After you get your profiles set up it’s time to start reaching out to other professionals in your industry. Some networks make this easier than others, but the key is to engage sincerely with others no matter the context or platform. We have put together Top Tips list for those of you looking to build out your online networks. When you are ready to go beyond the profile, here is where you should go next…

10. Be Humble. This includes every piece of the puzzle. Make sure you biographies, profile summaries, and updates are understated rather than aggressive. While it’s important to stay true to your voice, don’t forget that online judgments are made in just a few seconds. They only have the information you provide so be sure that information is professional and approachable.

9. Ask Questions. No matter what community you are trying to engage with “asking questions” is a great way to get your foot in the door. There are thousands if not millions of people already active in this network and they can be a very valuable resource to you. By asking them questions you are showing your newness but also showing that you are genuinely interested in becoming a valuable member of this online network.

8. Listen First. This principle is just as relevant as it has always been. Engaging online is like having a conversation with someone, and it’s hard to have a two-way conversation if you are just talking and not listening. By joining a community and listening first you can gain perspective of how things and usually learn more in the first few months then you would if you just jumped right in.

7. Read the Directions. Sounds silly but online networks are independent worlds and they all have their own expectations, terms of service, and functions. By taking the time to read about the networks, research their uses, and blog posts summarizing the community you can learn so much valuable information. You can also avoid making stupid mistakes by just reading up on the network before jumping in head first.

6. Fill It Out. If you want to be considered a legit member of any online community your profile has to be complete. Take the time to upload pictures, portfolio work, recommendations, links, etc. Basically anything that helps someone understand what you do and why you are on that network should be up there. It should be like a snapshot of what you can bring to the table and subsequently to the conversation. In addition make sure you are constantly revamping and improving your profile.

5. Research the Leaders. Every community and social network online has established power users. A lot can be gained by knowing these users and following their actions in the community. Once you have an understanding of how to approach them and you have established your own voice you should reach out to these members. Complimenting & expressing respect can go a long way when it comes to valuable online relationships.

4. Say Thank You. Once you really begin engaging you will find that members are usually pretty willing to help when they can. You will find them offering advice, a helping hand, and more. Be sure to take the time and send a sincere thank you their way. Online there is so much noise, and sometimes sentiment can get lost in the shuffle, by taking the time to thank someone who has helped, you are separating yourself from the crowd.

3. Be Patient. Creating relationships online can take time. This is not something that happens right after the profile is complete…it’s a process. It can take months to find your voice on a network and to realize its potential. Then you take a few more months to build out the initial contacts into confidants, and then into friends…so be patient. It will happen.

2. Data-Mine Members. Are you wondering who you should be talking to? Do you feel like you are pushing out content and comments and no one is hearing you? Take the time to data mine for members that have similar interests, live in your area, or work in your vertical. Find people with common grounds and use those connections to initiate conversation.

1. Pay It Forward. Once you are all set up on a network and you find yourself a power user—pay it forward. Offer a helping hand to the community newbies. It’s not only a great karma builder but it also helps you continue to build out your network. In addition, you are demonstrating a high level of professionalism and continuing to grow your personal brand. It’s a win-win all around!

Want to know more? Read our Top Pitfalls to Avoid When Networking Online and make sure you don't become a victim to any of these challenges.