Professional Networking On (& Off) the Web – Part 2

Professional Networking On (& Off) the Web – Part 2 of 4:
Your E-Comfort Zone

One online network has been launched by Triangle resident Pat Howlett, It groups local networkers by telephone area codes. Triangle residents are included in www.inside919.com, a user-friendly way to enter on-line networking if you are just beginning. It is also a great resource for all types of information from local businesses in the 919 area code. You can fill out your profile, join in the forums. and practice online networking skills with the local business community. Howlett has a vision of supporting the web activity with solid face-to-face interaction, having already hosted two social evens for Triangle 919 members.

One woman who attended the first Inside919 after-hours said she was amazed that people she had connected with on-line were seeking her out to find out more about her business. Another person at the same event was hesitant to meet people since he is “more at ease relating at the keyboard.” Although some people tend to be more comfortable in-person and others on-line, it is worth the effort to push your comfort zone boundaries since the combination of personal and computer-based connections can bring powerful results.

Understanding the unique utilities of in-person and online networking and how they apply to your objectives gives a real competitive advantage. Just as with in-person networking, when networking online lead with contribution, not with selling.

If you are not in the 919 area code, you can find your area code group at:
http://www.insideareacodes.com/

Reprinted from Women’s Edge Magazine
by Martin Brossman - www.ProNetworkingOnLine.com