How to Use Craigslist to Network with Others in Your Field

Want to meet others in your field? Networking can be challenging without the right resources, but it's easy if you know where to look. Follow the steps below to meet people with shared business ambitions on Craigslist.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Go to the Craigslist website. Select your city from the section on the right.

2. Click on “Community.”

3. Select “Groups.”

4. Scroll down to find a group that suits you. Click on any interesting postings. To initiate contact with the group, click on the anonymous email address at the top of the posting.

5. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Click on the “Post” link on the homepage to post your own listing.

6. Choose the category that best describes your field of interest. Then select the area where you would like to post.

7. Describe your field succinctly in the "Posting Title" field. Use the “Posting Description” area to elaborate on your network.

8. Decide how you would like to receive replies. You can either have people reply directly to your email address or use the anonymous reply option. If you do not want to be contacted by email, be certain that your description includes another convenient way for people to get in touch with you.

9. Repeat the same process for the Craigslist sites in other communities where you wish to network.

Tips & Warnings

• Repost your listing as needed to keep it up to date. The most recent postings are listed first.
• Postings expire after 45 days, so renew your post if you'd like to keep it up for a longer time.
• Do not disclose personal information until you feel secure with people you meet online.
• Choosing to allow replies directly to your email address or clicking the box under “Permissions,” which allows others to contact you about products or services, may subject you to junk emails or spam.