This discussion of Armchair BEA is all about Networking.

This is a new experience for me…not just blogging, but networking.  I am a friendly, outgoing person who strives to make all those I come in contact with feel comfortable and at ease.  However, when it comes to putting myself “out there”, when it comes to promoting myself or what I love to do (read/write), when it comes to asking others for help in getting me “in the game”…I am absolutely terrible.  Terrible. 

Starting my blog nine months ago was step one.  Finding other bloggers and commenting on their posts and sites was step two.  And then, they responded…I heard back from like-minded people and I was floored.  Other people actually cared about what I had to say…I loved it.  So, my “networking” just sort of happened.

I am motivated to continue networking when I see increased traffic to my site and I come across awesome people online.  I’m concentrating my efforts by joining weekly memes, seeking out other blogs and commenting, being more active on Twitter, and just generally getting my blog seen.

In my career as an English teacher, I discuss books and writing all day long without “plugging” my blog since I want this to be separate from my teaching career.  I tried joining a book club a while back, but everyone was so busy there were never any meetings, and it all just fell apart.  So as far as “real” people are concerned, my networking is essentially non-existent.

Having said that, I’ve met and am meeting people that I highly respect and admire online.  There are so many versatile, fresh, inspiring book and writing bloggers that I feel this is the forum for me.  

I was inspired by all the little bits on networking I’ve read at Armchair BEA, so I contacted a book blogger I love to see if he will feature me on his “Friends” page.  Haven’t heard back yet, but the lesson is…it never hurts to ask!

My only tip for networking as of yet is not to stop blogging, reading and commenting.  And, Tweet often.  I’m sure there are other more efficient ways to network, for now this seems to be working for me.