Just over a year ago, I got this bright idea to start a consulting business. I had just been laid off from my software development job; had just had my baby girl and did not want to return to corporate America. When I tell you I had no idea what it took to start and grow a successful business, I’m talking about clueless with a capital “C”. One thing I did know was that I wanted to network with like-minded women in business.
Where My Sistas At?
So, I turned to the search engines and googled “black business women”. And guess which social network appeared on the very first page? That’s right: LaShanda Henry’s Black Business Women Online.
When I first joined, I was very quiet. Honestly, I was intimidated! Of all the great and accomplished women on the network, what did I have to contribute? What could I possibly say that they hadn’t already heard? Now keep in mind, I was completely new to social networking. I wasn’t even on Facebook at the time. So, I watched and learned. Learned and watched. Finally, it was my turn to make an impact.
BBWO has taught me how to:
1. Research my target market.
2. Engage my audience.
3. Effectively network with others.
4. Promote my business the right way.
5. Be a resource.
6. Distinguish myself as a leader.
7. Drive traffic to my website.
8. Convert website traffic into leads.
9. Turn leads into sales.
10. Use social media to my advantage.
11. Spend my time wisely online.
12. Support other women business owners.
13. Be a better blogger.
14. Build rapport with my prospects.
15. Gain loyal customers.
16. Build my list quickly.
17. Love me for being me.
It didn’t take long for me to get in where I fit in. Before I knew it, I was an active participant and loving every minute of it!
New relationships I’ve gained from BBWO:
18. Friends
19. Business Partners
20. Clients
21. Referrals
22. Coaches
23. Mentors
24. Prospects
25. Supporters
So, what’s your excuse?
Take advantage of this awesome network with its people, tools and resources. I now belong to several social networks and this is unlike any other.
- Engage
- Inspire
- Connect
- Learn
- Grow
Don’t just sit there. Take control of your destiny today! Now! I thank God for giving LaShanda this incredible vision and the know-how to see it to fruition. Now, what are you going to do with the vision He gave to you?
Replies
Lavada this is such a great article. LaShanda, and BBWO truly is a great outlet for women and all business owners, I must utilize my page more often. In the past, I have worked with you and you are so professional as well as caring when dealing with your clients. I will surely recommend your services as well as your products. BBWO is a perfect example of why we all need to be utilizing social media to enhance our business, and increase our bottom line.
Looking forward to working with you again, Daphne Dwritewell Williams
http://www.Dwritewell.com
Lorillia
This is wonderful Lavada, and so truly appreciated. Your post motivated me to create a special promo code for all the entrepreneurs who want to join us here on Black Business Women Online. The promo code is (LAV25)! More details here - http://www.facebook.com/black.business.women.online/posts/205394302...
Fantastic article Lavada. This proves that Social Networking is indeed a benefit to businesswomen. My hats off to LaShanda, I also consider BBWO to be one of the best examples of social networking as well. You've learned well, because I see you all over the place and your input and comments are very helpful.
Trina
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