3 Steps to Leveraging Mastodon for Awesome Professional Networking: Your Complete Guide

Are you tired of hoping that the algorithm of your social media channel will go your way? Break free and network like a human on Mastodon.

Introduction to Mastodon

If you have ever felt like your professional network is being held hostage by an invisible force, you are not alone. For instance, you put in hours crafting a social media post for Linkedin, only to have it vanish into the depths of a mysterious algorithm, never to be seen again. Millions of professionals are just looking for a genuine connection and a place where their voice is not drowned out by sponsored content and meaningless metrics.

If you do not want your work to disappear, you have a solution in Mastodon. Mastodon is a decentralized network where you control your connections, you own your content exclusively, and you decide what is important. It is a bastion of freedom in a social media world that is suffocating from the weight of algortihmic manipulation.

What Makes Mastodon Different?

Mastodon is not owned or run by a corporate giant. It is a network of independent communities (called “instances”) that cater to specific interests and professions. Whether you are a software developer, a marketing guru, or a freelance writer, there is a Mastodon community waiting to welcome you with open arms.

The chronological timeline is your friend on Mastodon. Instead of being served algorithmic content, you see posts in the order they were created. This means your voice is heard, your interactions are meaningful, and your network grows organically.

Are You Interested in Taking Control of Your Personal Destiny?

Mastodon, a part of Fediverse, is a movement towards a more authentic, human-centric way of connecting. It is about owning your data, curating your network, and building relationships that matter. Mastodon is your ticket to freedom from the algorithmic machine. Read on the find out more about how to use Mastodon for professional networking and unlocking new opportunities.

Why Mastodon for Professional Networking?

Other than the above there are numerous reasons to use Mastodon for professional networking. These include:

• It is Community-Driven: The instances cater to specific interests and professions.
• Algorithm-Free: Mastodon prioritizes meaningful interactions over viral content.
• Ownership and Control: You have the ability to customize your own experience.
• Professional Communities: You can mention specific instances or hashtags that are relevant to different industries.

Community-Driven: Your Niche, Your Network

The true magic of Mastodon lies in its community-driven nature. Unlike the sprawling, one-size-fits-all networks of traditional social media, Mastodon is a collection of smaller focused communities called “instances.” Each instance caters to a specific interest, profession, or region, creating a space where like-minded professionals can connect on a deeper level. There is also a general interest instance called mastodon.social, if you are unsure which one you want to be a part of.

Mastodon is like a virtual conference hall with dedicated rooms for every industry imaginable. You can find instances for tech enthusiasts, healthcare professionals, writers, artists, entrpreneurs, and countless other niches. The focused approach of Mastodon allows you to connect with people who truly understand your work, challenges, and aspirations.

The Power of Shared Interests

Within these communities, conversations are more relevant because of interest, connections are more meaningful, and opportunities arise organically. You are not just another face in the crowd. you are actually a valued member of a community that shares your passion and expertise.

The sense of belonging fosters a supportive environment where you can truly share your knowledge, ask for advice, and collaborate on projects. It is a place where you can build your reputation as a thought leader, showcase your work, and find new clients or collaborators.

Beyond Linkedin: A Network Built on Trust

Unlike Linkedin, which feels transactional and impersonal, Mastodon communities foster genuine connections that are built on shared interests and a feeling of mutual respect. Instead of just exchanging a business card or adding a number to your connections, you are building a relationship that can last a lifetime.

The community driven nature of Mastodon is what makes it different, allowing you to connect with the right people and unlock new opportunities that align with your passion and expertise.

Mastodon is Algorithm-Free

Mastodon does not have an algorithm that manipulates your feed based on engagement metrics and paid promotions. Instead, your timeline is presented in a simple, chronological order, meaning your voice, your timeline. This means you see posts from the people and communities you follow as they happen, without ant algorithmic interference.

The Benefits for Professional Networking

There are several key advantages for professional networking on Mastodon.

