When you network with people, are you collecting or connecting? It sounds kind of strange, thinking about people in this way doesn't it? Almost creepy... This is something using social media without employing the rules of engagement has relegated us to. A bunch of clicks on a Facebook Like , Twitter Follow or LinkedIn Accept button. What is the value of that click to you? And are you fully aware that there is a human being on the other side of that action?
At the most basic level, I always advise clients to interact on social media just as they would in real life. Tsufit's comment is about networking in person, on how to genuinely work a room to make connections with people that ultimately turn into business relationships. This rule can, and should, be applied as a lesson in social media just the same.
Consider the direct message in Twitter (for those not familiar, this is the 140 character private inbox of Twitter), which has become automated to a fault (in my opinion). Would you say the same thing to everyone you met at a networking event? "Hi Firstname! Great to connect here, go to my Facebook page and be my next fan! I'll send you my free e-book!" then turn around and say this to the next person? As a visual thinker, I'm kind of cracking myself up, picturing this robotic networker who says this to everyone at the networking event, the cab driver, the check out person at the grocery store, and the neighbor's dog as he/she returns home. Would you hire this person? If this is how they interact with every person of varied professional focus and disposition, might this automation be applied to their products and services as well? Everyone wants a personal touch, to know they've truly been seen and heard, and that as a service provider you understand their unique business challenges, short and long term goals and offer them a solution catered to their industry, business mission, branding and budget.
Really think about how you can make authentic connections with people, because that is what generates valued business relationships as well. "Know, like, and trust": build relationships, build business.
So next time you interact on social media, ask yourself; would I do this at a networking event? Would I say this at a trade show, conference or seminar? If not, think again before you make that next keystroke. Get connecting and start soaring!
*Note, this is not an affiliate link, simply an amazing read that any entrepreneur should add to their collection (bad pun intended).
