SlideShare uma empresa Scribd logo
1 de 5
Baixar para ler offline
April 2010


                                         Networking:
             Career Essential or Time Vampire?
         Networking, whether through traditional means or "social networking", is touted as the latest
         career essential. But how do we figure out the difference between essential networking and
         simply gathering business cards and surfing social networking sites? We all have many
         professional and personal obligations. How much time is appropriate to dedicate to networking
         and where should you invest your time? From an organizational perspective, do you need to
         establish a social networking policy, or figure out how to staff your next big project when you
         don’t have funds to hire a full time employee?

         I admit I am a bit of a LinkedIn and Facebook junkie – it is easy to lose hours reading group
         postings and people’s profiles. While Facebook quizzes can be a time vampire, social media
         helped me to reconnect with former colleagues, gain introductions through shared connections,
         and build online credibility that have led to face to face relationships. These online sources
         augment, rather than replace, my face-to-face networking (and yes, I can direct you to the
         nearest Caribou in virtually any Twin Cities location).

         In this premiere issue of Monthly Musings, I will share my recent networking experiences,
         practical tips for you, and suggestions for your organization to make the most of networking
         opportunities

         As always, we welcome your input, insights and stories.




       My Network and Me

       Last month I attended the 2010 Joint Dinner of Women’s Professional Associations. I was thrilled to
       be working the Women of Influence booth, sharing our passion for giving back, making a difference
       and creating change in issues that impact the success of women and girls, with the attendees.
www.womenofinfluenceinc.org

When I attended the dinner for the first time last year, I knew only my host and while I had a good
time, it was a bit intimidating, and I did not really feel connected to the event. What a difference a
year can make. Last week, during the networking hour I had the pleasant surprise of reconnecting
with that host, a recent client, a former Toastmasters colleague, a recruiter I am getting to know, as
well as enjoying a terrific evening with my fantastic WOI friends and colleagues. What made the
difference for me?

Investing in my network….investing in my network before I needed it.

Keynote speaker Julie Gilbert’s address reinforced this important topic. Julie, President and CEO of
Wolf Means Business, emphasized two main points:

                     1)   Find Your Passion

                     2)   Build Your Network

My passion for non-profits and small business success provided me with the courage to strike out on
my own with ROO Solutions almost one year ago. Looking back, the investments I made in my
network throughout the last several years have paid dividends in bringing new clients, new
relationships and exposure to new ideas. I hope the suggestions below will assist you, and your
organization, to identify the organizations and relationships most worthy of investing your precious
networking time.

For You: Networking Tips for you

In today’s business environment, "who you know" both inside and outside your organization is critical
for your current and future success. But networking is about more than gathering business cards; it is
a long-term investment in your future. The tips below will help you identify strengths and gaps in
your network, and focus your networking efforts.

Tip #1: Know Your Network

Take 10 minutes to map your professional and personal networks. Is there an opportunity to
leverage resources from one network to benefit another? For example, would a former coworker
with expertise in international distribution be willing to review your company’s plan to enter a new
international market?
A basic network mapping template can be downloaded from the "What’s New" section of my
website: http://localhost:52785/Roo%20Solutions%20Website/Whats_new/whats_new.htm

Tip #2: Identify your personal and professional passions

There are only so many hours in a day. Deciding which subjects, groups and causes you are most
passionate about will help narrow your focus, while maintaining some sense of a personal life. Make
a list of what you want to learn, causes you actively support, and what professional activities give you
so much energy you would do it for free. Is your list balanced between professional and personal
pursuits? Is it realistic? If not, cut the list in half, and halve it again if necessary. Force rank the
remaining items. You may also be able to find ways to marry these passions by sharing your
professional expertise with a community group you support, mentoring a young professional in your
organization, or participating in a company giving group.

