The Power of Social Networking is in Helping Others

Seth Godin has a great perspective on networking, whether online or in person. Essentially, he says “help people,” and they will in turn help your business. It’s so simple, but I think sometimes we lose track of the real purpose of networking and how it can benefit our business. How often do you go to “networking” lunches or an after hours get together, press hands and exchange cards looking for leads? It happens all the time and infrequently does it lead to anything.

When networking is the most beneficial is when you use those opportunities to meet people to develop relationships. Pardon the crude comparison, but it’s like the difference between looking for a spouse versus looking for a one night stand. You get to know people, plant seeds in those initial meetings. Some take root and others do not. The most valuable relationships are long lasting and those don’t instantly occur during a 15 minute meet and greet. They take time. The same rules apply with online social media. Take time. Get to know people and try to help them out. This is Seth Godin’s message in this video.

Ed Heil is the owner and president of StoryTeller Media & Communications an inbound marketing and public relations agency and video production company based in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Ed blogs on topics related to inbound marketing, social media, media relations, news media, video production and crisis communications.

Tags: Seth Godin, Social networking, valuable relationships, Web Video

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