(ThyBlackMan.com) We’ve all heard the cliche “you need the right tools for the job.” In most respects, this means having the right skills and experience to do your job well. Sometimes people may mean it more literally and be talking about actual tools like computers, software, pens, hammers, whatever. In this article we’re going to give you the tech tools you need to network and, by extension, improve your career. Because if there’s anything we can all agree on in 2016 is that we want to end the year in a better place than we started.
It is important to understand that by “tech tools” we’re not going to get into specifics about laptops, tablets, or smartphones. We’re just going to assume that you have something that will connect to the internet, cloud and that can use wi-fi. By “tech tools” we’re going to talk about media, software/apps, etc. Ready? Here we go!
Go to More Events
What does this have to do with tech? A great deal! First of all, you can’t network if you aren’t putting yourself out there. Going to conferences or a convention is a great way to put yourself out there and make new connections. Believe it or not, these events are no longer built just for the extroverted. “Most event organizers and planners team up with companies such as DoubleDutch to put the event together using a mobile event app that the introverted can use to reach out, coordinate schedules, leave feedback, etc.” It’s a good way to walk up to someone new without having to literally walk up to someone new. 
Even if you’re totally comfortable meeting new people, event apps help you break the ice, exchange contact information, etc.
LinkedIn, Our Old Friend
LinkedIn is the social network that we all love to hate, at least out loud. Bashing on LinkedIn is something the “cool kids” do and it’s understandable that you would want to be one of them. When used well, however, LinkedIn can be an incredibly valuable tool for job hunting, network building, self-promotion, etc. It’s not just about resumes and numbers anymore. There are very active communities on LinkedIn that are worth joining. Spend some time clicking around the network–but maybe from home so your coworkers won’t see you. Getting caught surfing LinkedIn at work is the new getting caught printing your resume on the company copier.
Must-Have Apps
By now you’ve undoubtedly learned the wonders of productivity apps like EverNote, 2Do, etc. In addition to productivity apps, you want to have a few important networking apps installed on your devices as well. For example, you’ll want a receipt scanner app that syncs with your accounting software (or your boss’s accounting software). You’ll want an app that will allow you to digitally record business cards and potential contact information as well as an app that will allow you to digitally exchange business cards and contact information. Sonar is great for helping you find nearby friends and contacts when you are at a crowded event.
Find the Right Database
You know that you need to be on LinkedIn, but where else can you list yourself as a professional and catch the eye of someone who might be interested in hiring you or helping you advance your career? A few years ago you might have been told to list your resume on Monster or Indeed. You can still do this–just make sure your resume is SEO optimized so you can be found. A better way to go, however, is to find professional groups in your field and join them, at least online. There are often job searching/offering sites that are concentrated on a single field or market. You just have to do some digging to find them. Look first for local organizations then expand your search to your state and then the country.
These are just some of the ways that tech, apps, and the web can help you better network and improve your career. Use these tips to help you get started. Once you start digging for good tools, you’ll be surprised at how many you find. By the end of the year you could find yourself at the top of your field!
Staff Writer; Henry Wood
