1. Job It Forward

As you're job searching, chances are you'll see a lot of great jobs out there that simply aren't a good fit for you. However, they could be perfect for someone else in your network.

If you see a job opening, share it with someone in your network you think might be a good fit. You can send a private message with a link to the opening, or you can just post the opening in your LinkedIn feed for people to see.

Not actively looking for a job? You can still share job openings or cool companies you see with your network. So, be on the lookout!

2. Share An Article

Sharing an article or video is a great way to start a conversation and/or keep in touch with a contact. Consider this person's industry, interests, and special projects, then share something that's relevant to them. What can you find on their LinkedIn profile? What have you learned about them in your conversations?

Send your contact a message with the link to the resource and a little bit of context. You could say something like, "I saw this article and thought you might find it interesting, particularly the part about ____ because you're involved in ____. Enjoy!"

3. Share THEIR Content With YOUR Network

Another easy way to offer value to your connections is to share their content with your network. If you found a blog post from one of your connections interesting, share it with your network by posting it to your LinkedIn feed with a brief blurb.

Don't forget to tag the author with the @ feature so they know you're sharing it!

4. Make An Introduction

Be a super connector! Look at your network and see which connections could benefit from knowing each other. Then, make an introduction. Make sure you give a little background on each person and briefly explain how they can benefit from knowing each other.

Here's an example:

"I noticed you're looking to break into the entertainment industry. I'd love to introduce you to Jody Smith. She works as a talent agent out in L.A. and I'm sure she'd be a valuable addition to your network. Would you be interested in getting an introduction?"

5. Endorse Their Skills

If you know someone in your network is an exceptional digital marketer, endorse them for that skill on LinkedIn!

Your endorsement will reinforce the skills listed on their profile, which is a huge value-add to them. It gives that third-party credibility factor that employers and recruiters are looking for on LinkedIn profiles. Best part? It takes two seconds!

6. Write Them Recommendations

Recommendations are like testimonials on your LinkedIn profile. A good one is worth its weight in gold.

If you've worked with a contact in the past and/or know they have certain skill sets or character traits, write them a recommendation. Your connections will appreciate this gesture greatly, and may even write you one in return! This takes a little more time and thought, but it's worth much more to connections than endorsements.

So there you have it. Effective networking doesn't have to be a hassle! Spend a little time each day nurturing your network. If you make this a habit, you'll find yourself with a strong network in no time!

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