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Web Professional and Social Networking

Author: TechShortcut Staff | Article updated: July 8, 2009

1. Overview

Networking within community-based websites allows you to connect with people that may be able to help you with your business or potential customers. Essentially you are joining an online community. While the primary focus is on contacts, many networking sites also include forums, communication tools and sharing tools. Most networking websites are free to join so the main consideration is whether or not participating is worth your time.

Benefits

Find new customers
Remind customers that you are still around

Considerations

Types of Networking Websites:
Some networking communities are more socially oriented while others are business oriented. Social networks may frown on overt selling so the focus should be on providing information to help others which in turn may build your reputation.
- Professional/Business
  The focus is on businesses helping businesses.
- Business Niche
  Niches exist for certain segments such as small business.
- Social
  Social websites are not expressly for business so you will want to be careful
Your Time
Joining a community may require some effort on your part to be an active participant.

Features

Profile Page
A profile page will allow you to provide personal and business contact information for those who want more information about the services your company provides or who want to network with you.
Friend/Contact List
The power of networking is the access to contacts of friends and acquaintances. You may find the world is much smaller than you think as you explore the connections between members.
Communication Tools
Sharing
The ability to share photos and videos may be included.

2. Next Steps

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