Value 2.0

Although each of the ‘new rules’ of IBM’s Value 2.0 article has, does, and will make a difference not only in the way that we do business, but also in the way that we live. As American demographics shift, as foreign economies assume greater purchasing power (i.e. China, India, Brazil), and as global competition increases, it is increasingly important for businesses to get closer to their customers and make the personal connections that drive repeat business.
In the past we relied on veritable face-to-face social networks to grease the wheels of business. Local businesspeople made business contacts at their local Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions Clubs, as well as perhaps in Sunday school or at the local Masonic lodge. Whereas these face-to-face social and professional networks have retained a certain level of social prestige in certain communities, they no longer drive business relationships and connect modern entrepreneurs in meaningful ways.
When asked about the value of online social networking in an interview with NBC, Noah Glass, the CEO of the audio-blogging service Listenlab said, “These services aren't magical dust that makes money appear — but they can facilitate valuable connections.” If small businesspeople harness the power of online social networking, all of a sudden they will be able to network and forge relationships with potential customers not only across the country but around the world. This new kind of thinking and this new kind of virtual extension of the rolodex or little black book of business contacts is the future of business. The connected future requires a level of networking and even a new business paradigm that thinks beyond Saint Paul…to Shanghai.