5 Deadly Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make While Social Networking

If you have not received the results that you hoped for after joining and participating in various Social Networking (SN) sites, there’s a good possibility it’s because you’ve made one or more of these mistakes.

• 
  Posted by Phil Black, Del Mar, Capistrano Beach, California | Nov 20, 2008

  Rick this is timely information for all of us newbees that are doing our best to make sense of the virtual world. Great information and easy to identify the problem and implement solutions. Very helpful
• 
  Posted by Brent Haeseker, Ocala, Florida | Nov 20, 2008

  Rick, another stellar article. Your points are perfectly made. I can't think of anything to add.
• 
  Posted by Bobbi Jo Woods, Maplewood, Minnesota | Nov 20, 2008

  Great reminders of what's important!

  Sometimes I get negative feelings about some social networking stuff like Twitter (too noisy) and Facebook (too much personal stuff, too many apps, too many invites for junky stuff), and I feel like I want to say something mean or post negative commentary.

  But when I keep in mind the important overall goals for what I use these tools for, it helps me focus on using them to my advantage rather than my detriment.
• 
  Posted by Susan Almon-Pesch, Carlsbad, California | Nov 20, 2008

  I find my clients are asking me about the new Web 2.0 they read about, and I think this article will be a great resource and introduction to Social Networking. You kept it short and sweet and gave hands-on information.

  Great article!
• 
  Posted by Joshua Lind, Seattle, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  How is it possible for me to agree more? It's not.

  I especially connect with the "free stuff." I think it's vital to build relationships with components/projects in your business/life you've generated for fun and learning.

  Develop some talking points, make real relationships and enter a community.
• 
  Posted by Paul Masick, San Diego, California | Nov 20, 2008

  Great Ideas. Networking is an art not a science. You paint a picture that gives us a path to follow.

  Thanks
• 
  Posted by Susan Mayginnes, Santa Rosa, California | Nov 20, 2008

  Very helpful for anyone who is trying to navigate through the online networking world. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience and offer solid suggestions.
• 
  Posted by Gretchen Frankenstein, Seattle, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  Warm, fuzzy article! Best of all, these are some tips that I can use immediately as I build social networks. Thanks for the reminder about patience and gratitude--always good business strategies.
• 
  Posted by Colleen Wainwright, Los Angeles, California | Nov 20, 2008

  Every single point--save the thing about freebies--is one I make in my own workshops/etc about using social networking effectively.

  Which makes me even more excited about the freebie stuff: what better than to have a new idea from someone I already agree with on everything else?

  Translating truth into various media since 1961
• 
  Posted by Norma Armon, Oakland, California | Nov 20, 2008

  It is an excellent example of the direction to take when instiuting novel approaches to a task. To learn that experts are constantly revising their procedures to correct their mistakes is encouraging, particularly when you provide methodology to understand and correct those errors. Thank you for easy to understand pointers.
• 
  Posted by Louis Weiss, Redmond, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  Rick, You have listed the real gems and rubies of referral networking. I have attended Referral Institutes courses and they provide true cutting edge techniques. I loved your article and what you provide.

  (Business Matchmaker)[http://www.PowerReferralTeam.com]
• 
  Posted by Suzette West, Port Orchard, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  Rick, this is an excellent article. I place a lot of value in getting to know and trust people. It makes doing business a pleasure.

  Cash Flow & Commercial Site Selection Specialist
• 
  Posted by Debra Lane, Bothell, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  Rick - Good article! Very relevant information. I hear from people who say, "Oh I tried that for a few weeks and it didn't do anything". People need to commit for the long term to develop relationships and if the opportunity comes up where you need the service or know someone who needs the service of another Biznik member, it's great to have this referral base in place of people whom you have met in person and taken the time to know what they do and who they are.

  Chef to Go Meal delivery - dinner is just a click away
• 
  Posted by Kevin McLallen, Covington, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  This is an excellent article. As social media continues to evolve the process is becoming more defined. Your article provides relevant tips that are extremely important.
• 
  Posted by Karrie Kohlhaas, Seattle, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  Yes, deeper relationships are better than many empty ones. So true in business and in life.

  Great article and wonderful points. Congrats on your newly earned "expert status"!

  ThoughtShot Business Consulting
• 
  Posted by Mark Cornish, San Francisco, California | Nov 20, 2008

  Since my company is just developing a Social Networking strategy, your points are extremely helpful. Your point on focusing on deepening relationships instead of numbers really makes sense. Thanks for an awesome article, again.
• 
  Posted by Gina Ruby-Puterbaugh, San Diego, California | Nov 20, 2008

  Awesome article Rick! I'd give it a "20" if the rating scale went up that high!! Although all 5 points are outstanding, it's the "strategy" and "free gift" mistakes that really hit me. I'm on my way to getting my act together with that. ;)
• 
  Posted by Andrew Schell, Bellevue, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  This is an example of good copy, concise, short, simple and full of useful information. Thank you.

