Out of all the career related posts I’ve written, I can’t think of one instance that was solely dedicated to networking. Sure, I’ve tipped my hat to it here and there, but I’ve never really delved into the idea of networking for the Gen Y professional.
Once again things are different in the realm of Gen Y. Happy Hour networking events (while still awesome) have been joined by a myriad of different tactics to expand your professional network.
Let’s remember that the internet has made it easier than ever to cross over borders and meet new and interesting people. The same thing applies for career opportunities. Below you’ll find a list of some of my personal favorites when it comes to networking.
1. Blogging
Yes, believe it or not running this little blog has tremendously expanded my network. Thanks to Grad Meets World I’ve not only been able to reach out to others, but others have been able to reach out to me.
I have learned so much from the people I have met through this blog and I hope to continue expanding my horizons. (You can meet a few of them on my Vimeo page!)
You too can start your own blog and help like-minded individuals find you. After all, you know you’ve always wanted to and there is no time like the present.
2. Online Communities
I am currently a member of two online communities: 20sb and HerFuture. Both have helped me connect with like-minded individuals while expanding my personal and professional networks.
Start by finding online communities that resonate with you. In my case, one community is geared toward millenial bloggers while the other is a community for kick ass women that was created by one of my favorite speakers. If I could find an awesome community for yoga bloggers I’d join that one too 
3. LinkedIn
LinkedIn, and more specifically LinkedIn Groups, is a great way to increase your network or start building your own following. Since the entire site is geared toward professional networking you’ll have no problem finding what you need – whether it’s finding a client, a professional friend or a job.
4. Brazen Careerist Network Roulette
This is by far one of the coolest things online for Gen Y professionals. I myself have met some awesome people and been presented with writing opportunities for participating in these online events.
The concept is simple – it’s like speed dating for jobs. You sign on and start chatting. Once your time is up you’re automatically moved to the next person. I personally love that there is no time to beat around the bush because of the time limit. You are connected to someone, you get to the point and amazing things happen on the professional (and sometimes personal) level.
Sound Off
Thanks to the internet we now have more ways than ever to expand our horizons – professional networks included! What are some of your favorite ways to network?
I’m a big advocate of blogging and forums. If you just stay consistent with your message and just offer epic shit consistently your going to grow big very fast and easy because everyone else is always pitching some sort of product or service.
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I find LinkedIn and Facebook groups helpful in connecting with possible professional assets (for a lack of a better term). For example, I received an invitation to guest post for a blog after releasing my book Off Balanced for the Kindle and Nook because I participated in various Facebook groups.
Another great and free networking tool is Down4Lunch.com. Instead of eating lunch alone or with the same friends or officemates day after day, Down4Lunch connects you with other professionals to meet during lunch or other workday breaks to establish meaningful relationships leading to career and business opportunities. For recent grads, Down4Lunch is a great way to get your foot in the door by connecting with people at jobs or companies of interest.