We all have hundreds (or thousands) of online connections, but how many of those people do we actually know? And how many really know us? You might have impressive networks on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc., but that doesn’t mean they would even consider using you for a mortgage or referring someone else. We can’t use the number of online connections we have to gauge how connected we actually are. If we want to maximize online connections and build real relationships, we need to take time to develop them, and then consistently maintain them. Whether it’s to extend your reach, strengthen your brand, meet more prospects, expand your professional network, or build relationships more generally, loan officers can’t overlook the potential of a prolific online community. Here are a few ideas to help maximize your efforts and strengthen online connections:
Be Sure to Connect One-On-One
Most online platforms have a private messenger function. This is a terrific way to have more detailed, personal conversations with your connections. Don’t be apprehensive about being the one to start the conversation—just about everyone sends and receives messages through one of these platforms on a regular basis. If it’s someone you’ve connected with in the past, pick up that thread of conversation. Direct messages can often be more conversational than a back-and-forth email exchange, and they can help you stay connected even when you’re not meeting in person. Be sure to respond promptly to any messages you receive, as a slow response time will certainly harm your relationship-strengthening efforts.
Produce Content Consistently
Your connections need to see that you’re present online. When you regularly produce content, you’re making sure you’re on people’s radars. It lets your connections get a sense of who you are, and allows them to learn more about you, even if you’re not engaging with them on a one-on-one basis. It underscores that you’re passionate about what you do, and that you’re an expert in your field. Keep in mind that your content needs to be something that people actually want to read. Posting the same article that everyone else in the company is posting can often do more harm than good. You’re looking for relevant, original content.
Engage With Other People’s Content
We need to think about what our connections want out of a relationship, as well. If you have contacts who regularly share content, show that you’re present and engaged by ‘liking’ their posts or leaving a thoughtful comment. This helps demonstrate that you’re an active member of the online community, and it motivates people to return the favor.
Cultivate Your Community
Think of yourself as the moderator of your online community. You’re entirely responsible for creating an environment that people will want to be active in. Stimulate discussion and respond to every comment. Share questions and engage with everyone who answers. The more people feel like they’re being heard—and appreciated—the more they’ll participate in the future.
Our online connections are a vital resource, but only when we’ve learned how best to maintain them. By implementing some intentional strategies, though, we can use these online platforms to support a thriving network of real relationships.
If you’d like to talk more about any of these ideas, or you need help developing a strategy to improve your relationships with online connections, please reach out. I’d be happy to set aside some time to connect.
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