Tip #3: Close the gaps

Now that you have identified your network and clarified your passions, you have probably found that
some areas of your network are stronger than others, and there may be areas that you have not yet
committed sufficient time to developing a strong network. Prioritize these gaps and research how to
establish connections. Is there a local association or online networking group that loves to learn
about advanced cost accounting or is on a quest for create the perfect pesto as much as you?
Probably.

Tip #4: Keep in Touch

Networking is not an end, in and of itself, nor is it an event. Networking is both intentional and a long
term-commitment. Your efforts should focus on gaining knowledge, contacts, and relationships that
result in development and opportunities for you and others. Determine which contacts are most
important to you, how they like to be communicated with and what their interests are. Reach out to
them when you read an interesting article about their industry, learned something new that maybe
of interest, or just to say hello on occasion.

 But I’m an introvert….I can’t network. If you break out in a sweat at the thought of professional
speed dating, think about who you already know, where you can lend expertise informally, and who
might be willing to tag team with you at a networking event. If picking up the phone is
uncomfortable, send a card or a copy of an article with a handwritten note from you.

Tip #5: Pay it Forward
Ok, I’ve saved the big reveal for the finale. Networking is not about you – it’s about them! Others
are networking for the same reasons you are – to generate business, referrals, or to gain access to
knowledge and expertise. You may meet someone who is looking for an expert in an area where you
have contacts. Offer to connect these individuals. Provide you have taken time up front to vet the
resource, both parties will probably appreciate the introduction. They are also likely to remember
your assistance, and do the same for you in the future.

Invest 5 minutes per day in maintaining your network. It feels good to be connected and will reap
benefits. You can do it!


For Your Organization: Social Networking & Your Employees

All of this "social networking" is well and good on someone’s personal time, but you have a business
to run. How do you determine whether an employee’s 15 minutes per day online is purposeful "social
networking" or just a waste of valuable company time? The distinctions are not easy to make at first
blush, but by establishing a clear company policy regarding social media, you can lay the ground work
for appropriate professional networking, and a basis for addressing excessive surfing.

When implementing a social media policy, consider the following:

       Separation of employee professional and personal lives

        It is important to set expectations with your employees regarding appropriately
        representing the company, as well as not speaking “on behalf” of the Company without
        explicit authorization. This includes representing oneself professionally on the Company’s
        Facebook and LinkedIn pages.

        The February 15th edition of Time Magazine reported that 70% of HR Professionals use
        social media to screen candidates. Is this a practice your organization will endorse, and if so,
        how will potentially damaging information be handled? What if the employee or job
        candidate did not post this information or photo personally?

       Appropriate employee time and emphasis on social media

        The amount of time employees are permitted to use social media may vary by position. For
        example, a marketer, recruiter or sales position may need to spend more time building
        customer or candidate relationships than a Maintenance or Finance employee. Rather than
        placing a time limit on social media across the board, you may want to structure your policy
        to state that social networking sites are to be used during work hours only for purposes that
further an employee’s professional knowledge or legitimate business purpose. Restrict
         purely social surging completely, or limit it to break times.

       IT infrastructure / bandwidth

         Your organization may want or need to restrict internet access based on your IT
         infrastructure. Limit personal or non-business use to non-peak usage times.

       Intellectual Property / confidentiality

         Many online sites for professional publications, associations, and other social networking
         groups have ongoing interactive dialogues with peers asking questions or seeking advice.
         This can be a great resource for your employees to gain quick access to information
         (although it may not be reliable) and to develop a peer network. At the same time, this
         creates opportunities to share information inappropriately. Make sure your policy reminds
         employees that they are not to intentionally, or unintentionally, release confidential
         information about the company, its clients, vendors, R&D efforts or any other information
         that is not available to the general public. Employees should receive authorization before
         sharing any company documents and work examples with online networks.

Consider when and where you want your leaders and employees to spend face-to-face networking
time.

Some organizations find it beneficial for employers to participate in professional association groups,
whether for their specific profession or an industry association. These groups typically involve a
monthly educational session and for additional investment, peer-based groups. The value of such
peers groups depends on the degree to which your employees can gain access to expertise and you
can promote your organization and expertise to others.




