INTERNET NETWORKING IS KING OF THE HILL…..OR IS IT!

You can effectively use Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or any of the other internet networking sites to promote your business.  And can quickly amass a large army of contacts using the internet.  These contacts come from all over the world to connect with you.  And the great advantage is that none of them can tell you from the big boys.  But, are you connecting with "Peggy" or someone who can help you?

However, I have found that face to face networking is still more effective.  There is no replacement on the internet for a firm hand shake and eye to eye contact. 

 You can form a bond with someone when you get to know them.  And you can only get to know someone when you are able to speak with them face to face.  Join your local Chamber of Commerce.  Look and listen for other groups that meet regularly.  Some are relatively inexpensive.  You can find them if you are looking for them.  Use the internet networking sites to find groups.  Or form your own group and Tweet about in on the internet.

I feel that using both internet and face to face networking is the key to successful networking.  Invite a Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn contact to a lunch meeting.  Turn your contacts into (unpaid) additional sales force.  Pick and choose carefully which contacts that you want to meet face to face.  Ask yourself:

1.      Is this person in the geographic area that you want to promote your business?

2.      Is this person well respected (a good or bad reputation is important)?

3.      Will you be able to promote his/her business?

4.      Should you offer a commission or reward for referrals that become clients?

So, if internet networking is the “King” face to face is the “Queen” of networking.  Together the “King” and “Queen” can help you rule the world of your business.  Build an army of contacts that know you.

In closing remember our heros.  Who ever they may be and where ever they may be.