Social media architect and marketer Sean Gardner who ranks #1 on Forbes’ list of the Top 50 Social Media Power Influencers noted:
“Social media is not just an activity; it is an investment of valuable time and resources. Surround yourself with people who not just support you and stay with you, but inform your thinking about ways to WOW your online presence.”
This quote sums up the value of social media to connect you with your audience and contribute to your own business.
Social media is also vitally important to us at BNI. It helps us understand what is going on with our members throughout New Zealand (and chapters around the world). It also allows us to get our message out to a wide audience who may not actually currently be BNI members.
The reality is social media is changing the way we communicate and especially the way products and services are promoted and advertised. It’s here to stay and you are missing a huge opportunity if you don’t use the communication vehicles that millions of people are paying attention to every day.
So first things first – have you liked the BNI Facebook page? If you haven’t, please do. It’s a great way to create awareness with potential visitors and prospects you want to invite to BNI. Why not send people you think may be interested in BNI, a request to like our Facebook page? It takes seconds but immediately creates greater awareness of our organisation.
Networking is networking
Don’t be intimidated by technology. Whether online or in person, the same networking principles apply. Social media is just another tool for building relationships. Use it to connect with people and supplement your in-person networking. Get to know people and let them get to know you. Look for ways to help others using the principle of Givers Gain.
The squeaky wheel gets the grease
Social media is all about visibility, leading to credibility. It can keep you “top of mind” by the simple method of liking and commenting on your contact’s photos and posts. Your fellow BNI members posting testimonials about you may not have an immediate effect, but it does build your credibility. When a contact has a need for your service or product, you are more likely to come to mind.
What can you send BNI to post on the BNI Facebook page?
- Special events information.
- Achievements including outstanding/unusual/milestone number of referrals/member successes.
- Interesting pictures from meetings, social events, fundraisers, to let everyone know what your chapter is up to.
Social media is excellent for building up an audience. Then engage with them to convert your audience into inquiries and then into members.