For additional strategies to leverage networks within and outside of your organization, ask us about
our Collaborating Beyond Boundaries workshop.

Mais conteúdo relacionado

Mais procurados

How to use social media to drive business?
How to use social media to drive business?How to use social media to drive business?
How to use social media to drive business?mutlusen
 
Act Like A Giraffe, Not A Turtle
Act Like A Giraffe, Not A TurtleAct Like A Giraffe, Not A Turtle
Act Like A Giraffe, Not A TurtleJulieFreundRoth
 
A Social Media Masterclass
A Social Media MasterclassA Social Media Masterclass
A Social Media MasterclassDawn Murden
 
The Importance Of Networking
The Importance Of NetworkingThe Importance Of Networking
The Importance Of Networkinglysander236
 
Networking And Network Etiquette
Networking And Network EtiquetteNetworking And Network Etiquette
Networking And Network EtiquetteJMULLINMBA
 
Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015
Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015 Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015
Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015 Kelly Hoey
 
Social media opportunities for family lawyers
Social media opportunities for family lawyersSocial media opportunities for family lawyers
Social media opportunities for family lawyersSuzy Ashworth
 
Social Media + Sports Network Advice
Social Media + Sports Network AdviceSocial Media + Sports Network Advice
Social Media + Sports Network AdviceJessica Smith
 
Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0
Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0
Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0LIFT Summit 2009
 
Developing Network Know-How as a Consultant
Developing Network Know-How as a ConsultantDeveloping Network Know-How as a Consultant
Developing Network Know-How as a ConsultantTalMix
 
Social media and digital marketing
Social media and digital marketingSocial media and digital marketing
Social media and digital marketingmarketingexperts101
 
An Interview with Judy Gombita - Part I
An Interview with Judy Gombita - Part IAn Interview with Judy Gombita - Part I
An Interview with Judy Gombita - Part IPaper.li
 
Lessons From My Career Transition
Lessons From My Career TransitionLessons From My Career Transition
Lessons From My Career TransitionRenee Giacalone
 
Twitter4 Business Relevance1009
Twitter4 Business Relevance1009Twitter4 Business Relevance1009
Twitter4 Business Relevance1009HelpingFriends
 
RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0
RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0
RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0Roxanne Persaud
 

Mais procurados (18)

How to use social media to drive business?
How to use social media to drive business?How to use social media to drive business?
How to use social media to drive business?
 
Act Like A Giraffe, Not A Turtle
Act Like A Giraffe, Not A TurtleAct Like A Giraffe, Not A Turtle
Act Like A Giraffe, Not A Turtle
 
A Social Media Masterclass
A Social Media MasterclassA Social Media Masterclass
A Social Media Masterclass
 
The Importance Of Networking
The Importance Of NetworkingThe Importance Of Networking
The Importance Of Networking
 
Networking And Network Etiquette
Networking And Network EtiquetteNetworking And Network Etiquette
Networking And Network Etiquette
 
Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015
Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015 Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015
Resolve To Connect Better: 24 Networking Questions and Solutions For 2015
 
Social media opportunities for family lawyers
Social media opportunities for family lawyersSocial media opportunities for family lawyers
Social media opportunities for family lawyers
 
Social Media + Sports Network Advice
Social Media + Sports Network AdviceSocial Media + Sports Network Advice
Social Media + Sports Network Advice
 
Hurting the Network- Part 2
Hurting the Network- Part 2Hurting the Network- Part 2
Hurting the Network- Part 2
 
Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0
Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0
Ben Golub: Business Networking via Web 2.0
 
Developing Network Know-How as a Consultant
Developing Network Know-How as a ConsultantDeveloping Network Know-How as a Consultant
Developing Network Know-How as a Consultant
 
Case For Social Engagement
Case For Social EngagementCase For Social Engagement
Case For Social Engagement
 
Give back
Give backGive back
Give back
 
Social media and digital marketing
Social media and digital marketingSocial media and digital marketing
Social media and digital marketing
 
