Social media platforms either have groups or communities for more focussed engagement. However, I find that many people do not understand the purpose of groups and communities. A good example of this practice is that Facebook groups are often being treated as Facebook pages which is an entirely different communication tool.
Participation in groups is for me just the same as attending a networking meeting or going to a party. The huge bonus of using such groups/communities is that if you are a little shy in the real wold you can engage and find common ground in the virtual world before you actually meet people for real.
Having spent some time getting to know people in the virtual world you beging to feel you know them and when you meet in the real world you already feel you know the person (just like a Pen Pal of old) and the connection is very warm. Thus on meeting in the flesh you cement the connection and go on to enjoy a solid relationship, both on a personal and business level.
This is one of the more positive aspects of social media engagement as it means everyone starts on a level playing field. How you move forward to build on your connections is up to you.