One of the most plentiful resources available on the Internet, is "the List". There are thousands of them- for every topic imaginable. Some for business topics, some for personal topics, all there to discuss issues relating to the list's theme. All comprised of people who, by the nature of their association with the list, share a common interest. Talk about a target market!

However, no one likes someone who joins a list and begins to immediately push products and services on the list and it's participants. A list is really no different than other groups you may belong to- the rules are still the same.

1. Build strong relationships first.

2. Determine client/customer needs.

3. Determine how you can satisfy that need.

One of the best ways to start building relationships on a list is to participate. Ask questions, answer questions and get known for whatever it is that you are good at. People will approach you privately to ask questions or seek advice.

Next, welcome every new person to the list that joins. Even if your list does not use introductions, watch for new email address to the list and send a welcome message. I use electronic post cards and send a message of either "Welcome" if it's an introduction post, or "Great Post" if the person says they've been lurking a while and are just posting.

Starting threads that you know a lot about will be a great way to network on a list. You will get to see who knows a lot about your topic and therefore have someone to exchange ideas, suppliers and clients with. You will also find out who doesn't know anything about what you do and you may see a potential client here.

If it feels comfortable for you, the use of humor can be a very good relationship building tool on a list. This is one to use sparingly and carefully as not everyone thinks the same things are funny. And not everyone can tell a good joke, either.

Articles that you host on your website, or have accessible by autoresponder are also great tools to provide to your list participants. The Internet is still an informational tool, and informational posts are very much accepted and appreciated on lists.

And lastly, networking on a list might even involve controversy. Some of it you may even be involved in. Controversy shows you another side of people. From controversy, you may determine persons who think just like you or just opposite to you. You will see what's important to the persons who comment about the controversy. You will be able to use that information to make intelligent decisions about doing business with or for someone, or just building a relationship with or for someone. Controversy is good and necessary. What a great learning tool as well.

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Nancy Roebke
Executive Director, ProfNet
ProfNet@emi.net * http://www.profnet.org

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