Networking Information: 2011

I was talking to a reporter today about networking. For those who do it well, it's easy to forget that there are others out there who panic at the thought of having to make conversation, especially with strangers...in public. I think certainly there are those extroverts with the gift of gab who know instinctively how to spin a good yarn that attracts people and prospects easily. However, I also believe that there is an art and practice that anyone can learn that can make them exceptional at networking.

There's networking online and networking offline, and I'm a big fan of incorporating both to enrich your business and personal life.

Who Should Network

Anyone who wants to improve and expand their lives or business.

How to Network

Some people are great at networking in person, but have no idea how to do it online. Thing is, the approach should be the same. You'd never go to a party without knowing why you're there - a birthday, a celebration, to find love, to eat the free food, meet new people, etc. Same is true online. Know why you're on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. first.

Then, start with "Hello." Don't shove your book or product in someone's face and say, you should buy this. Use the same manners and etiquette you were raised with - introduce yourself, find out what they do, who they are. Then, if there's a fit (you've discovered that they could actually benefit from your product or service) then mention it. If they aren't a fit, you've still made a valuable connection because they may know someone with whom they can connect you or they may have their own skill or service that you have been looking for all along. I have more on this topic in a SlideShare presentation called Make New Friends And Keep the Old: Climbing the Social Ladder Without Alienating Your Audience that has more on the subject.

With Whom to Network

1. Competitors - Yes, them. I actually wish people would stop using the word competitors. I should call them "potential business partners." You'd be surprised how much stronger you can be together than apart.

2. Friends and Family - they can make introductions or may give you the frank advice you have been missing.

3. Find potential clients, peers and like-minded individuals on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or at Meetups, conferences and other events.

4. Mentors and Coaches - invaluable in getting you "there" smarter and faster.

The Benefits of Networking

I've mentioned some already, but if you have stage fright, trouble speaking in public or making friends, consider this homework or a goal - go to one offline event a month (at least). Another benefit would be that it helps you hone your elevator pitch - that two minutes or 140 characters you have to tell people who you are and how you can help. Finally, networking isn't about you. It's about how you can help others with your strength, skills or service. Think of it in those terms and you won't go wrong. So what are you waiting for? Grab your party hat and get out there.

Which Type of Networker Are You?

Networking is essential. This activity can be as formal as attending company outings chaired by upper management or engaging in small social talk every morning with a colleague in a neighboring department. The fact is, it works.

There are 2 types of networkers: (1) People who network well and (2) People who do not network well. Which type of networker are you?

People who network well are the typical extroverted, social butterfly, Type A personality. These people find it extremely easy to make new acquaintances. They are the people who will make new friends on an airplane, at the gas station, or waiting in line at the post office. Therefore, it is easy for this type of personality to expand their network at work. They are skilled at timing contact with members of their network appropriately so that they benefit. They will check in with a Marketing Director friend right around the time that a new position is available in the Marketing Department. They may also schedule an "exploratory conversation" to strategically express their interests. They are skilled salespeople in their own right.

On the other hand, people who do not network range from the introverted Type B personality or someone who does not enjoy the art of schmoozing. Quiet, shy people typically are not good networkers. This is a reality. However, there are some people who are not quiet or shy but may find it difficult to approach people they do not know.

Networking is about making a connection about something other than your purpose. It is finding some small incidental commonality that makes a person want to get to know you better. You should never mention that you are looking for a new position or interested in how someone can help you. This may appear too abrasive. Instead, find a connection that is so interesting that the person will remember you and want to invite you out to dinner or for a follow-up conversation. Once you "break the ice" with a contact, it becomes easier to be candid about what your interest is and how they can assist you.

Employers promote the idea of networking. In fact, much of the Performance Measurement process was built around creating opportunities for employees to network with the intent of building critical relationships. Find out which type of networker you are. If you are a skilled networker, continue to enhance your skills. However, if you are an individual who does not network well, work on your craft. Networking is the key to building great relationships.

Is Facebook Becoming the Tesco of the Internet?

If everyone who had a Facebook account voted for The Social Network in the upcoming academy awards, the movie would walk away with every Oscar for which it is nominated. After all, currently more than 600 million of us are active users, including almost half the US population.

But all is not as it may seem in Facebook-world. What began in 2004 as a way for each of us to connect with old and new friends online, share embarrassing photographs we wish we hadn't posted and let everyone know in real time what we're doing, where we're going and how we're feeling has clearly become more than just that.

