Online Networking

It is highly valuable for you to maintain an active online presence. Using online platforms allows you to network via distance. You can build industry connections before arriving in Canada or find opportunities in other regions. Networking online is convenient, as it only requires a digital device and an internet connection.  

Many websites and apps have been developed to nurture and grow professional networks. Below are some networking platforms that help you look for job or internship opportunities, keep up with peers, and bolster professional relationships. Keep your online profiles up-to-date, and use them to share/receive information with your network.

Networking is a mutual exchange, so be open to supporting and assisting others. By actively engaging, demonstrating genuine interest, and presenting yourself professionally, you can make meaningful connections and establish a strong online presence during networking events.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn connects professionals to opportunities through a virtual platform. On your LinkedIn profile, you can showcase your professional story through experience, skills, and education. You can also connect with recruiters and colleagues either in your current field or in a field you are interested in entering. LinkedIn also provides job descriptions or information about companies. LinkedIn can help you learn what experience/credentials are required for specific occupations, which may help you set career goals and pathways.

Building a Strong and Complete Profile

It will help if you put some time into creating your profile so that it tells your professional story clearly and compellingly. Your profile should convey a sense of your professional identity to attract and impress recruiters. Showcase your professional skills, educational background, and experiences, and keep your profile updated if/when your job status changes. Here are some tips for a strong and complete profile:

  • Photo: Use a professional-looking image as your profile picture. Choose a photo that you feel presents the professional image that a recruiter wants. Having a profile picture makes it much more likely to have your profile viewed and receive connection requests, so don’t skip this step! 

  • Headline: This is a very brief overview that appears right under your name. It is the first thing a recruiter will read about you. Ensure you convey a strong professional brand using clear keywords that efficiently indicate to your audience who you are and what you do.  Be clear, concise, and confident. Here are some examples:

    Senior Digital Marketing Manager & Creative Strategist
    UI/Java/JavaScript Development - Front & Back End - Experienced - Seeking full-time work
    Sales Professional |  Evidence-based results through high impact people solutions
    New Graduate Nurse Seeking Opportunities in Emergency Care

  • Profile Summary: Your summary is a text box near the top of your LinkedIn profile; also known as the “About” section. It’s an open-ended space where you can give an overview of your professional life. You can highlight your skills, education, work experience, and accomplishments. Find guidance and examples on the LinkedIn Travel Blog’s 14 LinkedIn Profile Summaries We Love (And How to Boost Your Own). Once you’ve drafted a summary, you might want a colleague or friend to review it and give you feedback. You might also want to use an online writing assistant to help you proofread for grammar or typos, such as the LanguageTool.


Here’s an example from the LinkedIn Talent Blog of a profile that stands out:


Growing Your LinkedIn Network

You must connect with others to get the most out of LinkedIn. Make Connections by sending connection requests to other professionals and friends you already know. Once connection requests are accepted, you can view them in ‘My Network.’ 

Next, you need to connect with others to start building relationships that could influence your ability to find a job. Some of the most important connections you can make include: 

  • Find groups in your industry or field of interest. In these groups, ask questions, answer questions from other group members, join discussions, and contribute by sharing articles or information you may have. 

  • Search for companies that you are interested in. Research companies that might be potential employers and, if possible, connect with individuals in the company with jobs similar to what you are looking for. You can research the company’s culture and policies and contribute to discussions on the company’s page.

  • Find individuals and make connections. If you find a LinkedIn profile that you think would be a good person to stay in touch with, send them a connection request and start to build trust with them (by showing genuine interest in them and their company), then you can ask them about job opportunities they may be aware of.


Take Advantage of Other LinkedIn Offerings

LinkedIn has other valuable services and offerings that may help you in your job search: 

  • Search and Apply for Job Opportunities. Use the search bar to search for a job, or directly access the Jobs page to see millions of job postings. Find jobs that are suitable for your expectations and qualifications. Although you can apply for some jobs via LinkedIn, it is advisable to go directly to a business/company’s website to find the job and follow their directions for the application process. 

  • Find Information about Local Networking Events or Job Fairs. As you explore groups and company information, you may find opportunities for networking either online or in-person. 

  • Use LinkedIn Learning. For an extra cost, you can access a wide range of courses, webinars, and information that will expand your knowledge, technical skills, or expertise.

Social Media

Another way to meet and communicate with like-minded individuals is through social media. Depending on your field, different platforms can be helpful for networking, learning about others’ experiences, participating in events, and asking questions. You can post and reply to public discussions on industry-relevant topics or send direct private messages to expand and engage with your professional network.

Many Facebook groups are created by and for local community members. This includes groups for certain job sectors, hobbies, neighbourhoods, and other categories that connect people with similarities. Some groups are designed specifically by and for people from specific cultural or national backgrounds, which may help them ask specific questions and find guidance. Many local businesses and freelance workers tend to also be active on platforms like Instagram or Twitter.

Remember that if you use social media platforms for career networking, you invite professional connections (i.e., potential coworkers and employers) to view everything you post and share. Consider that they will be able to see the personal and private information or photos that you publish. Therefore, you may want to keep professional and private matters separate.

Meetup is an international platform designed to connect individuals with groups of people with shared interests, hobbies, and professions. It is a great way to meet with other people who want to make connections, especially those who have newly arrived in a community. Meetup filters events by date, type (in-person/online and indoor/outdoor), location, and group category (career and business, technology, etc.). Immigrant professionals can also easily create their groups if current groups and events are not what they seek. Here are some examples of events you can find through Meetup.



Online Networking Events

Online networking events are virtual gatherings where professionals can connect, engage, and build relationships in a digital environment. They offer the convenience of connecting with professionals from diverse locations and allow great logistical flexibility compared with in-person events. They are particularly valuable when in-person events are challenging or inaccessible. 

These events provide opportunities for networking, learning, and sharing industry insights. To make the most of these events, active participation, professional etiquette, and follow-up actions are important to build and maintain relationships beyond the event itself. Become familiar with video conferencing platforms, chat features, and virtual breakout rooms to facilitate communication and engagement. 

Here are some examples of online events you may seek out:

  • Webinars and Virtual Conferences: Participants can join online presentations, panel discussions, roundtable discussions, or workshops on specific topics/industries. Take full advantage by engaging in live chats and interacting with speakers and other attendees.

  • Virtual Meetups or Networking Mixers: These events aim to replicate the networking experience of in-person meetups or mixers but in a digital format. Participants may be able to join virtual rooms or breakout sessions to engage in one-on-one or small group conversations. Exchange contact information if you connect with others who you want to stay in touch with, and be sure to follow up.

  • Industry-Specific Networking Events: Some organizations or professional associations host online events focused on a particular industry or field. Join these events to connect with others in your sector, share knowledge, and explore collaboration opportunities.

  • Online Speed Networking: Similar to traditional speed networking, participants are paired with others for brief one-on-one conversations. Prepare your elevator pitch, introduce yourself, and exchange contact information as desired.

  • Online Career Fairs: Virtual career fairs allow job seekers to connect with potential employers and learn about job openings. You may interact with recruiters, explore company profiles, and submit resumes or applications.