I came across this video of Seth Godin, talking about the real power behind social networking — comparing it to the good ole’ days of networking and smoozing for business. I absolutely love three statements he makes in this short video…
Man, how can one man say so much in such little time? Ridiculously cool. Here’s what I liked about what he said — and I believe more small businesses really need to get a hold of this…
You can not participate in today’s social networking like you did offline at networking events. Not only was it generally a waste of time back then, it’s still a waste of time to do it online. You can “connect” and “network” until you’re blue in the face, but you’re really just creating more work for yourself and business. Scratching the surface in your contact with others online is as useless as running through a crowded mall handing out your business card. You might get lucky, but is it really the best investment of your time? I doubt it.
Relationships take time. Period. There’s just no way around it. Listen, if you shove your tongue down my throat on the first date, I’m going to not only slap you — I’m also not likely to hear anything you had to say again. Seriously. What the heck response do you really expect, tweeting someone you’ve never “met” a sales offer or “hurry and get it” note? I mean really… Relationships that will build your business take time and they take an investment on your part.
If all I’m worth to your business, as a customer — is an automated message from Twitter with some “killer offer” — then I really don’t have much to offer you either… especially from my wallet.
Real social networking is about value… consistent value. What Seth talked about ultimately comes down to investing in your connections. Invest in their goals, invest something of yourself (or your business) — that’s what networking is all about.
Look, you’re going to have to invest beyond numbers in your social networking to see any type of return. And, those returns will not be instant, or even close to it.
So, what kind of value are you adding to the lives of your Facebook or Twitter connections?
M 
Seth Godin Isn’t Wrong About Social Media Just Comatose
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