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Social Networking Just for Professionals
 With the advent of MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter, social networking found itself on a whole new level on the World Wide Web. When MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter arrived on the scene, everyone clamored to create their own “space with a face.”
Unfortunately, children (yes, children) and young adults also found their niche inside these social networking outlets and the press was soon covering scandals and odd behaviors with various social networking sites.
However, companies and organization soon realized the advertising and marketing potential for serious business-minded professionals and another level of social networking ensued.
Especially geared for business-to-business and entrepreneurs, business social networking websites are exceptional for those people who want to own and run their business and are looking for mentorship, advice, partnership, and joint venture opportunities.
Social networking websites were created and have been growing at the same rate as other social networking sites with one exception: they are filled with business-to-business networking outlets, sharing skills and knowledge; gaining in popularity with business people who like to talk business---not about the latest jeans or music.
The “No-No’s” of Business Social Website Networking
- Never, ever spam members. Serious business people can spot transparency in unethical marketing objectives and do not want to be SOLD as much as INFORMED.
- Do not create a social profile according to the latest trends with “wallpapering” your pages with cutesy graffiti. Make sure you create a profile that is an expression of your business, just as you have decorated your home office or building. Be warm yet professional.
- Do not use “overused” invitations such as “Follow me on Twitter!” Focus on posting relevant information that is useful to everyone in the network community, and actively and regularly participate in discussions. Start off with something such as, “This just happened in my community. My business could help with this issue. What is the best approach to let others know without selling?”
- Do not begin posting “all about you” when joining a business social network. Initially, express interest in what the other members do and what they have to offer. Let other members come to you with inquiries about you and your business.
Business-to-Business Social Networking Websites
Ecademy has an impressive concept in building business networks in that not only does it feature business-to-business network features, but also connects individuals to other businesses for free. Ecademy’s members are also found on Google using the website’s techniques.
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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