Social media seems to have taken the work out of networking, but making meaningful and valuable connections still takes effort. At an industry conference or job fair, it all starts with an introduction and a handshake but how do you make real connections online?

The software does a lot of the initial introductions for us as we pop up on Facebook sites and online streams. At some point, you need to step outside of the algorithm and make a real effort to connect. Here are some strategies for engaging the job contacts in your network:

– Share a new job search or networking tool.

– Distribute worthwhile industry news or findings. Do not become a news service. Make sure it is a need-to-know piece of information.

– Arrange a meeting — an informal get-together or job search support group — with those in your region. Invite others to drop in when they are in the area. Then, share valuable take-aways with the rest of the group.

– Coordinate a get-together with others in your network at the next industry conference you are attending.

The most valuable engagement tool may be old-fashioned communication. Connect with others in your network on the telephone or through messenger services. Remember that social media is a tool for building, expanding and maintaining a network. There is an old maxim in the business world that reminds us that personal contact still matters: One can reap three times the benefits from a face-to-face meeting than from a telephone meeting.