What is Social Networking?

Social networking is the making of connections between business owners through online 'venues.' Using social media platforms such as Google+, Facebook and LinkedIn, you can share and receive information which assists you in growing your business.

It differs from traditional business networking in that you rarely meet others face to face, it is low cost or free, there are no set meeting times, you can engage as an active or passive participant whenever you want and you are able to reach a wider range of people which increases your range of leads and referrals.

Social networking is different from social media marketing though. Social media marketing involves the direct promotion and selling of your products or services through a social media platform. The aim is to build up your following, engagement levels and directly increase the amount of traffic coming to your website.

Benefits of Social Networking for Your Business

Social networking is based upon the concept of six degrees of separation. The theory is that you can make contact with anyone in the world using only five people. Because of this, it is easier for you to market your business, plus receive help for it. The benefits of online networking include:

• free marketing opportunities
• sharing successes with others who 'get it'
• ability to exchange ideas
• expanding your business support network
• build your self confidence
• grow friendships with other business owners
• provides a wider range of referrals and new leads
• providing you with a knowledge bank to draw from and deposit to
• increase your online visibility

How to Get Started with Social Networking

If being able to seek and give advice at any time and would prefer to 'meet' online, then social networking is for you! You've probably already got personal social media accounts, maybe even business ones too. It's best to use your personal profile when networking, as people prefer to work with a real person, not a brand. Before you start joining any groups, it pays to narrow down what you hope to achieve from joining a group. These goals will assist you in narrowing down the things you require in a group such as:

• the size of the group
• the location
• the type of members
• cost of joining
• how the group is administrated
• the aim of the group
• your options for sharing and receiving information in the group
• any other benefits, such as a free website directory listing
• business industries involved
• level of group member knowledge

Next, decide on a platform you are comfortable using to search for business networking groups. The most commonly used ones in New Zealand are Facebook and LinkedIn. Next, it's time to start hunting for a networking group which fits your requirements. There are different ways to find the right networking group for you. You can ask for recommendations from others, use Google or even use the search group feature in Facebook.

One of the best ways to get started is to join a NZ based social networking group. Our Facebook group for Business Networking NZ is the ideal group for both new and experienced business owners. Come and join us today and start your networking journey with the best!