By Rosalie Marcus, http://www.promobizwoman.com

You already know networking is one of the smartest ways to build your business. If you’re like most women in promotional products sales you’re already building sales through in-person networking. What about online social and professional networking sites? Are you using them to gain business and referrals?  

Online social networking sites can be a valuable marketing tool. You’ll instantly have a network of millions.  

Here are five smart reasons to test the waters:

1. You’ll boost your credibility and visibility. People do business with other people they know, like and trust. Having a presence on the web increases your visibility and credibility and can help build your promotional products sales and referrals.

2. You’ll be search-able on the web. These days everyone is using Google to check out the competition. You can control the profile you create on sites such as Linked-In, Facebook and Ning and what your most wanted clients read about you.

3. You’ll make valuable contacts and be able to form joint ventures and alliances. In tough economic times joint ventures and business alliances are a smart way to boost your promotional products sales.

4. You’ll attract business without having to leave your home or office. Increased gas prices are here to stay. Social and professional online networking lets you make valuable contacts that can lead to increased business without expensive transportation costs.

5. Clients and friends you’ve lost contact with will be able to easily find you. The web presents a global networking of millions of contacts. You’ll make connections with people from your past who may become valuable to building your sales.

 To suceed with social networking you need to be knowledgeable. Get started the right way by attending The Women Working Smarter Success Circle call on November 20th!  

Click here to attend this interactive call with special guest expert,  Allison Gower, from The Platform Group Gallery, and get started attracting more business, more credibility and more visibility.

Allison is a social networking wiz and one of the most knowledgeable women in promotional products sales. You’ll learn what works and how to start your online presence. Plus, you’ll get a very special discount from Allison’s company The Platform Group Gallery, that you won’t find anywhere else. Register for the call here.

PS I’d love to connect with you on Facebook. Click on the link to view my profile and join my network of friends.

Have you tried social networking? What are your favorite sites ? Your comments are welcome.