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Due to advancements in technology, innovation and the integration of AI, the development of new tools has been growing at a rapid pace that has broadened the plethora of connecting with professionals, building relationships and mentoring opportunities to attain career success. There are many different platforms available such as through your school to connect with alumni and business partners, social networking platforms, industry-specific forums, meet-ups and other events through various other organizations and associations. Because there are various ways to engage with these networking platforms, it is essential to understand that success requires crafting a unique profile and connecting with peers, professionals and mentors to build authentic relationships.  

Nowadays, digital presence is crucial not just for networking and social circle but also to build up your portfolio to strengthen professional credibility and to showcase your skills to peers and employers. Having a digital presence through these networking platforms also provides opportunities to collaborate, engage and learn from experts. Students can leverage the benefits of digital presence if utilized effectively for their academic and career success.  

Here are some ways to strengthen your digital presence and leverage networking platforms:  

• Having a functional and active LinkedIn account is essential. LinkedIn is a catalyst for students and professionals to showcase their achievements, skills, education and their learning experiences not just with industry-specific professionals but really with everyone that they are connected with. It is your digital portfolio that tells others about you and your professional achievements. It is crucial to set up your LinkedIn in a professional manner and update it regularly to keep others informed. For LinkedIn, it is essential to set up your profile with a clear headline and write a concise summary regarding your strengths, experiences and aspirations. Update other areas such as skills, languages, certificates, experiences, education and others if relevant to you.  

• Join industry-specific organizations and associations and even better if there are volunteer opportunities. Actively engage and participate at various events, volunteer and take initiatives to create an impact on your peers. By actively engaging and participating with organizations and associations boost confidence, strengthens communication skills and provides an opportunity to build relationships with professionals. Join relevant communities and chapters to stay informed about opportunities. 

• There are other social networking platforms that support students and professionals that are institution specific to connect with alumni, industry partners and other professionals.   

Through these networking platforms, there are many more opportunities to connect with peers and professionals that have replaced traditional pathways of applying for jobs. In today’s technological era, having a digital presence and an effective use of networking platforms pushes students towards more opportunities to build their career and professional lives. It is important to note that networking is an ongoing, continuous practice and not a last-minute effort because effective usage of these platforms positions students and professionals to stand out more than to those who submit applications through a standardized hiring system. Students should start using these platforms at their initial stages of academic journey, which will help ease them more smoothly into the workforce.

By Merab Mushfiq