The best networking groups are active. They are actively promoting the group to other potential members. Attrition is a fact of life… but group self promotion is the life blood of quality networking. The best groups have a website to share where business can promote each other and the group itself. Get a logo, a…
The Internet’s not magic, and it’s really darned overcrowded. You can’t simply throw a blog up, throw a couple links up, and expect world fame. If it’s targeted traffic you’re after, start commenting intensively on other industry blogs. Guest posting is another good way to draw attention to your corner of the world. Don’t forget…
Have you ever watched ESPN’s “Around the Horn”? Sportswriter Woody Paige always has a chalk board behind him with memorable and funny sayings. Is there something that you could bring to networking events that will help you stand out from the crowd (but is not overly obnoxious)? Maybe use a blackboard app on an IPad…
When do people social network? Well that depends on the person and the purpose. Consumers tend to use Facebook and Pinterest in the evening an on weekends. Business people tend to use Twitter an LinkedIn during work hours of 9 to 5. There are exceptions to every rule, but tendencies can be beneficial to know…
Community service is a great way to network. Getting involved with a local organization, chamber of commerce, non-profit, getting on a board of directors or committee, is a great way to meet new influential, and community minded people. As an added bonus, you will feel good about helping those who help others!
What’s more important… getting to connected with people you have met before, or finding new people to connect with? That becomes the challenge at every networking opportunity. There is no right answer, and no one winning formula to success. You have to realize that any time you walk into a room you may be pulled…
Why So Serious? Networking does not have to be all work… sometimes you can express a little personality. Don’t be a crude, rude, dewd (or dewdette)… but pushing the envelope can lighten the mood and create some memorable conversations! So when the opportunity knocks, open the door… but make sure you are properly dressed!
When at networking events or meetings… always try to take a picture and share it on your social networking. On Facebook, it’s a good idea to tag your friends. That way, they get acknowledged and alerted to your picture, and you have a better chance of that post being shared.
I know this is so 1990’s but… we are STILL in the Information Age… not the “I Want You to Sell Me” age. People will really get to know, like, and trust you more… if you educate them with your experience and knowledge. So whether you meet them face to face, or on-line… Less Sell,…
Calendars… all of us have them and use them. Most calendar programs allow you to create multiple calendars for home, work, sports and so on. Make sure you create one that you can share for networking or presentations. It become much more powerful when you share it via your social networking and websites.