  #2 & #5 are the most impactful for me.
• 
  Posted by Ari Klein, Seattle & Port Townsend, Washington | Nov 20, 2008

  Good concise article, Rick! All of it holds for in person networking as well. It has to be fun, or you shouldn't be there; and one or two good personal connections far outweigh numbers. One thing I'd like to add is about freebies. This category is way broader than products and can be as simple as free advice if you're a consultant, or an offer to get together for a discussion of a challenge the person might be facing. It also helps to extend them into the client relationship with gifts for achievements, or thank yous for referrals.

  Ari Klein|Seattle Hypnotherapy and Coaching
• 
  Posted by David Kalstrom, Phoenix, Arizona | Nov 20, 2008

  Rick,

  I would like to start building my networking strategy with you right now, while demonstrating my value and establishing trust and value. Please look up www.brighttalk.com - I would like you to do a webcast of this topic on my webcast channel - I will help promote and advertise it for you. This is the hottest topic on the site and should draw you a significant new audience.

  Please call or email to discuss. No strings. I'm just taking your advice.
• 
  Posted by Phyllis Harber-Murphy, Vancouver, British Columbia Canada | Nov 21, 2008

  This couldn't be more timely for me. In fact, just yesterday I posted a query on a forum for Virtual Assistants that asked how many SN sites one should join and how to know which are the best. I haven't gotten any answers from my fellow VAs, but this is perfect as is. Thank you so much!
• 
  Posted by Megan Anderson, Arlington, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  You Rock Rick, only up for a day and you are at the top of the list. You have great information to give.
  Meg~

  Megan Anderson Coaching Your destiny
• 
  Posted by Mike Pritchard, Kirkland, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  Rick, great points.

  I'd like to add to the point about not playing the numbers game. I don't accept invitations from people that I don't have a connection with. The connection might have come from a face-to-face meeting, or increasingly these days from meeting online or on the phone. I want to feel that I really know them. I have over 250 connections on LinkedIn, but I can pick any name and have some kind of mental image.

  More insidious than just too many contacts, beware of those who offer fake recommendations to "boost both your ratings". I've told people who make this suggestion that they don't know me well enough to recommend me, and of course I won't recommend them.

  --Mike

  Help for SurveyMonkey, SurveyGizmo, Zoomerang, etc.
• 
  Posted by Chrystal Bougon, San Jose, California | Nov 21, 2008

  Thanks so much. I wish everyone of my entrepenuer friends could read this article. Especially those of us with ecommerce sites. You did us all a huge favor by sharing your mistakes and allowing all of us to benefit from what you learned.

  Chrystal , www.BlissConnection.com

  Chrystal, www.BlissConnection.com
• 
  Posted by John Mecklenburg, Rancho Santa Fe, California | Nov 21, 2008

  So networking is all about relationships?! Go figure...working with people requires you to interact with people?! A strategy? Giving away "free stuff"? Having no patience? Solid and simple advice! Well done!
• 
  Posted by Betty Jo Waxman, San Rafael, California | Nov 21, 2008

  Thank you Rick, for taking the guess work out of Social Networking! Clearly your tips are all I need to move forward. Your sharing this information is a great example of walking your talk in this arena. I'll be paying close attention to where you are headed next because that's the direction I will be going too! By the way, thank you also for mentioning The Referral Institute. Their training is the best in the business; I am involved in their community in the Bay Area and they are an international organization. I highly recommend it to those who are really serious about growing their referral business.
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 21, 2008

  Thanks everyone for your comments. I definitely see a need to help people get more out of their SN activities so that we can all benefit. This is a great community and I would like to do my part to make it better.
• 
  Posted by Janis Flagg, Kent, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  Good information to be reminded of!
• 
  Posted by Kate Phillips, Carnation/Seattle, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  Thanks Rick, great stuff. The only thing I could add would be something that you told me... to approach SM as a "farmer" rather than a "hunter." (Maybe you're saving that for your next article!)

