by Bruce W. Coffman

Created on: November 20, 2008

Online business networking works if done properly. However, the effects of sloppy or improperly executed online business networking can be devastating. There are several ways to make sure your online business networking efforts are a hit instead of a miss. By following a few simple tips, you can be well on your way to making valuable contacts and forming beneficial, lasting relationships.

Spam Sucks

Nobody likes spam and that includes those involved in business networking. They are actually more likely to be sensitive to any appearance of spam or blatant advertising than the average internet user because they face a constant barrage of not-so-cleverly disguised advertising and marketing messages. Do not use any online business networking platform as an advertising venue. You are there to develop relationships, not sell products or services.

Add Some Value

When using online networking resources such as social networks, forums, etc., remember that you are judged first and foremost by what you bring to the table. Make sure you contribute relevant, useful information and resources the other users will be interested in. If you must, think of it as selling your expertise in a given area. You have the opportunity to brand yourself in a way as an expert in your field. Just remember the first rule of online business networking and avoid even the appearance of spam at all costs.

Do Your Homework

Before jumping right in and making posts and comments, research the climate of the particular business networking venue. Read what types of things others are posting. Ask some questions of more experienced users. Get to know a little about what the community is most interested in or you run the risk of sticking out like a sore thumb instead of making a positive impression. Remember that each and every post or comment you make may be the first and only thing that others see. Instead of having to make one positive first impression, the pressure is on to make a positive first impression with everything you do in the community.

Remember the Real World

Remember that you have available resources in the real world. Ask colleagues and friends what specific online business networking activities they pursue and have had the best luck with. Also, keep in mind that your online communication and interaction is every bit as real as face to face communication. Treat those online with the same courtesy and respect you would give them if you were having a meeting with them in your office.

Don't Overdo It

Don't spread yourself too thin by joining every online business networking site or community you can find. Choose several that truly interest you and make yourself a regular contributor. Keep up with your contacts and cultivate relationships. You simply can't do this with hundreds of people at a time. Keep it simple, start small and expand your networking activities as you have time to do so. Just as you must keep your website up to date, so must you continue to contribute fresh, useful information to the online business networking communities to which you belong.

By keeping these few guidelines in mind when you set out to conquer the world of online business networking, you will find that you make new friends and even some very valuable business contacts. You'll be amazed at how much support and camaraderie exists in some online communities. Just make sure you go about it the right way.

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