Social networks are a great way to network, gain visibility, build credibility and grow your business. However, many people miss the mark in that the play the “numbers only” game.
Just a little while ago I logged on to my Facebook account. I had 28 new friend’s requests today alone. Yet, only one person took the time to write a personal message with their invitation. Most of the other people I don’t know from Adam.
I know I have been guilty of doing this in the past. Inviting people with the press of a button without taking just a minute to personalize the invitation. I don’t do that anymore because I am not striving for numbers. Rather, I am striving for quality connections.
Here’s a tip when you invite people to become your FB friend. Send a personal message with the invitation. After all, they may have no clue who you are or why you want to befriend them.
Is it to really build a quality network or to just “gather numbers”? Again, out of 28 requests today alone, only one had a personal message. Guess how many friend’s invitations I accepted? That’s right. One.
If you think it takes too much time, think again. Put the word social back in Social Marketing and Social Networking.
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I agree totally Kathleen! The main point of Social Media is relationship building. You should never miss an opportunity to engage and have a conversation.
In the same day, I’ve read two blog posts expressing the same dismay over people who are so obsessed with using social media to increase their numbers or to engender reciprocity that they forget the basic human aspects of relationship development. It’s not Wham-Bam-Thank-you-M’am! Thank you for reminding us to keep it personal.