Can Facebook Be Good For Business?

Traditional thinking is that LinkedIn and other similar networking sites are the best if you’re looking to do some good business networking, compared to more informal social sites like Facebook. But I’m not so sure. Some of the purest networking happens at gatherings where you least expect it: kids’ birthday parties, church or temple, kids’ soccer games, etc. And on sites like LinkedIn, where they’re all serious about getting business done, it can sometimes make it tougher to get some genuine leads.

The reason I think Facebook could be a good place for getting business is because on this site, you reconnect with friends, many who you haven’t seen for years. The topic of what you do for a living invariably comes up. You don’t need to build rapport – you already know these people! And since you were friends at one time, the trust is built in.

My immediate friends already know what I do. But people I went to high school or college with, not to mention middle school, day camp, childhood neighbors – don’t. The friendship is there – if they need a service I offer, I know I’ll have an immediate sale. Plus, what makes Facebook great is that it’s purely social – at least that’s the approach I take. I don’t talk business at all – don’t promote anything. It’s all about catching up with old friends. But if it comes up, and there’s a need, it’s the most natural and genuine networking possible.

The key is not to have any high expectations, and don’t do it purely for business, or you’re likely to be dissapointed. Don’t be salesy – just have fun and the business will come in time.