Hi guys. A new member here, nonetheless!, I’ve been reading this forum for years and every time I surf it, I encounter stories regarding the problems linked with the post viva period. Many people say is very difficult, or almost impossible, to gain a position after obtaining a PhD. I see that the reason for that is the lack of a real network of people that can help and give information need to gain employment after post grad education. This should no surprise us, in fact, as intellectuals we are really good with theories, but not so much with human interaction. Well, the thing is that without having real connections is almost impossible to advance our careers. That’s why I am proposing to create a WhatsApp group.
A place where we can talk and share common stories and interest in real time (people trying to get into a post grad program, people already in a post grad program and people on the field are welcomed). I know that it sounds a juvenile way of solving problems, but is important to create real connections with real interest. Asking for help only at times when you need something, without a genuine interest in people, is the recipe to be an outcast of the academia and the employment market.
I am a post grad in law, but any PhD student, in any field, is welcomed. Just leave or send your phone contact.
Luis

I agree that networking is very important but it must be done face to face.
You cannot successfully network over any online app wothout face to face contact.
Successful networking is built on a trust and can take years to build up properly.
I wouldnt risk my own professional reputation by recommending someone unless I knew them exttremely well for example.
If it is your plan to try and ultimately organise meetups for people then that might be worth considering.

I think this forum offers what I need in terms of a source of support/insight from other PhD students. The networking I do (to hopefully lead to future collaborations) is mainly done at conferences with people in my field. I do recall seeing a post on here a few months ago though, where someone wanted to start something similar to what you are suggesting. Maybe you could search for it and contact that person, as they seemed very keen on doing something like you are suggesting. I just can't remember the title of their thread.