Digital or Traditional Networking and Why you need it
This month, my graphics company, MD Studios and Productions, had the pleasure of creating several promo videos for the upcoming stage play “Stripped”. My group Mahogany Dust, are also the musical features for the play as well, so we have been networking, both traditionally and digitally or the last 3 weeks. So for this blog post, I decided to really dive into the concept of traditional and digital networking. I read this article Networking: Traditional vs. Digital by dotcomweavers.com, that also gave some very interesting points on this topic.
Networking: Traditional vs. Digital
Regardless of what you do or what you aspire to become, you will have to engage in some form of networking. Whether it’s the traditional networking, meaning you attend a meet and greet and you exchange business cards or through the popular streams of social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Traditional Networking
Traditional networking has it advantages because you actually get to match a face with a name and business and you get a chance to really display your passions and your intentions on your business or business idea. In this form of networking, it helps people to remember you when you really need to contact someone to help you along your journey to being established in whatever field you decided to venture into. The disadvantages are that you spend time and some times lots of money attending networking events just to establish your contacts and you may or may not meet someone that is within your industry.
Digital Networking
Digital Networking also has it advantages because first, you are not limited by time. Using the networking tools of Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn allows you to view profiles and interest to narrow down the people you actually want to network with. These services are free, which is a win-win in any business and you can reach millions in a short period of time. You can create like-minded groups within these sites as well, to share information and inside secrets. One disadvantage is that you have to post constantly and participate within these sites in order to maintain your contacts. Another disadvantage is the lack of face-to-face interaction, which can make some feel uncomfortable when engaging in online sharing. Because these sites are free, it’s possible to network with individuals that are attempting to steal personal and private information. There are individuals that run scams and will post untrue information within their profiles for malicious intent.
Why you must Network
Traditional and digital networking has advantages and disadvantages; however, it is something you must do in order to see your business thrive. Both are necessary and having a healthy balance of the two can improve your overall agenda. Attend networking events that are specifically in your industry and join online groups that meet regularly to share ideas within the business. Whichever method you choose, stay connected to your contacts by sending emails or connection messages monthly.
http://www.dotcomweavers.com/blog/2011/03/03/networking-traditional-vs-digital/
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