An Interview with Judy Gombita - Part I
An Interview with Judy Gombita - Part IAn Interview with Judy Gombita - Part I
An Interview with Judy Gombita - Part I
 
Lessons From My Career Transition
Lessons From My Career TransitionLessons From My Career Transition
Lessons From My Career Transition
 
Twitter4 Business Relevance1009
Twitter4 Business Relevance1009Twitter4 Business Relevance1009
Twitter4 Business Relevance1009
 
RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0
RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0
RSA Digital Engagement Guidelines v1.0
 

Semelhante a Networking Career Essential Or Time Vampire April 2010.Htm

Strategic Networking
Strategic NetworkingStrategic Networking
Strategic NetworkingSVPMA
 
How to build your personal brand
How to build your personal brandHow to build your personal brand
How to build your personal brandKelly Services
 
Building your network
Building your networkBuilding your network
Building your networkLisa Mahar
 
Direction follow all directions from below fully and with under.docx
Direction follow all directions from below fully and with under.docxDirection follow all directions from below fully and with under.docx
Direction follow all directions from below fully and with under.docxcuddietheresa
 
04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?
04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?
04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?Elephants Abroad
 
11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf
11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf
11 Top Networking Benefits.pdfPrakruthiS20
 
BBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docx
BBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docxBBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docx
BBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docxMadanMalla
 
Social Media Marketing For Professionals
Social Media Marketing For ProfessionalsSocial Media Marketing For Professionals
Social Media Marketing For ProfessionalsThe Friedman Group, LLC
 
5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support
5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support
5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing supportzubeditufail
 
Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference
Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference
Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference Rachel Yeomans
 
LinkedIn in 15 Minutes a Day
LinkedIn in 15 Minutes a DayLinkedIn in 15 Minutes a Day
LinkedIn in 15 Minutes a DayGeorgia Barnes
 
Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010
Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010
Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010Come Recommended, LLC
 
Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018
Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018
Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018Cassandra Pierre-Louis
 
Networking Within the Company
Networking Within the CompanyNetworking Within the Company
Networking Within the CompanyMeagan Paterson
 
Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010
Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010
Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010Debra Feldman
 

Semelhante a Networking Career Essential Or Time Vampire April 2010.Htm (20)

Strategic Networking
Strategic NetworkingStrategic Networking
Strategic Networking
 
How to build your personal brand
How to build your personal brandHow to build your personal brand
How to build your personal brand
 
Building your network
Building your networkBuilding your network
Building your network
 
Direction follow all directions from below fully and with under.docx
Direction follow all directions from below fully and with under.docxDirection follow all directions from below fully and with under.docx
Direction follow all directions from below fully and with under.docx
 
04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?
04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?
04 06 10 Does having a Linkedin profile mean I'm "doing social networking"?
 
11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf
11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf
11 Top Networking Benefits.pdf
 
BBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docx
BBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docxBBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docx
BBA-II, Unit-7 The Job Search.docx
 
Social Media Marketing For Professionals
Social Media Marketing For ProfessionalsSocial Media Marketing For Professionals
Social Media Marketing For Professionals
 
Recruitment
RecruitmentRecruitment
Recruitment
 
The Art of Social Networking
The Art of Social NetworkingThe Art of Social Networking
The Art of Social Networking
 
5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support
5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support
5 ways you can generate your own leads if you don’t have marketing support
 
How To Make Your Network Work For You
How To Make Your Network Work For YouHow To Make Your Network Work For You
How To Make Your Network Work For You
 
Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference
Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference
Using Social Media to Manage Your Conference
 
LinkedIn in 15 Minutes a Day
LinkedIn in 15 Minutes a DayLinkedIn in 15 Minutes a Day
LinkedIn in 15 Minutes a Day
 
Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010
Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010
Come Recommended's Best Advice for Employers in 2010
 
Google me
Google meGoogle me
Google me
 
Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018
Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018
Freelancing in the_digital_age_july_2018
 
