Networking Groups - Part 5

Online networking/social web sites: Are they really networking and are they really working? You can find them everywhere on the Internet. Based on contact management, they are direct in messaging, emailing, and even in the six degrees of separation. They go by many different names and have various methods of finding people. The problem with these sites is that they are not really networking. Do you disagree? To be effective in networking requires building a relationship with another person. This is difficult to do through messages and email....

Readmore...

Networking Groups - Part 4

What is a leads group? Leads groups seem to be the most popular form of networking judging that comment by the fact that there are more leads groups in existence that have been around for a long time than most other types of groups. Leads groups are often referred to as closed groups. This means that there can only be one type of a business represented in a group. For instance, I'm a member of a closed group where I am the only writer in the group. Other freelance writers would be allowed to visit, but if they wanted to join the organization they...

Readmore...

Networking Groups - Part 3

I talk a lot about Focused Networking, but I've never written about the subject, so it seems like a good idea to include it in this series on "Networking Groups". In each business, we have a target market or the perfect prospect. If you have been in a particular business for any length of time, you should know what type of person or business owner falls into this category for you. If not, it is time to figure out who this might be. In networking for business it is important to have a well rounded networking schedule. You should attend many...

Readmore...

Networking Groups - Part 2

In "Networking Groups - Part One", I wrote about the four types of networking groups. Now, let's take a look at a category of networking groups. One category that most people are familiar with is the Chamber Of Commerce. Chambers serve a long standing role in the business community. It is a role of development and support. A Chamber Of Commerce can offer business both small and large with networking opportunities, training programs, legislative assistance and a host of other benefits. A Chamber Of Commerce can be a local, statewide, national,...

Readmore...

Networking Groups, Part I

Today is the start of a new series on "Networking Groups". I have been trying to think about how I can talk about this subject and address it in a way that would be fair and balanced without injecting too much personal opinion and have decided to first talk about the types of groups and then later on be more specific in Parts 2 through 5. It is important to remember that you will have preferences that may not align with mine, but that each of us share a common goal in our networking. More business and possibly, more friends. So lets begin by...

Readmore...

Strategies for Successful Business Networking

There are a variety of organizations that run networking groups across the country. The largest group is probably BNI, which offers members the chance to attend weekly meetings and develop new professional relationships to help them grow their business. Some Chambers of Commerce are now organizing "leads groups" for their members as well. These groups are intended to offer members a way to connect with each other and potentially refer each other business. In most "leads groups", each group allows no more then one representative from any industry,...

Readmore...