Spam has become the latest retro brand to implement a social media strategy to tell the brand's story and widen its appeal. The 70-year-old canned-meat brand will focus on promoting the 'character of the brand' through coupon distribution, competitions and special events, centred on social media.

It is against this background that Facebook is fast becoming the Tesco of the Internet; a ubiquitous, benign presence that is infiltrating every aspect of our lives. The sheer number of brands using Facebook is fast changing its character from being a site intended for social-connection towards what is almost a self-contained version of the Internet - a one-stop shop for life.

The beauty of Facebook was always that it was the product of its users; we controlled the content. Somehow we were in charge. By inviting such overt commercialism, is there a risk to its success when we conclude the Facebook is so all pervading? What will be particularly interesting is whether and how Facebook users kick back against this.

Brands are still trying to work out how to concentrate their efforts online. A social media presence is only really useful if it creates a genunie two-way conversation which works for both parties. Greggs do this particularly well, welcoming sandwich ideas and then putting them into practice. And the key - don't be too slick about it. Social media was always intended as user-generated content and brands need to play by the same rules to be authentic and also need to judge if they are actually attracting new fans or merely engaging with consumers who have already been won over.

Twitter is, to an extent, still in the user-controlled stage from which Facebook appears to be emerging. Twitter saw how users dictated the features it wanted from the platform, which led to the creation of features hashtags and retweets. Individuals and brands seem to cohabit more naturally on Twitter, where brands seem less willing to overtly sell to consumers and more content in watching what they say and observing how they act. Perhaps it is this form of engagement that will lead to the happiest online relationship for brands and consumers alike.

Lyndsay Peck is a director of London-based Engage Research. Vastly experienced across the market research and customer insight sectors, she has experience of telephone centre operations, international fieldwork & data processing and as a research director for major FMCG clients. She specialises in Quantitative Research: NPD particularly concept & product testing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Howard_Robinson

Sunday, 10 April 2011

Balancing Your Energy to Achieve Higher Self-Esteem

Imagine a manager who has to fire someone but can do it with sensitivity. Or a single parent who lovingly institutes a strict curfew. Then consider a child who daringly rescues, then cares for a stranded bird. Or a business owner who admits mistakes and rectifies a problem with consumers. These would be examples of people with good Gender Physics - they are blending the complimentary masculine and feminine energies. They easily take the action masculine energy demands but they do it using the important people skills that feminine energy provides.

Self-esteem comes from being confident in one's ability to achieve success both socially and at mastering tasks. And those who can navigate the bumpy road of firing an employee with sensitivity, saving and nurturing a fledgling bird, keeping peace with a teenager around curfews or with rectifying problems with customers will feel that they have accomplished something of which they can be proud. They use both energies with ease, seeing no downside to either one. As a result they have more success which ultimately increases their self-esteem.

I observed this in a board member in my working career. This woman wasn't afraid to ask tough questions and she stood up for herself if she felt the guys were getting priority or leaving her out but she was a good listener and coach. She wasn't turf conscious and would send management complimentary emails following an important presentation and decision. She had a quiet confidence that comes from balanced energy and good self-esteem.

Which energy do you need to improve your self-esteem?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Betty_Ann_Heggie

Betty Ann Heggie - EzineArticles Expert Author

This article has been viewed 11 time(s).
Article Submitted On: February 15, 2011

Small Business Marketing Strategies: Successful LinkedIn Profiles

I advise my clients that the LinkedIn profile is one of the most powerful small business marketing strategies. It can provide a myriad of benefits. In this article I'm going to take you through the components of the successful LinkedIn profile.

Start to build trust. LinkedIn is a professional networking site with many marketing opportunities for you as a small business proprietor. You can build trust rapidly as your whole life history is there for the reading. Complete the LinkedIn profile as much as possible. Be sure to write a friendly and warm summary, too. Upload a professional head and shoulders image that is friendly and approachable. People prefer to do business with those that they have seen. Humans need to be able to relate to a person before taking a relationship further to the point of spending their hard earned money.

Start connecting. Your next task on LinkedIn is to connect to as many people as you can remember from your past. Rack your brains to think about school friends, colleagues from years ago - everybody that you can remember. The more people that you connect to, the more your connections your profile will show to anybody using LinkedIn to find business partners in your niche. Each connection will work as a backlink to your profile page. The more connections you have to your profile, the better your profile page will perform in search results.

