One of the reasons I love social media is that it allows me to connect to people around the world. Social media gives me the ability to learn from and share with people I may not have the opportunity to meet any other way.

Recently, I met a man on Twitter who teaches leadership at the Naval Academy. In 140 character messages, we chatted about leadership learning and curriculum choices.

I love the way these relationships can build serendipitously.

A friend introduces me to another friend, and I discover common interests. Or I make an introduction through social media and later discover real life connections between those friends.

Social media is like real life, only faster. People can be brought together with only a few key strokes.

Leaders who want to build connections with people would be wise to invest time in social media as a tool for bringing people together.

Leaders who are well connected in the social media world create valuable relationships with people from all across the country and around the world. Need a friend in Minneapolis? I have a few. Need a contact in Washington, DC? I can help with that. France? Mexico? India? No problem.

Leaders who are well connected in the social media world have access to a community of experts. With only a few key strokes, I can call on the wisdom of people from every educational background imaginable. I know people who are leaders in a variety of industries and career fields. And, if I need to make a connection with someone, I know that others in the community will help me with an introduction.

Leaders who are well connected in the social media world can help others get connected, too. In my opinion, the best thrill in social media comes from bringing others together. I love making an introduction that makes a difference.

Join the conversation!

In what ways have you used social media to build connections?

What introductions have you made that make a difference?

This was originally posted at Mountain State University LeaderTalk and is re-posted with permission.