BBC Capital Feature: Take the scary out of networking

So happy to have contributed once again to one of Liz Garone's BBC Capital articles! This time it's about networking.

Take the scary out of networking

Here's my two bits:

Many people make the mistake of thinking that there are “natural networkers,” or those people to whom it comes easily, said Ashley Ringger, managing director of Switzerland-based Set Sails Social Media, in an email. “However, good networking is more a skill to be learned than to be born with,” she said. “Once you get started, it becomes easier as you develop your own approach and grow your circle. Not only will you increase your contact base, but soon you will become a resource to connect others.”

Give yourself a goal, suggested Ringger. For example, at every professional event you attend, don’t allow yourself to leave until you’ve met at least three people and have exchanged business cards with them. And don’t stop there.

“Plenty of networking takes place online through social media,” said Ringger. After you get home, find the new contacts you have made on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Xing and connect with them there. “When possible, include a personal message about where and when you met, thank them for the information they shared, and express your interest in remaining connected with them. If they have their own business, ‘like’ or follow it on appropriate social media platforms. “Showing your support of their endeavours gives them a reason to support yours,” she said.

Set Sails and BBC Capital - do you need social media to find a job?

Elizabeth Garone, writer for BBC Capital, asked me to contribute to an article she wrote about the importance of having a social media presence when job hunting. Other social media experts also offer their opinions and let me tell you - the advice in this article is fantastic!

Get the full article here.

Social NETWORK vs. social PLATFORM and how to use both

What's the difference between a social network and a social platform? Is there a difference at all. YES! There certainly is.

Social networks are more like real-life networking events. Some examples are Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google Plus and Pinterest to some degree.

Social platforms allow for establishing credibility and expertise while creating an opportunity for engagement and discussion. YouTube, blogging, podcasts and SlideShare are perfect examples of social platforms.

Use these social sites by analyzing ONE network and ONE platform that your audience is using. Start by maintaining and cultivating contacts via your chosen sites before moving on to others.

Need more ideas? Just give me a ring.

BBC Capital article featuring Set Sails Media

Thanks to the recommendation of the EPWN, I was put in touch with Liz Garone to be interviewed as part of her BBC Capital article How to get a recruiter to notice you on LinkedIn. 
My contributions are in the second section, but please read the whole article and learn something new about using LinkedIn to network and promote your brand.