In the following text, I explore the phenomenon of professional social networks. For better clarity, I have divided the text into two parts. In the first part, I focus on theory, providing basic information about what professional social networks are used for and how they can help you.
In the second part, I will focus on practice, specifically the LinkedIn platform. I will provide practical tips on how to create an effective profile and use the features that LinkedIn offers.
Professional social networks are a key tool in the modern job market. Whether you are looking for a new job, navigating the job market, or just gathering information, these networks can significantly help you. They can be particularly beneficial for neurodivergent individuals, making it easier to overcome the challenges of traditional job search methods and acquire new qualifications.
The most well-known and versatile professional network is LinkedIn, which the text will focus on further, but I will also mention other useful professional networks.
The text is divided into thematic sections according to how these networks can benefit neurodivergent individuals.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Creating a profile on a professional social network is simple and usually free. It allows you to present your skills and experience in a way that suits you and directly connect with employers and colleagues in the field you are interested in.
Professional networks offer access to a wide range of job opportunities that you might otherwise overlook. Many companies today post job openings exclusively on these networks or actively seek suitable candidates based on their profiles. By creating a profile, you increase your chances of finding a job. You can access offers that do not appear on regular job portals, or employers can contact you directly.
Industry Focus
Some professional networks focus on specific industries, such as IT or graphic design, while others are universal. LinkedIn is the most well-known universal network that you can use for a complete range of fields, especially in the commercial and corporate environments. It is also developing for areas such as social work, healthcare, and even positions in education (e.g., teacher assistants). LinkedIn can now be used for operator positions in manufacturing or logistics, as some companies already post these positions on LinkedIn. Similarly, it is sometimes possible to find positions for people with disabilities (PWD) within the protected labor market. In all these cases outside commercial firms, it is advisable to use LinkedIn as a supplement to traditional job search methods, as the offer may still be limited.
For freelancers and small business owners, LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for acquiring new clients.
There are also networks focused on specific geographical regions (e.g., Francophone or German-speaking countries), but for the purposes of this text, I focus on networks usable in the Czech Republic.
Self-Presentation
On professional social networks, you can create a structured profile that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements. This profile serves as an online resume and allows you to present your qualities to company representatives over the long term without the need for immediate personal contact with employers.
Creating a quality profile, for example on LinkedIn, is a basic step that your activity on this network may or may not end with. You can share posts and publish articles on topics of your choice and share them with your network. This way, you can demonstrate your specific knowledge, skills, or insights, further strengthening employers’ confidence in your abilities.
On IT-focused networks, such as GitHub, you can base your self-presentation on publishing your projects and ideas.
Networking
Networking is an important aspect of job searching, and professional social networks provide a platform for building and maintaining professional relationships. For neurodivergent individuals, this function is especially beneficial because it allows them to connect online with people worldwide who have similar interests and experiences, without the pressure of personal meetings. You can add people from the field you are interested in to your network, bringing your profile to the right job opportunities. The form and frequency of your communication with other network participants are entirely up to you. A significant advantage is that you can add people to your network even if you have not interacted with them before. However, when requesting a connection, it is appropriate to briefly explain why you want to connect with that person.
Once you add specific people to your network, you will see their content (posts, articles) or those they have interacted with (likes, comments). The larger your network, the richer the content you will access. Therefore, consider what you want to achieve with your presence on LinkedIn and what content and industry interests you.
Some international groups on these platforms are specifically focused on supporting neurodivergent professionals, which can provide valuable community support and experience sharing.
Access to Information and Resources
Professional social networks often contain extensive resources on various industries, job opportunities, and career development. You can gather information from posts and articles by your network members or those your network members have responded to. For example, on LinkedIn, many recruiters share tips and advice for job seekers. On IT-focused networks, you can learn from experienced colleagues and ask for advice in the IT field.
In addition, on LinkedIn, you can also take advantage of various online courses, seminars, and webinars to develop your skills, although these features are mostly paid.
Elimination of Geographical Barriers
One of the significant benefits of professional social networks is the elimination of geographical barriers. If you speak foreign languages, you can look for job opportunities worldwide without leaving your home. Professional networks often offer remote job opportunities, which can be ideal for people who need specific working environments. The possibility of accessing articles and information from other language environments is also valuable.
Flexibility and Autonomy
Professional social networks provide neurodivergent individuals with greater flexibility and autonomy in job searching. You can set your own pace and methods for your search, which can be less stressful and more tailored to your individual needs. Follow profiles and posts of selected companies to get an idea of their corporate culture and make better decisions about which organization might offer you a suitable working environment.
Professional social networks have changed the logic of the job market and job searching. You can look for the right place for you in the long term, even while you have a job. You don’t have to wait until you actively and quickly need to look for a new job. Finding the right job can thus be a long-term process managed by you. This can help eliminate stressful situations where you rely on job portals and their current offers at the moment of job searching. You can better plan your career path that suits you and take gradual steps to achieve it.
Fighting Stigmatization and Raising Awareness
Thanks to professional social networks, neurodivergent individuals (if they choose to) can actively fight stigmatization and raise awareness about neurodivergence. By sharing their stories and successes, they can contribute to greater awareness of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. This kind of awareness can lead to greater acceptance and support for neurodivergent employees in various organizations.
Examples of Commonly Used Professional Networks
- LinkedIn
- Focus: Universal professional network for all fields and career levels.
- Description: LinkedIn is the largest and most popular professional network in the world, enabling professionals to connect, search for job opportunities, share content, and build their personal brand.
- GitHub
- Focus: Software developers, programmers, IT professionals.
- Description: GitHub is a platform for hosting and sharing code, where developers can share their projects or collaborate on projects. IT recruiters are also active on GitHub.
- Stack Overflow
- Focus: Developers, IT professionals.
- Description: Stack Overflow is a question and answer platform in the field of programming and IT. It allows developers to get help, share knowledge, and build their professional reputation.
- Dribbble
- Focus: Graphic designers, web designers, illustrators.
- Description: Dribbble is a platform for sharing work and portfolios in graphic design. It allows professionals to publish examples of their work, provide information about availability, and connect with other designers.
Conclusion
Professional social networks are valuable tools for everyone looking for a job, but they can be especially significant for neurodivergent individuals. They provide access to a wide range of job opportunities, enable effective self-presentation, support networking and community support, and offer access to important information resources. The elimination of geographical barriers, greater flexibility, and autonomy make these platforms a key element in the job search process for neurodivergent people. Utilizing these tools can significantly improve the chances of finding suitable and fulfilling employment that matches the individual’s abilities and needs.