If you’re looking for new and interesting ways to share your ideas with others in your industry, don’t waste time pounding the pavement. Surf the virtual pavement instead for a faster, cheaper and easier way to connect with others.
Meetup.com
Meetup.com is a website that allows you to start or join a group in your area based on any topic. They have both social groups and professional groups. Join a meet up in your area to network with like minded individuals. You can chat on line and also attend in person events where you can chat and brain storm with people who are in your line of business. Using the site is free, but running a group costs about $20 a month.
When using Facebook, don’t forget to check out the “groups” section. There are thousands of Facebook groups dedicated to almost every facet of life. You can network with others in your industry. There are usually forums on each group page where you can post questions, ideas and comments. The leader of the group may even promote networking events in the area that you can attend. If you can’t find the type of group that you are looking for don’t be afraid to start your own.
Tweet your way to better business ideas. Share your thoughts on Twitter and attract other industry professionals as followers. You can also follow those already sharing articles and information about your field to help get your idea bank flowing. You’d be surprised how Twitter can change your life. You can pick up freelance work or meet new business partners by doing proper networking. You can also use Twitter as a way to see what consumers are complaining about. Take these complaints and turn them into a new product that will be in demand.