Every generation has its own distinguishing characteristics, and the way each interacts with digital media is also unique. For most baby boomers, networking typically starts with an email introduction from colleagues and friends, followed by a few emails back and forth before setting up a meeting a few days later.
For most millennials, gone are the days of the all-
important golf meeting and formal gatherings for drinks. This generation is doing it their way.
As the generation that grew up on technology, most millennials prefer online communications, such as Instagram, Facebook Messenger, Skype, Snapchat and other apps, as well as email, as a more efficient way to network. As a relationship with a new contact develops, a millennial’s conversation platform might jump from email to LinkedIn, then onto Instagram. Some connections don’t ever have an opportunity to meet face to face simply because of geographical and time differences.
Paulina Cameron believes building strong online relationships is one of the best ways for people to fast-track their careers. The bestselling author of Canada 150 Women, regional director of Futurpreneur Canada and co-founder of the Raise Collective – a community of female founders and investors – says it’s not enough to simply think that getting someone’s contact information is an invitation; genuine connections, the ones that are most likely to produce positive results, need time to develop.
“I think social media enables people to find others with similar interests, but more importantly it’s a great platform to engage others on a regular basis – those who might not share your interests but could be valuable to your career,” says Cameron. “However, I also think millennials have wider-ranging interests, as there is more overlap between their personal and professional lives. That means that they actually engage with a broader network, and their community is more far-reaching and spanning various topics than previous generations’.”
Cameron encourages young people starting out in their careers to use social media to their full advantage.
“Social media allows you direct access to people you might not as easily have connected to,” she says. “Social media takes away the hierarchy and is a great outlet to build and find a community of like-minded individuals.”
Your digital footprint matters
According to a recent survey by Jobvite, 93 per cent of recruiters and human resource professionals are screening potential employees on multiple social media sites, such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.
“I get a much better sense about people on social media beyond their titles, and better understanding of who they are beyond their resumé,” Cameron says.
Leah Hopkins, marketing director for the women’s clothing brand Gentle Fawn, couldn’t agree more.
Your Instagram post might garner you friends, but it could cost you a job, she cautions.
“With social media, we have access to so much information about people. We can see how people conduct themselves outside of their careers, and that can give us insight like ‘Will they be team players or not?’” says Hopkins. “You can also see red flags, such as really poor choices in photos and postings.”
Savvy managers, work colleagues and hiring managers can view your most awkward photos and tweets, even if they aren’t following you.
“Employers are taking a good, hard look at your social media posts and passing judgment on whether or not you are a good candidate for the job,” says Hopkins. “Social media are platforms for self-expression, but if you are looking to build your personal brand or image for your career, keep in mind that potential employers are checking you out. What do you want to be known for or not? It is important that you understand how you want people to perceive you.”
Smart networking goes a long way
You can be the smartest and best candidate ever on paper, but, as is the case for most people with interesting jobs, career paths are usually the result of good networking and a bit of good luck. That certainly was true for Katie Dunsworth-Reiach, co-founder and a principal of the public relations firm Talk Shop Media.
Dunsworth-Reiach began her career in public relations at 1-800-Got-Junk. Then, in 2006, she co-founded the money-mentoring business Smart Cookies. That company landed her on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2007 at the ripe old age of 24.
“I went on Oprah’s website, and on there I saw that they were looking for people to speak about smart money for an upcoming show,” says Dunsworth-Reiach. “So I applied online, which got me the phone call from Oprah’s team.”
Social media and other types of online communities tear down geographical boundaries and enable all sorts of connections, but people should not forget the power of human connections, says Dunsworth-Reiach.
“Social media is one of the best ways to foster connections. However, the more I’ve come to know myself, the more I’ve discovered one of my talents is human connections. I do start on social media, but I like to push to take it offline because there’s a different level of connectivity that occurs when you meet in person.”
Top tips
•Face-to-face meetings never go out of style.
•Activate your network by bonding forces and your energy with people by doing things together, like a hike, walk or coffee.
•Demonstrate genuine interest in helping your connections reach their goals, and chances are they will be more than willing to assist you in meeting yours.
– Paulina Cameron
•Polish up your social media profiles – get rid of embarrassing photos or posts.
•Broaden your networking reach by getting involved in industry sector meetings and events.
•Mentoring is crucial. Find someone who can help you get where you want to go. A mentor is a great source for new ideas and support.
– Katie Dunsworth-Reiach
•Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date.
•Take time to ask for recommendations. To a potential employer, LinkedIn recommendations count.
•Join groups that align with your business interests.
•LinkedIn offers excellent tutorials and courses on any subject, from strategic planning to business analysis, professional development options and more.
– Leah Hopkins
