Recently, Steve Strauss (the community’s resident Small Business Expert) conducted a live Twitter event titled “The Power of Networking”. We thought the rest of the Small Business Community would find this information useful and informative as well, so below is the complete transcripts from this live Twitter event. Enjoy!
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
The Power of Networking #smallbiz chat is starting now w/ #BofA and @stevestrauss. Use #sbcommunity to participate
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Welcome to the Power of Networking Twitter chat brought to you by Bank of America’s Small Business Community #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I’m Steve Strauss, a contributor to #BofA’s Small Business Community and small business subject matter expert #Spon #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
My co-host today is Mary Bintz who will be tweeting from the @BofA_News handle #sbcommunity #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Hello @SteveStrauss! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Great to see you Joel @franchiseking! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Excited to be joining the #sbcommunity chat with @stevestrauss & @bofA_news starting NOW.
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
I am now on the #sbcommunity chat with @stevestrauss & @bofA_news starting NOW. Use hashtag #sbcommunity to join!
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Hi @Rieva - Great to see you #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Over the next hour we’ll discuss how networking amongst small business owners can help your small business succeed #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Hello @barrymoltz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
Hi everyone. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
In addition we will talk a bit about the new Small Business Community bought to you by @BofA_News #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Hello @Rieva ! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Welcome @rieva @franchiseking @barrymoltz - thanks for joining the chat #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
Im tweeting from my office at Whitaker's Landscaping http://t.co/15jGmzyM
#sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
@FranchiseKing hey Joel. Steve #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@BofA_News great to be here, thanks for having me #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
We’ll also share networking best practices and tips for what might help your business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
And hello also to my pal @BarryMoltz - thanks for joining us today
#sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss thanks for having me Steve #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
You got it. I'm now an active member on your community site. Answering #franchise questions @BofA_News #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
To interact with us during this chat – and to answer questions that we are asking – please use the hashtag #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Hey @ramonray #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
@BofA_News Thanks. glad to be here today #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Additionally Mary, tweeting from, @BofA_News and I will be happy to answer any small business-related questions #sbcommunity #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@FranchiseKing good to see we have the best for #franchise questions #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
- Great......always looking for great ideas to help our business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
And hello also to @RamonRay #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Let’s get started with our first topic – understanding your current networking practices!
#sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
@barrymoltz can you call me after the chat? See we're networking #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Let’s get started! Take it away @stevestrauss with our first topic – understanding your current networking practices! #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
Hello Everyone! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Question #1 – Do you currently network with other small business owners to share share/offer industry best practices? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I really think that networking is a skill you and your business can’t afford to be without. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
A peer group can act as an informal board of directors and an opportunity for real-world experience sharing. #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss A1. yes, I think social media makes it easy to share best practice info links and ideas #1 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@BofA_News A lot of people have formal or informal mastermind groups #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Since so many things are online now, there's "virtually" no excuse to not network, @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Social media has changed so many things, including best practices #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@FranchiseKing I agree Joel #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Barry - you have a mastermind group as I recal, is that right? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Q#1 I think networking is so important. both on a local, national & global basis #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@barrymoltz Yes. 87% of SMBs say SoMe is somewhat or very helpful to their org. @Vocus @ducttape study #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@Hoovers yes so easy to network with SHARE buttons everywhere #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Welcome @ramonray - thanks for joining #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
The thing is - no longer is networking just handing 1 business card to 1 person - its handing 1tweet to 1000 people #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
.@SteveStrauss Social media does make it easier, but some use that as an excuse to not GO somewhere #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: LENNTV
#sbcommunity virtual networking is great, but in my experience it's just as important to meet your clients face to face whenever possible.
