Online social networks and blogs have grown rapidly over the past couple of years, and are now virtually ubiquitous.

Online communities such as Friendster and MySpace let people connect over personal interests and dating, but can also be used to make connections in business. There are also a number of sites designed specifically for business professionals to network online, such as Ecademy and LinkedIn.
But while such options may seem an attractive alternative to those who struggle with face-to-face meetings, it should be thought of as another string to your bow rather than a substitute. It comes with some of the same pitfalls and etiquette issues as networking in person, and those networking online should follow some basic guidelines.

Choose carefully

The sheer number of services and people now using social networks online means it can be difficult to know where to start. Have a look around the various sites to see what they have on offer before making your choice. Once signed up you may want to be selective about who you link with, otherwise you could find yourself overwhelmed by the number of contacts you are trying to maintain, many of which may prove to be of little use.

Use real world contacts

Many people on social networks may require a referral from a third party before they will allow you to ‘connect’ with them. In this case, it may be useful to draw on people you already know, who can verify who you are and what you do. If they also use the service, you can connect to their networks to help your list of online ‘friends’ blossom.

Watch what you write

Writing your profile is also something you should take great care over. You may have heard numerous stories about people being refused jobs, or even sacked, after employers checked their profiles on Friends Reunited and didn’t like what they saw. The same rules apply here. Don’t write anything you wouldn’t want your boss, or other colleagues, to see.

Watch you netiquette

Social networks very often have their own set of rules and customs that may be incomprehensible to the uninitiated. It may be wise to spend some time observing the culture of your network rather than steaming in unprepared. In a similar vein, it is advisable not to be too pushy or aggressive with anyone in the network while trying to reach your objective or you could end up doing more harm than good.

Keep your promises

Another way to quickly destroy your online reputation is to make promises you know you cannot possibly keep, or end up being unable to keep. Avoid this at all cost, but do remember that helping other people out on these networks will increase the chances of them thinking of you when they come across a very promising opportunity.

Make virtual contacts real

Online networks are all well and good, but don’t pass up the chance to meet up with your contacts should the opportunity present itself. You should also think about instigating them yourself. Face-to-face meetings can have a much bigger impact and leave a more lasting impression than any number of conversations through a keyboard.

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