One of the best ways to continue building relationships with people you’ve met online is to meet them in person. However, if you don’t have your picture on your social media profiles, nor on your website (or you don’t have a website linked in your profile), you’re making it really hard for people to connect with you in person. Without knowing what you look like, people have to reach out specifically to set up a time and place to meet (which can be hard for people who are a little shy). Also, people may not know you’re at an event if they don’t know what you look like in person.
The Man (or Woman) Behind the Curtain
While we do buy from companies, in reality, we buy from people. We like to know the people we’re buying from… what do they stand for, what do they like, and what makes them tick? People will be more likely to buy from companies where they’ve been able to make a personal connection. Just little things like pictures and names can go a long way to helping make that personal connection with potential customers.
Unexpected Networking Opportunities
Sometimes you run into people where you least expect… when you’re at a restaurant, a store, out of state. That is why you’re using those location networks like Foursquare, right? By having your picture on your profiles, people are more likely to recognize you when they see you somewhere. These unexpected networking opportunities can lead to stronger relationships and good things down the line.
More Approachable
Having a picture on your online profiles really goes a long way to making you more approachable to others. Because you’re seen as more approachable (or friendly), people will be more likely to feel like they can come over and say hi (that’s what you’d like, right?). People also like to do business with people they feel comfortable with and being approachable and friendly goes a long way towards making people feel comfortable.
Do you find people with pictures on their profiles more approachable? How do you make yourself more approachable online?
(photo by misteraitch, on Flickr)