Online Versus Face-to-face Networking

By on November 2nd, 2009

While these two concepts don’t need to be at odds with one another, I’m curious to know how people perceive the difference between networking online versus in person. Most people do both, whether consciously or not, but what’s the difference between the two?

One answer is that our online networks tend to be a lot more widespread than our in person networks, including a lot more people. However, when we connect with someone in person, we tend to create a stronger link on an individual basis.

What do you think are some of the differences between online and face-to-face networking?

Related posts:

  1. Preparing to Attend a Networking Event
  2. How do you Network?
  3. Using LinkedIn Effectively
  4. Business and Social Media – Part 1
  5. Business and Social Media – Part 3
Categorized under: Advice for Small Business Owners, work, Work at Home.
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  • http://liorh.com/ Lior H

    While online networking has a nice convenience and exposure factor, I find that face-to-face networking is a much more concrete way to build relationships. It’s different when you chat with someone who you can’t even see or get a sense of what they’re all about than it is meeting them in person in a relaxed environment along with other people. The way I see it, online networking is a good way to find out about events where you can meet in person as opposed to just building a “virtual” relationship. Personally I have always preferred in-person meetings as opposed to email whenever practical.

  • http://liorh.com Lior H

    While online networking has a nice convenience and exposure factor, I find that face-to-face networking is a much more concrete way to build relationships. It’s different when you chat with someone who you can’t even see or get a sense of what they’re all about than it is meeting them in person in a relaxed environment along with other people. The way I see it, online networking is a good way to find out about events where you can meet in person as opposed to just building a “virtual” relationship. Personally I have always preferred in-person meetings as opposed to email whenever practical.

  • admin

    @Lior H
    Thanks Lior! You’re absolutely right – a significant percentage of communication between people is non-verbal, but about the subtle movements people make, the way they stand, the tone of voice, etc. Without meeting people in person, it’s much harder to judge how someone is really responding to you.

  • admin

    @Lior H
    Thanks Lior! You’re absolutely right – a significant percentage of communication between people is non-verbal, but about the subtle movements people make, the way they stand, the tone of voice, etc. Without meeting people in person, it’s much harder to judge how someone is really responding to you.