digital networking and building a digital reputation

Session objectives To audit your own digital profile To identify features of a positive digital profile To think about what successful online networkers do To plan for building a career-ready digital network and profile

Why digital networks? 45% of employers (US figures) use social networks to screen applicants Most recruiters use social media sites (Facebook, LinkedIn, twitter) to source candidates Your digital reputation is a crucial asset in the job market What do you look like online?

Activity in pairs For this activity you will need access to a digital device (smartphone, laptop, netbook) and an internet connection If you are using your own device, do not log into any social networks (e.g. Facebook)

Activity in pairs Introduce yourself with your full name only Find out more about each other using ONLY material that is publicly available online You can guide each other to relevant sites but don’t give away information you can’t see online Do not sign in to social networks (private material will be visible)

Some tips Look for local news stories that may have included you – fund raising, community events etc Look for clubs/societies you are involved with Is anything you have learned or achieved at University available online? Previous employers, work placements etc may have a web page with your details on If you are a member of social networks, check out what is publicly visible Don't worry if you can't find anything, that is still useful information

Reflections Were you surprised by what you found? How much of what is visible about you online is under your control? What could you do to create a more positive digital identity?

Social networking and your career make yourself visible to potential employers find out more about the sectors, companies or specialisms that interest you connect with people who share your interests build a lifelong network that can take you from job to job

Some networks you might know... Facebook, Google+ (for everyone) academia.edu, researchgate (researchers, academics and PG students) LinkedIn, xing, zerply (professionals) Twitter (used by academics and professionals)

What makes a good networker? Same principles as offline networking apply (LINK) Everything is more public (what goes around definitely comes around) Connecting is easy, quality connections need work Layer information - use links so people who want to know more can find it LARC (Lurk while you learn, Ask questions, Repost/retweet, Collate information for others)

Managing your digital reputation Profiles Updates Networks Connections Help (yourself and others)

Activity in pairs Identify somebody who has a positive profile in your chosen field – opinion former, business leader, star researcher What can you find out about them online? What networks do you think they belong to?

Reflections and action planning What network do you think it is most important for you to join right now? What three things can you do to create a positive online profile? What three things can you do to actively build your professional network online?

More information Resources on using Linked-In effectively Hand-out on building a digital profile