Being Social

Today much is said about the need and use of social media to drive business performance. There is no question it has its place.

LinkedIn is great for capturing warm introductions to people in a customer’s network. Facebook can be successful if it truly interfaces and is constantly updated for customers and prospects. YouTube, Instagram and even Twitter plays a role in some businesses as social media tools. However, social is an attitude and a culture more than a channel.” That statement applies to every aspect of business, not just “social media.” Social skills are critical in today’s diverse society.

Here are 3 tips to ensure you are seen as social as you meet people in the marketplace:

1. When you meet people always greet them with, “Nice to see you” versus “Nice to meet you.” Why? It is more gracious and leaves no chance they might say, “Oh, we met before.”
2. When people ask what you do, respond but then ask them, “How long have you been involved in, or a member of, or interested in (whatever the event)”. Why? You engage them more deeply than responding with, “And what do you do?”
3. Be engaging even with people you have never met before. Ask them (while leaning in to show interest), “What are some of the benefits you receive out of this organization?” or “The program was interesting. What points did you find useful?” These types of questions will typically generate a good “give and take” conversation and promote you as a good conversationalist.

Remember, if you are social you will develop a network of opportunities on and off the internet. The question is – Is your “net” working?