Social networks are a great place to find groups with whom to network face-to-face, as well as online. But, how do you find networks and networkers relevant to your needs?
Today’s lesson is from Brooke Simmons, Managing Director of Pursuit Communications.
Pursuit Communications is a public relations agency based on the Central Coast of NSW. We service clients of varying size and in many locations. The majority of these clients have been secured, largely, through networking. We believe that location shouldn’t be a boundary as to how far your network and networking capabilities extend; in fact we encourage our clients to network outside of their regular circles because we’ve seen the results for ourselves – it works! With this in mind we thought it was timely to blog about the importance of networking and some great examples of networks that we’ve come across. Twitter is a great place to start networking. Simply search using tools such as: Who Should I Follow, Just Tweet It and Who’s Talkin for terms that are relevant to your industry, much as you would with a Google search. Search for Networks and Networkers Terms such as “Networking”, “Sydney” [or your own location] or “Businesswomen” will all start you off in the right direction. Look at who follows these Twitter users and whom they’re following and follow suit. Before you know it you’ll have the base of a great network foundation. Introduce Yourself Introduce yourself when you start following someone and tell them why you’re following them – something along the lines of “Hi I found you through networking women site I’m looking to network with like minded people. Hope to share some great tweets with you soon.” – which is exactly 140 characters will start you off on the right foot. Remember, networking should never be about $$$. You shouldn’t try and flog your product or business too heavily. A slowly-slowly approach is often best with Twitter. Just as in real-life networking on Twitter should be a place where ideas are encouraged, shared and embraced. Examples of good online groups One example of a networking group with its foundations firmly in Twitter-sphere is Central Coast Biz. Based on the NSW Central Coast, a majority of its members can be found on Twitter. CC Biz – “is run by small businesses for small businesses.” Their aim is to encourage business on the NSW Central Coast to support one another and help grow the local economy. They encourage people to come “offline” and meet at regular intervals at various locations around the NSW Central Coast. CC Biz appreciates that some people may not be comfortable with large groups or meeting a group of “unknowns” which is why their functions are designed to provide guests with the opportunity to network in an informal setting. TweetupMellers is a Melbourne based networking group which is supported by its followers on Twitter and is a great example of an “offline” event which builds its base “online”. Based in Melbourne the group claims they are “Just another place to connect yet over a few vinos, nibbles and a belly full of laughs – in real time-physical time! We all know the power of twitter in lead gen, personal branding and networking so combine this with tweetupmellers and shaaazam – add another power marketing strategy to the business model!” Further afield, another Twitter-based networking group, PRinks is a new addition to the networking circle. Aimed at anyone who works within the communications industry this networking group seems to have found a niche with Gen Y who is ever embracing social media. I first heard about PRinks was via @GemCrowley, a fellow PR practitioner and 1/2 of the power-source behind PRinks – @rogerchristie is the other 1/2! The idea was simple use the “online” world to create an “offline” world activity.
The idea behind PRinks is simple, “Come join us for a great chance to catch up with friends, meet new people, have a good chat, share ideas and enjoy a drink or two.” The first two PRinks were a great success with PRinks number three later this month.
PRinks has maximised the social networking space and created a fan page on Facebook. This is another great place to look for networking groups. Start by heading to the “groups” page on Facebook and looking for industry related groups that are relevant to you. Start your own group If you do find the results are lacklustre, why not take the initiative and start your own group. That’s what it’s all about. Right? Setting up a group on Facebook is ‘easy as pie’. Remember though to limit invitations to those who you think will benefit from an invitation. Try and put yourself in the receivers’ shoes. Would they appreciate an invitation to join this group?
So, what happens when you’re ready to take your networking “offline”?
A lot of groups will allow you to attend the first meeting at no cost and if you’re interested in attending further meetings, they may ask for a small membership fee – which will be well worth the networking and information you’ll receive. If you are a bit nervous in attending a function alone, why not ask a fellow colleague or Twitter friend to attend with you or if you’re a sole operator – try and find other members prior to the meeting and arrange to meet with them so you’ll at least know someone before you enter the room. You’d be surprised at how many others are nervous and you may just strike a common cord with someone – and potentially some great business or a new friend. Don’t be limited by your own industry, ask clients to join them at a networking function they go to or if your partner has an opportunity to attend a networking function, ask if you can tag -along – the more you get out the more you’ll get back – ultimately the possibilities are endless! So, the next time you’re thinking about networking don’t forget about the importance of social networking in real-life networking. Don’t under-estimate the power of an e-mail, blog, Facebook message or Twitter – tweet. As seen through the success of the groups mentioned here– social networking can build a real network of people who could potentially turn a simple meeting into business success.
TODAY’S TASK
- Search and find a networking group or networkers in your location or industry.
- Do you belong to an online network? Tell us about it?
