you and start a conversation with others. ☑ Be sure to engage with others’ posts, join LinkedIn groups, and always be networking! ☑ Show credibility and authenticity by writing a brief but detailed summary of your skills, experiences, and aspirations. ☑ Whichever skills you apply to your profile, request individuals to endorse them. ☑ Always make sure your posts are edited, clear, concise, and palatable for your viewers. ☑ Don’t be afraid to notify some of your connections when you launch a new post, in order to ensure maximum exposure and tell them to Like or Comment on your post. ☑ Keep track of your analytics. This is a great way to gain insight as to what types of individuals engage most with your content. It might seem intimidating at first, but once you find your LinkedIn voice, it becomes much more natural. You just have to take that first leap in discovering how you fit into the professional world of LinkedIn! Special thanks to Sy Syms School of Business for the photography!

My best advice for building a network: Network before you need to! What is the #1 cause for ineffective networking? Desperation. And where does desperation come from? Needing a job. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until you need a job or desperately want to leave your current job to start building a network. Those with the most seamless career transitions are always the ones with the strongest networks. Having a strong network can be the difference between getting hired into a new role with zero gap and endlessly applying for six months with no luck. Here are ways to build your network starting NOW: 1. Engage with other companies and employees on LinkedIn and/or social media. One way to get noticed by companies that you like is to engage with their content on LinkedIn or other social sites. Follow companies that you’re interested in or may want to work for in the future. Keep up to date with their progress, growth and initiatives. This goes for employees of the company as well. If companies or people see you consistently engaging with their content, it’s easier to facilitate a conversation with them, so you don’t have to shoot out those cringy, cold messages later. It also gives you great conversational ammunition for later when you may decide to reach out and strike up a conversation with someone at your dream company. They’ll be extra impressed if you’re educated about what is happening at their company. 2. Engage with employees inside your CURRENT company. Building a useful network is not just about using the “grass is greener on the other side” approach. Yes, it makes sense to start building relationships at companies that you may want to work for in the future, but don’t neglect the easiest connections you already have—the ones around you NOW! Ask for LinkedIn recommendations. Go to lunch with a manager or colleague. It’s so easy to just do your work and go home (or log off in a remote role). Building a relationship with people who could potentially help you later is worth the effort. 3. Orchestrate frequent informational interviews. Seek out informational interviews with professionals you admire or individuals working in your target companies or industries. These interviews are not about job openings but about gaining insight into their career paths and industries. Approach these conversations with a genuine interest in learning and networking, not just job-seeking. Remember, building a professional network is an ongoing process. Regularly check in with your contacts, offer support when needed, and be proactive in helping others when you can. By doing so, you'll have a strong and supportive network in place when you need it most, whether it's for job opportunities, career advice, or professional growth.

LinkedIn is not just a platform to showcase your professional profile, but also a powerful tool for expanding your network and nurturing valuable connections. Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of your LinkedIn connections: 1. Personalize Connection Requests:  When sending a connection request, always personalize your message. Mention how you know the person or why you want to connect. A personalized message shows that you value the connection and are genuinely interested in establishing a professional relationship. 2. Engage Meaningfully: Actively engage with your connections by liking, commenting, and sharing their posts. Engage in conversations related to your industry or area of expertise. This not only strengthens your existing connections but also increases your visibility within your network. 3. Send Thoughtful Messages:  Instead of immediately asking for a favor or job, start a conversation with your connections by sending thoughtful messages. Ask about their experiences, opinions, or recent accomplishments. Show genuine interest and be ready to offer help or insights in return. 4. Utilize Advanced Search:  Leverage LinkedIn's advanced search features to find professionals in your field, alumni from your school, or individuals working at your target companies. Connect with them and engage in meaningful conversations to expand your network strategically. 5. Join and Participate in Groups:  Join LinkedIn groups related to your industry or interests. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and connect with members who share common professional goals. Groups can be a great way to expand your reach and knowledge within a specific domain. Remember, quality trumps quantity when it comes to LinkedIn connections. Focus on building meaningful and genuine relationships that can benefit both parties in the long run. #jobsearch #jobseekers #openrole #linkedin #recruiting #recruiters #employment #jobs

If you want to build a network in 30 days, read this: Goal: Build a foundation for your professional network by forming genuine connections with 10 individuals relevant to your career goals. Before you start: Define your goals: What do you hope to achieve by building your network? (e.g., career advice, industry knowledge, potential job opportunities) Identify target individuals: Who are the people you want to connect with? Consider their expertise, experience, and potential value in achieving your goals. Days 1-10: Laying the groundwork Utilize social media: Update your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and experience. Join relevant groups and follow industry leaders. Start small: Reach out to 2-3 people you haven't spoken to recently or connect with 1-2 new contacts. Personalize your message and focus on value. Attend online events: Look for webinars, online conferences, or workshops related to your field. Participate actively and introduce yourself to others virtually. Identify industry influencers: Research thought leaders and key players in your field. Follow their work and engage with their content online. Volunteer your expertise: Research volunteer opportunities related to your industry. This allows you to give back, network, and build your reputation. Days 11-20: Building connections Follow-up with initial contacts: Send a follow-up email or message expressing your appreciation for their time and reiterating your interest in staying connected. Engage in online communities: Participate in relevant online discussions. Offer your insights, answer questions, and build your online presence. Connect through mutual connections: Research your existing network for potential connections who know people you'd like to meet. Seek introductions and personalize your outreach. Attend local events: Look for industry meetups, networking events, or conferences in your area. Prepare conversation starters and actively connect with new people. Leverage alumni networks: If you're a college graduate, reconnect with alumni in your field through professional groups or university resources. Days 21-30: Nurturing relationships Share valuable content: Share relevant articles, industry news, or resources with your connections through emails or social media. Offer congratulations and support: Celebrate your network's achievements and offer support during challenges. Show genuine interest in their lives and careers. Schedule informational interviews: Reach out to individuals you admire and request informational interviews. Use this opportunity to learn more about their career path and gain insights. Be a resource: Look for ways to help others in your network by offering introductions, sharing opportunities, or providing relevant information. Schedule coffee chats: Invite 1-2 people you've connected with for virtual or in-person coffee chats to deepen your relationships and explore potential collaborations. Source: "Reach Out" by Molly Beck

