For any entrepreneurs out there who network a lot - What percentage of your networking is done locally vs online?
I'm asking this because I'd like to focus more on online networking, but I don't want to completely let go of local networking. I offer services that can be bought anywhere (design and animation) so it's crazy not to have an online networking goal in place.
What kind of balance do established networkers practice?
(I've only been networking for a year now, this is why I'm asking!)
Thank you for your time and input! Hopefully this overwhelmed young entrepreneur can strike the best balance.
I think the balance between online and in-person networking totally depends on the field you are in, but it does sound like you likely want to do more online given your design and animation services.
I know a guy who is a successful journalist in the city I live in; he offered the advice that one night a week should be an 'industry night' where you get out and do in-person networking. For him this meant attending local writing events.
I did a lot more in-person networking (readings, workshops, library visits) when my book came out. Leading up to the book's release, almost all of my networking was done online (largely on Twitter).
There's definitely a lot to consider!
Thank you @jessicakluthe for the thoughtful response! I love my current networking groups, but the travel time and preparation can be overwhelming. I think if I pack all meetings into one day, I'll be much better off.
I'd rather have an 8-hour day of meetings than two days of 3 hour meetings... sounds crazy, but I have difficulty regaining focus after being out and about ;) And - what I wouldn't do for a sound-proof office!!!
Like most things in life, it's best to diversify, and I've routinely done the opposite. Moving forward, though, I'm striving to do enough of everything. Balance!
The balance between the two is important.
But more important is, feel good with what you do.
If you're introverted, online networking is probably easier :-)
Online networking also has many advantages, but in-person networking is more distinctive.
I agree very much. This is why I'm going to give a 3 to 1 effort in favor of online networking. I am also better suited for it.
Also, I find that time on the road tires me and hurts productivity. Thank you, @namerobot for your comments :D
Oh, I totally forgot to answer your question.
For any entrepreneurs out there who network a lot - What percentage of your networking is done locally vs online?To judge from my own experience (For example at NameRobot we are 4 founders)
so ... I would say 50/50
Very interesting topic. ... That cries for a pro-contra list :D
:D
Great content! For my business local networking doesn't work so I don't bother with the Chambers of Commerce etc. We have no local customers and no potential exists as we are in a very exacting market. However we do network on a national basis at trade shows etc. We are just starting to use linkedin for networking purposes
Thanks for commenting @sallyjay - Stunning how someone can find a post that I made a number of days ago. I need to do more with LinkedIn, but should brush up on it first. I'm just finishing up my own explainer video this week which breaks down what I do in clearer terms.
This is definitely not a smooth or simple process, but I'm pushing forward every day.
Your response also encourages me to make more business type posts. Usually I'm all fun & games :D