Hi, my name is Lydia and I’m an Open Networker. 

I am on Ryze, XING, LinkedIn, Plaxo, Facebook, Viadeo, Friendster, CEO Space, ITConnect, Twitter, Snitter, Tumblr, Marzar, RepVine, and others I don’t remember right now.

Plus, all the groups, clubs, organizations, etc. that may or may not have  “closed” memberships that also offer networking opportunities.

While still living in New York full-time, I had one of the first “speed networking” events called Power Networking with monthly events.  Prior to and during this time, I also organized a monthly casual gathering at a downtown bar/restaurant where I invited people from diverse groups in an effort to cross-pollinate and help people find new business, new jobs, new friends.

Here in San Francisco, I plunged into SF New Tech Meetup, SF Beta, Geek Dinners, Geek Girl Dinners, SF Tri Club, the Northern California University of Kentucky Alumni, the D.A.R., Colonial Dames, Chamber of Commerce, etc.

Am I active in all of these networks, groups, associations, and organizations? 

No!  Who has time for all the options out there and still run and grow your business?  We are entrepreneurs after all and for many, that means we’re solo-preneurs doing it all. 

In my experience, what I’ve found to be key is still maintaining selectivity in the connections you make, in the networks where you choose to participate, then, participating on a regular and frequent basis, and finally, giving and giving.

In the last twenty-four hours, I’ve been reminded that laying groundwork, being consistent and responsive, and doing the right thing are always critical.

The first was an invitation to become an officer of a Facebook group, What I Saw at the Direct Marketing Revolution.  Great!  I love being rewarded for active participation and getting free advertising.  Plus, instead of operating on the perception of competition, an opportunity for a substantive partnership has emerged. 

Next, I heard from an old friend in the nicest way possible via an updated recommendation on LinkedIn.

Third, I got an email from someone who’s been consistently unavailable announcing their intention to seek a round of funding.  Delete.

Fourth, yet again a commitment to speak on the phone was missed.  This has been getting rescheduled since mid-January.  Hmmm, things have changed.  I’ve found the answers.  No new business for you!

A lesson I learned in spades years ago when I’d just moved to New York was that you never know who the people within earshot  are and who they might know.   In the new world where online and offline social networking intersect, it’s not only about what you say, but also what you do…or, don’t do.  Follow through and keep commitments to yourself and others.

Because, when you extend your hand to give, it becomes open to receive.

'Til next month!
Lydia

Email Lydia or Post a Comment via TNNW Blog.
 

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