  Coaching for Financial Transformation
• 
  Posted by Judy Friend, Pepperell , Massachusetts | Nov 21, 2008

  Kudos Rick! Thanks for being honest and talking about the numbers game. I know several people who spend so much time scrambling to add that one more person to their SN list, never to really connect with them in any way. We're all looking for the same thing really....more work and it just doesn't walk in the door anymore. Your article is timely and straightforward. Great tips and some "mistakes I need to corrrect" right away.
• 
  Posted by Scott Janzen, Seattle, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  Rick:

  Great stuff - especially the rule about numbers. Quality, not quantity really applies here. Well done.

  Scott
• 
  Posted by Eric Nelson, Santa Ana, California | Nov 21, 2008

  Rick,

  As someone who is still trying to figure out this social networking thing, this article really helps. Thanks for such wonderful suggestions, ideas and for helping me see that my mindset may be the difference between win or loose....

  Eric http://knownnewsgoodnews.blogspot.com/
• 
  Posted by Ritama Haaga, Bellingham, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  Thank you for pulling all these concepts together so well! They are so true!

  I've noticed that the more relaxed I am about business and networking, the more fun I have at events and the more clients seem to "magically" appear. And yes, gratitude, patience and sincerity all play a part in having a successful networking experience.

  What are some ideas for "freebies"? I abhor useless plastic crap! Would love to hear some ideas for giving something memorable and of value.
• 
  Posted by Kat Allen, MA, CYT, Seattle, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  Hi Rick, I'm with everyone else--this is a very helpful article, esp. for those of us that are perplexed or avoid the networking realty. As to mistake #4 (free stuff), since no one else has taken you up on your offer, I'd love to dialogue more (with anyone!) on that topic. In my line of work, we have very strict ethical considerations to observe. Thanks, Kat www.fouraims.com
• 
  Posted by Brian Blacher, Carmel Valley, California | Nov 21, 2008

  Great article Rick Now you need to write the manual!!!!!
• 
  Posted by Heather Mundell, Seattle, Washington | Nov 21, 2008

  I too am curious about examples of freebies.

  Thanks for reminding us about how we can use new tools to do old-fashioned real connecting.
• 
  Posted by Mary Riley, Mount Vernon, Washington | Nov 22, 2008

  Ideas for the freebies would be great. You peaked my curiousity. Also you encouraged me to start posting comments. Thanks.
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 22, 2008

  Since it seems that there is a lot of interest on the freebies, rather than comment individually to those of you who asked here, I will make it a public post.

  Disclosure - the product I've been using is one I originally developed for my seminar business. I then took that product and morphed it into something that works great for online and face-to-face networking. I now offer that product for sale.

  My free gift is something I named "QuoteActions." It consists of short emails containing an interesting or inspirational quote followed by a recommended action to help brighten people's day. So you can get a better idea, here's an actual "QuoteAction:"

  "Talent without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There's plenty of movement, but you never know if it's going to be forward, backwards, or sideways." Writer, H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

  Your action for today is to finish a project you have been procrastinating on.

  The reasons this works as an effective gift are the following:

  1- The vast majority of people enjoy quotes. They use them in email signature lines, in speeches, meetings, for motivation, etc. The fact that there is an action connected to the quote, makes them more personal and real for people.

  2- Since they are not connected to your actual product or service, people won't think of these as sales or marketing techniques.

  3- They are short and easy to read.

  4- The system is easy to set up and it is very cost-effective. One low flat fee allows you to offer this gift to many recipients.

  "QuoteActions" is subscription based. Your subscription entitles you to send messages up to 1,000 people. It takes only minutes to set up and is fully automated once it is up and running. There is nothing to learn or maintain. And it is fully guaranteed.

  Not only does this system give you a very cost effective gift you can offer, but a powerful marketing tool that helps continue conversations and positions yourself as someone who truly cares about building a relationship.

  Let me know if you have any questions.

  Warmest Regards,

  Rick
• 
  Posted by Tammy Redmon, Olympia, Washington | Nov 22, 2008

  Rick. I love the quoteActions and look forward to them showing up in my inbox. They are a gift each day so thank you for that. I have share this with other folks I know as a really great tool. So the relationship building with gifting works! I am referring you.

  Secondly, the article is fantastic. Good reminders and some new aha's too. The flow and ease of the article has me wanting more.

  Make it a great day! Tammy

  Deepen Your Learning...Forward Your Action
• 
  Posted by Lynn Baldwin-Rhoades, Everett, Washington | Nov 22, 2008

  Rick,

  I'm in the midst of concocting an official SN strategy, so your article comes at a perfect time.

  In other words, I'll now be doing less "concocting" and more actual strategic planning!

  Thanks, Lynn

  Writing to Boost Your Biz
• 
  Posted by Monina Wright, San Jose, California | Nov 23, 2008

  Rick, I'm a newbee to SN and was a bit intimidated because it's all so new to me. But I really enjoy meeting and connecting with others and found your article to be very encouraging. I'll start working on my "freebie" next. Look forward to reading more of your articles.