RH business etiquette
RH business etiquetteRH business etiquette
RH business etiquette
 
Networking Within the Company
Networking Within the CompanyNetworking Within the Company
Networking Within the Company
 
Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010
Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010
Feldman holiday networking 12 days 2010
 

Networking Career Essential Or Time Vampire April 2010.Htm

  • 1. April 2010 Networking: Career Essential or Time Vampire? Networking, whether through traditional means or "social networking", is touted as the latest career essential. But how do we figure out the difference between essential networking and simply gathering business cards and surfing social networking sites? We all have many professional and personal obligations. How much time is appropriate to dedicate to networking and where should you invest your time? From an organizational perspective, do you need to establish a social networking policy, or figure out how to staff your next big project when you don’t have funds to hire a full time employee? I admit I am a bit of a LinkedIn and Facebook junkie – it is easy to lose hours reading group postings and people’s profiles. While Facebook quizzes can be a time vampire, social media helped me to reconnect with former colleagues, gain introductions through shared connections, and build online credibility that have led to face to face relationships. These online sources augment, rather than replace, my face-to-face networking (and yes, I can direct you to the nearest Caribou in virtually any Twin Cities location). In this premiere issue of Monthly Musings, I will share my recent networking experiences, practical tips for you, and suggestions for your organization to make the most of networking opportunities As always, we welcome your input, insights and stories. My Network and Me Last month I attended the 2010 Joint Dinner of Women’s Professional Associations. I was thrilled to be working the Women of Influence booth, sharing our passion for giving back, making a difference and creating change in issues that impact the success of women and girls, with the attendees.
  • 2. www.womenofinfluenceinc.org When I attended the dinner for the first time last year, I knew only my host and while I had a good time, it was a bit intimidating, and I did not really feel connected to the event. What a difference a year can make. Last week, during the networking hour I had the pleasant surprise of reconnecting with that host, a recent client, a former Toastmasters colleague, a recruiter I am getting to know, as well as enjoying a terrific evening with my fantastic WOI friends and colleagues. What made the difference for me? Investing in my network….investing in my network before I needed it. Keynote speaker Julie Gilbert’s address reinforced this important topic. Julie, President and CEO of Wolf Means Business, emphasized two main points: 1) Find Your Passion 2) Build Your Network My passion for non-profits and small business success provided me with the courage to strike out on my own with ROO Solutions almost one year ago. Looking back, the investments I made in my network throughout the last several years have paid dividends in bringing new clients, new relationships and exposure to new ideas. I hope the suggestions below will assist you, and your organization, to identify the organizations and relationships most worthy of investing your precious networking time. For You: Networking Tips for you In today’s business environment, "who you know" both inside and outside your organization is critical for your current and future success. But networking is about more than gathering business cards; it is a long-term investment in your future. The tips below will help you identify strengths and gaps in your network, and focus your networking efforts. Tip #1: Know Your Network Take 10 minutes to map your professional and personal networks. Is there an opportunity to leverage resources from one network to benefit another? For example, would a former coworker with expertise in international distribution be willing to review your company’s plan to enter a new international market?
  • 3. A basic network mapping template can be downloaded from the "What’s New" section of my website: http://localhost:52785/Roo%20Solutions%20Website/Whats_new/whats_new.htm Tip #2: Identify your personal and professional passions There are only so many hours in a day. Deciding which subjects, groups and causes you are most passionate about will help narrow your focus, while maintaining some sense of a personal life. Make a list of what you want to learn, causes you actively support, and what professional activities give you so much energy you would do it for free. Is your list balanced between professional and personal pursuits? Is it realistic? If not, cut the list in half, and halve it again if necessary. Force rank the remaining items. You may also be able to find ways to marry these passions by sharing your professional expertise with a community group you support, mentoring a young professional in your organization, or participating in a company giving group. Tip #3: Close the gaps Now that you have identified your network and clarified your passions, you have probably found that some areas of your network are stronger than others, and there may be areas that you have not yet committed sufficient time to developing a strong network. Prioritize these gaps and