Find a Job: What’s Social Networking?

Submitted by CCCL_MarliaH

Reading this term, it sounds so formal that I had to take a step back to examine its definition myself. Why? Because young people don’t use this term. Communicating online these days via social media platforms is normal so much to the point, that it has become embedded in our daily lives. Think about it—when you wake up in the morning and grab your phone, what is one of the first things that you check? Most likely social media. Any time that you are writing a comment, asking a question, choosing a reaction to a story, you are actively social networking.  

Social Networking has become the go to method for communication, next to talking in person or over the phone. Even if you don’t know someone or an organization personally, all it takes is a few taps of your thumb on social media platforms and boom you can easily take a glimpse into their life or organization. Things have changed drastically over the years; you don’t have to see someone in person to meet them anymore. People may have your phone number, but they will still ask you “Do you have Facebook?” “What’s your IG?” (Instagram account).  Location is no longer a barrier to communication because if people have a social media account then you can talk to them instantly.  

Right before our libraries were closed due to the COVID-19 shutdown, I was talking to someone about my profession. I told him I was a librarian and he said, “Oh I didn’t know librarians can still do their jobs outside of the library.” I didn’t have an answer for him at the time because I was still in the process of figuring out myself what I’d be doing. At that time, I knew that I could still do my job, but I just wasn’t sure how exactly. Fast forward two weeks later, I discovered how I’d be able to do my job: creating programs for the library via social media starring yours truly. Using social media meant that social networking was another part of my job. 

Social networking has become a go to communication method for librarians. Why?   

Social Networking:  

• Allows Librarians to present information/content regardless of social distancing barriers
• Allows Librarians to appeal to a wider patron audience
• Allows Librarians to connect with patrons more on a personal level.  
• Allows Librarians to showcase their personality through their work
  
• Allows Librarians to be able to meet and collaborate with different librarians/library systems

Not sure where to start in terms of Social Networking?  

For further explanation on Social Networking, take a look at the article What is Social Networking? 

How to start social networking on Instagram and Facebook 

• Ask a question 
• Choose a reaction to use while viewing an Instagram/Facebook story 
• Make a comment  

Increase the number of people you follow; follow people that share similar interests as you. Now that you know how to network, make sure to create accounts at Facebook, and Instagram, if you haven’t already done so. After that, you’re good to go: start finding those people, organizations, sites, and employers which interest you and start commenting and sharing about yourself!