As a small business owner, you're probably no stranger to Linked In. But, you might not be familiar with a just-as-great, but lesser-known online business networking tool: Biznik.
Biznik claims to offer "Business Networking That Doesn't Suck." And I must admit, it's true. The site does not suck. Here are three ways to use Biznik to help your business:
1. Create a free profile.
On Biznik, there are three membership levels. The basic level is free, and I recommend trying it out before you commit to one of the paid membership options. On a free profile, you can post articles, benefit from search engine optimization, and host free events. Once you have a profile, you can invite friends or colleagues and build a following. You can get to know other members in your area. The result? Online promotion, website traffic, and new prospects for free.
2. Post articles.
One of the best ways to promote yourself on Biznik is by writing and publishing articles to your profile. These articles are a great way to position yourself as an expert to your business contacts and provide them with value. Even better, if your article meets Biznik article specifications, it could be published on the Biznik main page--appearing to thousands of Biznik members across the country.
3. Take advantage of the search engine optimization options.
By becoming a Biznik member, you have the opportunity to create tags relevant to your business services. This not only increases the odds you'll be found within the Biznik network, but through major search engines like Google as well. You can also create tags for articles and blog posts on Biznik as well. Awesome!
3.5. Host an event.
Alright, so I have more than three ways. The last I want to mention, though, is hosting an event. On Biznik, if you host an event, you get immediate credibility and people start seeking you out. You're seen as a leader and organizer. That is never a bad thing.
If you're new to online networking, Biznik is a comfortable and fun place to start. It helps your business, your online marketing skills, and it certainly does not suck. I hope to network with you soon!
Great post, Lindsay. I'm the cofounder of Biznik, and I'd like to add item 4: We're about to launch a Groups feature. Beginning in mid February, Biznik Groups will allow you to do all of the things you outlined, PLUS have full ownership of it. That is, you can create your own business networking community, and YOU will get to decide which articles are relevant, which type of events you do, which members you want to connect with in your group, moderate your own discussions, and more. It's our way of giving control to the growth of Biznik to YOU, and letting you take ownership. I'll send you an invite to the private beta that begins on Feb. 14, so you can have first look at what's new.
ReplyDeleteBest, Dan McComb