Top 10 Online Networking Tips

Photography by Jonathan Some rights reserved.

A while back, I asked the Tazzu Forum Members to assist me with a list of ‘online networking tips’. Below is a compilation, and summary of the great response that was received – they are in no particular order.

Thank you to the following Tazzu Members for your participation in this discussion: Verithin, infinity, Liesa, techno.chic, MCSD, Aristocrat, EdC, jentekk, sstark, emeraldconsulting, and kulpreet_singh.

Top 10 Online Networking Tips

1. Utilize Your Profile Efficiently
Work your profile! Have a proper avatar, add website links to your signature, and list your preferred title. In a virtual world that is the only way that people can learn more about you, and eventually trust you. Hiding behind a vague image, and username doesn’t mean ‘business’ to most people.

2. First Impressions Count
How do you welcome the Forum’s new members? People who are new to online networking may feel out of their element. If you find fault and criticize their very first post – you’ll forever be remembered as a bully. By encouraging new members, greeting them with a warm hello, you will be remembered for your kindness. That new ‘shy’ member may have a fifty thousand dollar contract in their pocket just waiting to be signed… how do you wish to be remembered?

3. Ask & Answer Questions:
Don’t be afraid to ask questions… somebody out there has probably been there and done that. Also, answer questions that you have expertise in. The knowledge you share may come back to you in dividends.

4. Share Potential Jobs, Job Openings, and Events
Pass on news about potential jobs, job openings, events that may pertain to a certain member if you think they may be interested. Let them know that there may be a door open and let them choose to walk through it. Hold the door for them if you can… its the polite thing to do and will reflect positively on you.

5. Participate Creatively
Answer questions, post points of interest, offer insight, share your hobbies etc. The more you post, the more exposure you will get, and people will really get to know you on a more personal level.

6. Professionalism
An online networking forum is very similar to a place of business. Your posts should reflect this context. People who are seen acting in a respectful and polished manner are usually held in higher regards by colleagues, fellow workers, and online community members, so be the kind of person you would wish to do business with.

7. Company Endorsements
Are you well connected in your industry with some key businesses? Let others who are new to the field know who they need to get acquainted with, and which of the major players do what. You will gain great respect for letting your superiors or your juniors know which companies they need to connect with, even if it means they will be in competition with you.

8. Make Your Posts Count
When your fellow members pose a question or topic for discussion, acknowledging their post by replying will definitely increase your visibility and brand awareness – but is that really enough? Replying to them with an intelligent and/or humorous and/or helpful and/or concise and/or polite reply will inevitably increase your karma points. Often the most remembered posts on a discussion forum are often those that combine some or all of the above elements. If you are known for providing insightful information in your posts, without having to ramble on for several pages, it will reflect positively on your business or service.

9. Meet Face to Face
Solidify your online business relationships by connecting beyond the computer screen. Meet for coffee, lunch or dinner. Attend networking events when you’re able. Connect with your contacts on a more personal level to create a bond and establish trust. These types of relationships can open doors to opportunities that previously may have been beyond your reach.

10. Have Fun
The forums can be a great place to share funny or odd e-mails from external sources, interesting articles and anything that seems noteworthy, from not only a business level but a personal level. These types of posts can entertain, educate and hopefully sometimes causes laughter. It shows strength of character, to be able to let loose and have fun while maintaining your professionalism.