  Thank you, Monina
• 
  Posted by John Trivedi, Bothell, Washington | Nov 24, 2008

  Rick,

  Thanks for describing these 5 mistakes that we folks may be making in the world of social networking. I've always realized some of them but not to the level which you described them. I will take everything you said to heart and make use of them as I continue on to my build my successful social network. VCP is such a critical thing to have in order for your business to succeed.

  Regards,

  John Trivedi
• 
  Posted by Daenin Tejeda , Seattle, Washington | Nov 24, 2008

  Great Article Rick! And timely too. I am excited about developing my freebie too. Thank you.
• 
  Posted by Ken Mahar, Seattle, Washington | Nov 24, 2008

  I was curious to know what your freebie was, and thrilled to find out it was email marketing! I'm brand new to formal SN so thanks for the tips. I liked the "farmer" comment from Kate - it's so true: a little faith and lots of hard work and your fields will bear fruit.

  Thanks, Ken

  Ken Mahar, Email Broadcast
• 
  Posted by Beppie Mostert, Carlsbad, California | Nov 24, 2008

  Rick - a great article and thank you for sharing. Your 'freebie' is great - I use the action quotes and my clients love it!
• 
  Posted by Gretchen Mary Krampf MSOD, PCC, Seattle and Orcas Island, Washington | Nov 24, 2008

  Rick, Thanks for your article and I will leverage the points you make into strengthening my networks by working smarter, not harder. Look forward to your next installment. Gretchen

  Leadership Coach and Process Consultant
• 
  Posted by Leta Laborde, DC, Bothell, Washington | Nov 25, 2008

  Thanks for the "quote action" info Rick as well as the thoughtful article. Leta

  Stress-less Strategies for Businesses & Individuals
• 
  Posted by Albert Kaufman, Portland, Oregon | Nov 25, 2008

  Thanks, Rick. I liked #4 the best and collect sunflower seed heads every year, break the seeds out, put them in packets and give them away. Usually, I have done this just to see more sunflowers in my neighborhood and city (The Rose City no more!), and this year I thought I'd put my company (albertideation) on a label and stick it on there with instructions on how to plant, water, and grow the seeds. Ever since my first year attending Burning Man, I've been a big fan of giving things away, probably before that, too, but that's helped my awareness of gifting. Thanks for the reminder of how important that is. Anyone want some seeds? Get in touch :)
• 
  Posted by David Johanson, Bellingham, Washington | Nov 25, 2008

  Great intro to SN, also I listen to Geeks, they drop Buzz words and check out these sites

  http://www.go2web20.net/

  http://djplb.wordpress.com/
• 
  Posted by Jeanne McGee, Bellingham, Washington | Nov 26, 2008

  Thanks for passing along these tips. I especially liked the patience tip! It does take time to build relationships and trust. And also, you have to put in some effort to get something back out of any organization you belong to. Connections don't just happen. "Where effort goes, results show"
  Thanks also for clarifying what your "freebee" is.

  Jeanne
• 
  Posted by Braiden Harvey, Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada | Nov 28, 2008

  Thanks for the information.

  Braiden Harvey
• 
  Posted by David Billings, Sandy, Oregon | Nov 28, 2008

  "Joining many sites and adding lots of friends or people to your network is not a strategy."

  This really hits home. For example, I see a lot of people making their Twitter follower number the thermometer for their business.

  If you have 1,234 followers, you might feel pretty good, but how do you connect with each of those people and build a truly rewarding, long term relationship?

  Numbers are great (visibility), but the next step (credibility) is essential.

  I've made all of these mistakes! It takes time to correct them, but it's rewarding.

  Excellent article. I'll be passing it along.
• 
  Posted by Patricia Taran, Seattle, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  Great article....thanks! I especially liked the bamboo plant metaphor. I can think of a number of ways to make it applicable on different levels of Becoming and how simple it is to pass along to others including my own son.

  I am glad to see another comment regarding people you've never met who invite you to be in their group. I explain to them that I need to have a connection or experience with each person in order for me to wholeheartedly recommend them.

