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As some of you may know apart from running The Work at Home Woman I also work part-time as a Social Network Liaison. Recently one of my clients asked, “Is it okay for me to approach people about business opportunities on Twitter”?

With the rise in online social networking, it has become easier than ever to connect with people from all around the world, but with this said there are still social mores that should be followed when networking online.

As with networking in person the same rules and social etiquette should generally be followed. Here are 5 principles that I use to guide myself to remain authentic online and off.

1. Treat others how you wish to be treated. I apply this rule to all areas of my life; I always take a moment to think, “How would I like to be treated in this situation”? I then apply those actions online and in my interactions of my day to day life.

2. Give more than you take. Send out lots of Re-Tweets on Twitter, give lots of link love and comment on numerous blogs, the goal is to be generous online. Not only do people appreciate these gestures, but it will also help identify you has a caring and genuine person online.

3. Take time to cultivate relationships. Networking shouldn’t be a “one night stand” it should be a union of two people coming together sharing ideas and helping each other out. Remember that what you contribute is what you will get out of it.

4. Find ways to reciprocate. If someone includes a link to your website and you see a lot of traffic from it, perhaps you can thank them by giving them a free banner ad on your site or in your monthly newsletter. The goal is to let them know that you appreciate their kindness – it is also a great way to continue to build and grow the relationship.

5. Network to help people. When helping people out don’t think, “What will I get in return”? But help them for the sheer knowledge that you’re making a difference in someone’s life. Not only will you feel good internally, but usually your good deeds are rewarded tenfold down the road.

Here are some fantastic blog posts on being authentic; I highly recommend reading each and every one. Leo Babauta’s post is more about being authentic in your life, but I feel that it relates to the discussion very well. The last link is to a Blog Catalog discussion on being authentic, do check it out there is a lot of great commentary on there.

Conversation Agent by Valeria Maltoni: 100 Thoughts on Marketing

Zen Habits by Leo Babauta: Love Life Not Stuff

Chris Brogan: 19 Presence Management Chores You COULD Do Every Day

One Cool Site – Blogging Tips by Time Thief: Blogging: Online Presence and Authenticity

Blog Catalog Discussion – Are You Authentic Online?

How do remain authentic online and in your business? I invite you to share your thoughts below.

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