Online networking isn’t just for Generation Y. Even hard-to-reach groups like physicians can come together online.
Brian Smith, social psychologist and co-founder of Within3 described how his organization has been able to build an online community in which physicians, researchers and organizations in the health sciences connect, search for answers, and even refer patients.
Within3 is a relationship company that is in the business of creating actionable communities, Smith said. Its community of physicians, researchers, professional societies, and academic institutions reaches across 70 countries. By building on the idea of trusted relationships, Within3 helps individuals see further out into their networks.
He listed three principles upon which Within3 is founded:
Relationships matter to all kinds of people in all kinds of professions. Those relationships help people innovate. Within3 set out to be the source of trusted connections and relationships, among individuals, organizations and brands.
We live in a smaller world. That means improved communications and more opportunities to better leverage network principles. In professional networks as in social networks, individuals act as hubs and can help spread messages and make connections among people who otherwise might not be aware of each other. In fact, the name Within3 refers to the three degrees of separation that are common in many professional circles.
Stronger communities mean better brands.
Within3 is using social networking technology to create new organizations, collaborations and institutes in the health care world. As on social networks, users have their own pages and can link with online networks, search for publications or other information sources, search for others who share their professional interests, or focus in on specific research, drugs or other interests.
Within3 is funded by professional societies, academic institutions and other organizations who have an interest in fostering a stronger sense of affinity and connection with institutions within the medical professions by connecting people who share their interests.
