Everyone is looking forward, making New Years resolutions and planning for 2010. It is the thing to do. I am too. But, as I’m looking forward, I couldn’t help but pause and take a look back. I wondered; was there anything different, unique for me about 2009. The obvious came to mind. I started this blog, my girls had a number of firsts, the economy was rough, but as I thought about it, it occurred to me; 2009 did have a very unique element to it. I made more friends online than I made offline. My network grew.
I have always been a big fan of networking. I believe there is tremendous value in engaging and knowing lots of different people. I have gotten most of my jobs, started businesses, hired employees, acquired new customers, and more all from my network. Despite, my appreciation of networks, over the past few years, mine has suffered a little. I’ve moved, gotten married, had kids, started a new job, and work out of the house. None of these things are conducive to building or managing a network, especially working from home.
In 2009 my network grew. Not in the traditional sense, by handshake and physical meeting, but online.
Twitter, Facebook, and this blog have been instrumental in introducing me to new people. These aren’t just fans or followers, but people I respect for their knowledge, people I enjoy for their person and people who have been helpful. The experience in meeting these people has been no different than meeting people offline. The fact that I’ve never met them in person has had no impact on the value of the relationship.
I’ve really enjoyed getting to know these people. They are making a real impact in my life. I’m working with some. I’m collaborating on sales efforts with others. I’ve assisted others in selling and promoting their products. It’s just like my offline network.
My network grew in 2009. Not in the traditional way, but in a new way.
I don’t think this is an anomaly, I suspect next year my online network will be even bigger, not only for me but everyone online and this is a great thing.
Did your network grow in 2009?
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1
Jim,
My network (professional) suffered in 2009, and for this, I only have one person to blame.
My network (personal) is larger and stronger based on 2009 activities.
I think I would take this trade-off. However, I think there is room for both and I just was not as productive nor efficient as I'd like to be.
Best to you in 2010 and beyond.
-Jeff
ps-If you know of good professional networks in Boston, please forward along.
Comment by JeffBarden — January 4, 2010 @ 9:35 am
2
“The fact that I’ve never met them in person has had no impact on the value of the relationship. ” The feeling is mutual, my friend! Happy New Year
Comment by iannarino — January 4, 2010 @ 12:54 pm
3
The online social network is new enough to most people that we can't help but look at it, wonder about it, examine it, theorize about it…
In time, it will become second nature to everyone. Perhaps salespeople and business people felt the same way about the telephone when it started to become part of the mainstream. Obviously, we've all integrated the phone into our daily lives by now, but we haven't quite done the same with our social networks online. It's too new.
Online relationships are just as valuable as other relationships! Yes, my network grew in 2009, and I agree with you Jim, I believe my network will grow exponentially in 2010.
Best,
Skip
Comment by SkipAnderson — January 4, 2010 @ 4:06 pm
4
Networks are crucial, I try not to differentiate when it comes to networks. I have one network, with many elements, friends, professionals, etc.
Nice to see you stopping by.
Comment by Keenan — January 4, 2010 @ 4:44 pm
5
right back at ya!
Comment by Keenan — January 4, 2010 @ 7:35 pm
6
I like the telephone analogy. This is just another communication method, we will look back and wonder how we communicated/engaged without it.
Comment by Keenan — January 4, 2010 @ 7:37 pm
7
Jim:
I had the same experience in '09, and I've loved every minute of it! New friends like you (and Skip and Tibor and Anthony and Cindy and the rest) have added a whole new dimension to my work and my life. Thanks for the connection, and let's make '10 one for the record books, eh?
Jerry
Comment by Jerry Kennedy — January 4, 2010 @ 11:35 pm
8
It's been great meeting you Jerry. Love your enthusiasm. The records will fall in 10.
Comment by Keenan — January 5, 2010 @ 6:28 am
9
Jim,
Thanks for writing.
I appreciate your comments and insight.
I don't forcefully differentiate networks. It's just pure practicalitiy for me.
There is some overlap, but limited.
Peace in 2010.
Comment by JeffBarden — January 5, 2010 @ 1:38 pm
10
Jim,
Thanks for writing.
I appreciate your comments and insight.
I don't forcefully differentiate networks. It's just pure practicalitiy for me.
There is some overlap, but limited.
Peace in 2010.
Comment by JeffBarden — January 5, 2010 @ 8:38 pm