Case study. Gwen’s manager suggested she join a professional social networking site. She thought it would help Gwen as she stepped into her new role with more responsibility if she networked with people in similar positions. Gwen wasn’t sure. She wasn’t even sure how to create a profile or use the site. She spent some time with her coworker, Kwame, who managed the social media for their company. Kwame helped Gwen choose a professional-looking headshot for her profile, and they entered in her information, focusing on her education, work history, and her current role. Kwame advised her to keep her presence on the site professional and positive. Then, they sought out groups on the site. Gwen joined a group for professional women, a group for people in roles like hers, and a group for alumni of her university. He helped her craft personal, friendly messages to people who seemed to have the same goals and interests. Within a week or so, Gwen had made contact with several people who were very experienced in roles like hers and who had advice to give. She was also able to help some new alumni from her university with advice on their job searches.
