Creates positive professional connections and networks using social media and digital tools
On this page you'll find links to resources to help you create positive professional connections and networks using social media and digital tools.
Select your current capability level to jump to aligned resources:
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Not at Level 1
Creates positive professional connections and networks using social media and digital tools
Not at Level 1 - I don't currently use professional networks to make good connections online.
To develop your knowledge about professional networks and how they can help you, have a look at this webpage: NHS Education for Scotland - Build Your Networks
LinkedIn is a popular professional networking tool that you may hear mentioned. Find out what it is and how to use it here: LinkedIn - What is LinkedIn and how can I use it?
Social media tools can also be used for professional networking. Develop your confidence in using social media using this short e-learning module: Lloyds Bank Academy - Using Social Media
Find out more about the digital networking tools you are interested in with these short online modules. You will need to sign up for a free Barclays Digital Wings account to access these resources: Barclays Digital Wings - App Based Learning
For further resources, visit the Communication page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
Level 1
Creates positive professional connections and networks using social media and digital tools
Level 1 - I feel I can contribute positively towards professional networks if necessary and know how to make good connections online.
This short video covers the best ways to network online and forge meaningful relationships with likeminded professionals. It is aimed at a business audience, but the advice is relevant to professional networks in any sector: Career Addict - How to Network Online in 7 Simple Steps
LinkedIn is one of the most frequently used professional networking platforms. This guidance will help you develop an effective profile and build good professional networks, particularly in the ‘Start Engaging’ section: Prospects - How to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile
The following resources are part of the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) 23 Things Digital List. Although written for social services workers, the content applies to everyone:
- SSSC - Thing 5: Social Media #1 - Read through the introduction and follow instructions a-c.
- SSSC - Thing 13: Professional Networks - The introduction and instructions a-c will give you a good overview of using LinkedIn and advice on building connections. For step c, use the example groups given or find others that are relevant to your role.
For further resources, visit the Communication page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
Level 2
Creates positive professional connections and networks using social media and digital tools
Level 2 - I am a regular and confident participant in online networks, forums and shared workspaces, and always ensure that my contributions are purposeful and professional
Read some suggestions on ways to engage effectively online in this short article: LinkedIn - Mastering the Art of Virtual Networking: 5 Steps to Build Powerful Connections Online
To help you ensure that your online contributions are purposeful and professional, have a look at this webpage: Welldoing - Can We Agree to Disagree? Tips to Improve Online Communication
Have a look at this thought-provoking article on different approaches to using social media in a professional way: Harvard Business Review - How to Separate the Personal and Professional on Social Media
For further resources, visit the Communication page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
Level 3
Creates positive professional connections and networks using social media and digital tools
Level 3 - I can build, develop and manage digital networks, forums and shared workspaces, for purposeful communication and collaboration
Use this guide to find out how you can encourage participants to engage meaningfully in any networks, forums or shared workspaces you manage: Shared Digital Guides - Building Online Community Using a Mix of Digital Tools
This online blog post highlights the importance of online networks for finding or offering opportunities, sharing ideas and learning new concepts, building communities and extending support to build a strong networking plan for your organisation: CVent - Digital Networking – Five Steps to do it Right!
For further resources, visit the Communication page of the Digital and Data Resource Hub.
