Are you plugged in?

As they say, it's not what you know; it's who you know. Geraldine Amoko gets some networking advice from personal leadership brand strategist Robyn Young.

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Networking is a little like dating: you meet a stranger in the hopes. of being able to form a long-standing relationship and live happily ever after at least, as far as your career's concerned. Whether it's meeting the love of your life or making a professional connection that will help further your career aspirations, the whole idea of putting yourself out there is a hurdle all of its own. But fear not! Personal leadership brand strategist Robyn Young is here to show you how to put your best foot forward and network like a pro.

Leverage your social media

Your online presence is a powerful networking tool that not only helps you to access spaces and people that you never knew about; it also shows those people that you are real and trustworthy. The key is to present yourself consistently and professionally while adding in a touch of your personality. "When it comes to personal branding, it all counts," adds Robyn. "Everything you do and say, or don't say, whether it's on professional or personal social media platforms, reflects the value and character of you and your brand."

A well-rounded Linkedin profile, for example, can be a game-changer especially when you actively engage with your network by sharing articles or interacting with posts. Other social media platforms, such as Instagram, are just as important. "They showcase your personality and help you to build diverse connections that you may not normally make," says Robyn. "You can push the boundaries a little bit on these platforms, although I would strongly advise maintaining professional integrity across all channels."