Networking

Networking, even before the Internet, was a great way to create a list of helpful contacts and consumers. However, before the Internet, it was done differently that it is today. It was usually done using middlemen to do the linking for you or to simply making contacts whatever way possible, weather that be through friends or associates. The Internet has made networking much easier; however the same idea that went into the old ways is very prevalent today.

Before the Internet things were done person to person. Weather it was over the phone, over lunch, or during a golf game. It took a lot of effort to network and makes contacts. However the contacts were much stronger and gave a face to your business.

The Internet now makes networking so fast and easy. Its as easy as punching a few keys on the keyboard and clicking the mouse button, and e-mails can be sent back and fourth. There is hardly any effort in doing this, and this essentially frees up more time for you to be able to do other things affiliated with your business. Although this does seem better, it makes your business a lot less personable.

Mixing the two covers all your bases. Using e-mails, or even discussion forums can be a helpful way to meet people and contacts. However, in order for those contacts to be strong, it would be beneficial to speak on the phone, meet for lunch, or play that golf game. Golf is a great way to create contacts and have fun while doing it. In doing this, you could create a great impression and then the contact could mention your name to one of his friends, and it could flow down to their friends creating an even larger network.. If you ignore the personable approaches to networking, you contacts might not be very strong. If you ignore the use of technology and the Internet, it might be hard to first meet those contacts that can help get your name out.

Technology has made things a lot easier for people who own their own business. This isnt always a good thing because it could make your company feel less like a person and more like a corporation. Its key to not ignore methods used in the past such as phone conversations, lunch meetings and golf games to strengthen contacts. However, the Internet is a useful to meet various contacts that could get your name out, and in doing so help your business become successful.