1:What digital platforms are students currently using to develop their professional network?
Technology has enabled the creation of several spaces for users to interact on a social and professional basis. The most popular platform to build a professional network is LinkedIn, where a student may display their resume, search for jobs and advance professional reputation by posting updates and interacting with other people. Others include Twitter, Meetup,
2:What can you (as a student) consider to expand your professional learning network?
A student may expand their network by volunteering at an organization involved in an area of interest, which will also enable interaction with professionals. Moreover, attending networking events or trade shows exposes a student to people with similar interests. Lastly, alumni networks enable one to gain professional links with people they have studied with before.
3:In your network, how can you create a digital identity/reputation?
Creating a digital reputation could take the following steps. First, an individual should monitor the web to be aware of the conversations. Secondly, being active on social platforms will assist in developing networks. Thirdly, responding to requests or opinions is a way to be accessible and respectful. Given the following steps, a positive digital reputation elevates both personal and business brands.
4:Consider what a local employer would do if you applied for a job with them – can they search the content, is it of benefit to the career path, does it hinder the opportunity of employment?
The comments, pictures, and posts that result from search results of an applicant may have a significant role in their career. Employers nowadays check social media profiles or google candidates to verify credentials and analyze if the applicant shall be a good cultural fit with the company (Al Shobaki, S and Talla, 26). Conversely, an employment opportunity may be hindered by a negative online presence. Activities such as discriminatory statements on gender or race, or religion, criticism of a previous employer, and obscene photographs block one’s chances at a job.
Al Shobaki, Mazen J, Abu-Naser Samy S and Suliman A Talla. “Digital Reputation in the University Of Palestine: An Analytical Perspective of Employees’ Point Of View.” International Journal of Academic Accounting, Finance & Management Research 4.9 (2020): 22-37. 7 February 2021. <https://philpapers.org/rec/ALSDRI>.
Seker, Sadi E, and Enes Eryarsoy. “Generating Digital Reputation Index: A Case Study.” Procedia Social and Behavioral Sciences 195 (2015): 1074-1080. 7 February 2021. <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2015.06.151>.