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// Networking your way to small business success
Participating in online networks is second only to blogging when it comes to connecting with potential customers and finding joint venture partners.
And right about now, in this difficult economy, every business in the world (literally), from parties of one to large corporations, needs to do at least two things:
- get in front of as many customers as possible, and
- be creative about expanding their brand and bringing in new money.
One of the fastest ways to accomplish both goals is to become active in a variety of online networks that will get your name out there, allow you to connect with people and help you develop a following.
They include those specifically geared for business, social networks that work very well for business, and specialty networks (like those for women in business) that thrive on purposeful connection and self promotion.
While these venues are free to join, you do have to dedicate time to cultivating relationships and participating in online conversations. Unlike a website, which is designed to give static information, online networks are designed to encourage ongoing interaction. Which means you must be present to win.
Here's a partial list of top choices in online business networks, women's business networks and social networks that can be used to increase your visibility:
Online business networks
Online networks for women business owners
Social networks to use for business
- Facebook - the most successful social network used by business owners today.
- MySpace - all the rage for the younger set and those businesses who cater to the 18-25 year old demographic.
- Twitter - where the only thing that matters is 'what are you doing now?'
- hi5 - considered the largest social network you don't know about yet.
- Squiddo - Your views, your passions, your world through your own lens
By the way …
Sometimes it really comes in handy to see who in your network is also part of other networks where you can promote yourself and your business. Of course there's an app for that too, called Wink, where you can do a people search on the social networks. Way cool and downright handy, because you never know who's where:)
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