Social Networking Made Simple

Is Social Networking really a viable business concept? The answer is YES, but you have to know how to, shall we say, "work the system."

By now, most professionals understand, even if they are not good at it, that when they go to a networking function (such as BNI or ABWA), the goal is to create relationships. The goal is not to sell. And the same is true for for your online networking efforts.

One Internet Marketer likened social media sites to parties -- he said that you go to parties to connect, make friends, and build relationships. Then, when you find some common ground, you might invite people over to your place to get to know them better. And as the relationships progress, you begin to discuss what you do and what they do -- and your business builds either directly or through referrals.

That's not a bad analogy... The bottom line is that these sites are not opportunities to sell or advertise directly. They are relationship building tools.

Getting Started

While each of the sites is different and has its own idiosyncrasies, they all have at least one thing in common. No matter which site you choose, you will have the opportunity to fill out a Profile that will be seen by others.

Your Profile is your first impression, and you want it to be a good one. Click this link for some tips to creating a Social Networking profile that will help you, not hurt you.

Like I said, each of the social media sites is different. Some of the more business-friendly sites are:

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Squidoo
• Twitter
• YouTube

As with so many other things, managing your electronic networking efforts is as much art as it is science. At first it may be awkward and seem like an enormous waste of time, but soon you will find your rhythm and settle in with what works for you.

Remember, often success lies just outside your comfort zone. So get involved in Social Networking and build those relationships.