Kari Mirabal, International keynote and TEDx speaker, author and consultant will present a masterclass Oct. 7 titled “Discover Ways to Further Engage Others via LinkedIn Company Pages.”
Ahead of her LinkedIn masterclass, Kari Mirabal provided a few answers to common questions about networking and LinkedIn.
Register for the Oct. 7 LinkedIn masterclass.
1. If I have a resume, do I still need a LinkedIn profile?
Absolutely. LinkedIn is a networking tool first and foremost. The resume and your LinkedIn profile both serve you when going through a career transition.
2. Are business cards still a thing for networking if I’m on LinkedIn?
Absolutely. While I recommend downloading the LinkedIn APP on your phone and leveraging the QR code exchange feature when meeting new people to connect and save time, you will meet people who do not have the tool so a few business cards in your wallet or purse are always a good idea. You never know when an opportunity will present itself – be ready!
3. I should send LinkedIn connection requests to any CEO I want, right?
Wrong. Just because you can reach out on LinkedIn to any given CEO doesn’t mean you should. Instead, invest time networking within an organization that interests you by working your way to management via referrals. In the process, you’ll pick up insights about culture, leadership, products and services plus this knowledge will help you make an informed decision about whether or not it makes sense for you to continue exploring new leads / a career / or contacts (at different levels) within the company based on if the organization and your goals align.
4. Talking about myself when networking on LinkedIn or in-person is selfish, right?
Wrong. One of the biggest challenges I see with those new to networking is an inability to talk about themselves in a positive way. Some fear they’ll sound like a braggart but if you want to build mutually-beneficial relationships (and elicit great support from others), you have to be clear and speak with intention about who you are and what you’d like to ask for help with. You’d be surprised how open most people are when you speak with honesty about your best possible outcome.
5. What exactly is traditional networking vs. digital networking?
When you meet someone new (whether on LinkedIn or at a traditional networking event) make sure you communicate your intention – you are looking to develop mutually beneficial relationships. Networking feels way less intimidating when you offer to help others – FIRST. Inquire what your new connection is passionate about and how you can help support them at this time. As you get to know each other either on or offline, offer ideas about how you might be able to help them facilitate their goals. Many believe they don’t have anything to offer (not true, we all have unique gifts that can help other humans). Present yourself within your network as a contribution, someone with a generous spirit who truly wants to help others succeed.
Cost for the masterclass will be $125.
View Mirabal’s TEDx Talks video on Career dating: What career search and romance have in common.
Learn more about Mirabal’s book, YOU ALREADY HAVE THE NO: Naked Networking.
For more information on Mirabal, visit www.karimirabal.com.
