NETWORKNG

GETTING STARTED IN NETWORKING

It takes time to develop a solid reputation, but only an instant to lose one, so take care when you first participate in networking whether it‘s ‘eye-balling’ or with online communities.

Building and maintaining a good reputation is essential for any networking, but more-so for online networking. Developing a systematic approach to how you initiate your participation in discussion forums or to mailing lists is one of the surest ways to consistently create a good first impression.

A few general tips are offered here which might be useful.

Test the water: Don't jump in with comments or start posting until you get a feel for what kind of people the other members are. What is their conversational style, their no-no’s, the taboo’s. More than anything, before you make your presence known, find out if this is really a place you want to network in. If this is not a group you want to stay with you can actually damage your reputation if you introduce yourself and then disappear. Better to say nothing and quietly slip away.

My name is…: Always start with a personal introduction before you join in any conversation. A good introduction should be upbeat and tell a story, talk briefly about your business without going overboard with a sales pitch. This gives context to what you say, and invites people to connect with you, while affirming your commitment to participate in their group.

Give an early commitment: Once you introduce yourself, with the "lurking" stage over, there's no reason to delay, immediately join into the conversation - but remember - don’t be a bore by hogging all the conversation. Online, a good rule of thumb is to participate in two or three threads at a time. Then, rather than replying to every single person with short responses, post just once every day or two with a more thoughtful, reflective response that might address multiple posts.

Building a relationship; Listen and drop any "what’s in it for me?" attitude. Listening is not just a matter of waiting for your turn to talk, this is the online equivalent of being a good listener. You will also establish far more credibility and be seen as being thoughtful and knowledgeable - in other words, an expert.

Where and when possible, participate in the network executive, functions, and network time. Pay close attention to any form of referral. Always try to be the first to give a referral. Personally thank those who give you a referral, and always follow these up within 24 hours.

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