research how to establish connections. Is there a local association or online networking group that loves to learn about advanced cost accounting or is on a quest for create the perfect pesto as much as you? Probably. Tip #4: Keep in Touch Networking is not an end, in and of itself, nor is it an event. Networking is both intentional and a long term-commitment. Your efforts should focus on gaining knowledge, contacts, and relationships that result in development and opportunities for you and others. Determine which contacts are most important to you, how they like to be communicated with and what their interests are. Reach out to them when you read an interesting article about their industry, learned something new that maybe of interest, or just to say hello on occasion. But I’m an introvert….I can’t network. If you break out in a sweat at the thought of professional speed dating, think about who you already know, where you can lend expertise informally, and who might be willing to tag team with you at a networking event. If picking up the phone is uncomfortable, send a card or a copy of an article with a handwritten note from you. Tip #5: Pay it Forward
  • 4. Ok, I’ve saved the big reveal for the finale. Networking is not about you – it’s about them! Others are networking for the same reasons you are – to generate business, referrals, or to gain access to knowledge and expertise. You may meet someone who is looking for an expert in an area where you have contacts. Offer to connect these individuals. Provide you have taken time up front to vet the resource, both parties will probably appreciate the introduction. They are also likely to remember your assistance, and do the same for you in the future. Invest 5 minutes per day in maintaining your network. It feels good to be connected and will reap benefits. You can do it! For Your Organization: Social Networking & Your Employees All of this "social networking" is well and good on someone’s personal time, but you have a business to run. How do you determine whether an employee’s 15 minutes per day online is purposeful "social networking" or just a waste of valuable company time? The distinctions are not easy to make at first blush, but by establishing a clear company policy regarding social media, you can lay the ground work for appropriate professional networking, and a basis for addressing excessive surfing. When implementing a social media policy, consider the following: Separation of employee professional and personal lives It is important to set expectations with your employees regarding appropriately representing the company, as well as not speaking “on behalf” of the Company without explicit authorization. This includes representing oneself professionally on the Company’s Facebook and LinkedIn pages. The February 15th edition of Time Magazine reported that 70% of HR Professionals use social media to screen candidates. Is this a practice your organization will endorse, and if so, how will potentially damaging information be handled? What if the employee or job candidate did not post this information or photo personally? Appropriate employee time and emphasis on social media The amount of time employees are permitted to use social media may vary by position. For example, a marketer, recruiter or sales position may need to spend more time building customer or candidate relationships than a Maintenance or Finance employee. Rather than placing a time limit on social media across the board, you may want to structure your policy to state that social networking sites are to be used during work hours only for purposes that
  • 5. further an employee’s professional knowledge or legitimate business purpose. Restrict purely social surging completely, or limit it to break times. IT infrastructure / bandwidth Your organization may want or need to restrict internet access based on your IT infrastructure. Limit personal or non-business use to non-peak usage times. Intellectual Property / confidentiality Many online sites for professional publications, associations, and other social networking groups have ongoing interactive dialogues with peers asking questions or seeking advice. This can be a great resource for your employees to gain quick access to information (although it may not be reliable) and to develop a peer network. At the same time, this creates opportunities to share information inappropriately. Make sure your policy reminds employees that they are not to intentionally, or unintentionally, release confidential information about the company, its clients, vendors, R&D efforts or any other information that is not available to the general public. Employees should receive authorization before sharing any company documents and work examples with online networks. Consider when and where you want your leaders and employees to spend face-to-face networking time. Some organizations find it beneficial for employers to participate in professional association groups, whether for their specific profession or an industry association. These groups typically involve a monthly educational session and for additional investment, peer-based groups. The value of such peers groups depends on the degree to which your employees can gain access to expertise and you can promote your organization and expertise to others. For additional strategies to leverage networks within and outside of your organization, ask us about our Collaborating Beyond Boundaries workshop.