In the age of technology, many people connect virtually through email and social networking. While this can be a good relationship builder, it is still important for face-to-face communication. Good old fashioned networking still works!
So, take the time to attend events to meet people in person. After you get to know people, make sure to see them in person from time to time by asking them to lunch or coffee. All of use are guilty of using email too much as a relationship building technique. While I think that it is a great and necessary tool, it doesn't take place of seeing someone in the flesh.
I was inspired to write this post after reading the article "Business networking: Face-to-face communication still works" on Westport Minuteman.
Nothing beats a handshake and eye-to-eye contact!
Direct, face-to-face communications is particularly effective after the initial relationship is established via alternate means. The personal touch tends to seal the relationship. As human beings, I believe that there is an inherant need and desire to relate with others personally.
Don't abandon those letters, emails, voice mails, phone calls, IM and other forms of communication, but make certain to include a personal meeting in real time as often as possible.
Posted by: Daniel Sitter | April 27, 2007 at 09:21 PM
I absolutley agree with you Daniel. Thanks for the reinforcement of this idea. It is so important to make the personal and in person connection.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | April 28, 2007 at 09:11 PM