In contacts with others on social networks many people are so focused on getting a sign up or to sell a product or service that they overlook the fact that you can benefit from people in other ways than in terms of memberships or money.

I have experienced this many times. Often after I have approved a contact request, I shortly after receive a PM with the request to join this or that (what is a wrong approach in the first place in a first contact). After answering that I do not want that they immediately loose interest and move on to the next.

It also amazes me that many people post articles but never seem to take the trouble to view the comments on it. Valuable insights can be gained by reading those comments and by giving feedback on them. Even if a person did not sign up or buy something, this person may have tips, skills or insights of value for you. Or you might be able to give good advice to the commenter.

When you post articles and comments and you do not interact you are not communicating. You are a radio that is broadcasting. And probably one of the thousands of other radio's broadcasting the very same.

There are so many knowledgeable people on social media sites that are willing to help you and to advice you! Knowledge is power! And so are connections, especially from respected well known businesses or marketers. Many people miss the marketing boat because they are broadcasting but fail to receive. They miss out on possible new insights and personal growth that may improve their marketing skills. When you make the effort to help others you gain respect and maybe loyalty that may result in a sale or partnership later.

The values of new insights, skills and connections are long term. You can't measure those in dollars and yet they are priceless. Like respect you can't buy those values. They have to be earned. By offering help to others and by giving credit and being supportive to those who helped you. You can be supportive in other ways than signing up i.e. by sharing an article or to write a comments on it that ads value.

I learned a lot from interaction with others, this lit the fuse for my passion for social marketing. On of my favorite networks is APSense where I can find great new connections and articles.

Here on APSense all features and add ons work together thus giving a good roi on time investment. Please note that this article that was written for APSense but the tips apply on amy network in general.

There is nothing wrong with advertising your products/services/affiliate links on business networks. I do that myself. However you will have better results with that if you do not forget to be "social" on business networks.