Get Connected in Business

Just about anybody you talk to today will tell you they are a part of or know something about Social Media. Facebook, which was once the popular hangout for high school kids, is now gaining popularity among adults. There are even communities within the website to suit your particular interests. You also have MySpace, Ryze, Plaxo, Ecademy, Twitter, LinkedIn, Squidoo, Eons, Ning and the list goes on and on.

As someone who networks heavily online, I am continuing to learn which sites are of most value to me as a woman in business. But I also realize there is nothing that takes the place of face-to-face networking.

Joining business organizations or networking groups allows you to interact with like-minded people who can be invaluable sources of information and support - and increase your business success. For example, many networking groups offer members the chance to present their business to the group, or get specific business advice. Business organizations with Web sites often allow members to list their businesses in their online directories for free, or advertise without cost on their sites.

Besides the support and camaraderie, belonging to business organizations can increase your business’ credibility. Many potential clients or customers view membership in relevant business groups as a sign that you’re an established business and accepted by your industry.

I’m a member of my local Chamber of Commerce and glad to be connected to these fellow businesses:

Insurance Center of Durham

Rapid Results Fitness

Always Remembered Mailing Services

Leon Bullard—Health and Vitality Specialist

Geeks on Call

La Tropicale Catering

Thrifty Office Furniture

Durham Crisis Response Center

Comfort Inn

Swedish Nannies

  1. 2 Responses to “Get Connected in Business”

  2. I am seeking to get a hold of about 10 Drug Reps who cater lunches to various medical offices where they make drug presentation
    I will have my wife of 36 years read some of your articles. I think she will be even more challenged.

    By Chef Gladwin Jarvis on Aug 7, 2008

  3. This is a piece of the puzzle I will be working hard at over the next few months. I am fairly well connected online but there is a different energy to networking offline that I feel I need to compliment my Online presence. To this end, I am joining Toastmasters and will also look at what my local Chamber of commerce is doing.

    Great post.

    By Katherine Reschke on Aug 7, 2008

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