There are many digital platforms students are currently using to develop their professional networks. Particularly helpful are websites that are designed solely for professional networking and thus are very helpful for developing connections.

These sites include LinkedIn and Indeed, both websites I find valuable. A benefit of LinkedIn and Indeed is that you can attach professional documents such as resumes, cover letters, certificates, and other credentials. This helps to develop a professional digital identity and shows potential employers your qualifications.

Other modern networking sites include TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. Because TikTok and Instagram posts can be broadcast globally there are many opportunities to be discovered by employers around the world. Connecting over Instagram and TikTok is very accessible because it can be done completely online. Something I have used in the past and that I find helpful in job searches is Facebook and specifically joining Facebook groups. Particular groups are designed to advertise job opportunities in the area and additionally to advertise yourself and your experience/skills, thus narrowing down your job search.

These days there are many online platforms that give you the opportunity to expand your professional network, globally as well. In a group discussion with Maddy, Shalan, and Maika we discussed how it is important to keep these digital networking profiles up to date and to stay active to show engagement and your current skillset.

A current limitation of digital networking may be its privacy issues. When something is posted online it leaves a digital footprint that may be difficult or even impossible to remove in the future. Thus, our group discussed how it is important to try and maintain a professional digital identity and perhaps keep personal accounts private. However, a limitation of keeping accounts private is that it may potentially hinder you from being as discoverable to future employers.

Although our group discussed how creating a digital identity may reduce your privacy, it is an important way nonetheless to expand your professional network and begin building a professional reputation. In our group discussion, we emphasized that because digital identities are created by oneself they can be specifically tailored toward the opportunities you are seeking out. Creating a digital identity allows you to connect with others that also have an online presence, thus giving you the potential to develop a network and a reputation online. Within our group, we all agreed that it is important to be mindful and respectful of what you are posting online in order to maintain a reputable online presence. We also discussed how this includes communicating with others, such as family and friends, to be mindful of what they are posting about you.

For my own benefit, I googled myself online in incognito mode to remove any bias or influence and found everything to be non-incriminating and professional, especially since my personal profiles are private. Although I found my digital identity to be professional, upon reflection I realized I should join sites such as LinkedIn and update my Indeed to expand my professional digital network.