• Fair Play: Your posts will not get buried or superceded under a mountain of sponsored content or viral videos. Every post has an equal chance of being seen, regardless of likes, shares, or other engagement metrics.
• Authenticity: The chronological timeline encourages genuine interactions and meaningful conversations. You are not competing for attention with flashy headlines of clickbait. It is just sharing your thoughts, ideas, and expertise with your community.
• Control: With Mastodon, you have complete control over your timeline. You choose who you follow, what hashtags you track, and what content you engage with. This allows you to curate a feed that is relevant to your professional interests and goals.
• No More Missed Opportunities: On platforms like Linkedin, the fear of missing out (FOMO) is really felt. You have to constantly worry that you are not seeing the most important posts or updates. On Mastodon, you do not miss anything, because your timeline refelcts all of the activity in your network.

There is Level Playing Field For Networking

Having an equal advantage is beneficial for those professionals who are just starting out and/or do not have a large following. On Mastodon, your voice will not be drowned out by the more well known influencers and bigger brands. Instead, you have a good chance at establishing yourself as a thought leader in your community.

You Control Your Data on Mastodon

When you post data on Mastodon you continue to own it free and clear of any other claim. This is unlike other social media providers, where your data becomes a commodity that is sold to advertisers for the benefit of the provider, not you. Mastodon lets you be in the driver’s seat. When paired with Matomo on your website, you can also protect your users data as well.

Your Data Belongs to You and You Alone

To accentuate the above, when you join Mastodon, you are not just creating a profile, you a becoming a part owner of the network. Your data is not stored in a far-off server that is controlled by a corporate giant. It resides on the instance you choose, which is generally a community or organization that you trust. As a result, your data is less vulnerable to exploitation, manipulation, or sudden policy changes that could jeopardize your professional reputation or outreach efforts.

You Can Customize Your Experience

On Mastodon, you can design your online experience to your specific needs and preferences. You can customize your profile, choose who you follow, and control what content you see on your timeline. You can even create or join private groups for more focused discussions and collaborations.

If you are professional, being able to curate your online experience, your way, is invaluable. You can showcase your expertise, share your work, and connect with relevant people without worrying about algorithms dictating what your audience sees or who you can reach.

Mastodon is Built on Trust and Transparency

The commitment to your ownership and control is deeply ingrained in the governance of Mastodon. A number, if not most, instances are run as non-profits or cooperatives, where users have a say on how the platform is managed and what rules are enforced. This leads to a level of trust and community that is not seen on commercial platforms.

The Advantage for Professionals

The ownership and control allowed by Mastodon translates to a more authentic and empowering online experience. On Mastodon, you are not just a user, you are a stakeholder in a network that values your privacy, your voice, and your professional goals. Here, you can build your reputation, share your knowledge, and connect with your community on your terms, without the fear of censorhip, algorithmic manipulation, or data exploitation.

Joining a Professional Community on Mastodon

Mastodon has a wealth of professional communities that you can join that allow you to have your post seen by a more relevant audience. A directory can be found on the Join Mastodon website. These communities allow you to connect with your tribe, to learn, to grow, and to thrive. Some community examples are below:

• Tech: Instances like fosstodon.org and hachyderm.io are popular among software developers, open-source enthusiasts, and tech industry professionals.
• Marketing: Marketing experts, social media managers, and content creators can find a home on instances such as mastodon.social and marketing.town.
• Journalism: Journalists, writers, and media professionals connect and share news on journa.host and news.
• Academia: Researchers, academics, and educators can find a welcoming community on scholarly.social and mastodon.education.
• Creative Fields: Artists, designers, musicians, and other creatives gather on mastodon.art and creative.

How Can I Benefit from Joining a Professional Community

• Targeted Networking: Allows you to connect directly with potential clients, collaborators, mentors, and employers in your field.
• Knowledge Sharing: Learn from experienced professionals, share your own insights, and stay-up-to-date on industry trends.
• Job Opportunities: Discover job postings, freelance gigs, and other career opportunities tailored to your skills and experience.
• Support and Collaboration: Find a supportive community of peers who understand the challenges and rewards of your profession. You can collaborate on projects, brainstorm ideas, and get feedback on your work.

