Social Networking 101: Are You Addicted?

Networking is an important part of any business or project. In the music and entertainment industries, networking is a must-do. Modern technology has brought networking to the next level. Twitter Face Book, LinkedIn, Four-Square and even MySpace are all new and improved ways to network and get your product out there. When used correctly, the above mentioned are awesome and results are almost immediate. I can definitely co-sign the computer networking movement.

Even though the networking game has changed, the rules are still the same. There are a few things that people need to remember. My goal here today is to make people aware of the dos and don’ts of networking. There is nothing more solid then that face to face meeting and handshake to let you know what you’re dealing with. But since there are other factors thrown in, we need to keep a few things in mind.

1. While technology has turned networking into “social networking”, let’s not forget the importance of being professional. If your profile depicts you as a shirtless, big-breasted, half-dressed, booty-poppin’ chick or dude taking pictures in the bathroom, there is no way I or anyone else is going to take you seriously. First impression is still everything and if your profile tells that kind of story then, we have no business. You will attract lots of people I’m sure, but serious, business opportunists won’t be in the lots. Create a separate profile for personal or “fun” time on these sites.

2. Social networking does not translate into dating. This is not Match.com. Flirting and trying to win people over while pushing your product is lame. I can’t tell you how many people I see on these sites that jump at the chance to get “personal” with people. And it’s even funnier that folks bite the bait like fish. If we are discussing business and the conversation takes a turn for the personal, we have no dealings.