Networking In Online Communities
Posted by the Networking Goddess in General, Networking Defined, Networking Groups and Functions, Networking Tools, Online Networking, Types of Networking
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Networking In Online Communities
For the purposes of this article, an online community is defined as a group of business professionals who have a place to “meet” that satisfies certain specific business criteria. These online forums are often newsgroups and e-mail lists. It is here where there is a chance for the reciprocal exchange of questions and information. It is also here where we, as a small business community, will learn ways to communicate, and build relationships without the benefit of seeing , hearing or touching those we associate with.
Here are some tools that can be used to get and give the most in this community;
S-A-V-E works wonders:
1. S-Share information. Specific information that helps people who post questions and general information about business development. When sharing information about your field, “less” is better. Little bits of information shared with the group will be easier for them to remember. It will also aid in their ability to focus on the faces of those people they know who can help you, or who can help them. Sharing information also helps position you as an “expert” in your field.
2. A-Applaud the efforts of others. Even if you do so in a private message to them. Recognize what each person has something to offer, and what each person has to learn. The community is stronger when people feel comfortable to ask for assistance and to give assistance. Accolades are appreciated and can be great marketing tools if used properly.
3. V-Venture into new ways of thinking. Look at what you believe and why you believe it. Online communities are an excellent forum to learn the many sides to any issue. Participation in these communities will increase your chances of success when working online. The views and ideas expressed will give you a glimpse of what the Internet small business community thinks. It is a great testing ground for what works and what doesn’t work, and why.
4. E-Expect it to take time. No way to shorten the relationship-building process has been found. Humans being humans, the chances are good that no way WILL be found. The time needed to build mutually-beneficial relationships is well worth the wait.
Online communities SAVE you a lot of research time. They SAVE you a lot of expense. And networking in them is as easy as S-A-V-E.
Nancy
Your Networking Goddess
