C4 | Social networks

Here you will get to know the various social networks, and find out what you should consider when using them.

• 1. What are social networks, and how do they work?

  Got it!

• 2. What social networks are available for professionals?

  Social networks are your opportunity to actively shape the internet. Above all, they can support your professional development by allowing you to make contacts with companies or organizations, and exchange ideas with like-minded people about projects or other topics. Some networks even offer continuing education. If you’re self-employed, you can use social networks to advertise your products and services to potential customers.

  Here is an overview of the most popular social networks currently available:

  X (Twitter) and Instagram

  X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram may not be the primary social networks for professionals, but you can also use them to show off your products and promote your services. Instagram’s visual format would work well to promote architecture and design services, for example. By regularly posting on X, you can establish yourself as an expert in your field. You can also expand your career network by following other experts and participating in discussions with them.

  XING

  Xing is a professional network in German-speaking countries that allows you to network with other professionals, participate in technical discussions, and present your professional accomplishments. Freelancers and founders can use this platform to network with potential clients. Xing offers both a free and premium version. The premium membership requires a small monthly fee and offers more features, such as training opportunities, and a precise analysis of your profile.

  LinkedIn

  LinkedIn is a professional network with a focus on making and maintaining international contacts. Here you can also participate in discussions, cultivate your professional contacts, and present your professional accomplishments. LinkedIn also offers a premium membership, which you can use to browse the platform in private mode so that other members won’t see if you’ve viewed their profile. LinkedIn also has expert groups that you can join, and offers training opportunities through LinkedIn Learning.

  Got it!

• 3. What do I have to consider when using social networks?

  Tips for using professional networking sites:

  Be sparing with your personal data.

  Think carefully about what personal information you are willing to disclose and make public. You should never share sensitive data such as passwords or bank details on social networks.

  Adjust the security setting to suit your needs.

  If the network’s default security settings aren’t enough for you, you are able to adjust them to suit your needs. Simply log in and look under “Security” or “Privacy” to see what you would like to change.

  Pay attention to the rights of others.

  Be careful not to violate the personal rights of others by asking people beforehand if they want to be mentioned in messages or tagged in photos. If you want to post images that someone else has taken, please make sure to credit them as the author.

  Use strong passwords for your user account and, if possible, two-factor authentication.

  Got it!