Working with Wisdom

Five Tips for Social Networking with Wisdom

Social networking can be a powerful business asset and the biggest time waster. It's all about making wise choices. Here's what I've learned so far about social networking with wisdom. I bet you can think of others. Please share your wisdom by posting a comment.

1. Know Your Purpose. Why are you here? Do you want to share your knowledge, learn from others, locate old friends, make new friends, make a difference, establish yourself as the go-to expert, stay in touch with colleagues, clients, prospects and referral sources, have fun, share your life, find a job, connect with those who share your interests, sell your products and services, or all of these? The next time you consider joining another social networking site or post an update, ask yourself if it serves your purpose. Does it support your goals? Otherwise, it could just be an easy diversion from doing what's most important at the moment, like making sales calls or meeting people face-to-face. And, if you're using social networking to sell, make sure you're sharing first.
2. Keep It Simple. There are hundreds of popular social networking sites. To conserve my time and energy and avoid technological overload, I focus on three: LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. What sites work for you?
3. Bigger Isn't Always Better. Though you may disagree, I prefer to follow those whose tweets I resonate with (so I don't auto follow), Friends I know and LinkedIn connections I trust. I'd rather focus on building authentic relationships and not just the size of my database. It feels right to grow organically.
4. Learn from the Best. I learn from social media experts like Chris Brogan, Desiree Scales, David Nour, and Barb Giamanco. They're smart and generous. Who do you learn from?
5. Trust Your Instincts. We're all learning together. Do what feels right to you. Take some chances as you try out new sites. And, most of all, have fun!

What wise social networking best practices can you add to this list?

My Driving Lesson 'Aha! Moment'

I have never been as good a driver as I am now--now that I'm teaching my 15-year-old twins how to drive. They got their learner's permits last month. Almost every day since then we are practicing in our subdivision, empty parking lots and undeveloped communities around us.

When I drive, they notice everything--whether I make a full or rolling stop at the Stop sign, exceed the speed limit or use my turn signal every time. So, I'm on my "best behavior" because I know my example will set the standard for their driving.

That got me thinking. What if we each had a "student" observing us all the time? It could be a child, mentee (with you as the mentor) or perhaps a work intern. What choices would you make each day that are aligned with your goals? You might be less likely to make excuses and more likely to make those tough sales calls, attend that networking meeting or get to the gym.

Today, imagine there is an observer looking to you for guidance and expecting the best you have to give. I will. We deserve to make wise choices.

As always, I welcome your comments.