Business Networking: Jump Into the Social Scene
Online networking takes your business to an international level of competition.
Are you tired of hearing about Twitter and Facebook? I was a skeptic too, but soon learned that it’s hard to overlook or underestimate the power of online interaction on a social level. Millions of people are congregating on the Internet and you don’t have to leave the comforts of your computer chair to tap into this networking energy.
I encourage you to dip your hand in the honey pot and you’ll be surprised at some of the golden opportunities waiting just around the corner. While it isn’t a guarantee you’ll become a success story overnight or even in a couple of months, smart social marketing campaigns have resulted in increased sales, new customers or web visitors, and at the very least, cost-effective advertising.
On a personal note, I’ve been introduced to a wide-range of business professionals, as well as leisure indulgences. From recycled journals and cheap magazine subscriptions to gourmet taffy, I’ve purchased items advertised on Twitter that I would have never found browsing my typical online haunts.
Still wish to resist current trends? There’s more to business networking than just Facebook and Twitter. Other networking platforms to explore include:
LinkedIn: More than 40 million professionals have already established their online identity with LinkedIn without worrying about their next Tweet or updated vacation pics. You can connect with past colleagues and classmates, but your interaction is not on display for the rest of the world to see. Industry experts are available to lend a helping hand, but for the most part, I see this professional network more on the minimalist side of business networking.
StartUp Nation: Expect helpful advice and networking opportunities geared towards small businesses. From getting feedback on a new website design to asking burning business marketing questions, StartUp Nation is an explosion of effective community resources. Set off on a fact-finding mission or simply mingle with like-minded entrepreneurs. Forums are constantly filling with new ideas to spark your own creativity and send you off in the right business direction.
Biznik: Network with indie business owners in a community-wide general discussion forum or ask questions of fellow participants. Unlike LinkedIn, Biznik doesn’t focus on posting resumes and credentials, but instead – concentrates more on the sharing of ideas and building support systems for entrepreneurs.
Ecademy: Allow Ecademy to bridge the gap between you and the next entrepreneur. Gaining access to this online network opens many doors in the business world with the help of blog posts and message-board chats. For a more rewarding experience, the site offers an exclusive BlackStar membership program.
Focus: Sometimes you need a little help obtaining the goods and services to make your business ventures truly shine. With Focus, you gain the necessary assistance in an online community atmosphere to make important business decisions, conduct efficient research, and benefit from the expertise of others.
NetParty: If you live in cities like Boston, Dallas, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Las Vegas, and Orlando – then NetParty offers an opportunity for you to mingle both online and offline. Connect with qualified, thirsty-for-success professionals across the Net and then reconnect at happy-hour events about town. Dust off those business cards and get ready to pitch new job openings. Visit the website to find additional participating cities.
Photo Credit: nookiez
