We’ve all heard the saying right? “Don’t hate the player, hate the game.” Usually this phrase in uttered in a different context (I hope you know what I’m talking about) but just work with me on this. Try to look at this from a social business standpoint and ask yourself what’s more important, the players or the game? The players are the users of the various social business tools and applications and the “game” refers to the platforms and tools themselves.
The “game” gives us unique opportunities to connect with people and build relationships but the players are the one’s that actually need to make those connections happen. There are a lot of platforms and tools that exist today and there are millions of people and companies who have created accounts on various platforms. However, we need more players to actually make these relationships and connections meaningful.
It’s great to have a large network but that network is only as good as the relationships that you can build from within it. The Game has changed and we can do incredible things but it takes players to really make something happen. Here are a few examples of what I mean:
- Next time you travel to a conference or an event take a look at your Linkedin and Facebook profiles to see what connections you might have in that area, then set up an in person meeting (I’ve done this on many occasions)
- Look to your network for career opportunities or to hire folks to join your team, Chess Media Group hired Sonny Gill because of the online relationship I had with him. We’re continuing to grow and guess where are employees are going to come from?
- Take a look at what companies you are connected to on Linkedin and who from those companies you are connected to, start reaching out and building opportunities. Take a look at all of your connections that are in your geographical area, again, set up in person meetings with them if you can (and if it makes sense to do so).
- Ask your network for help or for introductions to people you need to connect with, but remember to return the favor
I’m sure you have many other ideas. The game is out there, start playing it player!
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