Page 21 - Dare to Make an Impact
P. 21

2. Recognition by Peers. If you’re a highly motivated young scholar, you may have been a legend in your town or university. Now that you’re embarking on the academic tenure track, how many people know
you beyond those boundaries? Whether you’re looking to increase
your Google Scholar index or get your first big grant, you need other scientists nationwide to remember your name (and your work). Sharing your research through networking and social media has the added bonus of the citation benefit — as your name and work reach new eyes, citations are likely to increase.
3. Career Growth. The old adage is still true: “It’s not just what you know, but who you know.” Coveted job offers, speaking engagements, and prestigious awards still come primarily from referrals, so it is important to start establishing connections early on in your career. One study shows that 85% of all jobs are filled as a result of networking. Yes, an impressive curriculum vitae is important, but your connections will have far more sway in getting you attention.
How to Start Networking
Research Profile Sites: There are plenty of research profile sites that allow you to network from the safety of your own computer. LinkedIn is a great place to start for any professional, whereas Mendeley and Research Gate are specialized resources for scientists. Don’t discount the resources your own university offers either – FAU Libraries’ Scholarly Communication Program offers invaluable support and guidance for important topics related to research and expanding your network.
Social Media: You may never have guessed that a social media presence could enhance your scholarly reputation, but studies are showing that sharing articles and scholarly updates on Facebook and Twitter can increase article views and, eventually, citations. Twitter is the most popular among scientists, although Instagram is proving itself to be a promising platform for communicating research through captivating images that just may end up going viral. For some inspiration, check out the Top 10 Scientists on Twitter, or read about how one of FAU’s own, Hunter Hines, uses Instagram to share the wonder of microbiology with his thousands of followers.
      21



























































































   19   20   21   22   23