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
SBOs can use #BofA’s Small Business Community to learn how to improve their biz from other SBOs http://t.co/mdFvhPhj #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BRANDONSONOFOLE
@Rieva Completely agree. I fall into that same habit or mindset. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss so does it mean that our networking has to be more deliberate cuz its amplified by SoMe? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
That is an interesting statistic @Hoovers. Where did you get that? 87% is high, and great #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
a firm hand shake or more is the best way for genuine - know, like, trust #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Social Media has made it possible to have folks like @Rieva @BarryMoltz @RamonRay IN my network. Important- we've met in person #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Nope nothing replaces this! RT @Lenntv: #sbcommunity virtual networking is great, but it's as important to meet your clients face to face
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@Rieva Interestingly enough, SMBs aiming to build a large but unengaged audience think SoMe is most helpful. @Vocus @ducttape #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I think the power of networking online is that you can meet people you would not normally meet. @Rieva taught me that! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Easy mistake RT @Hoovers: @Rieva SMBs aiming to build a large but unengaged audience think SoMe is helpful. @Vocus @ducttape #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
We all do. It's hard to drag yourself to an event, but it's really important. Face 2 face counts @BrandonSonofOle #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
but networking and social media is a great way to get your name out to so many more people #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Nothing replaces face to face RT @tomfrancoeur: RT @ramonray: a firm hand shake is the best way for genuine - know, like, trust #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
And the thing is, another important thing is to turn that online biz connection to a business relationship - as @RamonRay says #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
then when you get to have a face to face with the customer #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Topic/Question #2 – Do you find more success when networking with SBOs locally or on a national/international scale? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Yes, THAT was fun @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
#BofA’s SBC can connect you with SBOs nationwide – it’s a great way to expand your daily face-to-face networking #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss A2 I think the best success is using SoMe or email to start or extend the relationship #2 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@SteveStrauss: Link to @Vocus @ducttape #SMB social media study: http://t.co/rexjahYt #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Networking used to be 85% local. Now, it's only 10%. My clients are all over the US and Canada #2 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
Why are most small business owners reluctant to network, market and promote? How do we change this? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@FranchiseKing yes, with @SmallTownRules geography is meaningless ! #2 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Yes @adelewhit, in the end, you have to meet face to face, although I didnt meet my editor at usatoday for 5 years #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Linking up with other SBOs willing to offer advice, no matter where they are, is important when sourcing new opportunities #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss after a relationship is started, it really can be strengthened IRL #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss SBOs and all of us are afraid of rejection! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
And, meeting the @USAToday editor in person still worked out? LOL @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: LPT
@barrymoltz @rieva @ramonray @shashib - ditto on the #sbcommunity chat comments about F2F. Met all of you online 1st, but mtg offline was +1
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I think for many SB owners, they do what they do and it takes time to network or learn something new, what do you think? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
for me natl works best but it depends on what you do, where your customers are @SteveStrauss #2 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Welcome to this powerful chat, @shashib #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BRANDONSONOFOLE
Gr8 question! RT @Ogoing: Why are most small business owners reluctant to network, market and promote? How do we change this? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Welcome to the chat. Thanks for your support, @TheWindowGenie #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Don’t forget to think about networking locally before you network nationally & globally – take care of your base! #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@LPT I rmember the great food in Austin with you! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I saw a statistic from the B of A Small Business Owner Report that said that 75% of SBOs find networking as their best tool #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
A2: In today's economy, people prefer local IF they are gonig to get the best product/service. Can't forget where you started. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
and word of mouth too. Word of mouth is so different these days - a retweet is word of mouth today #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@SteveStrauss @Ogoing SMB owners wear a lot of hats--it's hard to find time to network. The reason for increased SoMe interest? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
I think part of it is making the time. @SteveStrauss @barrymoltz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
@FranchiseKing Yes as soon as I saw my bulb glowing without switching on I knew #sbcommunity is a powerful chat
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Yes @Hoovers, online networking can save a lot of time - OR waste a lot of time! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Very True!@ RT @SocialSiteMedia: A2: people prefer local IF they are going to get the best product. Can't forget where u start. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
@LPT Greetings! Hope you are doing well #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@SteveStrauss Yup. Busy running their business. But few realize that they have to grow. May be they are content with profits? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Good one! #green @shashib #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
