Networking Tips: A #BufferChat Recap

A1: No, even though I should! Mostly it’s because I’m a textbook definition introvert, and meeting dozens of people all at once is daunting! But also they usually seem to cost $$$$ ? #bufferchat

— Lauren Blake (@_lblake) May 16, 2018

A1.
I’m one of those weirdos who loves to network
so heck yes!
Meeting new people is my favorite.#bufferchat pic.twitter.com/Gd0AVuwyhP

— Tori Dunlap | Victori Media (@victori_media) May 16, 2018

A1: I try to when it’s Social Media or Digital Marketing focused. It’s a great opportunity to share best practices and just straight up learn more. The connection is also a big part. Knowing others who are also on the same journey gives me a community. #BufferChat

— Ellis Mbeh ?➡? (@EllisMbeh) May 16, 2018

A2: I network via Buffer, Slack, several Facebook groups and, LinkedIn.

One guy I met on LinkedIn, I joined his toastmasters club, he is now a mentor, his wife gave me a referral for a client and a referral for a gig. Unexpected!#BufferChat

— Raul Rovira ❄ (@RaulARovira) May 16, 2018

A2: Yes, via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. In fact we are always networking online. We are currently looking into Slack and how/if we can make it work for us. #bufferchat

— Little Tzu Marketing (@wearelittletzu) May 16, 2018

A2|
Most of the networking I do online is via Twitter. One, I’m already on Twitter and Two, there are a variety of Twitter chats to connect likeminded individuals.#BufferChat

— Anastasia ☼ (@xoxAMH) May 16, 2018

A3: Both! We love networking with other business near us! But we also network within our industry! It’s the best of both worlds! #bufferchat

— In The Event (@weareintheevent) May 16, 2018

A3:

Typically industry + location, but as I explore online networking I am loving the opportunity to go location-independent with networking. It’s opening my eyes to so many new perspectives and ideas! #bufferchat

— Paige Peabody (@Paige_Peabody) May 16, 2018

A3: I believe in diversity. I’ve networked in the smallbiz community, locally, and other industries. Testing these different waters has helped me see the smallbiz community is the most receptive for me. #bufferchat

— Lori Anding? Smallbiz Social Media Expertise (@southbaysome) May 16, 2018

A4: Be sincere, don’t try to be someone you are not!! Be yourself! I used to get really embarrassed that I could not remember people’s names, now I just laugh it off !! Be human, you do not need to be perfect ever! #bufferchat

— Carrie Eddins (@blondepreneur) May 16, 2018

A4: If there is a list of attendees, look at this list ahead of time. If there are particular people you are hoping to meet you can make this a priority and prepare by doing some research in advance of the event. #bufferchat

— Jessica Knapp (@jessmknapp) May 16, 2018

A4: Follow-up! It’s not enough to exchange business cards. Reach out, connect on social media and continue the conversation after the event#bufferchat

— Danielle Bullen Love (@daniellewriter) May 16, 2018

A5: I’ve found a great icebreaker is to ask someone what book(s) they’re currently reading. It can lead to some really great discussions, give you good book recommendations, and you learn more about the person that can lead to more natural conversations.

#bufferchat pic.twitter.com/vvLAF1Qm6x

— Anna Reel (@thereelanna) May 16, 2018

A5: Even just doing a favor—holding a door open or asking to help someone juggling a load can raise a smile and an opportunity to talk if not now then later. #bufferchat

— KeyReel (@KeyReelApp) May 16, 2018

A5 By showing interest in someone else. Also finding something to comment on or asking a question: “Do you know where the coat check is?” or “I cannot believe I almost forgot my business cards!” or “I love your planner! Where did you get it?” #bufferchat

— WTF ? Katie (@WeirdTrvlFriend) May 16, 2018

A6: I try to send an email and connect on @LinkedIn. I do the email first letting them know I’m going to connect. It helps to keep you and the event that you met at solidified in their mind #bufferchat

— Julia Dunford (@juliajdunford) May 16, 2018

A6 Because it is a bit of a lost art, a handwritten note or thank you can go a long way. #bufferchat

— Ryan Hansen (@RPH2004) May 16, 2018

A6: If you got a business card, send an email, connect on LinkedIn and offer a follow up meet and greet. Whether it’s lunch, Happy Hour, or another event, keep the connection going! #bufferchat

— Sway Group (@SwayGroup) May 16, 2018