“So-and-so has added you as a friend on Facebook.” Have you received a message like this lately? Has someone asked you to join his or her “MySpace” network? Even if you have checked out a video on YouTube, you have officially joined the social networking world. Wikipedia.org lists over 117 different social networking sites around the world, and according to the site, social networking “has revolutionized the way we communicate and share information with one another in today’s society.”
Social networking also is useful as a business contact tool. For example, LinkedIn includes features that promote networking between businesses and with individuals. You might be able to create an online “meeting place” where you can connect with other business people in your community. There are many possibilities here. FaceBook is another site that allows you to create a profile and “advertise” your chiropractic services. Having a presence on several social networking sites might be a good way to interact with other professionals or to present yourself as an expert. Just be certain to maintain a professional presence.
For example:
• Your photo should look professional – no piercings, wild hair, or unusual clothes.
•Everything on your site should reflect your professional image, from your music, to quotes and videos.
•Blog about chiropractic and answer questions about chiropractic’s benefits.
•Include information about your family, your dog, and your hobbies to create a personal interest in you and allow people to get to know you outside of the office.
Before you jump in, search several social networking sites for examples of chiropractors who have created profiles, and contact them. Ask about their experiences on the site and whether they have found the site useful in gaining patients or networking with other professionals in their location. Remember, social networking sites are global, but your audience is local.
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