I find many small biz are focused on the NEXT SALE they don't think of long term relationships - #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@Ogoing they get trapped in doing the work, but not having a systematic marketing strategy #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@barrymoltz How do we change their thinking? Many consider marketing as an unnecessary expense, and are not willing to spend. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Its like the e-myth wisdom - you need to work ON your business not just IN your business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Truthat @ramonray #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Some people are shy too #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
They need to get unstuck #barrymoltz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
"systematic marketing strategy" - that is the key @ducttape and @Infusionsoft preach this all the time #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss yes, I call it Breaking the Double Helix Trap #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
True that! RT @SteveStrauss: Its like the e-myth wisdom - you need to work ON your business not just IN your business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss yes, we all get stuck now and then! #barrymoltz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Joel -is this true for franchisees too? @franchiseking #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Franchisees need to focus on local. Period. @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@FranchiseKing interesting how some people are more shy online than IRL #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Topic/Question #3 – Having a business mentor is a great way to get ahead. Who do you turn to for mentorship? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: LPT
@Hoovers @SteveStrauss @Ogoing - just used that "lots of hats" analogy in my post earlier today! http://t.co/nCS6yevn #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Mentors have made a huge difference in my business. Some of the folks here have mentored me in fact #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: GETHOOPLA
So true! RT @ramonray: I find many small biz are focused on the NEXT SALE they don't think of long term relationships - #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss If you talk to folks about your biz, mentors I believe come forward to help! #3 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
In my experience, mentoring through #BofA’s SBC has proven effective and rewarding. http://t.co/SkU8dpkG #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I have had different mentors at different times. but it alsways seemed organic. I never planned it. You? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
times have changed and if we don't adapt we will disappear. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Source: twitter.com, Posted on: Sep 20, 2012 06:25 PM by barrymoltz
A3 I am lucky to have @Rieva as one of my mentors! @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
MENTORS: @normbrodsky @yacovw - they have helped me grow - one by reading him the other by frequent meetings #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
A3: A great mentor teaches us to ask all the right questions. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
But I also know that finding a mentor can also come by having the chutzpah to ask someone whom you admire to mentor you #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
There is a difference between MENTORS and PEERS - both are important yet different - #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@Hoovers a mentor helps us also question our answers #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
A3: Mentor(s) are everywhere...you need just one. Reading industry blogs are a great way to find knowledgeable info. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@ramonray can a mentor be a peer? I think so #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
How did you get those mentors @RamonRay? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Aw shucks. RT @FranchiseKing: RT @barrymoltz: A3 I am lucky to have @Rieva as one of my mentors! @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
@SteveStrauss I agree a good mentor opens your eyes to many possibilities
#sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
A3: **don't need just one. Oops! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I know someone who uses LinkedIn to find both mentors and business. All you have to do is ask sometimes #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
Here's a small business owner, an experienced Los Angeles Tax Attorney, who is networking and growing. http://t.co/Shqf0oXX #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
"A mentor is someone who sees more talent & ability within you, than you see in yourself, & helps bring it out." ~ Bob Proctor #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
+10 RT @barrymoltz: @Hoovers a mentor helps us also question our answers #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@Rieva @FranchiseKing @barrymoltz @SteveStrauss Cool! Rieva rocks #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BRANDONSONOFOLE
Would you say that's cuz they're truly interested in our success? MT @barrymoltz: A mentor helps us also question our answers #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
Source: twitter.com, Posted on: Sep 20, 2012 06:29 PM by adelewhit
does anyone use the sight http://t.co/Ph2CZbew? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
How have mentors helped you? For me it was both how to look at things AND introductions/advice #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@BrandonSonofOle mentors question us because it is hard for us to do it honestly ourselves #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
- Thanks. I so appreciate that @Ogoing #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
welcome @LN_Bikes to our chat! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
He knows me well RT @FranchiseKing: RT @Rieva: Some people are shy too - Like @shashib #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss mentors help me look at things I am uncomfortable looking at #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Mentors have helped me by offering suggestions that are way, way, out of box. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@SteveStrauss @BrandonSonofOle @barrymoltz @Hoovers How do you find that really good one mentor? It's hard to find that person. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
@shashib you are the LEAST shy person #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
That sounds like my wife! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
A3: Mentors are so important to SB owners. It's scary out there and mine has always done a good job of keeping me focused. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@ramonray I am a fan of @Normbrodsky #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: TOMFRANCOEUR
@stevestrauss Strategy. That's where I've gotten the most help from mentors. #sbcommunity.
