How can B2B companies use Chinese online forums for networking?

B2B companies can use Chinese online forums for networking in the following ways:

1. Establish a professional image through Q&A platforms:

   Zhihu: Similar to Quora Zhihu is a great place for B2B companies to build their image and reputation. By establishing a verified official brand account or VIP membership, brand representatives can establish themselves as industry thought leaders and respected names. Companies should establish a verified account, as brands may already have an account registered in their name by fans, subsidiary employees, or individuals with malicious intent. Official registration and investigation of other accounts claiming to represent your brand allows you to control your company's reputation on the site and enables coordinated and aligned messaging.

2. Participate in industry discussions and provide insights:

   On Zhihu, companies can educate people, build visibility and credibility, and direct traffic to the company's account page by answering industry-related questions. The goal is to provide information rather than pushing brand messages.

3. Use social media platforms for networking:

   Maimai: Maimai is a job-based social networking platform with over 110 million users and is a major professional platform in China. Maimai's localized features, such as anonymous chat, mobile-first design, and partnerships with Chinese companies, have given it significant momentum.

   LinkedIn/Maimai/Zhaopin: LinkedIn's localized version in the Chinese market has performed well, but other local job and career-based social networks like Maimai and Zhaopin have surpassed LinkedIn in certain aspects.

4. Use WeChat for networking:

   WeChat is a valuable channel because it is ubiquitous and everyone is using it. B2B companies cannot take a traditional approach, but this does not mean it cannot be used for B2B marketing WeChat groups can be created for potential customers, partners, or enterprises.

5. Use industry forums and conferences for offline networking:

   Attending and sponsoring industry events, conferences, and forums helps establish personal connections and build relationships with key stakeholders. Face-to-face interaction remains an important part of China's relationship-driven business practices.

6. Establish trust through content marketing:

   On Chinese forums and Q&A platforms, establish trust by providing valuable content. For example, on Zhihu, companies can build expertise and attract potential customers and partners by answering industry-related questions.

7. Use KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) for networking:

   On Zhihu, companies can collaborate with KOLs to host live interactive sessions discussing industry-specific topics, new technologies, or case studies.