You're a Direct Sales professional. How can you use technology to improve your networking skills?

1 Use social media strategically

Social media platforms can be great for reaching out to new contacts, sharing valuable content, and staying in touch with your existing network. However, it is important to use them wisely and professionally. When creating a personal brand across different platforms, make sure to use high-quality images, relevant keywords, and engaging bios to showcase your personality, values, and expertise. Avoid spamming your network with constant sales pitches or irrelevant posts; instead, focus on providing value, solving problems, and building trust with your audience. Joining and participating in groups, communities, and events related to your niche, industry, or interests can help you expand your network and learn from others. Additionally, don't forget to follow up with your contacts and respond to their comments, messages, and questions. Social media should be used to start and maintain conversations – not to end them.

2 Use video conferencing effectively

Video conferencing is a powerful tool for connecting with your network on a deeper level, but to make a good impression and avoid technical glitches, you need to use it effectively. Before the meeting, test your equipment, internet connection, and software to ensure that your camera, microphone, and speakers are working properly and that you have a stable and secure connection. During the meeting, remember to mute yourself when you're not speaking or when there's background noise. Additionally, dress appropriately and choose a professional and tidy background. Multitasking or checking your phone during the meeting can show disrespect and disinterest to your network, so instead focus on the meeting and engage with your participants.

3 Use email marketing smartly

Email marketing is a cost-effective and efficient way to communicate with your network and nurture your leads. It can help you deliver personalized and relevant messages, increase your brand awareness, and drive more sales. However, it is important to use it wisely to avoid spamming or annoying your subscribers. To ensure success, segment your list based on interests, preferences, and behaviors to tailor content and offers. Additionally, find an optimal frequency and timing for emails based on analytics and feedback. When writing subject lines, headlines, and body copy, use simple language, emotional triggers, and benefits-oriented statements to capture attention. Furthermore, include a clear call to action in each email to guide the network to the next step in their journey with you.

4 Use CRM software efficiently

CRM software is a system that helps you manage your network's information, interactions, and transactions. To get the most out of this technology, you need to use it efficiently to optimize your productivity and performance. For example, make sure to update your CRM regularly and accurately with the most current data on your network, such as their names, emails, phone numbers, preferences, and purchase history. Additionally, don't rely on your CRM alone to build relationships with your network; use it to support and enhance your networking instead. Furthermore, use your CRM to generate and analyze reports and insights so you can measure and improve your networking results. Finally, don't hesitate to ask for help or training if you're not familiar with your CRM; use it to simplify and streamline your networking. Technology can be a great ally for your direct sales business if you use it wisely and appropriately. By following these tips and tools, you can improve your networking skills and grow your network with technology.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?