I was working on an article last week about
unusual marketing in public restrooms. I posed
the question to
my Facebook friends asking the most unexpected place they’ve
found an ad. It was an immediate and varied
response including some perspectives and experiences I was able to
use in the article.
I am new to Facebook, but I am eager to share by participating
in conversations online, getting opinions, sharing experiences and
catching up with people who are very important to me---but I don’t
see on a regular basis. This has been a great
joy connecting with people where miles and time have come between
us. I have been surprised at how the joy and
satisfaction of these relationships springs to life online.
The biggest surprise has been the new and rich
ideas I am enjoying as a result of my new and what some might call,
“friendsters” I’m meeting online. I am
discovering new ideas and perspectives as I share my experiences
and ask questions. For instance, a new Facebook
friend who has a cleaning business focused on public buildings has
a perspective on what many business owners
do wrong to turn off people who visit their
facilities. I know I have in the past made some
judgments about a business based on a visit to their
restroom. It isn’t just cleanliness, but strong
air freshener or even questionable colors, in a restroom can change
the way visitors view a business.
At a time when we are all trying to do more with less to succeed in a down economy, I realize great ideas can come from anywhere. I’m excited to connect and talk with close friends and
those I don’t know well, but are willing to
share their thoughts and perspectives with me.
My employer, SBTV.com has an online
community especially for small business owners, self-employed,
and aspiring entrepreneurs where you can connect, blog, podcast,
and find resources online to grow and promote your
business.