Think of your business before you post
When you post content to the internet in the comfort of your office you may feel as though you are miles away from the delicate “egg toss” that is small business networking. Many of us associate critical business moves with activities such as addressing the concerns of a long-time client or solidifying a strategic alliance with a new business associates. We often go to considerable lengths to maintain tact and decorum when communicating with our referral partners because small pieces of information can say a lot about who we are and the quality of our business. In an age of overwhelming information opinions are formed and reputations are created based on the most minute information.
Amongst many factors reputation often emerges as the most important when developing alliances between small businesses. It is becoming increasingly important to recognize the link between the reputation of your small business and the content you post online. As “googling” prospective partners, clients and businesses becomes second nature to us, we may want to consider our audience even when we post personal content. Many social and business networking sites make it all too easy for potential clients and associates to link those “pictures at your brothers wedding” or “that funny story from the boat” with your business. As wholesome as we may perceive our personal lifestyle to be it is unlikely others will agree with every joke and story on our homepage. Unless you’re a photographer or a fiction writer, keep your online profiles clean, concise, and up to par with your business values. As any great catcher, football coach or poker player will tell you, what you don’t show is just as valuable as what you do.
Indicates your referral relationship is balanced,
Indicates an imbalance.