The first step is to create a profile. Profiles can contain as much or as little detail as you’d like. We generally advise that, at the very least, they should contain the same kind of information as what appears on any other public-facing website: who you are, where you do your work, and the issue area(s) in which you work.

Organizations have told us that it is helpful when scholars provide information about the questions and issues that interest them, the methodologies they are open to using, and previous experience with collaborative research. The more you say, and the more up-to-date the information you provide, the easier it is for potential collaborators to find you.

The key point, however, is this: the simple act of creating a profile communicates a wealth of information. It communicates that you are open to a conversation about collaborating. This invitation to start a conversation is invaluable.