What do we know about those lurking in the background of our computers? Sure there are plenty of psychos but there are millions of would be friends, colleagues and partners. Sometimes it may seem like a microcosm of voyeurs or people jumping up and down screaming, “Look at me! Look at me!” But when you filter out the noise and crazies, you find some pretty awesome people.

People who are educators. People who become close friends, clients or business associates.

When Human Resources Expert (and an admired social media friend), Jennifer Miller recently messaged me inquiring about ‘resume tips’ for an article she was writing, I was delighted to comply! Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter.

One thing I’ve learned from colleagues I met through social media – they are a generous bunch. Case in point: this article started as a FB message and grew into this wonderful series of resume writing tips, courtesy of Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter. Thanks, Jacqui! Jennifer Miller

Take a step back and really review the inventory of your network. It blows my mind. There are people across the world that I never would have had the opportunity to meet or connect with if it wasn’t for social media. It is an extensive amount of work to live and maintain an online presence, but the benefits are beyond imagination.

On a recent vacation back home, I was blessed with meeting two amazing people that I only know from online. Across the miles, we have developed deep connections, shared intimate details of our lives and done business together. To finally meet in real life was a treat. We planned our 16 hour drive home around geography, highways and byways to make this happen.

The relationships you cultivate behind your keyboard can develop into some of the most joyful and satisfying connections, widening your authentic network. People get to know you via your posts, interactions, comments, circles of influence and platforms. They see a glimpse into your life AND your business. There’s no need to stand on ceremony or pretend to be someone or something you’re not.

The emphasis on content is largely due to it being a way to create human connections, an opportunity to present who you are as a company, as opposed to what you do. It’s an exciting time to be involved as the opportunities for creating real, meaningful relationships are there, waiting, and the audience is looking for engagement. Andrew Hutchinson

Be you.

Connect.

Share.

Over the last 8 years, I have watched my circle expand with some absolutely dynamic individuals and companies alike. My business has grown considerably, without traditional advertising. It’s all via word of mouth and building a solid online presence. It is always an honor when someone choses Ace Concierge as their virtual assistant partner because it requires a leap of faith and a great deal of trust to do business with someone you’ve never met.

My personal relationships are bar none. True treasures that are daily gifts imparting inspiration, laughs, real friendship and a shoulder when needed. There were many times over the years that these “virtual” people have been there when I needed them most. Irreplaceable. I am truly grateful and maybe indebted to social media for giving me the opportunity to meet such an amazing group of friends and actually, my virtual family that sometimes is able to move into one on one in person hugs.

While this may not be a standard blog post filled with trending topics and educational content, I hope it helps to display one of the more vital aspects of social media networking that makes all of your digital connections possible.

Whether business or personal, life online revolves around relationship marketing.

While establishing a presence across social media is important, making lasting relationships is the key to long-term success. Rebekah Radice