How to Use Forums for Networking
By
VendorSeek
My business cohort often visits cafes during his time off. I ask him what accounts for his affinity for the coffee houses. Is it the aroma of the coffee beans, the relaxed atmosphere, or the diversified magazines at one’s disposal? He states he goes there to do networking for the business.
At first, I thought this was another one of his sarcastic remarks, but after his explanation it made some sense. He said small, social locations are like online forums which is another good place to network for your business.
Find the time
Just as my friend used his time off to do some networking at the café, you will need to put aside some time to peruse forums. The good thing is the process is free, but anyone in business knows time is valuable. Networking in forums takes time, effort, and persistence.
Finding a forum
Think about what you are trying to accomplish. You want to network. Which forums will be populated by people who will buy from your business and also help your business with information, services, etc?
Many online forums exist. Find the ones which are specifically tailored to your industry.
What is the overall tone of the discussions taking place on the forum? Is it appropriate and business-like, or is it more informal? You ultimately want to find people to do business with, so be selective.
Once you have found a good match, register as a user. It is a good idea to use your company’s name as the user name to support branding and recognition.
Make yourself useful
Forum discussions will focus on specific, industry-related topics. People participate to give and receive tips and suggestions. Build your credibility by answering questions and providing links to supplemental information.
You will not be immediately trusted by other forum members until you prove your worth. It is important to provide creative and useful information. This is why it is better to find an industry-specific forum. You will have the most useful information to provide regarding a topic in which you are familiar.
Do not blatantly advertise your products and services; this will turn participants away from you. You inadvertently want people to become interested in your products and services by first inspiring their respect for you and your information.
Keep it up
It will take some time to build your popularity on a forum; but, once you establish a name for yourself, your networking possibilities will be limitless. Existing and new participants will view you as an authority. If participants hold you in high regard, they will think highly of your goods and services as well.
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