The Needed Push: How to form more Connections.

Networking is a big part of business success, both online and offline. Yet, the majority of people shy away from one or the other, or even both. They shy away not because they don’t see the benefit or need of it, but because many of us are held back by fear, self consciousness and, dare I say, laziness.

When people come together the most amazing opportunities are created. It is through social connections, online or off, that businesses find the resources and leads to grow and where connections and ideas germinate.

Encourage Connections

The Vancouver Board of Trade does it, so does Neil Godin in his “Marketing Dangerously” Seminars and the effects are amazing. All it takes is one sentence,

“Take a few minutes to meet the people around you, exchange business cards and then we’ll start”.

A quite room quickly turns into a boisterous crowd, with business cards and handshakes abound. Seth Godin recently posted on an idea for conferences, encouraging table discussions on pre-determined topics as away of connecting and creating a memorable event.

Connectors

Chris Brogan is an online connection master, same with Beth Kanter. Both Chris and Beth encourage their readers to interact and connect with them, online and off. As a result they each have built thousands of followers who share ideas, interact and encourage more connections. Their connections have helped a young lady go to college and raised thousands for the Frozen Pea Fund for Cancer, and much more.

The Push

So here it is, before surfing to other sites, reach out sign up for a new service, like Twitter or Facebook or Linked in. Take the first step in connecting with your colleagues, customers and friends, you’ll be glad you did.

Check out the many ways to connect with me, here.

Photo Credit: Paul Moody