Online networking etiquette

Online platforms let you reach people you might never meet in person. The same manners apply as face to face, plus a few extra rules about messages, privacy and safety. For setting up a LinkedIn profile, see the CVs and Interviews module.

Where online networking happens

• The National Careers Service lists social media, LinkedIn, community forums and special interest groups, and notes that online networking can suit people who find in-person events daunting.
• It also says active participation can build a reputation for being helpful and show your skills.
• University alumni platforms and professional body forums are often safer and more focused than open social media.
• LinkedIn's terms set a minimum age of 16 (see the CVs and Interviews module). Under 16, focus on school and supervised platforms.

The golden rule

• Washburn University's Career Services sums it up: 'If you wouldn't do it in person, don't do it on LinkedIn.' The same applies on any platform.
• Be completely truthful in your profile, because it is public (Washburn).
• Write your profile with the same care as a CV or cover letter: check grammar and spelling, even if the tone is slightly less formal (Washburn). Give messages the same care.
• Keep posts professional: events you attend, achievements, articles you have read and announcements are good topics (Washburn).

Connection requests and first messages

• Personalise every request rather than sending the default message (Washburn).
• Keep it brief and polite, mention how you met if relevant, and say why you want to connect (Washburn).
• Example after an event: 'Hi Rania, we spoke after your talk at the Dubai careers fair about renewable energy. I'd value staying in touch and learning more about your field.'
• Example with no prior contact (UCSF approach): introduce yourself, explain your career interest and mention what drew you to their work.
• Never directly ask for a job in a connection request or first message (Washburn).

Introductions and follow-ups

• To ask a mutual contact for an introduction, Washburn suggests two short notes: one to your mutual contact and one to the person you want to meet.
• If someone has not responded for over a month, Washburn says you can send one email to say you reached out; if that does not work, move on.
• Reply to messages and requests promptly. Washburn says a consistent presence matters more than logging in every day.
• When someone writes you a recommendation, personalise your request and always thank them (Washburn).

Privacy and safety

• Do not share your home address, ID details or personal phone number in public posts or first messages. UCL Careers also advises holding back personal details in a first contact.
• Use platform messaging, school or university systems where you can, rather than moving straight to private apps.
• If you are under 18, tell a parent or guardian before arranging to talk to or meet an adult you met online, and meet only in public or by video. Be wary of anyone who asks for secrecy, money or personal photos, and see the Personal Safety module for help.
• For requests from people you do not know, Washburn suggests replying to ask how you know each other, or ignoring or archiving the request.
• Remember that anything you post may be seen by future employers and universities. The Personal Safety module covers online safety in more detail.