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I also find that mentors open doors #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
or nag RT @barrymoltz: @BrandonSonofOle mentors question us because it is hard for us to do it honestly ourselves #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
Mentors helped me realize that I have good ideas and helped keep me focused
#sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@Ogoing Determine what you're looking for in a mentor (expertise, geo, experience, influence), research candidates on LinkedIn. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Question #4 – Do you use social media sites to network and learn from other small businesses? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Don't be shy about asking someone you respect to be your mentor. You can also consider using SM to connect, ie LinkedIn #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss A4 yes all the time, SoMe opens up access that would not otherwise be there #4 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Among other things social networks can help you find the proper talent for your small business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
#sbcommunity Having a Small Business Advisory Board is also a good idea for a small business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@BofA_News yes, but you have to get the free vs fee thing straight with a mentor early on #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
yes and it has opened my customer base #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
The recent Small Biz Owner Report showed only 28% of SBOs used social media to connect w/ other small biz #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Check out @Aileron_org RT @shashib: #sbcommunity Having a Small Business Advisory Board is also a good idea #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Yes, Twitter is my personal favorite @SteveStrauss #4 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
@BofA that is crazy #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
A4: @SteveStrauss Everyday! That's the beauty of social media; it's one big, open community just waiting for you to interact. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
The recent Small Biz Owner Report showed only 28%of SBOs used social media to connect w/ other small biz #sbcommunity ^MB #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: LPT
@SteveStrauss - even advice I disagreed with from a mentor was helpful once. helped me solidify my own career philosophy. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@SteveStrauss Our business is social media. We use it for networking, marketing, learning and growing! It works! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
A4: Currently, there are 6,874,850 small-business professionals networking on LinkedIn. (LinkedIn data) #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
28%? Wow that's shocking--and stupid. C'mon biz owners--social media is key to so much @BofA_News #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
I'll listen to anyone that wants to be a mentor-if they're ethical people. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
Right on! RT @Rieva: 28%? Wow thats shocking--and stupid. Cmon biz owners--social media is key to so much @BofA_News #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
@adelewhit May be surprising, but true. We expect that number will rise in the future. #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I know of a woman who started a biz, joined LinkedIn, participated a lot, and got 50 people to volunteer for her Bd of Advisors #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
I would hope it increases, what a waste of resources.
TWEET FROM: THEWINDOWGENIE
#sbcommunity A great mentor does not have all the answers, they challenge you to find them or create your own and apply that
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
Also EVERY business owner should himself/herself be a mentor to others - #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@Hoovers Ogoing is trying to grow the social media network. It's very hard! We are up to 5K members now. 10K barrier is huge #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
It’s important when pressed for time to remember that social media helps keep your networking alive #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
I overheard a young man tell someone else I was HIS mentor and I did not even know it - #sbcommunity (and I almost started crying)
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
Of course! If you have @FranchiseKing as a mentor you run the danger of expanding your business #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@FranchiseKing Agreed! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Interesting b/c 75% of business owners have been
‘put off’ by a company due to their poor use of social #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
true RT @ramonray: Also EVERY business owner should himself/herself be a mentor to others - #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
@SteveStrauss Thanks Steve. Great insights in your tweets and articles #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@ramonray yes pay it forward! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Given that networking and word of mouth are key for SB marketing, one would think that the online option would be higher #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Thank you so much @shashib You are truly a Royal Subject #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@Ogoing I hear you...When you do social media, leave your longing for instant gratification at the door. Keep on keepin' on. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
