I've always hated networking events. The premise always seemed awkward and ugly to me. An event held so that strangers can meet and attempt to sell services or products to each other.

How Men & Women Behave Differently at a Conference

Social media is a truly new and alien world to all of us, and being so, we often find that the traditional ways we got along with others don't always apply.  For instance, in the past you'd never presume to know someone unless you'd met them in person first.  You wouldn't share intimate or personal information with strangers. You'd take the time to get to know them first. 

There are few things you can do that will help you more on social media than commenting regularly on blogs. It costs nothing but your time and thought and offers a wealth of benefits.

(Screen shot from MentionMap)

(Photo by opticalreflex)

(photo by istolethetv)

(photo by zoetnet)

Not long ago I wrote a guest blog post for Liz King, of Liz King Events which gave some tips on how to find great people to follow on Twitter.  I thought I would post a link to it today, as it is #FollowFriday.  Please add any ideas you have for finding great connections on Twitter in the comments. 

(photo by bfishadow)

All of us have our own methods and philosophy for choosing who we follow on Twitter. I know many who will return any follow, as long as it's not from a spammer. I know people who only follow others who share their professional interests. Still others, on a continuous quest for more business, will only follow those who fit their customer profile.