We were recently asked what the best social networking tools online might be – and, how effective they are.
This response my seem counterintuitive to the current online frenzy.
But, my team has evaluated most of the (social) networking tools and programs available.
Connecting with people in an efficient manner is core to our business.
Through a series of polls, interviews and other evaluations over the past 30 months, we have come to the reasonable conclusion that the current tools online feed into many people narcissistic tendencies. Most are also driven by “population stimulai” meaning people get obsessed with making key numbers/ indicators grow. I feel that we use LinkedIN very effectively. However, most LinkedIN users focus more on making the contact number bigger as opposed making the contacts meaningful.
I understand I am going to rankle some folks here, but most of the online (social) networking tools perpetuate laziness as people attempt to tap into networks without earning a spot or contributing upline.
If you consider my Human Capital Blog entry entitled “Networking: Rule #33″ http://hcroi.wordpress.com/2007/12/06/networking-rule-33/, you will note that successful networking is about connecting people in an immediately meaningful way that can be followed up on, tracked and quantified. LinkedIN enables this level of activity – in part. But, the reality of 94 degrees of separation remain an issue.
In my opinion, the best networking tool is your own address book. Once you have a valid and effective network comprised of people that genuinely want to and can help one another, broadening that base through “mission specific” online tools begins to make sense.
For the moment, as I indicated earlier, we focus our energy into LinkedIN to augment our global network that has been in-build for almost 20 years. Not everyone in our network uses LinkedIN; but, everyone in the network is expected to contribute in a meaningful way.
Please feel free to call me at 877 843 2675 or email me at brian@bchcroi.com if you would like me to elaborate further.
Filed under: Articles By Brian Cork, Business, Coaching , Brian Cork, Linkedin, Social Networking
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