The Steps to Beginning Your Professional Networking Journey on Mastodon

There are three main steps in getting started with Mastodon. They are: 1) choose your instance, 2) create your profile, and 3) find and follow the right people. These steps are explained in more detail below.

Choosing Your Instance

In Mastodon, this is a critical first step, but if you find you do not like your choice at a later time, you can always select another instance later. Similar to picking a neighborhood, you want to find a place that aligns with interests, values, and professional goals. Each instance has its own community, culture, and moderation policies. For example, some are general interest, while others cater to specific interests, professions, or regions. If you like, explore different communnities, to find out which is best for you.

Factors to Consider in Choosing an Instance

• Professional Focus: If you are using Mastodon primarily for professional networking, try to look for instances that cater to your industry or niche.
• Community Size: Larger instances offer a wider range of potential connections, but can in some cases be overwhelming. Smaller instances may have a more intimate feel and a stronger sense of community.
• Moderation Policies: Each instance has its own rules about acceptable content and behavior. Be sure to choose an instance with moderation policies that align with your values and expectations.
• Language and Region: Mastodon is an international social network and as such covers a lot of regions and has many languages. If you prefer to network with people in a specific language or region, look for instances that cater to them.
• Technical Considerations: Some instances may have more active administrators and better technical support than others.

How do you Find an Instance

• Join Mastodon: The official Join Mastodon website offers a directory of instances with descriptions and basic information on each.
• Instances.social: This website allows you to search for instances by category, langauage, and other criteria.
• Fediverse.party: This tools helps you visualize the connections between different Mastodon instances and explore their communities.

Creating Your Profile

Your profile serves as digital introduction to who you are and gives you a chance to make a strong first impression, showcase your expertise, and attract the right connections. Below are some essential elements you need to consider in building your profile.

Essential Profile Elements

• Profile Image: Choose a professional headshot that reflects your personality and industry. Try to avoid blurry or pixelated images.
• Display Name: Use your real name or professional pseudonym that is easily recognizable.
• Bio: Craft a concise and informative bio that highlights your skills, experience, and interests.
• Header Image: Select a visually appealing image that complements your profile image and adds a touch of personality.
• Pinned Post: Consider adding a post that showcases your best work, a recent achievement, or a relevant article.
• Verification: If you have a website or another social media account, verify your Mastodon profile to estabish credibility.

How to Optimize Your Profile Even Further

• Be Your Authentic Self: Let your personality shine through. Use a friendly and approachable tone in your bio and posts.
• Highlight your Expertise: Mention your specific skills, certifications, or areas of specialization.
• Use Hashtags: Include relevant hashtags in your bio and posts to increase your visibility.
• Link to Your Website or Portfolio: Make it easy for people to find your work and learn more about you.
• Engage with Others: A well-crafted profile is just the beginning. Engage in conversations, share your insights, and build relationships to make the most of your Mastodon experience.

Example of a Professional Mastodon Profile

“Experienced marketing strategist that is passionate about content creation and social media. Helping businesses grow their online presence and reach their target audience. #marketing #content #socialmedia”

Be sure to Update Your Profile Regularly

Your profile is not a static entity and should be updated as you gain new skills, experience, or interests. This will keep you fresh and relevant and show you are still engaged.

How to Find and Follow People on Mastodon

Now that you have set up your profile and chosen an address (your instance), you need to go out and explore the world of Mastodon. Below are some ways to find your professional network.

