My Experience with the RYZE Network
I've been a member of the RYZE
Network since September 2003. The attraction for me was the
high level of involvement and dedication that members of the network
have. Those posting come from all over the world. Also, the network
has a diverse list of special interest groups. But most importantly,
people on the network post contract opportunities in applicable discussion
forums.
Profile
Because people post their photos, interests, talents and
professional information, members can easily find others who have a
natural connection. I, for example, was contacted by another
web designer from Minneapolis who also worked with the University of
Minnesota because I listed my profession and a link to my web site.
Discussion Groups
I used to belong to a discussion group called "Post
Your Site for Expert Review" lead by web designer Merav
Knafo. In this group, people can request help from experts of various
backgrounds, interests and specialties. Though I am no longer
active, you can still view
the sites and the advice I gave them in addition to other posts
I make when corresponding with professionals in the group.
Convenient
This environment is nice, because you can network with others
when you have time. Every day, I get anywhere between 20 and 30 new
posts to my guest book, private message inbox and discussion forum
(combined). I have meaningful online conversations with at least 3
per day.
Return on Investment: Free and Paid Levels
Joining RYZE is free at a basic level. It allows you to post your
profile in detail and upload images. You can view forums and post to
most. You can browse and search for specific members, send private
messages. The real power of this tool comes with the paid
membership. For $9.95/month, you can create and facilitate a new forum and
gain access to some restricted forums (which is at the discretion of
the facilitator) and search by interest group -- which are the tools
that really help you get networked meaningfully.
Considering that most in-person networking costs between $30-60
per event, this investment seems to promise a good return. Because
online relationships are harder to develop, keeping discussions
going with key people is a must. I bought a low-end video cam ($35)
to make communicating more personal, which has been more than
successful.
The majority of my involvement is with a forum where members seek
advice about their web design and facilitation a forum for Cultural
Creatives in business. At the end of one month, 7 new member
signed up for the Cultural Creatives Network and 1 person signed up
for Rebecca's Journal, my eNewsletter for Web Sites that Fly™.
No projects yet, however.
|
