3 More Reasons Why You Should Grow an Online Network

In a few posts ago, I listed for you 3 reasons of why you should grow a network online. Today I am going to share with you reason 4, 5, and 6. This is an excerpt from my NEW LinkedIn ebook that I will be releasing soon: “Get LinkedIn: Strategy Guide for Accounting & Finance Professionals.”

Here are some more good reasons to grow your online network:

4. You can be a resource for others, which will return ten-fold

Like Zig Ziglar always says, “You will have everything in life you want, if you just help enough other people get what they want.”

Even in the recruiting industry I have seen this un-fold in my life time and time again. If I take a few moments and help give someone insight on their resume; dispense interviewing tips; or help them understand a company’s culture for an interview they got on their own, it always returns to me in someway and benefits me down the road.
I’m not saying that you should always have a hidden agenda when helping others, but what I am saying is that when you show sincerity you get sincerity back.

5. You can stay on top of the latest trends

On online networks, such as LinkedIn, there is a ton of information being shared on a regular basis. Just spending 10-15 minutes a week browsing through the various discussions in your “niche” group will give you a good sense of what the latest trends are in your industry. This valuable knowledge alone will make you appear to be the expert with your company and/or your competitors.

6. You can have your ideal job find you

This is one of the most powerful reasons for having a profile online. By showcasing your background and expertise, you allow opportunities to find you. This is much different then posting your resume on one of the major job boards. When you post your resume online, you tell everyone (including your boss) that you are somewhat unhappy and want to make a move.
On LinkedIn this is much different then posting your resume on a job board somewhere. Everyone, regardless of whether they are looking or not post their experience online for all to view. Once you have done that you allow others (recruiters and hiring managers) to do a keyword search and identify you as a possible good fit. Now you can control privacy settings and choose the level as to which you want your information out there. For example on LinkedIn, your name can be hidden unless someone is in your network. If someone outside yor network thinks they have the ideal position for you, they can send you what is called “Inmail.” Users on LinkedIn are limited to the number of Inmail they can use so getting one is viewed as very important in the eyes of the receiver because it costs money.
“The best opportunities come when you are not really looking.” Have you heard someone say that before? It is true! Why not make it easier to let the best opportunities find you?