Business-to-Business Social Networking Websites
Ecademy has an impressive concept in building business networks that not only features business-to-business networking, but also connects individuals to other businesses for free.
JASEzone is an all-around connection social website that can include family and friends. It's focal point, however, is connecting business owners to partners and other business opportunities. JaseZone is also 100% free to join.
LinkedIn has been growing more and more in popularity for business-to-business collaboration and finding other business professionals to share ideas and knowledge with.
PartnerUp offers business growth and expansion help and ideas, partnerships, and focuses on sharing business-to-business networking tools. This site has a directory of members and once you become one, you can take advantage of products and services from other members. Membership is free to paid.
Fast Pitch Network is the opposite of Econnect.Entrepreneur (below). Fast Pitch encourages all businesses and their owners to "pitch" away for sales, and also feature their own Classifieds section. Fast Pitch is also one of the fastest-growing business social websites and membership is free.
Business Social Networking Websites for Individuals and Entrepreneurs
Econnect.Entrepreneur is very similar to Facebook in design, layout, and profile-building. It features articles and how-to's; however, beware: their policies for self-promotion is not allowed. This site prides itself on keeping its forum clear of sales gimmicks and only the 'serious business minded' are encouraged to participate.
Networking for Professionals is a very interactive business social networking site that offers professionals the ability to post articles, videos, and participate in live group mixers. This site also features extensive features that include contacts/address books and connecting with others through online invitations.
E.Factor, started in 2007, is an impressive business website that was created by "entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs." This site features an impressive array of information including how-to's such as funding, advice, business teams, and events.
Biznik is a growing online community that caters to people who are just starting out in their own business. Basic membership is free but Biznik also has a low-fee based version where you can build a webpage with your profile and business interests. Their motto is, "Going it alone. Together."
CoFoundr is currently in beta but has great potential. This business social site caters to entrepreneurs, investors, programmers, designers, and others who are just starting out in business. They feature business advice and networking tips.
Important Points to Remember when Participating in Business Social Networking Sites:
- Explore the business social networks before joining. There are many networks geared toward a particular field or type business.
- Once you join a business social network, be an active member. People will take you and your business more seriously and help you gain more customers if they get to know who you are. This cannot be accomplished with one or two posts.
- Create a warm yet professional profile that best represents you and your business.
- Don't spam. Ever.
- Offer helpful advice and information so that everyone benefits from your experience and knowledge.
- Read the Terms of Membership and Service so that you aware of the ground rules from the beginning. There is nothing more embarrassing than to be chastised for posting inappropriately.
Resources for Business Social Networking Sites
The Ultimate Social Media Etiquette Handbook:
How to introduce yourself and Others Politely:
PR Secrets and Media Coaching:
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