Online Networking
Business owners around the world know the importance of networking and most of us are able to do it in the real world, but do you know how to network online? It doesn´t matter if you aren´t a blogger or internet marketer, you can find both business contacts and potential clients on the internet and it is a networking medium that should not be ignored.
So, where do you find people to network with? There are several places to look:
Forums
Forums that are related to your business are an excellent way to start networking online. You can ask or answer questions and get to know other people in the areas that you are interested in. However, don´t forget to look outside your area to find new clients.
For example, if you run a candle-making business, don´t stick to candlemaking or business forums. Look at wedding forums, home decorating message boards, etc. You will probably find more clients in these areas than you thought possible!
To make forums work for your networking goals, make sure that you are offering quality information. Answer questions with more than a simple one liner. This will help people learn to trust you and see you as an expert. And don´t forget to include your URL in the signature line.
Social networks (i.e. Facebook, MySpace, etc.)
These were once a place to hang out and find new friends, but you can also network with clients and business partners. For example, I recently joined a WAHM group on Facebook and there is an area for everyone to post their business and an URL. I was skimming through and a woman who has an online toy shop was offering a 20% discount. That caught my attention and I visited her site. I ended up buying four toys for my boys!
Do be careful not to spam people on these networks. You can include links to your site or your email address in your profile. Start making friends with people who have similar interests. Once you have a circle of established friends, you will begin to receive new ones on a regular basis.
You can also join or set up groups, which expands your influence. Don´t just stick to business groups, like in the forums, you will often find your potential clients in other areas.
Blogs
Even if you don´t have a blog of your own, that shouldn´t stop you from leaving comments and a link back to your business website. Blogs are an excellent way to get to know other people with similar interests. Google now has a blog search feature that you can use to find blogs on any topic you want.
Most bloggers also have their email on their site and you can contact them this way. You may want to suggest a link exchange or simply connect with others in your field. Also, consider starting your own blog, even if it is on a free host like Blogger, where you can blog about your interests and promote your business.
If you aren´t already networking online, you should definitely consider it. If you are, why not share your techniques with us?
Thanks for the great update.