It’s important to think quality over quantity when connecting online with your social media. Rather than getting caught up in how many “friends” or “followers” you have, start paying attention to what you have in common with people. If your goal is to create a quality network then finding a common ground and maximizing your contacts will help you establish just that.
With the push of a button you can connect but leveraging these connections is the tough part. Know that the process takes time and effort, but it will pay off.
I have a 3-Step process which will guide you in creating valuable relationships from online contacts.
Step 1- Identify your Social Media Markets
Target markets and target peers are two important groups that, if not already, need to be established. Ask yourself:
Who is my target market?
While it is common for businesses to have multiple target markets, it is important to be clear who your target market is in each area.
If you have multiple markets, be clear about who you are trying to reach online. Be sure your social media messaging, blogs, articles, and other online materials relate to one market at a time.
Who are my target peers?
Peers play an important role in helping you grow your network and fill your business with quality clients. We don’t often think of target peers when it comes to social media marketing. Target peers are people who might be giving you referrals.
As an example, if you are a small business lawyer, your target peers might be financial advisors or a forensics firm. Target peers may also be attorney’s from another firm or location with a similar law practice. Begin identifying referral sources who can potentially guide clients your way.
Step 2. Making Connections with People Online
Group discussions are a great way to build online connections. Social Media outlets like Facebook and LinkedIn allow you to search for groups of interest and groups in your area of practice. Do a search to identify and join relevant groups that will benefit you.
Once you’ve joined, get active and start participating! Make a post, review what others have to say, comment on others posts, ask questions, and start engaging and adding value to the conversation.
Once you have commented you’ve now created a two-way conversation. Watch for people respond and reply back just as you would face-to-face. Being active in relevant groups will help you start establishing relationships and creating valuable contacts.
Step 3- Next Level Relationships
Once you’ve established a relationship, take it to the next level. Pick up the phone or send them a message and schedule a live meeting to learn more about that person.
Take the time to create a relationship that is beneficial for both parties, whether they lead to direct business or have the potential to offer valuable clients. What can you offer them in the relationship as well.
Social Media is a great tool for creating business contacts. Once you know who your target market and peer groups are, take the steps to join relevant groups. Actively participate in conversations in those groups and start creating relationships with people that have the potential to be future clients or referral sources. It takes time and effort to turn online contacts into professional relationships but it a process worth participating in. Take the opportunity to grow your contacts, establish a quality network, and grow your business through social media.