One of my pet peeves in the world of social networking is dealing with people who come on too strongly. For instance, someone becomes my friend on Facebook then suddenly I get wall comments filled with tacky sales pitches. Or a new follower on Twitter sends me an automated “thanks for the follow” message with a link to a sales page or website so I can “learn more about them” or “sign up for their helpful ezine”.

Ewww!

A sales pitch in social networking stands out like a cheap suit and you DON’T want to be classified in a negative way. The following tips are designed to guide you through the patient process of business relationship building. When you take the low-pressure route, your reputation and credibility will sell your services for you.

1. Introduce Yourself First… NOT Your Business
As tempting as it may be to use an introduction to promote your business, hold off on doing that. When you do, you’re acting as if this is your only chance to get in front of the person. Think of what you’re really communicating here by exploring the underlying motives: fear of not having another opportunity to connect, desperation to add to your network, lack of regard for the relationship building process, and coercion. Not a great way to start off a business connection, right? Skip the impulse to include a link to your website in your signature line, and hold off on promoting anything. Focus on making a long term connection by letting people know YOU first as a person of integrity and character BEFORE you talk about your business.

Continue reading Working the Room: How to Interact Confidently and Authentically in Social Networking

 

 Working the Rooms of Social Networking [6:13m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

The Facebook wall is a great place to connect with others, especially if you’re looking to build online visibility through social networking. Many entrepreneurs on Facebook are tempted to leave links to sales pages and slyly self promote when making new friends.

My advice to you in this situation: DON’T.

Watch this quick video and learn how to properly use the wall on Facebook… and remember: Don’t be a wall abuser!

click this link if you don’t see the video player on the RSS feed

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!