  Free gifts are a great and thoughtful way to build relationships. I've been trying to think of an affordable gift to give cross the board. Currently I am giving a delicious creamy lip balm made from herbs and essential oils. I always like to pass along ideas and or products that I find beneficial and share them with others. Sometimes I give the gift of the music I play when giving a massage at my studio. My clients are thrilled to know that I am taking them into account when they comment on how much they like what I'm playing and now they can take that home with them. Boy, did i write that much? :) Thank you for the inspiring article.
• 
  Posted by Allen Cooper, Bothell, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  Rick, Thanks so much for the article. This should be an obvious thing but sometimes we need to be reminded of what's important. If you build them (relationships) they (customers) will come. Thanks, Allen Cooper
• 
  Posted by Nancy Grant, Portland, Oregon | Nov 28, 2008

  Terrific article Rick! I appreciate the new insights as well as the reminders.
• 
  Posted by Pamela Miles, New York, New York | Nov 28, 2008

  Such a helpful, clear article. Wish I'd had it a year ago!
• 
  Posted by Sherri Edwards, Seattle, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  Excellent article! Thanks for defining the"freebie". Most people (feel like they or believe) they are at a loss for what to give back.
• 
  Posted by Jose Cornado, Santiago de Compostela, La Coruna Spain | Nov 28, 2008

  Superb, short and lean.
• 
  Posted by Jill Walser, Bellevue, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  Excellent article, thanks for writing it.

  When I left my position as corporate recruiter and decided to offer networking coaching as a key component of my business, I realized that while I'd done well networking for the corporation I worked for, I hadn't done much networking for my resume writing and interview coaching business.

  To remedy that, I joined a few industry organizations and one for business owners of any industry. I looked at about eight different options, the organizations I chose needed to meet four criteria:

  1. They needed to be relevant to what I did.
  2. They needed to have a face-to-face component and the people there needed to be happy to see me.
  3. They needed to be filled with spark plugs - people very excited to be there and to be doing what they did for a living.
  4. They needed to be easy to get to and offered at convenient times (ruling out 7:00 a.m. meetings and anything involving rush-hour traffic).

  I renewed my Northwest Recruiters Association and National Resume Writer's memberships. One group is nearly all face-to-face and the other is virtual as there just aren't very many resume writers in the world. Then, I joined the eWomenNetwork, which is focused exclusively on teaching business owners and other professionals (not just women!) how to network. Talk about a room full of spark plugs! You could run a small city off the energy at those meetings! If you want to check them out, mention I referred you. You can go to many of these groups once or twice without an obligation to join and some you never have to join if you don’t want to.

  I also joined the Puget Sound Career Developers Association, a much more sedate group of people who have been in the career counseling industry for a long time - over 40 years in several cases. This has been a gem of a resource with terrific guest speakers. As an added bonus, most career counselors hate writing resumes and have minimal corporate recruiting experience; many partnerships have formed through this group. More recently, I’ve built my profile on Biznik and have signed up for a few events.

  My point in explaining my journey into networking is to illustrate an unexpected issue I faced right from the beginning. Every single time it was time to go to a networking meeting, I thought of a reason not to go. I was too busy. I was too tired. It was cold out. I was in my pajamas. I didn’t really feel like talking to people. Every time I thought of some reason. However, I'd already paid for the lunch or it was a part of my membership, so I forced myself to go.

  It didn't take long, maybe three months or so, before I started noticing a pattern. Every time I went to a networking event, something wonderful came out of it. A new referral partner, a business strategy I didn’t know, a new friend, unfathomable resources, and, in many cases, new clients. It was completely unexpected (perhaps I set my expectations too low), but altogether wonderful.

  I strongly encourage all of you to get out there, meet people face to face and build relationships with them. Soon, they’ll think of you anytime someone asks them, “Do you know anyone who does…” Now, they know YOU!
• 
  Posted by Briana Cavanaugh, Oakland, California | Nov 28, 2008

  Great article!

  I'm wondering about the product idea. It seems that over the internet it's challenging to give people some thing.

  As a bookkeeper and financial coach, my time and expertise is what people are seeking, so I give my time to new relationships. I have a policy of giving free half hour consults to people who want them.

  So I wonder what kind of "thing" would really be of value to the people in my network. I feel very grateful about the people I know and would love to honor them more fully.
• 
  Posted by Larisa Troche, San Francisco, California | Nov 28, 2008

  Great article, Rick and very timely. Guilty as charged. I'd already come to the conclusion that I needed to make some changes and among other things, become more active in the networking communities I've joined. Thanks for laying everything out so clearly.

  It's taken me awhile but I am also developing the all time favorite: freebies for visibility and credibility. I've long been a proponent of the "reverse networking" strategy - making a good match is an excellent reward in and of itself.
• 
  Posted by li Hertzi, Canton, Ohio | Nov 28, 2008

  Great Article!

