Using Business Networking Sites:
Getting The Most Out Of Ryze

Note: Although this article was written for clients with specific questions about the Ryze network, the advice is general and can be applied to many of the social and business networking sites.

Now that you've joined Ryze, you want to get the most benefit out of this resource. The first step is making sure that your page reflects your business and yourself in the best light. Think about what your page should say, and what it should look like. It is often possible to use some of the material from your main business website, and you should also include information about yourself as well. After all, the point of networking is to form relationships. Get to know people and let them get to know you. This is how you find new customers and partners for referals or collaboration.

Have pictures: People tend to have a better and quicker response when they can "see" who they're talking to. Free Ryze members are allowed to host one image on the Ryze server. That image will be the first picture that appears on your page, and it is the image that appears with your name both in network posts and when you send a PM (Private Message).

Some people use their business logo as their main image. This is ok as long as it's a well done image that displays large enough for people to get a good impression, but not so large that it distorts your page. (Whatever image you choose will appear a set size in posts depending on your membership level, so it is a matter of balance.)

Obviously, you can also use pictures that are hosted elsewhere; it only takes a few simple codes. Appropriate images illustrate your message and add interest to your page.

Participate. Join and post to the networks: Once you are a member, there are hundreds of networks to choose from. You can select based on your profession, hobbies and interests, or other personal preferences. Your choices should also be based on the amount of time you have available and plan to spend on networking activities. Some networks will be less active or you will only join for information and learning. These will require less time.

You should, however, join networks where you are able to contribute. Plan some regular time to read the topics and post, post, post. No one will know you are there if all you do is "lurk". Answer a question. Give your opinion. Start a topic about something that you know about and that will be interesting to the members. Just be sure to read and follow each network's rules about advertising and business promotions.

Use a good signature line: All posts you make in the networks should have your signature file with them. A good signature line should have your name of course, but you can also include several other items including your business slogan, your contact information, your website address(es), and any current special offers.

If you are a paid member you can create a signature file that will be automatically added whenever you click the "use signature" box at the bottom of all posting areas. But even if you aren't a gold or platinum member, you can create your own. Simply save a notepad file with the information you want to use, then copy and paste to the end of your posts.

A couple of tips - only post a business or other phone number that you want the world to know. Ryze network pages are on the internet and anyone can see them. Be careful about what you post. Also, when you list your URL or business website make sure you include the entire address including the "http" at the begining. This will make it a live clickable link and readers can visit your site immediately without having to remember or re-type it.

Add your ryze link to other personal and networking pages: If you go to the Ryze home page and look towards the bottom on the right side you will find instructions for placing the "I'm on Ryze" logo on any other page and linking it to your Ryze personal page.

I hope this information helps you get started on your way to using Ryze as the profitable and enjoyable resource that it can be. Please feel free to call on me if there's any way that I can help with your business writing, web design or marketing needs.

Author Bio

Vanessa Shelton is a web designer, marketing consultant and copywriter with over 20 years experience. She uses "The Right Words - The Right Way" to turn your vision and ideas into reality. With newsletters, article marketing, the website refresh, and more in her arsenal, Vanessa is ready to help small business owners and independent professionals get attention, and get results. Visit http://www.vanessasdesk.com to see how Vanessa can help you.