Networking Online: Is it enough?

"Its not what you know, its who you know." We've all heard this statement hundreds, if not thousands of times, and as bloggers and people involved in social media, no one networks better than us! Why? Because we all know, that by establishing relationships, and getting to know as many people as we can, doors start opening up and opportunities start presenting themselves. 

So why am I telling you something most of you already know? Well, the purpose of this post isn't to show you why you should network or what the value in it is, but rather, why networking offline is just as important (if not more) than networking online. 

Sure its great talking and listening to really successful people in your industry via Twitter, reading their blogs and learning how they approach business, but the truth is, it isn't enough. Although you can find people to talk to and interact with online, nothing solidifies a relationship between two people more, than interacting face to face. There's just a certain energy there, that you can't find anywhere else (which is also why most salesman have a better closing ratio face-to-face than online or over the phone.)

This is why I want to stress the importance of not only getting involved in your community, but getting to know your community. Try and learn what businesses are around you and figure out how you can help each other. Whether its establishing partnerships, trading contract work, or collaborating on new ideas, getting to know the businesses in your city (and the people behind them) is a MUST DO. It only fuels the possibilities. 

Running a new media marketing agency, I'm constantly looking to meet new people and businesses in the Orlando area, and figure out ways we can work together. Whether its iPhone development, video production, or web designers, the more people I know, the more options I have, the more value I can provide for my clients. 

That being said, here are some ways/places to network (off-line) that can really expand your reach and make an impact with like minded people. 

1) Tweet-Ups - Tweet-Ups are essentially "meet-ups" that are put together and promoted for on Twitter. What's great about Tweet-ups, is that they are usually in a very casual, fun environment (like a bar or restaurant) and attract tons of local professionals who are all looking to network and see what everyone is up to. Not only that, but its a great place to meet all those people you've been talking to on Twitter! While each Tweet-Up is a little different, almost every city has them. If they don't, plan one and promote it on Twitter! (You may be surprised at the response.)

2) Associations - Associations are not only great for meeting like-minded professionals in your area, but many of them also provide excellent education and mentoring opportunities. If you live in the Central Florida area, a great association to check out is Doterati. They are a great organization that has been working really hard to create a community in the Central Florida area, where digital innovators can connect, learn, and share. They are playing a big part in helping Central Florida establish itself as a leader in digital innovation.  

3) Conferences - Tech Conferences are like the SuperBowl of networking.  This is where you get to meet your favorite internet gurus, hear some amazing guest speakers, and at one conference, even take part in a crazy pie eating contest.  With that said, if you haven't been to a conference yet, you need to. Depending on the conference, there is more value packed in those 3 days, then a lot of people get in a lifetime. 

Here are some really cool conferences to check out:

IzeaFest 2009

Elite Retreat 2009

So what are your thoughts on networking? With the growth of the Internet, can people just get by on their online relationships? How important do you consider face-to-face networking? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comment section.