6 Statistics That Influence Your Mix of Media, Marketing and Mingling

Given that we live, work and play in two worlds, in-person and online, finding your best mix of media, marketing and mingling can influence meeting the right people, joining the best communities, getting involved with them and communicating to them.

We know the benefits and value of networking with people in person, but some compelling trends and statistics emerged in 2012?that were shared in an infographic titled, ?100 Social Networking Statistics and Facts for 2012? created by Creotivo:

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Below are 6 statistics that appear to influence your mix of media, marketing and mingling:

• 40% socialize more online than they do face to face.
• 1 out of every 7 minutes spent online is spent on Facebook.
• 83% of brands use Facebook as #1 tool for business.
• 53% of brands use Twitter as #2 tool for business.
• 61% of brands use LinkedIn as their primary professional networking site.
• 53% of employers have formal social media policies.

My recent relocation to the Tampa Bay area had many moving parts. Since I was familiar with the area and knew people in business, I decided to network people instead of events, feeling that?they would naturally lead me to others. And this approach is working.

I not only picked up the phone, but used LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter prior to moving to connect with people and ask if they could make some introductions for me. ?Once I was moved, I joined a chamber, a business networking group, an arts facility and the local cycling club. I put these communities in place so I could ?meet a diverse mix of local people who share many of my interests.

A question that comes up often is, ?What do you do?? When it does, I lead with my career story, which allows me to be more personal with people. The ?story? of your story is a great connector.

Social Media Makes Connecting Easier and is Possible Every Day?

Locally as well as far and wide, it allows us to find and build communities of like minded and spirited people fairly quickly. Less is actually more. A smaller group of more targeted connections is far more valuable than a huge group of followers who are really just numbers on a list.

The best way of determining what media?s are right for you is to observe what others are doing who are engaging you. Ask, survey and tap your community to find out what is working best for them. LinkedIn, Facebook ?and Twitter are my big three. But use what works for you, your business, your customers and your industry.

Use Content Marketing by Making Your Content About Helping Others

We all have something to offer and we should be sharing it often and freely. This is the best way to educate people about who we are, what we do and how we can solve problems. People drive their businesses today so getting out front via content marketing is not a bad thing or an ego thing as long the intent is to serve others and not always be selling.

Celebrate results, the impact of what you do, what you have learned ?and how it has and can benefit others. ?When you market the results up front not the product or service, it demonstrates how you solve problems. That, ultimately, is your best sales story.?

Mingle Through Purposeful Networking, Groups and a Commitment to Get Involved?

This can yield big dividends. ?Networking has always had a prominence in growing personal and professional connections and reputation. Interacting, connecting and gathering socially in person is the most natural thing we do. Networking in person always takes priority, but your online communication platforms support, solidify and grow your relationships in between those times. In person and online networking is now interdependent and mutually beneficial.

Finding that perfect mix of media, marketing and mingling is how we make ourselves stand out, claim our space and build loyal communities and customers. ?These 7 common sense tips for networking are great reminders of just how easy this can be.

What influences your best mix of media, personal marketing and mingling?

Stats Photo via Shutterstock

About Deborah Shane

Deborah Shane is an author, speaker, media host, business and career brand/branding consultant. Deborah hosts her blog, Deborah Shane Toolbox, and weekly business radio show, Deborah Shane Metropolis. She writes for several national business, career, branding, business and marketing sites. Her new book, "Career Transition: Make the Shift is available through all major book sellers.

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Source: http://smallbiztrends.com/2013/02/6-stats-influence-business-networking.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=6-stats-influence-business-networking