• Searching Mastodon:
  • People Search: Type in the names, usernames, or keywords related to your profession to discover profiles that are relevant. You can use the search functionality to look for people not only in your own neighborhood, but also across instances. Reach out to people directly.
  • Hashtag Search: Look for hashtags that are related to your industry, interests, or specific topics to find ongoing conversations and the people participating in them.
• Explore the Local Neighborhood (Your Instance):
  • Local Timeline: Look at the timeline on your instance to see posts from other users on the same server. By browsing the posts you can find people who share the same interests and are within your own community.
  • Federated Timeline: This timeline shows all of the posts from users across all of the instances that your instance is connected to. This group is much bigger than your local timeline and there is a vast amount of connections to be had. However, it can also be very overwhelming.
• Follow Recommendations:
  • “Who to Follow” Suggestions: Mastodon sometimes provides suggestions for who to follow based on your interests and the people you are already following. Use these suggestions to discover new connections.
  • Recommendations from Others: Ask around your existing network for people to follow. By asking around you can find hidden gems and connect with people you might have not discovered otherwise.
• Use Your Exisiting Network:
  • Import Your Contacts: You can import your contacts from X or Gmail into Mastodon to find people that may also be on Mastodon.
  • Use Third-Party Tools: Fedifinder or Twitodon can be used to find X followers who are also on Mastodon.
• Engage and Connect with the World Around You:
  • Interact with Posts: Like, reply to, and share posts that resonate with you. By doing this, you can get noticed by others and start conversations.
  • Join Conversations: Participate in discussions you care about and build relationships with other professionals.

How to Build Your Network

You know how to find people and groups, now how do you build your network? There are generally three main ways; 1) engaging in conversations, 2) sharing your work, and 3) building relationships. Remember, networking is a two-way street and requires all parties to participate. Each one of these methods is elaborated on below.

Engaging in Conversations

Engaging in conversations is the mainstay of networking. In a conversation, you will share your expertise, learn from others, build relationships, and discover new opportunities. However, you need to be strategic in what conversations to participate in, as you only have so much time in a day. Below are some of the key strategies for conversations on Mastodon.

• Find Your Voice: Do not be afraid to share your unique perspective. It could be a throught provoking question, a personal anecdote, or a researched opinion. Your voice, whatever it is, adds value to the conversation.
• Listen Actively: Try to understand the perspective of others in the conversation before responding. Try to ask clarifying questions, acknowledge the points made, and build upon the ideas. This shows that you are listening and builds a deeper connection.
• Add Value: Share your knowledge, insights, and experiences to contribute to the discussion. Try to offer helpful advice and connect people with relevant information, thereby establishing your value in the community.
• Be respectful and Inclusive: Treat everyone with respect, regardless of background or opinions, and avoid personal attacks.
• Ask Thoughtful Questions: Ask questions to enliven the conversation and to encourage thoughtful responses.
• Use Hashtags Strategically: Include hashtags that are relevant to increase the visibility of your post and reach a wider audience. Hashtags can help you reach the right audience.
• Follow up and Build Relationships: Follow up with the people you connect with, respond to their posts, and continue the conversation. Do not just appear and disappear.

Examples of Conversations on Mastodon

• Share an Industry Article: Post a link to an interesting article or blog post and ask opinions and feedback.
• Start a Poll: Create a poll to gather opinions on a relevant topic or trend.
• Share a Personal Experience: Tell a story about a challenge you overcame or a lesson you learned in your professional journey.
• Ask for Advice: Seek guidance from the community on a specific issue or decision you are facing.
• Offer Help: Look for opportunities to help others by sharing your knowledge or expertise.

Sharing Your Work

Sharing the work you do on Mastodon is a good way to showcase your expertise, attract potential clients or collaborators, and establish yourself as a thought leader. However, you will want to find a balance between self-promotion and adding value to the community overall. Below are some ways to find that balance and share your work effectively.

• Focus on Quality over Quantity: Focus on sharing your best work, the projects you are most proud of, or the insights you have gained from recent experiences.
• Add Context and Value: When sharing your work, provide some context so your audience will understand its significance. Explain the problem solved, the challenges you overcame, or the impact the work had. Share the insights learned to add value to the conversation.
• Be Authentic and Transparent: Show your personality and share your struggles. Being authentic builds trust and makes you more relatable to your audience.
• Engage with Feedback: Welcome feedback and comments on work. Be responsive to questions, engage in discussions, and show appreciation for the support you receive.
• Use Visuals: Images, videos, and other visual elements can make your posts more engaging and eye-catching.
• Cross-Promote: Share Mastodon posts on other social media platforms for more reach and to get your profile noticed more.