- Shocking. RT @BofA_News: The recent SB Owner Report showed only 28%
of SBOs used social media to connect w/ other small biz #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@shashib yes, @SteveStrauss literally wrote the bible on #smallbiz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
Sometimes mentors don't even give you ADVICE per say but they open their network to you aka @shashib a true GIVER #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: THEWINDOWGENIE
@ramonray Everyone has something to offer to another person. If teamwork is strong the end result will be #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: CLICKBRAND
@Hoovers @Ogoing social media is definitely a marathon, not a sprint.. it takes time #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
And, 28,455 of them follow you on #in @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
SOCIAL JERKS only share their own (or their own company's) content - SOCIAL GIVERS share all relevant content #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@Ogoing Also remember you don't have to be active on all platforms. Go where your audience is--where they want to engage w/you. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@Clickbrand yes unfortunately most #smallbiz owners have a short term view #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
@barrymoltz I actually won the Small Business Bible by @SteveStrauss as a prize at an event and still cherish it #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Topic/Question #5 – Tell us your story – when has networking helped elevate the visibility of your company’s brand? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
I looks like @BrianMoran has entered the room #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@Hoovers Ogoing has created a dedicated social network for small business. http://t.co/XXPb0yWW This is taking long to grow! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BRANDONSONOFOLE
Plus, despite wealth of resources to turn to for support, majority of SBOs say they feel alone: http://t.co/yrgbKSqd #emp #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Business networking is one of the most effective marketing and prospecting tools you can use to grow your business #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I know that for me, networking has taken my brand to a whole new level #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss A5 My relationships with many corporations started on Twitter #5 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Hi @BrianMoran - great to see you #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BRIANMORAN
@barrymoltz @franchiseking Just a quick drive by to retweet some very smart #smallbiz people. #sbcommunity. Off to a meeting now.
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
#5 I have met people from all over the world that I never would have met by networking-on @Twitter #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
A5: Online networking earned me my very first client in 2009. Taught me a great deal about how important an online presence is. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
networking helped me tell people who we are, what we do and let people get comftorable with who they are dealing with #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Networking and branding go hand in hand because you never know what connection leads to what opportunity #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Welcome @brianmoran thanks for joining #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
for us an important this is all our employees are DOJ background checked, it help us sell ourselves before we even meet. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
The SBC is an opportunity to make connections that can potentially elevate a brand. http://t.co/mdFvhPhj #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
@SteveStrauss I never knew how true that was before. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I bet you have made some great connections for your biz and brand via networking @franchiseking - true for many people here #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss A5 I am meeting @BofA_News for the first time today even though I have followed their #smallbiz work for awhile #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
Ogoing members primarily join through networking and engagement on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook & Google+ Social Media rocks! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Networking, esp. online, extends your name to a vast, whole new group of people #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
I got my column at USATODAY via networking, and that changed everything #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
@SteveStrauss agreed #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
Source: twitter.com, Posted on: Sep 20, 2012 06:52 PM by barrymoltz
@SteveStrauss A6 I owe my entire business as a result of networking #6 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Topic/Question #6 – Finally, and perhaps most importantly, when has networking benefited your business’s bottom line? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SHASHIB
Have you heard @RamonRay speak? You don't have to eat for a year after - you will get that much energy #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: TDSBIZ
@SteveStrauss that's great! It's nice to hear the #SBcommunity can help out!
