Online networking software

A quick post to mention a new piece of software that is close to be launched over the next few months. Basically it is an online networking tool where as a customer you can pay to attend certain virtual events. The tool is basically an online chat room where you have the chance to meet people and find out about their business with the view to building up contacts and hopefully selling business.

Intraverts out there will benefit from not having to deal with people face to face and may enjoy the virtual networking world. The program will also undoubtedly put you in touch with people who otherwise you wouldn’t usually cross paths with…..For example, for many people it is unfeasible to attend international conferences / networking meetings due to travel expenditure and accommodation. The concept does have the potential.

However, one important factor is lost when meeting people online and I am in two minds as to whether it will completely kill the online networking concept or only slightly detract from it. The personal touch. One of my colleagues is very gifted at building strong relationships with the people that he meets – others simply feel at ease in his company. When people start to befriend you and enjoy your company they like the idea of working with you and before you know it you have their business. I can’t see this ever happening in the online world – I don’t think you can get that same kind of connection.

Some may argue that a lot of business is done online nowadays – maybe through forums and similar internet applications. In my experience, whilst posting on forums certainly generates leads it doesn’t reassure the customer – it is only when talking to us (as a service provider) do potential clients feel reassured that we will offer them a good service. So maybe the online networking application will be a lead generator at best.

It remains to be seen whether the cost benefit ratio stacks up. Payments for this service will be made on a per meeting basis, but charges are as of yet unknown. I’ll be trialling the service and hopefully it will pay off.

Good luck to the creators.

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