The essential goal of social networking is to connect with people; online or offline. I’ve noticed that people are more willing than ever to meet with people they only know from the Internet. Remember when your parents used to tell you to be careful online because you never knew who was actually writing you messages? What happened to those days?
Meetup.com is the perfect example of an online space where people connect through common interests and meet others at offline events, where they can make real connections. This can be helpful for those who are looking for informational interviews, business contacts, or networking opportunities. The Twitter word for it is “tweet up.” I’ve been on several tweet ups in the last few months and I have met interesting people in my field and community. People should take precautions in meeting people online. Here are some tips when turning online social networking to offline relationship building.
Tips when meeting someone*:
1) Build a relationship with the person first. Comment on their Tweets, blogs or interact with the person in some way. Look for other people who are connected to this person in your network who might be able to vouch for them.
2) Always meet someone in a public place where other people will always be around.
3) Bring a buddy if you can. Definitely let a friend know where you will be.
4) Read between the lines and understand what the meet up is really for – Are they looking to network, or are they looking for something more? Be prepared.
5) If you don’t feel right about meeting someone, follow your instinct and cancel plans. Be safe.
Social networking websites can definitely facilitate online interaction, but in the end, I believe that face-to-face interaction reigns supreme. People like reading facial expressions and the body language of others that way they know how to respond to the other person. Trust can be built and earned more easily when face-to-face interaction exists as opposed to online correspondence alone.
*Disclaimer: Author and the Community Marketing Blog are not responsible or liable for actions taken from this blog post. Please proceed with caution.
Jenmy, great tips. Thanks for sharing a great reminder. Just because people can connect online it does not mean a great match-up. I had an experience with someone last week that started as a potential networking experience like any other. Within days he abused my network connections and gave misleading information to my contacts about our involvement together. Several times I asked to come clean and he didn't. I dropped the scheduled in person meeting and warned key connections to be cautious in their dealings.
Posted by: Andrew Ballenthin | October 02, 2009 at 04:41 AM