Are You Social Networking?

About two weeks ago, we launched a Professional Remodeler group page on LinkedIn, one of the fastest growing social networking sites geared specifically toward businesspeople.

I've personally been networking on LinkedIn for about a year, but recently I've noticed more and more remodeling contractors have been popping up on the site.

Although you can't hope to effectively generate direct sales through LinkedIn or myriad other sites that remodelers are beginning to use — YouTube, Facebook, MySpace, Plaxo and Twitter to name a few — those who are taking the plunge swear by the branding benefits. I asked remodelers from our LinkedIn group in which we post articles, discuss business issues and share ideas, how social networking was working for them.

Greg Rittler, owner of the Kanon Group in Towson, Md., is a big proponent. He writes a blog on www.kanonclarity.com; sends out monthly email newsletters and updates to his client list; and has a presence on several social networking sites including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Since beginning social networking, Greg has seen an increase in Web traffic to his site that comes from the social networking sites.

Welcome, Bruce!

Our magazine just got a whole lot smarter. Beginning with this issue, Bruce Case, chief operating officer at Case Design/Remodeling, will write a monthly column and blog based on his experience helping build Case Design/Remodeling into one of the country's leading professional remodeling firms. Not only is Bruce one of the brightest people I've met in our industry, he's also a genuinely likable guy. I think you'll enjoy his knowledge and personable style.

Contact me at michael.morris@ reedbusiness.com or 630/288-8057.