Social media has added an entirely new layer of opportunity for sales, relationship-building and knowledge-sharing. In fact, for many of us, it’s radically changing the way we network and do business with others. But, just as the internet gave us all a degree of anonymity, social networking allows us all a degree of laziness.
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The #1 Social Media Mistake in Business
Many of us gravitate to those Twitter users, Facebookers and LinkedIn folks who share our passion, work in our industry and run in the same circles. While that’s a critical part of social networking, it’s equally imperative that we mingle with those outside of our normal network.
I recently attended a client’s national conference where all employees were invited to meet their customers face-to-face. Awesome opportunity, right? The number one rule on the employee guidelines sheet: Don’t Clump! Mingle with new people. Make new connections. Break from your comfort zone.
It’s no different in the online networking world. As awesome as the networking opportunity may be, many of us get stuck in our comfort zone and stick with who we know. The result? You preach to the choir. You have conversations with those who will never challenge you. You don’t take risks.
But…you’re darned comfortable!
The Challenge
This week, find new pockets of interesting business contacts online. Do you have a segment of prospects or customers you rarely connect with? Find them. You may like them! Best of all, you may actually begin building relationships beyond your usual comfortable crowd.
For starters:
- Log on to TweepSearch or download TwiPing and enter keywords related to a growing customer segment or an area you’re interested in learning more about. Find some new Tweeps outside of your typical circle!
- Look up groups or discussions on LinkedIn and Facebook that are outside of your normal comfort zones. Join the conversation and ask questions.
- Find some customer or even distant competitor blogs where you can leave comments on hot topics of the day (be nice!). You’d be surprised at how welcome you’re insight will be!
Tell us what you’ve done lately to bust outside of your online clique…
