Grad School Social Networking Websites

Used appropriately, social networking websites can be good a way for you to network with other people in your field. Most social networking sites allow you to join or create special interest groups so you can interact online with other people who share your academic and career interests. Many of these sites include features that you can use to connect with others and advance your career, such as:

• Profile pages listing your professional credentials.
• Personal blogs.
• Links to online colleagues.
• Electronic invitations to real or online events.
• Instant-messaging chat features.

To use social networking sites to your advantage, follow these tips:

• Be sure to keep your online profile professional at all times. Do not post inappropriate images or statements that could damage your reputation or hurt your career. Remember that many employers check social networking websites as part of the interview process.
• Be careful that you do not discuss any confidential information, such as research data that are not yet published.
• Although you may be tempted to vent about one of your professors, be cautious about putting anything in writing on a social networking site. Assume that anything you say can be read by anyone. Use the social networking site to share questions and debate ideas, but save your venting for personal conversations with a trusted friend.