The Ultimate Guide to Business Networking Online
If you’re running a business, you know how important it is to network and build relationships. Traditionally, this has been done in person at networking events, trade shows, and other industry gatherings. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic limiting face-to-face interaction, online networking has become an increasingly important channel for entrepreneurs and professionals.
In this article, we’ll show you how to build a robust, effective online networking strategy that will help you grow your business, expand your network, and drive your profession forward.
Why Online Networking Matters
First, it’s crucial to understand why online networking is so important. For starters, online networking is accessible and affordable. You can connect with people from anywhere in the world and build relationships quicker than you could with in-person networking. Online networking also provides you with a wealth of resources. Whether it’s LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook groups, there’s no shortage of places to find industry insights, job opportunities, and potential business partners.
Online networking can help you boost your credibility as well. Building a strong online presence through social media, your website, and other online channels can make you more visible and influential to your audience. This can lead to more speaking opportunities, job offers, and even press coverage.
Key Steps for Online Networking
Now that we’ve covered why online networking matters, let’s dive into some key steps you can take to build a successful online networking strategy.
1. Define Your Goals: Before you start networking online, it’s essential to know what you want to accomplish. Use the SMART method to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely goals. For example, you might set a goal to connect with industry thought leaders or have five informational interviews per week.
2. Choose Your Networking Channels: With the abundance of online networking channels available, it’s essential to choose the right ones for your goals. LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking, while Twitter is great for accessing and sharing industry news. Facebook groups can be useful for building industry connections and finding potential business partners.
3. Optimize Your Profile: Once you’ve chosen your networking channels, it’s time to optimize your profile. Use targeted keywords in your bio or profile headline to help others find you online. Add a professional headshot and cover image to your profiles to boost your credibility.
4. Be Consistent and Engage: Consistency is key when it comes to online networking. Make sure you’re regularly engaging with your connections by liking, commenting, and sharing their posts. Consistent engagement helps keep you front of mind with your network and builds strong relationships over time.
5. Provide Value: When networking online, it’s essential to provide value to your audience. Share relevant industry news or your own insights to establish yourself as a thought leader. Offer to help others in your network through things like informational interviews or introductions to other professionals.
Examples of Successful Online Networking
Let’s take a look at some examples of successful online networking strategies.
1. Brian Dean: Brian Dean is a renowned SEO expert who has built a successful online networking strategy through his website, Backlinko. He provides value to his audience by sharing in-depth SEO guides and tutorials, which have helped him gain a substantial social media following and a loyal fan base.
2. Darren Hardy: Darren Hardy is the author of The Compound Effect and the founder of a business networking platform called Success magazine. Hardy has built a successful online networking strategy by leveraging platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with other influencers in his space.
The Bottom Line
Online networking is a crucial channel for building relationships and growing your business. By defining your goals, optimizing your profiles, being consistent and engaging, and providing value to your audience, you can build a successful online networking strategy. Use the examples of successful online networking to inspire you and help you achieve your networking goals. With determination and effort, you can successfully build your network and expand your opportunities through online networking.
