4Stalking

I help run a couple of networking events every week, and get to see who is booked in, or who has expressed an interest on Facebook Event posts.

Obviously I want to help ensure that people get the most out of the events, and so I like to know what they do, where they are based, and whether they are looking for anything in particular. With almost 4000 LinkedIn Connections and all the members of 4Networking across the UK just a few mouse clicks away, it may well be that I can immediately introduce them to people who could benefit them.

There's a few things I look for, and I'd encourage you to make sure you're making the most of these four things in particular. In fact, I'll add a bonus one just in case you have no interest in the ‘the only joined-up business networking organisation'.

1 – 4Networking Profile

If you've been to a 4N event you'll have heard the Group Leader say “make sure you complete your pfofile: Google loves it” – and it really is true. Search for any 4N member by name, and you'll almost always find their 4N profile on the front page of Google. It's partly why we end up with so many spammy entries from people with zero interest in 4Networking, but desperate for some online attention. Ironically, getting involved in 4N properly would get a much much better result for them.

Also, if you attend a meeting there is an attendance list sent out afterwards that shows your profile picture and links to your 4N profile: why wouldn't you want to use that free opportunity?

2 – Facebook Profile

Recently we've been creating Facebook Events for some of our networking events in South Essex. I've had several people click ‘going' or ‘interested' who I don't yet know. The first thing I do is to click through to their Facebook profile, yet so many of them don't have their business shown on there.

Lots of people see Facebook as more of a personal/private network – I get it – but it suggests they lack pride in their business, and if that's the case why would I want to use them? You can have your business name shown in the About section whilst still keeping the cat memes and holiday photos private. Be proud of what you do, and let us share in that with you.

3 – Google Local

One of the most common ways that people find local businesses today is to pop a quick search query into their phone. We get calls every week from people tapping in (or saying) ‘computer repair near me' or ‘web design in Thurrock' – it works.

If someone searches for what you do locally, are you ready to get their business or are you leaving your competitors to sweep up?

4 – Website (or Webpage)

Lastly, I'll take a quick look at their website (or webpage) which, ideally, will have been linked to from one or all of the above. Let's be honest here – I'm a nosey bugger…. but I also love to help people, and the more I know about your business, the more I can help you.

Bonus – LinkedIn

OK, so if you don't give a shit about 4N, or you want an extra opportunity, check your LinkedIn profile. Every time someone sees your name on the platform – whether it's your profile, a search query, or a comment you have left one someone else's post, they will also see your headline – that quick, snappy summary of what you do. Make it count.

Need Help?

It just so happens that I can help you make the most of all the above opportunities. Whether you want a hand updating your profile, improving your online presence, or setting up a website (or just a single page if that's all you need or can afford right now) then I'd love to chat with you.

Put it to the test if you want – just search “Steve Westrop” and get in touch, or leave a comment below if you don't want to play.