Obviously for all the reasons listed in my previous blog I love the social aspects of social networking, however, the single thing I love most is the actual NETWORKING! Social networks, has allowed me to realize that I have built an expansive network of some amazing friends and associates. Regardless of the topic, there is someone in my network who is a subject matter expert (SME) I can reach out to. I have reached out to a number of you for your help, advice, guidance, or just general information and you have all been gracious. A wise man once said “you’re only as successful as your network” (I may have made that quote up.. but, whatever .. it works .. lol) and I am grateful to have you all in mine!
As a result, I decided to write a few tips on how to network successfully on social networks:
1) Build your own value/worth
I believe that as humans we have an innate selfish nature and drive (some of us more than others). As a result, people are more likely to help someone they think they could possibly need to reach back to one day. If you only portray negativity in your posts, or aren’t showing signs of progressing yourself or positive things that you are doing, it probably weakens your chances of getting a response when you reach out to someone.
2) Share the wealth
If you have some information that you believe someone can benefit from, even if you can’t (ie: job postings, housing opportunities, info about the latest things happening in certain market segments) SHARE THE INFORMATION. People on your timeline will remember that you also share information and are more likely willing to share with you.
3) Do your homework first
Please don’t reach out to your network asking for advice or information that is easily accessible. Instead, do your own research first. Show them that you have performed your due diligence and they will be more likely to fill in the piece of the puzzle that you are missing. Don’t just expect them to hand you a road map to achieve the same level of success that they spent countless hours working hard to attain.
4) ‘Number four shoulda been number one to me’ (Greg remix): Networking <> Hook Up
A popular misconception is that networking = hookup! People expect that because a friend is in a trusted position of authority that entitles them to the access. As a result, a lot of people are afraid to even let others know where they work, because others are looking for a discount, or a job offer, etc … When you network, your only expectation should be knowledge… anything extra is an added bonus… don’t expect people to risk their jobs for you.
5) Yes, they’re your friend .. Yes, they own the business … No, you shouldn’t get a discount
If someone in your network has their own business and is very good at their craft, you should by all means support their business. That is how our network grows stronger. However, just because you knew them from elementary school (cue Big Pun) doesn’t entitle you to “take food out of their mouth”. If you notice a competitor has a cheaper rate for the same service, then feel free to negotiate based on that, but don’t feel entitled or think differently of the friendship if they say no. It then becomes your choice if you’ll still use them or the competitor.
6) Say “Thank You!” even if all they were able to do was listen.
There are those few times when we reach out to people and they are unable to help. Either they didn’t know the information you were looking for, were unable to grant the favor requested, or didn’t provide any additional knowledge to what you already knew. The fact is, they were willing to listen (or read the email) and for that you should be show gratitude. It will also make them more likely to help the next time you reach out or if they happen to gain that information in the future.
7) Pay it forward
Finally, if someone reaches out to you for information or help, don’t hesitate to reach out and lend that helping hand!
But then again, what do I know…
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