LinkedIn has been a cornerstone for me, providing access to a broad network of professionals and industry insights that have been crucial for strategic partnerships.  Beyond LinkedIn, I've found value in platforms like AngelList for insights into startups and emerging trends, which are vital for innovation and growth strategies.  Apart from this, attending industry-specific events through Meetup has enriched my network with local professionals and experts, offering a more personal touch to business relationships.  These platforms, each with their own unique strengths, have been instrumental in my role, enabling me to drive business development efforts more effectively and stay connected with the pulse of the industry.

The top professional networking platforms for entrepreneurs and small business owners include LinkedIn, Alignable, and AngelList. These platforms offer opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, investors, and potential clients, helping to expand networks and grow businesses.

LinkedIn provides a robust platform for professionals to showcase their expertise, connect with peers, and access valuable career opportunities. By leveraging its features effectively, individuals can establish themselves as industry thought leaders and expand their professional networks.

Game changer but often not used well by sales and marketing. As a platform it’s perfect for doing lead gen, nurturing prospects and for communicating during sales process. It’s been amazing as a tool over the years and now has no competitor.

LinkedIn is still the best networking platform. Personally, I have found numerous opportunities from LinkedIn. Just like any other platform, you need to join LinkedIn with a goal, create a good profile and reach out to people who share the same interests as you or have what you want. Ensure that you also have something to offer.

As per me both online and offline networking platforms are important . In the local networking events we meet people and then stay in touch with them through online platforms. It give us the chance to stay connected on regular basis but offline meet-ups help us in making our connection more stronger in our local area.

After LinkedIn it’s the second most important thing to be doing in sales. Your network is at the heart of your sales model. Your network will open doors and thus usually gets built out by being out and about.

Identify local networking groups that will draw people who have what you want. Go to those events that will only enable you to network effectively. Ensure you carry a business card and pick two or three from other people.

Networking is the main core to any business. But as we are in 2024, the world has changed and we should adopt the changes. So what i believe is Social or Internet Networking is the most important factor when you do local one, the internet is your virtual identity. If you think you can go mediocre on these platforms and still can be able to earn a good Local Networking benefits then i beg to differ. Do meet people, find the equal interest, generate the perspectives and do remember to have them on your Social Networking as it will create more authenticity, more trust and more value to your words.

LinkedIn Basics - Justification: It has about (+)722 million users and, it is the largest business-focused social network. LinkedIn is a popular platform for professional networking due to its wide reach and focus on professional content and connections. It allows users to showcase their experience, skills, and accomplishments, connect with other professionals, join industry groups, and even publish articles. It also connects users to job openings in various industries. And help in the user's professional development by organizing short courses for professionals to improve their job proficiencies and marketability. LinkedIn is a platform for a true professional to network, chat, connect, leverage and improve their careers.

The very first thing that everyone has to avoid is Industry forums of their own like their own networking apps or website forums. Period! If you're doing it for your company then it's good, but remember we use forums for communication, no one really want themselves to be sold out or live in a advertisement world or feel locked in some sales oriented forums. So for all SME's if you really wanna get benefited for any of the communities do create your networks in already defined well reputed platforms like LinkedIn etc, and use them for communication. Remember don't sell, let them Buy.

Virtual Networking - Reasons: With the rise of virtual networking platforms like Zoom, Hopin, or Remo, entrepreneurs can network from the comfort of their homes or offices. Virtual networking events offer convenience, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to connect with professionals from around the world. Other platforms to consider include: Professional Associations: Joining industry-specific associations can provide networking opportunities, industry insights, and access to resources. Startup Incubators/Accelerators: Programs like Y Combinator, Techstars, or local startup accelerators can connect you with mentors, investors, and other entrepreneurs in the startup ecosystem.

Like any other networking group, don't just join any group but those that will help you achieve your networking goals. LinkedIn groups and WhatsApp groups are good examples of platforms that have networking groups you can join.

Social Media Groups and Pages are game changers for start ups, new business owners and fresh entrepreneurs. Being active on social media platforms, having an active and up-to-date page, following people in your niche, proceeding to solve issues, commenting on and liking other people's posts brings you to the limelight and makes a difference in your visibility and engagement. Prospective clients will always check you out on social media and it is very important to have a unique and unforgettable handle on many relevant platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Telegram, WhatsApp and Threads. Creating groups on social media is also another way of having a close knit community for your clients and followers.

LinkedIn has proven to be an excellent platform for virtual networking with top decision-makers worldwide! I can attest to its effectiveness, as I connected with my first importation business partner over 10 years ago through LinkedIn. I attribute this success to the platform's commitment to originality, professionalism, and rigorous due diligence in verifying user registrations. This foundation of trust has enabled meaningful connections and fruitful collaborations, and I look forward to continuing to leverage LinkedIn for future business opportunities!" My highlights is based on the value of LinkedIn as a professional networking platform and its ability to facilitate connections with influential decision-makers globally. Regards.

Today we were actually discussing that use of networking, social groups etc etc. And we were very clear at the end that we should keep separated the sales and social networking. The reason for any networking is the communication with your audience to engage them about the value of your brand or SME, i understand it's difficult for all SME's to avoid that Sales pitch oriented networking over internet but believe us use networking primary for communication of your authenticity only and then only then do the 5 to 10% sales oriented content. And believe me it will do wonder for your brand.