Blog Post #3: Visitor & Resident Map

WHAT SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM DO I USE TO DEVELOP MY PROFESSIONAL NETWORK?

I use LinkedIn as my primary digital platform to develop and expand my professional network. LinkedIn is a highly effective social media platform specifically designed for professionals. It provides an ideal space to connect with individuals in various industries, including my field of interest, accounting and business analysis. 

One of the key benefits of LinkedIn is its extensive network of professionals from diverse backgrounds. I can search for and connect with individuals who share similar career interests. This allows me to expand my network, gain insights, and learn from their experiences. LinkedIn also provides opportunities to engage in professional communities and join industry-specific groups. These groups are great for participating in discussions, sharing ideas, and connecting with professionals with similar interests or expertise. It is a valuable platform for seeking advice, asking questions, and staying updated on industry trends and developments. I also use it to showcase my work and achievements. I can share projects, experiences, or accomplishments to demonstrate my knowledge, skills, and expertise to my network. This helps to establish my professional credibility and opens up new opportunities. 

Below is my visitor and residential map that shows which social media platforms I use for different purposes. You can create your own map using this site!

WHAT COULD WE DO TO EXPAND MY PROFESSIONAL NETWORK?

There are many ways you can expand your professional network (Panel, 2022)! With the emergence of social media, you can leverage platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with numerous professionals.

1. Identify Relevant Communities: This can be done through LinkedIn, Facebook, Indeed, and simply Googling!
2. Attend Networking Events: Make sure to make the most of networking events provided by your school, community, and workplace. By leveraging your existing connections, you can expand your network and meet new individuals. Remember, it’s not about how many people you know, but rather the quality of the connections you make that truly matters!
3. Utilize Alumni Networks: This is similar to attending networking events! As an alumnus of Camosun College, I frequently receive emails from my previous instructors inviting me to upcoming events. Through alumni networks, I have had the opportunity to meet numerous professionals who share the same interests as me.
4. Seek Mentorship: I highly recommend having a mentor. I met my mentor through the UVIC mentorship program, and he has been a valuable support throughout my personal and professional journey. He has connections with professionals in my industry of interest. Having a mentor in your life who can guide, support, and advise you is of immense importance.
5. Collaborate on Projects: Collaborating on and executing projects helps you build credibility and trust. Remember, the professional network is smaller than you think, and word spreads quickly. Always seek opportunities to showcase your abilities and skills.

HOW DO DATA PRIVACY AND SECURITY LIMIT OR PROMOTE A PLN?

As much as we want to build our professional reputation, digital identity, and credibility, it is important to consider data privacy and security when it comes to sharing information and posting content. We might become hesitant to share information, not be as engaged as we would love to be, or simply avoid building any deeper connection. To avoid this or to prevent data leakage, it is vital to educate ourselves.

Here is a useful resource for you to test your own knowledge of data privacy and security limit! Test your own knowledge using ‘Privacy and Surveillance Quiz.’ With proper knowledge, you can be more comfortable engaging in open and trusted communications and understanding the role you play in protecting your own data as well as that of others.

HOW CAN YOU CREATE A DIGITAL IDENTITY AND REPUTATION?

I have emphasized the significance of leveraging social media to build your digital identity and reputation. LinkedIn has numerous features and tools that facilitate networking and relationship-building. You can create a comprehensive professional profile highlighting your education, work experience, skills, and accomplishments. This is a great opportunity to build your digital identity, enabling you to present yourself effectively to potential connections and opportunities. Through consistent postings and sharing posts, you are able to create a digital reputation and build trust among other professionals. Always keep in mind languages, tones, and content, as these elements could potentially shape your image, portrayal, and reputation!

References

Panel, E. (2022, November 30). 14 Steps To Take To Build A Strong Professional Network. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2022/11/30/14-steps-to-take-to-build-a-strong-professional-network/

Visitors and Residents. (n.d.). http://experimental.worldcat.org/vandrmapping/signIn

Privacy and Surveillance Quiz – Digital Tattoo. (2019, August 8). Digital Tattoo. https://digitaltattoo.ubc.ca/quizzes/privacy-and-surveillance/