Advantages of Online Business Networking

Here are some ways to network that I've personally found very effective:

Membership Site Forums - When someone is willing to pay to be part of a membership site then it really shows they are serious about their business. I've found it to be very effective to network on the forums that these membership sites offer. Remember, though, that networking is about giving just as much (or more) then you get so don't expect to go in and get tons of business straight away.

Blogs - We already know that people who post comments on our blogs are already interested in what we have to say. Why not send them a personalized reply saying thank you for the comment? This may open up a conversation with them or it might just lay the foundation for later potential partnerships and joint ventures.

Online Networking - There are many sites out there that host webinars specifically for networking. These are great places to go to get to know other business owners. When you visit these type of rooms put your first and last name so that you will be recognized. There are also many online conferences and seminars in your niche that you can attend and get to know other business owners.

Social Networking - Of course the huge trend over the last couple of years has been social networking. Websites like Twitter and Facebook have been touted as amazing ways to network and get to know your target market. 

A word of warning here. These types of websites can be huge time suckers. You must be careful not to waste time and take away from real business networking. Set aside only the time you have available, use it and then get back to your other business tasks. Social networking is certainly a great way to build solid, long lasting business connections.