I decided yesterday that I needed to write in my blog but I needed to pick one topic and stick with it. So what did I do? I asked a question to my Facebook network and I was hit with several really good suggestions.
Mark Kashar suggested that I write about networking and it occurred to me that was what I doing right there in then. Facebook has really evolved to a business tool. I was never interested in the Myspace / Facebook social networking scene until Michelle Carrig over at Billingsley sent me an invite.
I asked Michelle what she used Facebook for and she mentioned that it had helped her get the word about her events. If you have been by One Arts Plaza in Downtown Dallas then you have seen her work. Michelle is the marketing director for Billingsley Development Company. She obviously was on to something very cool by jumping into Facebook.
I have always told people: “I might not do business with you but chances are someone I know in my network will.” This has proven itself time and time again. Mostly at my face to face events that I organize around town but Facebook could be a great venue for ongoing networking and status updates.
The point is you are not going to make your business work by hiding under the sheets until this credit crisis passes. I heard an anchor on CNBC talk about how she wished she could just go in her house and wait the thing out. I think there are many who feel this way but it’s those who are continuing to push the envelope who make it in the end.
One Arts Plaza is a huge example of that. Lucy Billingsley is a visionary when it comes to taking charge. In a time where many are struggling to sell condos she is down in the Arts District kicking butt and taking names. This wouldn’t happen if she decided not to go to work or to network.
There are a number of venues that you can network, find the best place to meet potential vendors, employees and clients. Remember too that networking is not about taking, it’s about giving. If everyone shows up expecting to help someone else then the entire concept will be a success. The adverse is also true.
Are you on Facebook? Are you networking outside of your office? What are you doing that’s successful?