Networking for Those Building Networks
As Software-as-a-Service applications proliferate through the Internet (‘The Cloud’) many smaller businesses are getting used to the idea of using a browser for their computing needs. The same can be said for networking with others on social networking sites like LinkedIn or IT Link. Social networking on the Internet is about building relationships, sharing knowledge and building a community of peers. If you have not already started, start networking in the IT service industry and uncover resources you never knew you had.
There are several social networking sites out there, but just like choosing a good professional organization to belong to, you want to make sure you choose the right networking site and group. As you choose which networking site is right for you consider the following objectives.
- Learn about better practices from peers
- Share your knowledge and expertise with others
- Form strategic relationships
- Find contract work resources
- Learn the impact of trends in the industry
Usually the networking sites give you the ability to join a group or even start your own group. I recommend joining a group that matches what you have identified you would like to get most out of networking. For example, you may want to learn if the hype around managed services is true or if being a channel partner for Microsoft is what it is cracked up to be.
You can even start today, visit one of our growing number of blogs Building a better IT service company - the tools and disciplines at Ziff Davis’ IT Link and share your experiences.
Networking with a community of your peers is a powerful experience when you define (for yourself) what you would like to get out of the experience and can relate it to improving your business and ultimately the relationships with your clients.
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CoreConnex specializes in professional services automation (PSA) software for VARs, MSPs, channel distribution partners, IT service providers and other professional service companies. We encourage you to share experiences and perspectives as players in this professional community. This blog is moderated. Comments that are unprofessional or derogatory will not be posted.
This shows Tony’s depth in IT.
Where many articles these days just encourage, “Use LinkedIn”, he starts by recommending the identification of requirements!
Bravo — this answers the $64,000 question that all communicators must answer, even when they don’t think they are in sales or marketing:
WIIFM?
(What’s In It For Me?)
Paul Travis
Author, http://www.Leadership-On-Demand.com
Blog, http://www.60-Second-Marketing.com