Which One is Right for You?
 
You should consider using both types of sites. For example, I use a social networking site to keep in touch with friends and relatives. I’ve reconnected with a lot of my former classmates this way. I am also “friends” with a lot of colleagues and professional contacts, but they know that I would never use the site to solicit business from them. I use it to post pictures and stay in touch – all on a personal level. I am also a member of a variety of professional pages, and have even had articles posted on them, but again, that is a secondary use of the site.
 
On the other hand, I use LinkedIn religiously to network with clients and colleagues. I have “met” other professionals through the site and have used it to find people at various firms and companies. The great thing about professional networking sites is that you might never learn from passing conversation that your colleague in the next office knows the hiring partner at that great new firm in town, but by conducting a search on LinkedIn, you can see if that hiring partner is linked to any of your links – including the co-worker next door.
 
Regardless of what type of site you choose to use, always remember that this is your public persona – both personal and professional. Use discretion when picking the content, but above all, use the sites. They can be invaluable in expanding your network.
 
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Eden Mandrell is the Regional Practice Manager for Major, Lindsey & Africa’s Associate
Practice Group – Central region. She can be contacted at 312-896-8557 or
emandrell@mlaglobal.com.