“For You”: TikTok as a Networking Tool
As many other Gen Zer’s do on their casual Tuesday nights, I found myself scrolling through the “For You Page” on the vastly popular app, TikTok. I stumbled upon a video of another college student starting a “LinkedIn chain”. Although I didn’t know what to expect, nor did I know what a LinkedIn chain entailed, I wrote my name in the comments section. The next morning, I woke up to over 200 new connections on my LinkedIn profile.
I used to think networking only involved interacting with well-established, higher up professionals. However, modern networking looks drastically different in the age of social media.
By interacting once with a video on the internet I connected with young professionals across the globe that are bound for success in their future endeavors. Through this chain, I met with fellow public relations students and we were able to bond over our experiences and goals for the future. This chain allowed me to connect with students going into multiple different fields outside of public relations as well. Regardless, we were still able to give each other beneficial tips on resume building, free courses to enroll in, and so much more.
Peer networking can start with simple, yet meaningful conversations. With over 300 PRSSA Chapters spanning across multiple countries, networking can be used to connect our members from various Chapters on a more personal and professional level. For example, virtually hosting a student panel coffee hour with break out rooms can allow us to connect, chat and network with members from other Chapters.
Thanks to the power of social media, these young professionals that I connected with may be my coworkers in just a few short years. I realized that peer networking not only creates valuable connections, but an overwhelming sense of community.
Katie Flynn is a junior at St. John’s University. She is majoring in public relations while also pursuing a double minor in psychology and international studies. She is the vice president of Chapter development and alumni relations for PRSSA at St. John’s University. Flynn recently accepted an internship as a Spring 2021 publicity intern for The Dr. Oz Show.
2 thoughts on ““For You”: TikTok as a Networking Tool”
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It’s interesting to see how social media platforms like TikTok are being used for professional networking and career development, especially among the younger generation. The concept of a LinkedIn chain is a unique way to connect with like-minded individuals and expand one’s professional network. Thanks for the details!
It’s fascinating to observe how social media platforms such as TikTok are being utilized for professional networking and career advancement, particularly among the younger demographic. The notion of a LinkedIn chain is an innovative approach to connecting with individuals who share similar interests and expanding one’s professional network. Thank you for sharing the information!