Hashable - Hashtagging Your Real-World Connections
Hashable, which is still in beta, is a service that allows users to manage and keep track of every person they meet. Essentially, Hashable aims to make networking social and easier for everyone. Industry events, networking outings, or a simple meet and greet can be recorded on Hashable to ensure you don't forget when, where, and how you met someone.
Set up a profile that allows you to add as much information as you want regarding your professional and personal interests. This will act as a virtual business card.
Search for friends or connections who already use the service through your existing email account(s) and Twitter handle(s).
Start connecting and sharing your "virtual" business card.
AVAILABLE ON: Andriod, iPhone, Web
Let's say you are introduced to someone over lunch. When you leave, you search for that person within Hashable via his/her Twitter handle or email address, make the connection, and tag it #lunch, or #justmet. Repeat this process with other connections using whichever tag may be appropriate, i.e. #dinner, #meeting, #drinks, etc.
Hashable will record and keep track of all of these connections. You can also be introduced to someone if you have a mutual connection, as well as introduce two other people yourself. The simplest way to perform these introductions is to include the two persons Twitter handles, @hashable, and #intro in a Tweet. Hashable will Tweet @ both individuals with a link to a page containing quick biographical info and how to make the connection.
You can also tag reminders like #call or #thankyou so you never forget to stay on top of your connections.
WHAT'S GREAT ABOUT HASHABLE
Endless customization: Unlike the most popular professional social network, LinkedIn, Hashable allows you to set any kind of tag to describe how you met. You can be as specific as you want (#metinlineatdunkindonuts) and not have to use vague descriptions such as "colleague" or "group member."
Use tools you already use: Yes, you have to create yet another profile to serve as your virtual business card, but it's very quick and effortless, enabling you to start connecting ASAP. Once you're set up, let Twitter or your old fashioned email address book be your guide.
As of right now, the "Stream" of activity when viewed through the website shows activity by your connections that you may not be interested in viewing, i.e. everything they've ever done. This is available so that you may be able to see a new person you may want to connect with, but this could be done by simply viewing your existing connection's profile. The stream has the potential of becoming like the Facebook news feed: too much information from too many people you don't care for.
Headquarters: New York, N.Y.
Released to Public: SXSW 2011
CEO and Founder: Michael Yavonditte, former CEO of search engine marketing company Quigo who sold it to AOL in 2007 for $340 million
Funding: $4 million in Series A funding at a pre-money valuation of $25-30 million in 2010
Hashable is an incredibly simple to use tool. Its customization allows anyone to easily keep track of all connections, personal or professional, as well as keep up with them over time.
Hashable has clearly tapped into something that is missing from LinkedIn. Companies love LinkedIn because it's a well-structured network with a high level of privacy that has yet to delve into the uber-social aspects of Twitter or Facebook. Individual users, on the other hand, may very well prefer Hashable to keep track of their connections in real-time. Hashable will by no means replace LinkedIn, but be a good compliment for the recently IPO'ed social network that's become more of a resume and company research hub.
Let Me #Intro You To Hashable (2,000 Invites) [TechCrunch]
Startup Puts A Twitter Twist On Real World Networking [Mashable]
Meet Hashable, Which Wants To Make Money By Introducing You [All Things Digital]
