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Social Networks... are they for you?

Written by: Kathleen Gage

Article Overview: If you’ve been on the Internet for even a short period of time you have likely heard that Social Networking is the latest and greatest hot thing on the Internet. In many ways it is. However, as much as Social Networking can help you build your business, it can be a huge waste of time. Find out what you need to do to get the most out of Social Networks.

Social Networks... are they for you?

If you’ve been on the Internet for even a short period of time you have likely heard that Social Networking is the latest and greatest hot thing on the Internet. In many ways it is. However, as much as Social Networking can help you build your business, it can be a huge waste of time.

You will hear mixed reviews of whether or not Social Networking and Social Networks are worthwhile. The fact is, hundreds of millions of people use Social Networks. Social networks can be used both personally and professionally. I personally use them as a compliment to my overall online presence and online marketing strategies.

One of the most beneficial Social Networks I belong to is FaceBook. I have met some outstanding Joint Venture Partners, reconnected with colleagues and friends from the past and built my opt in subscriber list with people who are interested in my information.
Because I am strategic in what I do, I have been able to build my visibility, credibility, list size and revenues. Notice I said strategic in what I do.

Be Specific For Best Results
To get the most out of your efforts there are some specific things you need to do. More than ever you have to focus on building good relationships in business. The Internet allows you to do this on a global level, but as much as this global reach can help you, it can hinder and harm your reputation.

The main thing to remember is there are people on the other end of your messages and postings. You will benefit greatly by getting in the mindset of relationship marketing.

It's about Relationship Marketing
Social networks encourage various types of relationship marketing. They also encourage and support (most do) activity that can be commercial, social or a combination of the two. Depending on the Social Network, many of these online community members share a common interest such as hobbies, religion, professional, cultural, or politics.

Think of Social Networks in terms of any network you build, whether online or off. There are some people you would gladly associate with, while others you would not. Establish criteria for who you will accept in your network.

The thing about being involved in a Social Network is you have to nurture what you are doing. You have to spend time in it and as with anything else the more you put into it the more you get out.

Are They For Everyone?
Some people wonder, “Is Social Networking for everyone?” Absolutely not. The best way to find out if Social Networking is for you is to explore it.

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Article Tags: authors, book marketing, internet marketing, making money on the internet, online business, online marketing
Referred by: http://www.sandcconsulting.com



Related Forum Posts
Women Entrepreneur Tips - Thank you LeoOliveros, I found #4 particularly true in my case: 4. The Enterprise Must Include the Power of Power Networks. As a conductor of your own enterprise, you can not see yourself as a one-woman-show. You must choose to utilize the power people in your life, by asking for help when you need it, and effectively delegating in order to capitalize on your strengths and that of your power network. When certain experts are not represented in your power network, you must actively seek advisors or mentors and develop a team of specialists, so the benefits are received by everyone involved in the power network - the true Power of Power Networks.
Re: Marketing 2.0 - What Are Your Thoughts - Hi Shri, Thanks for posting this. I also read it and I believe Social Media is here to stay, until the next best thing comes up. Social media proved to be useful for me many times and I think everyone should use it for their business.
Re: Kevin needs "social glue" ideas - Hi, I like the idea of "10 items that could act as "social glue" because I am an internet marketer. But I agree with the rest that the 10 recent post is nice. Maybe we should open up a new section in the forums on Social Media...or Social Media Marketing. I will tell you that the world is about 1 1/2 behind when it comes to understanding social media. Building a section now will put EvanCarmichael.com is a great position a year down the road when people realize Social Media can produce more traffic than SEO. Jeff
Re: How can a social networking site make serious money? - Hi There, It is quite interesting, that some Social Networking do produce an income. I think testimonials are always a benefit to share. See one below: This Social Network has changed my life! Every night is a Friday night and everyday is a Saturday!! Because of it, I have been able to leave the workforce 10 years early.It has given me back my life. Many of us would like to retire early. I am sure there are many more. The point is of focusing with great determination. The ongoing challenge is to stay focussed and not be sidetracked into a newer scheme or so. Also I have read, during this financial turmoil, more people turn to Social Networking for various reasons.
Re: Is being too connected pushing your business forward or back - My email rule: Don't answer email until evening. My Social networking Rule: Don't go to Social site until I have finished other assignment. Mr forum rule: Post or start a new thread early in the morning and don't spend more than 30 minutes, then comeback in the evening to post more.


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