I will admit that I've got a bit of an ego. Also, I'll tell you most of you will never see it so much. However, my good friend will tell I've got an ego the size of Texas, but they are my good friends. So, they get a pass. I tell you all of this so I can do this post.
I love walking into a room full of people that are there to network in NW Indiana and have more than a few and recently about a quarter of the room recognize me for my online efforts as both the Most Infuential Social Media Dude of Indiana 2010 and Chesterton Local Internet Marketing. You really cannot imagine how easy it makes a networking event. Everyone you are networking with are far more open than you could ever imagine.
They already have seen your work, your actions and your successes online via your social networks and/or blogs. It really does not matter what field you are in whether it be real estate or local internet marketing. I just happen to do both. I'm an agent in referral for the time being as I have success in another field of play.
So, what does it take to have success with your social networking?
1.Be OPEN & Honest
My mom used to say, "The me you see is the person I am". I don't hide behind an avatar. I speak frankly about my life and my wife. I talk business and politics. Yes, I mix both. You don't want to do business because I'm a conservative. Gee, really.
2.Engage & Converse
I set up lists and do my best to put every follower on a list. It really makes it easy to see my friends talk about what they find important. If someone engages me or strikes up a conversation with me, I never ignore them. I answer them back.
If I see a question I know I can answer, I do. If I can't but I know someone that can, I'll pass it along. The best part of networking is putting 2 people together that can help each other. It can really set you apart.
3. Broadcast
If you do all of the above, you get to do this. Yes, I really said that.
But, seriously if you do #1 and #2 about 80% of the time, you can broadcast about 20% of the time. Tell and show us what you do, bring attention to yourself. If you do #1 and #2 your friends and followers will want to help you. Give them the chance.
Social networking is here to stay, but face to face, deep and personal relationships will always be in style. If you want to make that face to face easier, I really suggest using Twitter, Facebook and work you blog, all the while making sure you are networking and help someone else succeed.
Happy Networking!
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