Social Networking in the Marketplace

By Wyatt Ortiz

An effective and inexpensive marketing idea that has been around for decades is networking. Social networking via the internet including Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn and many others seem to be the latest craze, although time and time again, face to face networking has been successful in bringing together many new contacts and business opportunities for professionals of all industries.

There are a vast number of social networking groups active today. The Chamber of Commerce, Toastmasters, the American Legion and Business and Networking International are just a few. They are in almost every market in the US and the world. The potential for untapped prospects in these networking groups are endless. Several of these groups require no fees or are minimal in annual dues.

Keep in mind, you can always form your own networking group. You can organize specific dates, times and locations convenient for everyone. Be sure to invite a variety of knowledge and experience that are all related in some way shape or form. You have total control of the size of attendees and the likeminded professionals that will be meeting.

Whether you join a group or create your own, you will be meeting and sharing ideas with individuals. Many of us have similar goals and interests. Overall we are always looking for more prospects, customers, clients, buyers and sellers. The population is gigantic and no matter what we have to offer in our product or services, there is somebody out there that needs what we have to offer. The accomplishment or success of any business always start by social networking and getting out in front of people.

Be sure you bring several business cards. Give at least two business cards to everyone you meet. You will want to envision this person giving your card to one of their friends or colleagues as well.

Networking groups will usually start off by allowing you to give a two minute spiel about yourself, your company and what you have to offer to the group. Don't be shy and be prepared. If you need to practice your two minute speech, then by all means do so. You will be given front stage and you want to project the best impression you can.

When joining or starting a networking group, evaluate the variety of professions attending. If there are only 10 people in the group, are they all real estate professionals? If there are a mixture of real estate professionals, Insurance Broker, Doctors and Contractors, which one would be a bigger plus to enhancing your business objectives? These questions are important so consider them carefully.

Social or group networking, a fantastic and inexpensive way to meet new people. If organized correctly, it will take a minimal amount of your time and increase your productivity in business. And think of it this way, the worst case scenario is you make a few friends. - 31821

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