Whether you’re sharing resources and links (including your favorite websites or providing compelling free content) it’s important to show up as a “giver” and to add value to community members.
For instance, when I joined LinkedIn, I created three online presentations and presented them as free gifts to anyone joining my LinkedIn group. These branded slideshows, which provided educational content, expanded my company’s visibility.
Later, I created a leadership blog based upon posts from contributors I obtained from my group. Now, the blog is ranked among the top 15 leadership blogs in the world.
Growing Your Community Online and Offline
As convenient as the Internet is to foster a community, never forget the importance of interacting with real people face-to-face. Start by attending local meet-ups, attending free events and joining professional associations.
Whether in-person or through online networks, the power of communities is undeniable.
If you don’t believe me? Just ask Mark Zuckerberg.
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Photo Credit: Ann Taylor
Tom Schulte is the CEO of Recalibrate Professional Development and the Executive Director of Linked2Leadership, a global community dedicated to leadership development, organizational health, and personal and professional growth.
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