  I have been alittle shy on the SN for business because I had personal facebook and mypage accounts... I know that the info on the web never disappears, but I was able to shift my "image" from wild and crazy artist, to more respectable graphic designer/author on, at least, the top level of the web!

  Also, I like the give-away idea and recognize the need for a strategy. On the strategy... can any of you recommend where one would start for help in developing it?

  Wonderful article, thanks, LI
• 
  Posted by Larisa Troche, San Francisco, California | Nov 28, 2008

  Well, not sure what that other one (my post) is going to look like, but that's one reason I've been such a laggard about being active in the networking communities I've joined - figuring out how to use the tools. Eek!

  But I wanted to say, great article Rick! I recognized myself in many of your examples and I've been working to correct them.

  To the bookkeeper who wondered about how to give "freebies" over the internet, consider the "Special Report" download, maybe a podcast or teleseminar - all of which can be free or no cost to you. For live events, informative handouts, pamphlets, etc. to demonstrate your expertise.

  It's a challenge, and I am on multiple sites, but I really enjoy BizNik so I am encouraged to "up" my game.

  Thanks for the additional motivation, Rick.
• 
  Posted by Rebecca Haas, Seattle, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  These points are true not only for SN, but life. I was just talking to someone at the dinner I hosted yesterday about how he uses Match.com and he said, "it's a numbers game" and my response was that he was too busy looking for quantity over quality. If he sends out a bunch of "winks" (he said 50) but then doesn't follow up with any of them, then it's an ego based situation that he's created and not one where he is really serious about finding a good match.

  In my business, real estate, people almost always assume we're going to go for the hard sell, which isn't true. We do use a tool called "From Your Friends" that is our freebie - each month a coupon for local restaurants or events are sent out that our clients and contacts can use. These have nothing to do with real estate and they stand out among the magnets, calendars and recipe cards that other agents use.

  Our business is all about relationships so if I didn't already put each of your points into play in my own workday it would fail. Like I said earlier, these all fit into more than just SN, for sure.
• 
  Posted by Sara Eizen, Seattle, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  Rick, thank you for this wonderful article. I feel like you have been listening in on my life lately as all the advice I've been receiving is on social networking. I'm slowly making my way into this new world and this article is full of helpful insight.

  Now I just need to implement!!!!
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 28, 2008

  I have sent individual messages to all of you posting on my articles. I got in trouble :-) with another Bizniker who "reprimanded" me for getting all this love and not responding. So just in case you don't see me responding a lot publicly, I do respond personally. And thanks again to all of you who are participating on this thread. I've already learned quite a few things from you that I can start incorporating myself.
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 28, 2008

  Sara,

  You're right. Implementation is where "the rubber meets the road." There are lots of good ideas and useful information out there. But until we implement any of them they are practically worthless.

  To start implementing, think small "baby steps" rather then a massive implementation strategy. For example, when I first started here in Biznik, I decided I would write one article. That was it. I'd never really written one before but I knew I could do it.

  After publishing the article, I saw the benefits and decided to do another one. I also started reading other people's articles. And so forth.

  The point is, get started now with something small and build on it.
• 
  Posted by Joell Jacob, Ivoryton, Connecticut | Nov 28, 2008

  Since launching my new product, I've rushed myself into some unproductive mindsets. Thanks for the reminders and tips!
• 
  Posted by Klaus Jaritz, Colo Heights, New South Wales Australia | Nov 28, 2008

  Spot-on. Made all those mistakes. Still making them, especially No5. To become better demands great TIME management.
• 
  Posted by Tia Singh, Vancouver, British Columbia Canada | Nov 28, 2008

  GREAT article! I have been on social networking sites for the last couple of months and am following the same 'strategies' you outlined.

  Hopefully by reading this article many people will learn that the most important aspect of SN is building relationships - too easy to get caught up in the numbers game ;)

  I'm working on my free product too, so exciting! I love love love Web 2.0 (3.0 by now?) and Biznik is awesome (just joined a few days ago!)

  Thanks for the reminder Rick! @tiasparkles for those of you on twitter :)
• 
  Posted by Jessi Miller, Ocala, Florida | Nov 28, 2008

  That is a great article - I completely agree on all counts! I love the power that social networking is gaining and the awesome connection it gives people to people, businesses to businesses. I think you hit on the top 5 mistakes/solutions perfectly!
• 
  Posted by Anders Berg, Phoenix, Arizona | Nov 28, 2008

  So I just got the email today and I meant to comment on it but after seeing all the comments already been made all I can say is Amen.

