I’ve known Patti for over twenty years but as we caught up over dinner recently I realized that I’ve never sat down and had a one-on-one conversation with her. We’re in the same industry and have seen each other at numerous events over the years.

So why are we getting together socially now? Facebook.

We reconnected on Facebook a year or so ago, after having not seen each other or spoken in several years. Now we see each other’s work updates, know each other’s hobbies and have realized how much we have in common.

While years of “Hey, how are you?” at business functions never resulted in truly connecting, a year on Facebook did. Why? Because there’s more frequent contact, we see each other’s personality. We know each other’s interests and activities beyond business.

That’s great for your social life but what about business, you ask?

Over wine and dinner we talked about dating, music, writing and business. As we learned on a deeper level about what each other does she offered to share some connections that I’m excited about. Connections I’d never have thought of looking to her for because it’s not directly in line with what I saw as her expertise.

I followed up by offering to share contacts and information to help her. Our offers to help each other were much more specific and sincere than the “Who’d be a good referral for you?” that often comes with business networking.

Now we have a deeper business relationship and a social friendship. Facebook posts about life (and a little business) helped us to strengthen our connection.

Facebook, friends and referrals. It’s a good combination!

Want to learn more about how to create and strengthen business connections using social media? CLICK HERE to check out my upcoming workshops series.

Myra McElhaney is an author and speaker who helps people to ‘Enjoy Life and Do Good!’ Learn more about her programs at http://www.MyraMcElhaney.com. Her memoir, “Building A Life You Love After Losing the Love of Your Life” is available in paperback and Kindle edition on Amazon.com.