6 stages of 𝙗𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩 with your LinkedIn audience. If you skip the 4th step, you probably won't grow here. Building trust is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, consistency, and authenticity, particularly when building your professional network on LinkedIn. Here are the 𝘴𝘪𝘹 𝘬𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴: • Credibility • Engagement • Consistency • Authenticity • Relationships • Sustainability Let's break down the details. S͟t͟a͟g͟e͟ ͟1͟:͟ ͟C͟r͟e͟d͟i͟b͟i͟l͟i͟t͟y͟ Begin by showcasing your expertise. This involves crafting a compelling profile that highlights your skills, experiences, and achievements. Share relevant content, including articles, case studies, and insights that demonstrate your knowledge and thought leadership in your field. S͟t͟a͟g͟e͟ ͟2͟:͟ ͟E͟n͟g͟a͟g͟e͟m͟e͟n͟t͟ Trust grows from interaction. Engage with your audience through meaningful discussions, comments, and responses. Acknowledge feedback and show appreciation for your audience’s contributions, creating an interactive and inclusive dialogue. S͟t͟a͟g͟e͟ ͟3͟:͟ ͟C͟o͟n͟s͟i͟s͟t͟e͟n͟c͟y͟ Trust is a product of reliability. Consistently share valuable content that aligns with your brand and expertise. Regular updates, newsletters, or posts foster familiarity and show your commitment to delivering value to your network. S͟t͟a͟g͟e͟ ͟4͟:͟ ͟A͟u͟t͟h͟e͟n͟t͟i͟c͟i͟t͟y͟ Authenticity is the linchpin of trust-building. Share your unique perspective, experiences, and even challenges you've faced. Genuine stories and reflections resonate more deeply with your audience, establishing a real connection that goes beyond professional facades. Without this step, trust may falter, limiting growth. S͟t͟a͟g͟e͟ ͟5͟:͟ ͟R͟e͟l͟a͟t͟i͟o͟n͟s͟h͟i͟p͟ ͟B͟u͟i͟l͟d͟i͟n͟g͟ Cultivate connections beyond the virtual realm. Take conversations offline through emails, calls, or in-person meetings. Building deeper professional relationships solidifies trust, transforming digital connections into meaningful professional partnerships. S͟t͟a͟g͟e͟ ͟6͟:͟ ͟S͟u͟s͟t͟a͟i͟n͟a͟b͟i͟l͟i͟t͟y͟ Trust is an ongoing effort. Continue nurturing your relationships by engaging regularly and staying current. Share industry insights, attend events, and contribute to discussions, ensuring your presence remains valuable and relevant. Top people to follow: Sahil Bloom Justin Welsh William Choi 🌿 Sam Browne 🦖 /// Do you have any more to add? #personalbranding #linkedin  

🌟 Networking Tip of the Week: Mastering the "Connect" Button on LinkedIn! In the realm of networking, every click of the "Connect" button holds significance. So when should you use it? 🔍 Follow vs. Connect: "Follow" when you're intrigued by someone's content and want more. "Connect" when you're aiming for a meaningful connection. *My general rule of thumb is that we should have or be ready to have a meaningful 30 minute chat before we add each other to our professional network. 💡 How to Connect: Include a Note: Personalize your connection request. It's your digital handshake. Find Common Ground: Tangible connections fuel meaningful interactions. Hint: I don't mean "We're in the same professional group on LinkedIn" Purposeful Outreach: Job hunting? Reach out with purpose, and include previous connections or professional overlap. 🤝 Building Bridges: Interested in our company or one in my network (or any other professional on LinkedIn for that matter)? 🛑 Don't click connect right away.... Start with a message providing context. Once you've had a meaningful conversation, then hit that connect button. Your network get's less powerful when you don't actually know the people that you are connected to. 📈 Upgrade for Impact: Upgrading your account amplifies your networking potential. It's an investment in meaningful connections and it allows you to message potential meaningful connections without moving too quickly to "connect." 🔗 Let's Connect! Don't hesitate to reach out if you're keen to connect about our company or any shared interests. Let's make meaningful connections together! #NetworkingTips #LinkedInStrategy #ConnectWithPurpose #BuildingConnections #ProfessionalNetworking