How to Build a Network (on Linkedin) in 2024

“It’s who you know”. This has been a long standing saying heard by every generation through time (and maybe space? Who knows). I remember hearing this phrase early in my career and thinking, “how am I ever going to know people in the field I want to work in when I don't know anyone”. Growing up in Sunset Park Brooklyn, we had mostly blue collar immigrant workers who were figuring out how to navigate living in America learning a new language. I’m living proof that building a strong network from scratch that spans across multiple continents and industries is possible. 

Submitted for the approval of the Midday Society 

Building a network in 2024 

I tell people all the time I fell into this industry because of my passion for a hobby (video games). Curiosity helped me understand that asking the right questions and getting people to see my passion and motivation can go a long way. During each touchpoint of my work journey, I asked questions, presented ideas, worked hard and made authentic connections. It’s connections that helped to sustain my career during the hard times. 

Linkedin has been one of my greatest tools and allowed me to stay in touch with my authentic connections. I actually really love Linkedin and worked to build out my profile to help me continuously standout while growing my network. 

There is a lot of noise on Linkedin and first impressions here matter. Here are some ways to help stand out  from the rest. 

• Use a Professional Photo: Your profile photo is an important part of making a good first impression. This one really really matters. I even went as far as commissioning my Linkedin photo because it was an investment in me
• Optimize Your Headline and Summary: Your headline is the first thing people see when they visit your profile, so make it count. Take a look at profiles of others that you aspire to be to seek inspiration
• Use keywords that highlight your skills and expertise. Similar to a resume, your summary should provide a concise overview of your professional background, accomplishments, and career goals
• Complete Your Profile: LinkedIn allows you to add various sections to your profile, such as work experience, education, skills, certifications, and volunteer experience. Take the time to fill out each section comprehensively, providing detailed information about your background and accomplishments
  • Include media links to industry articles, case studies, and other public facing information that features you've been apart of. This helps to become a proof of concept of your work experience. Here's an example.
• Engage with Content and Connections: Engage with content by liking, commenting, and sharing posts relevant to your industry or interests. Do so authentically, add value, or simply share your reactions to the content. Showing interest is the goal 
• Connect with colleagues, classmates, mentors, and industry professionals to expand your network. Building relationships and staying active on the platform can increase your visibility and open up new opportunities

A complete profile helps recruiters and potential connections understand your full professional story.