Using Profiles to Network for Your Direct Sales Business

An often asked question is, “how do I network online?” I’d like to share some tips on using online profiles to network and meet others.

Profiles are a wonderful way to find others that you share something in common with. I have my profile filled out on message board communities, on social networks and on blogger. Profiles allow you to share a bit about who you are, where you’re from and what you like. I always let others know what I enjoy, such as scrapbooking, crocheting, reading and working out. If the profile asks me to list my favorite authors or musicians, I’ll fill this information out. I really want to make a connection with others based on some common piece of information.

I always put the URL to at least one of my websites. Some profiles allow you to put one business URL and one personal URL. In those cases, I’ll use my primary business site and then one of my social network URL’s for the personal site. This helps make that connection. I’d love for someone to friend request me on one of the social networks.

I’m very specific on where I live. I’d love to connect with those in my town or even in my state. I’ve also gotten emails from complete strangers who were going to visit my town and wanted some recommendations on where to stay and where to visit. This is a connection, an opportunity for communication.

I fill in as much information as I can to give others the opportunity to find things I have in common with them.

Connect with others via their profiles. I read a wonderful book by Ann Rule. When I see others who fill out their profiles saying they enjoy her books, I’ll start a conversation with them about the one book of hers I’ve read. I’ll ask if they have a favorite book of hers and what their recommendation is for a second book of hers I should read. Not only have I met some wonderful people doing this, but I’ve also found some great books and enjoyed reading some new authors as a result of finding people who enjoy reading via their profiles.

I mentioned that I enjoy crocheting. When I see a profile of someone who enjoys crocheting, I’ll shoot them a private message or email and introduce myself and share some of my favorite crochet sites with them.

As with any networking, not every conversation will lead to a sale. The more people you connect with, the more people you’ll have the opportunity to meet. Meeting people can lead to you sharing with them the company you represent and the products you sell.

I can not stress enough to not turn this into an advertising campaign. This is simply a wonderful way to network and meet others.

Audrey Okaneko has been in direct sales since 1983. She can be reached at audreyoka@cox.net or you can Become a Tupperware Consultant

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