Relationships Take Time
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When discussing Social Networking one of the most frequent questions I get is how much time does it take? Or to put it another way, there is a fear on the part of business owners that using Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter, or blogging are going to be a huge time drain. “Non-productive time”, “wasted time”, or “no time” are common refrains.
Yes, participating in the Social Networking world takes time. Yet, building or strengthening relationships is one of main justifications for using the Social Networking and all relationships whether family, friends or business take time.
Aren’t building and/or strengthening relationships what sales is all about? For most sales people creating trusted relationships is key to their success. Sales people join networks in order to make, build, and strengthen relationships. With an eye on relationship building, they go to conventions, hang out at cocktail receptions, join the local chamber of commerce, and perhaps even play golf with clients and prospects. All of these activities take time but it is assumed that the relationships built through these efforts are not only good business but also necessary.
Sales people understand the need to be where their prospects and clients are. Today, that place is fast becoming the Social Web. I am not suggesting that you stop playing golf with your clients. Yet, you might feel better about the time demanded by an effective Social Networking if you approach it as a part of your overall relationship building activity.
OK… now to really answer the question, “How much time?” That depends – depends on the stage and level of your involvement. Are you just watching and listening, actively participating in the conversation, generating buzz, sharing content, or actually building and/or managing a community? Aside from the learning curve associated with getting started, you can figure on spending anywhere from 5 to 20 hours or more a week – so, at a minimum a little more than a single round of golf.
