Initially the objective for our blog, Networking: Not Working was to formulate a better understanding of “which type of networking is most useful, face-to-face networking or online professional networking?” However, after intense research our project took us in a different direction. We discovered that trying to answer this question would not provide the most benefit to our peers because it is not necessarily which method of networking is best. Instead, we found it most beneficial to explore a combination of both methods because together their unique attributes provide the most use to you, our intended audience, and reaching your career goals.
There are many benefits to online professional networking sites such as LinkedIn and Google+. One benefit is utilizing weak tie networks (i.e., secondary networks or networks of people that are not your family and closest friends). You are more likely to obtain new career information and opportunities from a weak tie. Since this person is outside of your strong ties immediate circle he/she is more likely to bring in and present new information for you and/or about you to potential employers. In addition, online networks allow you to market yourself to many people at one time, which may be dispersed globally. Further, many potential employers are able to view your profile simultaneously. Thereby enhancing your opportunity to showcase yourself and increase your chance of receiving interviews and/or job opportunities.
On the other hand, face-to-face networking has the ability to leave a longer lasting impression. It allows for improved communication for both parties. For example, communicating face-to-face allows for personable eye contact, as well as physical touch such as, a handshake which can provide more tangible cues in which to base one’s impression on. Such cues are unavailable when relying on computer-mediated communication. Another perk to networking in person, especially for perspective employees, is that you can observe nonverbal cues and use them to help to decipher a more in-depth understanding of what an employer is communicating.
We also found that even using social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook can be beneficial if used with caution. As long as you take precaution to monitor what you allow employers and others to see and take care to portray yourself in a positive light, these sites can be beneficial as secondary networking sources.
Although we have found different benefits for each form of networking, we have reached the conclusion that the best option for those of you (men and women ages 20-30) looking to start and advance your career, would be to use (and manage) as many modes of networking as possible. It is important to get your name out on the market in as many ways as possible, but don’t forget that “it’s not just who you know, but who knows you and knows what you know.”
