Do you remember the last time you experienced a moment when your social media and in-person networks came together?
In fact, bridging the gap between the two networks can be both fun and informative. Meeting in person with those online connections presents strategic opportunities to take the relationship to the next level.
When you link-up in person at networking events with someone who is already connected with you through LinkedIn, that relational exchange brings a synergistic element to the table. Face-to-face conversation strengthens those relationships by building a bridge between the online and in-person aspects of social interchanges.
You’ll not forget the face of someone who regularly participates on your social media channels and is now standing right in front of you. And it’s fun to have a face-to-face conversation with someone you’ve already met online through Facebook or Twitter. There’s a sense of discovery, which leads to smiles and handshake exchanges. Those connections leave a memorable impression.
It gets even better, because there’s no more effective way to add social media friends to your online network than through in-person contact. No matter how powerful social media interchanges can be, they are not an adequate substitute for face-to-face conversations.
When you’re adding up your online or in-person connections, it all comes down to one overriding factor: The larger your network, the more influence you gain within your area of expertise. So get out there and circulate!