I hear it all the time and sometimes I even catch myself saying it… there are so many networking events going on that it is hard to get to all of them. I love using social media to grow relationships. You are able to find out more about the person online and then meet up with them for coffee or lunch. You are able to find some common interests before you meet, so you don’t have to start talking about the weather.

Yes, I know you remember those days. I know I do. I love using social media to meet new people, but for me the only way to really build the relationship is by meeting in person or talking on the phone (based on where they are located). Over the past year, I have met some really great people located here in Rochester and throughout the country. Most of the time I meet them through one of the many social media tools I use and then meet them face to face (or phone) after. It is great to build the relationship this way.

For me and others I talk to, I find better value in having a one-on-one relationship vs. going to a networking event. I do go to a few per quarter, but I do not spend too much of my time going to these events. I have had better success getting business and meeting others through social media and then meeting after to further build the relationship.

Have you had the same luck? How has social media help you network better? I would love to hear your feedback!

As I was reflecting back on my LinkedIn posting earlier this week (Five Quick Tips for using LinkedIn), I am amazed by the amount of emails and tweets I received. I had some great feedback and even the authors of the two books I recommended left comments. Thanks again Jason and Jan.

I think I am graced that I found these two books (I’m on LinkedIn Now What” by Jason Alba and “How to really use LinkedIn” by Jan Vermeiren) months ago for now I understand the power of networking on LinkedIn and how to connect with others. Just the other day I saw the power of my network and was able to help a friend out. One of my new connections was extremely helpful and it is all thanks to the power of LinkedIN.

I am truly blessed to have a great family, awesome friends and many connections through LinkedIN that I can call “good friends”. In all honestly, I am glad we had our wedding last year because if we had it this year, I would have to invite another 200 people JWith that being said, I love networking and helping others out. I am learning so much from others and am grateful for that. Thank you.

I want to wish you and your family a very happy 4^th of July. I hope you have a great Holiday. I am looking forward to the Holiday weekend to relax with friends and family and celebrating our independence together. A special thanks to our service men and women for defending our great nation.

Do you network on LinkedIN? Have you been able to use your network to help a friend, co-worker or somebody else? I love to hear about it here.