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
It is so easy to spend time online and not see an effect on the bottom line - keeping your ROI in mind is critical #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Networking benefits our bottom line every day. Clients, connections & firends @SteveStrauss #6 #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
How do you develop and establish trust when you network online? There is a bit of unease for most small business owners. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RAMONRAY
@Ogoing I think TRUST can only be established over time - #sbcommunity - people have a mask online
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Take baby steps at first. @Ogoing #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@ramonray Don't rush trust! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
"How do you develop and establish trust when you network online?" - send folks to your site where you post testimonials #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
it's like marketing it's exposure. people will get more comfortable w. you the more you interact @Ogoing #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
A6 every day I am benefited by networking. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: PEOPLEFUNDATX
Peoplefund owes a lot of its grants to relationships built from networking. @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
@SteveStrauss testimonials have been a big part of new customers. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@ramonray True! Most online networkers are quick to jump the gun though #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
the 80-20 rule applies here too - post 80% of your content about THEM. 20% about you #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@Ogoing To establish online trust, be consistently honest & sincere. Build your reputation by helping others build theirs. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@SteveStrauss Agreed. Objective testimonials always help. On the website or on reviews sites. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
when a potential customer can read a testimonial from another client it establishes a sense of comfort #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Share your tips and best practices with the members of the Small Business Community http://t.co/mdFvhPhj #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
agreed 80-20 if you share so will others #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BRANDONSONOFOLE
@SteveStrauss That's what I tell my franchisees #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@barrymoltz @ramonray Couldn't agree more! This is the essence of social media and networking. To know when to close #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Testimonials are key to establishing credibility online. People know zip about you when they go 2 your site the 1st time #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@SteveStrauss Interesting that sharing news about org/products is the most popular way SMBs use SoMe. Inside-out promo. @Vocus #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Agreed, testimonials create a comfort and trust level #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
Great advice! @Hoovers: @Ogoing To establish trust, be honest & sincere. Build your reputation by helping others build theirs. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss yes no one wants to be the first! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
exactly and testimonials make you more credible to potential customers #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
@tdsbiz @SteveStrauss We'd love to have you check out the Small Business Community http://t.co/mdFvhPhj #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Well, that's about it #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Thank you everyone for participating in our conversation today and thank you to chat co-hosts @BofA_News #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
We hope that you picked up a few tips on how networking can be beneficial for your #smallbiz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss @BofA_News thanks for having me! Great #tweetchat #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Please tweet me directly, using the hashtag #sbcommunity, to let me know about the connections you made today! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: ADELEWHIT
thank you all #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BARRYMOLTZ
@SteveStrauss great to be in the same room with @ramonray @Rieva @FranchiseKing #smallbiz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Thank you everyone for participating in our conversation today and thank you to our co-host @stevestrauss #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@SocialSiteMedia @Hoovers What a great advice indeed! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
@SteveStrauss Will #sbcommunity be a regular chat? Do you have another one on the calendar? #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: RIEVA
Thanks @SteveStrauss #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
And please join the #BofA Small Business Community to continue to network with other SBOs! the URL Is #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: SOCIALSITEMEDIA
Thanks @SteveStrauss and @bofa_news! Great chat. #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
http://t.co/DUBRhzJK #sbcommunity #smallbiz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: HOOVERS
Glad to connect with all of you! Thanks for sharing your wisdom, questions, and honesty with me! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
The Small Business Communityu URL is http://t.co/DUBRhzJK #sbcommunity #smallbiz #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: FRANCHISEKING
Lots of tips. Thanks for having me @SteveStrauss @BOFA_News #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: STEVESTRAUSS
Thanks so much to everyone who participated today. Great info and tips! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BOFA_NEWS
Thanks everyone, enjoyed the chat! #sbcommunity ^MB
TWEET FROM: OGOING
@SteveStrauss @ramonray @Rieva @FranchiseKing @Hoovers @barrymoltz @tomfrancoeur @SocialSiteMedia @Ogoing @BofA_News
@adelewhit #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: BRANDONSONOFOLE
@SteveStrauss Thanks for hosting a great chat. Lots of great advice! #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: LN_BIKES
@SteveStrauss Thanks! such great info #sbcommunity
TWEET FROM: LPT
Thanks for RTs @FranchiseKing @Rieva @barrymoltz - good conversation today on #sbcommunity @BofA_News!
About Steve Strauss
Steven D. Strauss is one of the world's leading experts on small business and is a lawyer, writer, and speaker. The senior small business columnist for USA Today, his Ask an Expert column is one of the most highly-syndicated business columns in the country. He is the best-selling author of 17 books, including his latest,The Small Business Bible, now out in a completely updated third edition. You can listen to his weekly podcast, Small Business Success, visit his new website TheSelfEmployed, and follow him on Twitter. © Steven D. Strauss You can read more articles from Steve Strauss by clicking here.