Social Networking: No Computer Required

Although it is typically described as interacting with virtual community members, social networking takes on new meaning when it becomes an offline approach.

Social marketing is certainly one of the buzzwords of the year. MySpace, Facebook, and a plethora of blog networks and discussion forums all fall under the umbrella of social networking. Although it is typically described as interacting with virtual community members, social marketing takes on new meaning when it becomes an offline approach.

The convenience and comfort of the online world have added much to business networking. However, is it possible that this virtual connection has also taken away from the benefits real-life face to face interaction offers?

Perhaps a healthy balance of online and offline networking is what it needed to take a business - even an online business to the next level.

An Internet marketer can find numerous effective and interesting ways to connect with people offline. Keeping a stash of business cards to hand out to people you meet while out and about is one simple way to create interest and discussion about your business.

Every Internet marketer knows to always include signatures and links in e-mails, forum, and blog postings in order to bring in business. The same techniques can be applied to the outside world by utilizing business cards or just your voice to bring your business and interests into the conversation.

Getting involved in local business networking events is another effective way to enter offline social marketing. Attend chamber of commerce events, lunch and learns, or happy hours for professionals to get plugged into circles of people with whom you can swap business advice and learn more about what is going on in your area.