How Women Can Use Social Media for Business and Networking

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Social media and online communities can be valuable business resources for women. When utilized effectively, these websites help women to grow their business networks, connect with like-minded professionals, and secure new jobs and opportunities. Of all the social networks, LinkedIn and Twitter are especially useful for women in business.

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1. LinkedIn and LinkedIn Groups
LinkedIn is arguably the most valuable social website when it comes to business, and women can leverage it to find new professional opportunities. Women should create LinkedIn profiles that highlight their business experience and skills, so that anyone who views their profile, perhaps a potential employer or business partner, will have access to the information. Beyond creating a LinkedIn profile, women can utilize LinkedIn Groups to be proactive in connecting with new and existing business contacts and joining industry conversations. There are numerous LinkedIn Groups devoted to just about every industry, profession, and job function. Within LinkedIn Groups members post discussion topics, give and receive valuable knowledge and share job opportunities. Women should find groups that align with their business goals and get involved. There are even groups devoted entirely to women helping and networking with other women professionals.

2. Twitter
Twitter is another social website than can be very valuable to women for business and networking. On Twitter, users can locate and interact with other users who share similar industry interests or business goals. Twitter’s search functionality makes it easy for users to search for a topic and find both users related to that topic or tweets about the topic. By simply following relevant Twitter accounts, women can receive updates and information that is of interest to them and their professional development. They can also take further steps to interact with others on Twitter. This can be as simple as tweeting “Thanks for sharing that interesting article!” to another user. Business relationships can be made anywhere, and starting conversations on Twitter is a great way to begin cultivating them.

Social media websites, LinkedIn and Twitter especially, are valuable resources for women to grow their professional networks and find new opportunities. By utilizing these sites to interact with others in their industry or desired field, women can gain connections and information to help them achieve their business goals.

Paige Reinsel is the Online Marketing Coordinator at Online Trading Academy. She regularly utilizes social media for professional and corporate development.

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