Aired on January 21, 2020

Episode 23

How to Network Online Using Social Media Without Being Spammy

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Want to know more about how to network through social media without coming across as spam? Understand that it is important to have real connections with your customers. Cultivate a networking strategy that is thoughtful and maintain relationships.

How to Network Online Using Social Media Without Being Spammy

Are you looking to expand your professional network but don’t want to come off as pushy or spammy? Networking on social media can be a great tool for growing your career or business, but it’s key to do it in a way that is genuine and respectful. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for networking online without being spammy.

Understanding the Importance of Genuine Connections

Building Authentic Relationships

One of the keys to effective online networking is to focus on building authentic relationships. Instead of approaching people with the sole intention of getting something from them, aim to connect on a deeper level. This means taking the time to understand their interests, values, and professional goals.

Providing Value

Networking is a two-way street. Instead of just asking for favors or promotions, find ways to provide value to your connections. Share helpful articles, offer advice, or congratulate them on their achievements. By giving before you ask, you’ll be seen as a valuable and trusted connection.

Choosing the Right Platforms

Identifying Your Target Audience

Not all social media platforms are created equal when it comes to networking. Identify where your target audience spends their time online, whether it’s LinkedIn for professionals, Twitter for industry news, or Instagram for visual branding. Tailor your approach to the platform where you are most likely to make meaningful connections.

Engaging in Relevant Conversations

Once you’ve identified the right platforms, start engaging in conversations that align with your professional interests. Share your insights, comment on others’ posts, and participate in industry-related discussions. This will help you get noticed by like-minded individuals and establish yourself as a valuable contributor to the community.

Cultivating a Thoughtful Networking Strategy

Personalizing Your Outreach

When reaching out to potential connections, take the time to personalize your messages. Avoid generic, templated requests, and instead mention specific reasons why you admire their work or would like to connect. Showing that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in them goes a long way.

Being Patient and Persistent

Building a network takes time, and not every connection will yield immediate results. Be patient and persistent in your outreach efforts, but always respect others’ boundaries and priorities. Follow up with a friendly reminder if you haven’t heard back, but don’t be pushy or aggressive.

Nurturing and Maintaining Relationships

Following Up and Following Through

Once you’ve made initial connections, it’s important to follow up and follow through on any promises or commitments you’ve made. Send a thank-you note after a helpful conversation, offer to connect them with someone in your network, or share resources that align with their interests. These small gestures can go a long way in solidifying your relationships.

Staying Genuine and Authentic

As you continue to nurture your connections, it’s crucial to remain genuine and authentic in your interactions. Avoid coming across as transactional or overly self-promotional. Instead, continue to provide value, support others, and celebrate their successes.

Conclusion

Networking online can be a powerful tool for professional growth, but it’s crucial to approach it with authenticity and respect. By focusing on building genuine relationships, choosing the right platforms, cultivating a thoughtful strategy, and nurturing your connections, you can network online effectively without being spammy. Remember, it’s not just about what you can get from your network, but what you can give in return. Happy networking!

Hey! Maybe you’re like me and you might be tempted to completely turn off this episode because you really don’t like the idea of having to network at all. Especially if you’re an introvert and your insides are already cringing a little bit. But I’m going to ask that you give this episode a chance no matter what your personality, what your experience has been with other networking events or just the whole idea of it.

In this episode, We’re going to be talking all about networking and how to do it like a pro using tools that are right at your fingertips, on your phone and how to do it without being sleazy or spammy. I don’t want you to miss the boat! I want you to take advantage of a huge opportunity that I believe is still available to you.

Biggest Takeaways:

No matter what social media platform you choose to network on, you don’t need to be anybody other than yourself.
If you are networking for the sole purpose of selling somebody right there on the spot, that is never going to work or very rarely is that going to work. Because people buy from those that they know, like, and trust. While we could speed that up with some borrowed relationship, you can’t rush it.
If you’ve been genuine and curious, then almost automatically you’re going to create a connection with somebody. This is the perfect spot in order to lay the foundation for a relationship, whether that’s short term or long term.
If you are really good at what you do, then you should never feel afraid about sharing what you do and why you’re so passionate about helping them. When you allow them the opportunity to open up and see the gift that’s inside of you, the way that you can help them and the offer you are providing to them is going to change their lives.

Quotables:

Networking is a big part of your business model, but it shouldn’t be the only reason why you’re networking. You need to be intentional, be human and personable. [Tweet This]
The number one topic that business owners love to talk about is themselves. By virtue of you being curious and asking a lot of questions, they are naturally going to open up to you. #salesconversations #salesstrategy [Tweet This]
Really think about how you’d like to network. Don’t veer off course simply because an expert has told you that this is the best way to be social. Do what works for you and feels good to you. [Tweet This]

Highlights:

Why the social media platform you choose depends on your ideal clients and your business [03:41]
How to network on social media platforms and how to pay attention to yourself when you are networking so it is aligned to how you naturally are [07:33]
Why it is totally okay to be who you really are even on formal platforms such as LinkedIn [09:41]
How the success of your sales relates to networking [10:47]
Why you need to get curious about the people who you are meeting [12:32]
How to create genuine connections [14:27]
Why networking online is an introvert’s dream [17:44]
Why online networking was my go-to strategy when I was dealing with post traumatic stress and high anxiety after my car accident [18:30]

Bonus Resource:

Episode 21: Top 3 Sales Trends For 2020 To Increase Your Revenue – Being personable is one of my top 3 sales trends that will set you up for success in 2020 and dare I say, even in the coming decade. In this episode, you will learn how to be more personable in your interactions and conversations with your audience, and also why stories resonate more emotionally with us and why it’s something that we remember.

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