  P.S. Being a Swede it caught my eye you are married to one. Feel free to tell her to check me out at http://www.linkedin.com/in/andersberg
• 
  Posted by Cathie Bachy, Seattle, Washington | Nov 28, 2008

  Thanks Rick. This is a great article. I find I almost unconsciously edit out articles and information that come my way as a way to be more time efficient. Your article just stood out for me. I love that you've got just 5 main points. As a newbie in SN I am very appreciative of your advice. What you say about patience is an especially good reminder in our fast paced society. Thanks again. Cathie
• 
  Posted by Marie Tucker, Bowdoinham, Maine | Nov 29, 2008

  Great article, I can't wait to share it :)
• 
  Posted by Kate McEowen, Renton, Washington | Nov 29, 2008

  Thank you for helping me decide which of the few SN sites I should belong to. Your article is an excellent vote for keeping Biznik in my tool belt as my business grows. Your article is excellent. I can't wait to read more.

  Kate!
• 
  Posted by Harry Cullberg, Toronto, Ontario Canada | Nov 29, 2008

  Great going Rick. Just what I wanted to see.
• 
  Posted by Liz Ainsworth, Milpitas, California | Nov 29, 2008

  Thank you for a great article and a great reminder of what networking - social or otherwise is all about. My hardest lesson to learn was patience. Seeing every one else getting along really well and wanting the same thing myself - yesterday! I still get tied into the need to get moving quickly and I thank you for this timely reminder.
• 
  Posted by Jody Bossert, Bothell, Washington | Nov 29, 2008

  Thanks for the informative article, Rick. Well done! Definitely an article I can reference with clients.

  There is something that I've been struggling with regarding your point #2 however - visibility and credibility. Sometimes I feel like people go out of their way to post SOMETHING just to get that visibility and I think at times it can clog up the Web 2.0 universe. For example, is it really that important to post "Nice article, Rick" when 30 other people have basically posted the same comment? My guess is people, especially those who don't know you personally, are simply trying to bolster their # of posts to gain their own credibility. There are surely some very informative comments posted above, however I didn't read through them all because I just don't have time. The list of comments is ginormous at this point. Hopefully Web 3.0 will offer an option to "Show all comments" or "Only show comments with a little meat to 'em".

  For the record, I don't mean to sound overly-cynical here. I'm not calling out anyone that DID just post a short message because I'm sure many of them were posted with the best intentions. I'm just curious what others think about this overall concept.

  Jody Bossert
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 29, 2008

  Jody,

  Good point. Visibility for visibility's sake is not going to do much for anyone's business. It is like doing dumb things to get "the 15 minutes of fame."

  The Internet is full of people and scams to try to "get something for nothing." So if someone is trying to post something JUST so that they can boost their Google ranking, their efforts will fail. Someone may show up to their site or blog as a result, but they will quickly leave because they don't offer much value.

  The Visibility I'm referring to is one where you position yourself as someone who adds value to either the individual, the conversation or the community.

  Your comment certainly did that.
• 
  Posted by kerry graham, Bellingham, Washington | Nov 29, 2008

  Great advice! I'll take it. Good gifts? Little freebies. I do need help with this. I allways feel people with think my gifts are not without strings to my Real Estate business. I am allways trying to build my relationships for enrichment of life. If they need my services and trust me with their most valued investment than thats wonderful. What kind of gift says "I appreciate our relationship"
• 
  Posted by Steve Pomper, Brier, Washington | Nov 29, 2008

  How kind of you to list all of the mistakes I've made! Seriously though, outstanding info.

  Steve
• 
  Posted by Marte Cliff, Priest River, Idaho | Nov 29, 2008

  Thanks for the good advice! This strategy does take time, but it's really a kick when it starts working.

  I get really excited when I see my articles picked up or "pingbacks" on my blog posts. Of course, I'm so non-techie that the first time it happened I had to call my son and ask him what it meant!
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 29, 2008

  Marte,

  Being patient is one of the toughest mistakes to conquer - especially for those of us who are Type A personalities.
• 
  Posted by Suraphong "A" Lie..., Kirkland, Washington | Nov 30, 2008

  Thank you Rick. I find your article very helpful to me as a SN newbie. You answer a lot of questions I have in mind. And you are so right about having a right mindset as most of the time people can sense it when you don't have the right ones. Thanks again.
• 
  Posted by Zita Gustin, Kirkland, Washington | Nov 30, 2008

  Rick,

  These are all MUST Do items for people to be successful in the realm of social networking. Excellent post and many excellent and thoughtful comments have been posted here in response to your article which means you've hit a good nerve!

  Also, in reading these posts I learned about your progam QuoteActions and have enjoyed receiving them now that I'm receiving your free trial.

