Are you a business owner, corporation or consultant who just started using Social Media? Do you see this as huge way for you to grow your business, increase your revenues and visibility? Are you jumping on the Twitter and Facebook Bandwagon?

Before you run out and create your profile and start with your “strategy” to grow your business I’d like to pose a question:

Why did you come to the party?

Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook give us an awesome opportunity as business leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals. But it’s not just to grow your mailing list and bottom line. The greatest opportunities are ones that can translate to bottom line growth, but only if leveraged well. Cultivating relationships, building your reputation and listening and learning from the community are invaluable. People buy from people they like and trust.

I like to quote Franki Durbin, amazing designer, blogger and a lady who “gets it” regarding Twitter (and Social Media). It’s a “cocktail party”. Multiple conversations about any and everything going on all in the same place. People laughing and chatting, sharing information, building relationships and making connections. Did you come to the party to listen and learn, or to promote yourself and your products? Did you show up to the party to contribute to the community or to find the “hot people to know” so you can connect and further your business or career goals?

To help you get started in Social Media, here are a few of my tips to help your party experience be a beautiful one, for you and for those you encounter.

Don’t just shove your business card in someone’s face

In Social Media, your “card” may be your blog, a link to your site or a project you’re working on. Don’t just post links to your site all day, interact share. Nothing will make someone walk away at a cocktail party faster than someone who is just trying to sell them something from the start of the conversation.

Be a social butterfly…everyone counts

Work the room! Float around, learn from everyone. Don’t just follow or befriend famous people or icons. There are some great people there with lots of experience and information, if you get to know them. Follow lots of people who have interesting things to say. Comment on things you think are interesting and funny, interact with people and respond to them.

Balance Listening and Talking

No one wants to be stuck with the person who is performing a soliloquy. It’s a conversation. Listen to what others are saying and interact. Don’t monopolize the conversation. It’s a great way to build relationships and it’s a great way to learn.

Help people get to where they are trying to go

Want to be memorable? Help someone! Answer questions, post information and help people reach their goals. If you see someone post a question, send the answer. Learn about what other people are passionate about. Did you find a great site or article? Share resources that will help people reach their goals. Everyone loves people who help.

Have FUN!!

Above all, parties are about having fun! Enjoy the interactions, laugh, be yourself and watch your friends (and clients as a beautiful by-product) grow.