Sure, Social Networking is getting all the buzz out there – that is when people aren’t asking “what’s next”, which might mean it’s a good time to remind ourselves that sometimes good old fashioned methods still have their place in today’s fast-paced world.
My parents were adamant about thank you notes. How many times did I have to be coerced into writing my dear Nana to thank her for yet another handmade, mustard colored knit pancho? Too many to count. I still try and write actual thank you notes – for a great dinner or for help on a project. I write them because I like to get them – a hand written note on an actual piece of paper? Priceless. When I do get them I hang them up on our bulletin board at the front of the office – share the love and remind people of the good work we all do.
Face time! I am not talking Skype, I am talking actual visits with customers, vendors and colleagues. Get together for brunch, or just stop by for a cup of coffee in the morning on your way to work. You don’t always have to talk business or work for a sale; sometimes just saying hello is enough.
Lay off Twitter for a day or two and hit up an actual networking event for some extra-curricular interaction! You never know what kind of useful connection you might make at an event for green professionals or young entrepreneurs. There’s dozens of these networking opportunities in every city every week – get out there! Arm yourself with plenty of business cards, have a short introduction about yourself and your company ready, and work it!
Step away from the Blackberry! It’s difficult to disconnect yourself from your phone, I know, but checking your email or a text during a conversation with someone is a sure fire way to let them know that you are not interested in what they have to say. Be present, people will sense your interest and will be more willing to connect authentically.
Get comfortable in the modern world of social networking – its not going anywhere – but don’t forget the importance of adding that human touch to everything you do.
