Thoughts about Participation in Linkedin Groups
In its essence, all social media and social networking is a group of people who come together to have a conversation around a common topic. The internet eliminates the space and time considerations associated with traditional networking. To be successful with Linkedin Groups, you must participate in the conversation.
Spirited Conversations
Think back to some of the best face to face conversations you’ve had with friends or colleagues. What happen in those spirited conversations?
You talked about an important topic that interested everyone. People had definite opinions and feelings about the issue. Each person was involved and paid attention. Each person made contributions to the conversation. People took time to listen and ask questions. Each person respected the opinions of others, even if they disagreed.
The qualities found in a lively person to person conversation are the same qualities that you want to bring to your conversations within the Linkedin Groups you join.
Social Conversations
This can be a difficult shift for some small business owners. Their marketing usually centers on events. They take time to create an ad. Then they sit back and wait for the ad to work. Or they put a lot of effort into creating a brochure. They print it and use it when they feel it is needed. These are event type marketing.
Participation in Groups conversations requires a different form of behavior. It takes a different form of energy and time commitment. You can be more or less involved in the Groups, but you do have to be there consistently if you are going to gain the respect you need to have others look at you and your business.
What would you think of a person who joined a Group six months ago? Since that time, they have made three new connections. They made two comments, the last one made 5 months ago? Is that someone you would want to follow?
Because it is digital, your level of participation is open to everyone in the Group. They see how many and when you made your last contribution. If you went into a store in July that still had up their Christmas decorations, would you do business with them?
Let me give you one successful example. One of the top bloggers in the world started his blogging business four years ago. When he got started, he made a commitment that before he went to bed each night, he would post comments on 5-10 on his favorite blogs. He maintained that discipline for several years. He now makes between $10,000-20,000 per month from his blog. His content is wonderful. Just as important, he earned people’s respect and confidence by his consistent performance and participation.
Conclusion
If you are going to be successful with Linkedin Groups, be prepared to participate in the conversation. It is not a one time event. It is an on going commitment to participate in the conversation.
In the next blog, I will return to Linkedin Group process and how to join a group and how even to form your own Group for networking purposes.
Your comments are welcomed…
Al Hanzal