Examples of Ways to Share Your Work

• Project Showcase: “I’m thrilled to share my latest project: [project name]. This was a challenging but rewarding project that allowed me to [highlight key achievements or learnings]. Check it out here: [link].”
• Article or Blog Post: “I just published a new article on [topic]. In this article, I discuss [key points] and offer insights on [relevant issues]. I’d love to hear your thoughts [link}.”
• Portfolio Updates: “I’ve recently updated my portfolio with new work. You can check it out here: [link]. I’m always open to feedback and collaborations.”
• Behind-the-scenes-Glimpse: “Here’s a sneak peek at what I’m working on: [brief description]. I’m excited to share the final product soon!”

Building Relationships on Mastodon

By using all of the tools available on Mastodon, you can develop mutually beneficial relationships leading to collaborations, referrals, mentorship opportunities, and lasting friendships. Some examples of activities to help build a relationship include:

• Offer to Collaborate on a Project: If you see someone working on a project that aligns with your skills and interests, reach out and offer to collaborate. By collaborating you can build a working relationship and showcase your expertise.
• Share a Personal Story: Share a personal story that relates to a topic you are discussing or a challenge you have overcome.
• Celebrate others’ Successes: When someone in your network achieves a milestone or receives recognition, take time to congratulate them publicly and share their success with others.
• Ask for advice or feedback: People appreciate being asked for their opinions and expertise. Be sure to ask for advice on a project you are working on or feedback on a recent accomplishment.
• Send a Direct Message: Direct message people if you want to speak privately. This shows that you value their time and want to build a more personal connection.

Additional Ways to Use Mastodon for Professional Networking

In addition to those things described previously, there are more ways to develop a professional network on Mastodon. These include: 1) content creation, 2) participating in events, and 3) building a thought leadership process.

Content Creation

Let’s face it, any social media channel has a lot of content on it and Mastodon is no different. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or miss out on important updates. However, you can use content creation to select, organize, and share relevant content with your network. Content creation helps you filter out the noise and focus on the information you are truly interested in. Read on to find out how.

• Lists: Lists can help you organize the accounts you follow into specific categories. For example, you could have a list for industry leaders, another for colleagues, and another for news sources. The list allows you to switch between different feeds and focus on specific topics.
• Hashtags: Follow relevant hashtags to discover new content and conversations. In addition, you can create your own hashtags to categorize and share content on specific themes.
• Filters: Mastodon has filters to block out specific keywords, phrases, or accounts that you do not want to see. This can serve to get rid of some of the noise and focus the content stream.
• Third-Party Tools: By using tools such as Tootdon and Fedilab, you can create custom feeds based on specific hashtags or lists.
• Be Selective: Only choose those sources that consistently provide high-quality, relevant content.

Examples of Effective Content Creation

• Daily Digest: Share a daily roundup of the most interesting articles, blog posts, or discussions you have come across.
• Weekly Theme: Choose a specific theme each week and share content related to that theme. For example, you could have “Marketing Monday” or a “Tech Tuesday.”
• Curated Lists: Share curated lists you have made with your followers so they can benefit from your work.

Participating in Events

On Mastodon, there are a number of events that you can participate in, that give you an opportunity to connect with the broader audience, learn from experts, and showcase your expertise.

Types of Events

• Hashtag Events: Most events are organized around specific hashtags, which allows you follow the conversation and connect with others interested in the subject. Some examples include #FollowFriday (used to introduce yourself and your work), #MarketingMonday (for discussing marketing trends), and #WritingWednesday (for sharing writing tips and resources).
• Live Chats and Q&As: These events have a panel of experts, who discuss a specific topic and answer questions from the audience. By participating in these chats, you can gain valuable insights and ask questions directly to experts.
• Virtual Conferences and Workshops: A number of Mastodon instances and communities organize their own events, such as meetups, discussions, or even online games.