In today’s hyper-connected world, business social networks have become an essential component of any entrepreneur’s toolkit. While many professionals are well-versed in social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, there are plenty of lesser-known platforms that offer unique networking opportunities to professionals across different industries. Here are some of the business social networks you should know about if you plan on thriving in the modern business landscape:

1. LinkedIn: As one of the earliest business social networks, LinkedIn is often the first platform that comes to mind when people think of professional networking online. With more than 690 million users worldwide, it’s a platform that allows professionals to connect with one another, share their work experience and skills, and find job opportunities. LinkedIn lets you build and maintain an online presence, letting potential employers or clients know what kind of experience you have and what skills differentiate you from other workers.

2. AngelList: AngelList is a platform designed specifically for entrepreneurs and the start-up world. Investors and entrepreneurs alike use AngelList to interact, find job opportunities, and raise funding for their ventures. With an emphasis on the importance of the start-up ecosystem, AngelList is a community of innovators connected by a common goal: innovation.

3. Viadeo: Viadeo may be Asia’s version of LinkedIn-as it caters to Asia’s more localized and personal approach to business networking. Focusing on developing and emerging markets, Viadeo provides a platform for professionals in countries like China, India, and France to connect with one another and expand their professional networks. This platform lets its users create groups and communities, join thematic discussions, and find a diverse range of professionals to collaborate with.

4. Focus: Focus is a private business network that is perfect for small, exclusively-invited members-only groups. This network allows business-owners to build and connect with members in their local area, giving entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect with others who work in similar niches and industries. Focus is ideal for building relationships within a group without anyone else getting in the way of the conversation.

5. Alignable: Alignable is built for talking shop with other small business owners. With over 6 million registered members, this business social network is all-encompassing and brings together consumers, businesses, products, and services in a single place. Alignable makes it possible to have conversations and make lasting connections with other business owners who share similar interests and problems.

In conclusion, there are plenty of business social networks designed to offer professionals virtual communities optimized for networking and collaboration. By using a multi-pronged approach and leveraging multiple networks, entrepreneurs and business owners can broaden their reach, grow their audience, and expand their business opportunities with the click of a button.