The Sun-Herald (4 January) said that: “Australians may be less financially secure than they were a year ago, but desire to be connected and networked has been barely affected by the credit crunch.” The article was actually about the growth of the sales of laptops, the use of texting and other technology to stay in touch. The article (not surprisingly) barely touched on the power of social networking and how both it and traditional networking remains a key tool for promoting yourself, growing your business, influencing buyers and spreading your message. I believe NOW is the time to be actively networking and building stronger relationships with your customers and your network. So, over the coming weeks, here on this blog, we’ll give you tips and strategies for no-cost and low-cost ways to network as well as good reasons why NOW is the time to network. 
Here are 2 easy was to start to network for zero dollars… 1. Join social networks and learn to use them to network. It’s easy once you know how and there’s a lot of time-wasting that can occur. I’ve been playing with different social networking sites the last six months with great results and lots of new contacts made.
- Facebook – Become a ‘fan’ of our Facebook page and network with other women
- Twitter – follow me on twitter for daily tips and resources from business experts
- Linked In – Join this growing business social network and build your contacts
Are you new to all this? In the coming weeks the Australian Businesswomen’s Network’s webinar series will show you how you too can use these social networks to grow your list of contacts and to do more business. 2. Look for no-cost events Members of the Australian Businesswomen’s Network get to go to free networking events throughout the year as well as attend different webinars on subjects like marketing, publicity, branding, networking, mentoring etc. etc. While membership to the ABN is $20 a month, the events alone are worth hundreds of dollars in savings each year. You can learn more here, or call 1300 720 120 and ask about their new-year joining specials!