  Your points about Quality over Quantity are great information for people who are both new to Social Networking and for seasoned pros as well. Connecting is not a hit and run proposition, nor is it speed dating. It's about building relationships over time and your article helps to remind people of just that.

  Adding value to the conversation is also important and you've done exactly that with this article.

  Thanks!

  The ABC's of Networking ... Always Be Connecting!
• 
  Posted by Rick Itzkowich, La Jolla, California | Nov 30, 2008

  Zita,

  Thanks for your comment. I checked your profile and read your latest article which was excellent. Those of you who enjoyed this article, will also enjoy Zita's article
• 
  Posted by Jennifer Spengler, La Jolla, California | Dec 01, 2008

  I've been thinking about diving into social networking and all it implies and have only dipped my toe in thus far. This article has me motivated and a bit less scared. Thanks for thinking of us beginners!
• 
  Posted by Teri Johnson, Redmond, Washington | Dec 01, 2008

  Hi Rick, I found your article to be very accurate and especially liked the idea of giving something away not directly related to your biz. Planning to go back and read more of your expertise. Thanks for posting.
• 
  Posted by Kathy David, Escondido, California | Dec 01, 2008

  Rick - thanks for writing this article. It does bring up to the surface what a lot of networkers are missing regarding networking over the internet. Your insight is very basic yet very impactful. Thank you again for sharing and writing this article. It has been very beneficial for me.

  Kathy David, CEO - IT TechPros, Inc.
• 
  Posted by Lilly Emerson, San Marcos, California | Dec 01, 2008

  Clear, concise and extremely useful! Thanks for another great article, Rick! You amaze me with your ability to do all you do! Congratulations!
• 
  Posted by Jacqueline Cliff, Lynnwood, Washington | Dec 01, 2008

  Wow Rick.....what an excellent list of suggestions/guidelines. I especially enjoyed the bullet point concerning a "gift." It is amazing what giving something in an unselfish way can do to grow new relationships. It keeps you fresh in the mind of a new contact and you can guarantee that they will speak of you in a positive way to others
• 
  Posted by Karen Richards, Redmond, Washington | Dec 01, 2008

  Great article, Rick, thank you.

  I also appreciate you posting your specific freebie, "QuoteActions" - the example helped a lot. That, and the post by Jody about clogging up Web 2.0 got me thinking again about a concept of "Inspiration vs. Information". I have been thinking about the clogging issue as various things I've been reading have encouraged me to put up more "information" on my website. When I visited the example sites, they were huge, long scrolling beasts that turned me off immediately. I think in this Information Age, it is very easy to get over-saturated. So I started thinking, "I don't need to add information to my site -- I need to add INSPIRATION!" This seems to be exactly what you've done with QuoteActions. Nice work.

  P.S. Patricia -- the bamboo was my favorite part too. That image will live with me a long time. Many thanks, Rick.
• 
  Posted by Gloria Gonzalez, La Jolla, California | Dec 01, 2008

  Thanks Rick - you encourage to think more deeply about how we approach our marketing and sales - as you said, it's about giving, not getting. and you must enter with that mentality - and patience is key!
• 
  Posted by Todd Garland, Newport Beach, California | Dec 01, 2008

  Rick,

  I met you personally at the BNI International Conference in Long Beach about a month ago.

  Thanks for including me on your "Daily Quotes". Some are very thought provoking.

  Also, on behalf of the community, thanks for taking the time to post the "5 Deadly Mistakes..." article. Well thought out, and appreciated by all.
• 
  Posted by Eidan Elbaz, San Diego, California | Dec 03, 2008

  Great stuff Rick! Thanks for all the useful information.

  You should go see Rick in one of his awesome lectures/ events. Highly recommended!

  Cheers.
• 
  Posted by Brian Blacher, Carmel Valley, California | Dec 05, 2008

  this is a very informative article.Thanks Rick for the good advice
• 
  Posted by Lani Voivod, Gilford, New Hampshire | 4 weeks ago

  Hey Rick,

  This is the first time I've had the pleasure of hearing what you've got on your mind. Great stuff! Definitely worth the click-thru, wherever it was that I was first "introduced" to you.

  You mention you'd be happy to share some ideas about what a good "free" giveaway looks like these days. I'd love to take you up on that. Are you planning to blog about it, or are you so wonderfully benevolent that you'd shoot me an email directly with your finest thoughts on the matter? ;)

  Seriously, thanks for the polished info on the matter of social networking etiquette. Much needed, much appreciated.

  Best, Lani Voivod Co-owner and Content Lover of Epiphanies, Inc. "A-Ha Yourself!" www.AhaYourself.com