Haterz gonna hate, but I love Facebook. I’m not going to justify or apologize for it–I want to shout it from the rooftops! Facebook is my news channel dedicated to the people I love–albeit with a few commercial breaks. Thanks to Facebook, I watched my cousins turn from babies into boys, virtually attended my sister’s bridal shower when I was a country away, and got to vote on the first drafts of our family Christmas card (see RKA cameo below):

made the cut.

But the real reason I’m lovin’ Facebook these days is because, well it’s a badass networking tool. If you haven’t checked out what Facebook Groups have to offer, you’ve missed the Love Boat, in my opinion. Facebook Groups allow you to connect with others who share your niche, passion, or personal development goal–to name a few. Over the last few years, I started using Facebook more purposefully, as a writer, an activist, and finally a business owner: my goal wasn’t to make money by putting my biz on Facebook, it was to engage with more people, build more relationships, and connect with more people, businesses, and organizations aligned with my values and vision.

Joining Facebook Groups that put me in touch with folks in my industry or interest area enriched my writing, my activism, and my business–not because it increased my profits (it didn’t) but because it enhanced my sense of accountability, strengthened my awesomepreneur support network, and helped me continue innovating by constantly presenting me with new ideas, perspectives, and information. My Facebook networking time is an investment in myself.  I find that when I keep the bottom line out of my goals for Group participation, it is easier for me to connect on a heart level with fellow group members: this allows me to absorb their wisdom and let it grow into my next big idea. Basically, when it comes to Facebook Groups, I choose sparks over sales.  Of course, referrals and partnerships do often blossom from my bottom line-free Facebook engagement. But since it’s not the goal, it’s a bonus. And we all love those.

As for my Facebook Business Page? That deserves its own tip. Stay tuned.

In the meantime, check out this intro to using Facebook for Professional Networking from Mashable. Then, get Groupin’.

Tip #33 for working with heart – use Facebook more (not kidding).

Speaking of Facebook, have you entered to win a custom-designed Facebook Business Page on facebook.com/RKAink? Share your awesome tip for working with heart and we could ink your Page for free! Read more about what you could win.

facebook, networking, personal development, social media strategy