How To Find Support Online – The internet is filled with noise and activity, it is so easy to get lost.
When I have a hurdle to cross in the offline world – I turn to my friends and family for a shoulder to lean on. Taking the kids to the bus stop in the morning is not just about getting them off to school. It is a chance to talk with the other moms for a few minutes, to discuss worries, plans, or just find out the news. That advice that I receive every morning is priceless.
When it comes to building an internet business finding a “bus stop” online is vital but much harder to do. One would think – with social media being such a popular avenue – that joining a group of people with common interests would be easy but in the beginning it is not.
The problem is that the internet is kind of an impersonal place. Sure you can join into a twitter chat in your area of interest. But if you only show up once – no one will remember you. The more chats you attend the more people will recognize your moniker. But is that enough to create a strong group of friends that will guide you when you are feeling lost? I don’t think so.
People have a lot of different motivations for using social media. Some want to sell a product, some want to increase traffic, some want to help others on a higher level, and some are there to network and meet other people that are at a similar stage in business to themselves.
Creating a group of support online can start with social media but requires more follow through. Sometimes after a good volley on twitter with another entrepreneur I will head over to their profile, and also their website. I will leave a comment at their site and sometimes even link to them. Sometimes a direct message or a proposal to help each other out in some way gets the ball rolling. Other times all those efforts get me nowhere. And then I start the process over again.
I am a strong believer in the “to have a friend, you must first be a friend” philosophy. Relationships (even business ones) take time and effort online as well as off. If you plant the seeds and nurture the plant the fruit will grow.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Nice sharing.Its my first visit in your blog.Great design.
Thanks Lakhyajyoti!
Twitter: mpolicha
May 5, 2010 at 3:13 pm
I think this is actually a big part of the reason that some people get mentors for their online ventures. Part of it is just about getting someone knowledgeable to help you out of course, but another part of it is about having someone to back you up, and someone you can go to for support.
But I think your idea of an online support group is much better. I think there’s a lot to be said in favor of starting a few close relationships through social media and other online tools with people doing the same sort of thing as you.
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