Build more trust. Being connected to more people, you will again be contributing to the trust factor of your profile. People would rather do business with a contact of a connection or friend than with somebody whom they know nothing about. When you come across somebody you know, think about whether you can provide them with a testimonial, and then ask if they could do the same for you. Testimonials are important for trust building.

A LinkedIn profile gives credibility. Even if you do not have much time to sign into and interact on LinkedIn, it is still well worth having a completed profile. I have enjoyed clients contacting me even at times when I haven't been active on LinkedIn. Make a LinkedIn profile part of your small business marketing strategy.

Get active in Groups and Answers. Groups and Answers are two powerful ways to network on LinkedIn. You can find relevant groups by searching for your niche business area. Think about where you might find the people you can help. Spend time mingling and commenting on the posts of others. Add a few items from your blog as appropriate.

Answers is an opportunity to show that you are knowledgeable about your field. Quite often people will post questions asking for help. You can answer in the most polite, knowledgeable, and helpful way - your answer will be seen by others in the field, and you will build credibility.

In all the years that I've used LinkedIn, I certainly have gained many clients and made some powerful business connections. I cannot speak highly enough of Linkedin, and how important it is for a small business to have a presence on this site from a small business marketing perspective.

Paul Carter is an experienced online marketing consultant and runs one of the leading online marketing agencies in the marketing industry. He has helped many businesses to build a successful marketing strategy that results in leads and sales.

If you would like to know more about his online marketing service you can contact him at his site. He also provides marketing ideas, tips and white papers on his blog - go there now to see what he's got on offer today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_CB_Carter

Paul CB Carter - EzineArticles Expert Author

Saturday, 9 April 2011

Why Networking Can Be Better Than Sex!

Networking is all about relationships - treat it like you would dating to get the best results.

Step One

Your eyes meet across the room and you're thinking 'wow they are hot'! It is at this point you need to check what first impression you are making.

Did you rush in late? Looking flustered and unprepared is not a good look. You will put yourself at a disadvantage, feel unorganized and possible be perspiring nicely - yuk!!

Are you dressed appropriately? Appropriately does not necessarily mean 'suited and booted' in fact these days far less so. But you do need to be 'business smart' - clean shoes are a must. Ladies accessories and a little make up make all the difference - wearing the right colours will stand you out in a crowd for both men and women.

Are you visible? Don't hide away in the toilets, a corner or stick your back firmly to the nearest wall.

Are you approachable? Always wear a smile. You may be nervous but this can appear aloof to an onlooker. A smile is appealing and contagious; never go out without one.

Step Two

OMG! They are coming this way and yes they are looking good!

Be interested and keep it brief. This is not the time to relay your life story and to convince them what a catch you are!

Ask questions. People like to talk about themselves and you will be showing an interest in them first. Keep your questions general and simple. What type of business they have? Ask where they have come from? What other networking events they have been to? Do not be tempted at this stage to sell yourself.

Play hard to get. Don't be tempted to cover too much at this stage. Say you would really like to hear more about their business and suggest you call them to arrange to meet for a coffee. Ask for their contact details.

Don't get possessive. Ask them if there was anyone they wanted to be introduced too and take them over and introduce them. If they do not know anyone specifically you should have enough info now to suggest someone.

Don't stand them up. Whatever you have agreed to do whether it is call them or email them do it and do it promptly; relationships are about trust and this is one of your first steps towards building it.

Step Three

This is it, the bit you were hoping for - The first Date!

Go back to step one it is all relevant here too.

Preparation, Preparation, Preparation. Put some time aside ahead of the meeting to have a look at their website. Think about how you could help them with introductions to your contacts. Look for synergies in your business to explore further. Having ideas on how they might help you too is ok but should still be secondary. Knowing you have all your own teeth and hair or child bearing hips may still scare them off at this stage.

Give them a little gift. We are not talking diamonds or holidays to the Caribbean at this stage. Be realistic; you do not know each other that well yet, so why would you. However an offer of making an introduction, sending some useful information or an invite to another event will be well received and strengthen that relationship a little bit more.

Finally don't forget to do it...

Just like the children's game you are looking for those ladders to climb but need to beware the snakes too. If you say you are going to do something then you must do it. If not, you will find yourself hurtling down a snake back to the start.

Oh yes I promised to tell you Why Networking is better than Sex..

Here are my top 10 reasons:-

You can do it in public without getting arrested!
You can choose when you enjoy doing it most; morning noon or night!
You get to keep your clothes on!
There's lots of training available to improve your performance!
You know how often it will happen, how long it will last and have plenty of time to prepare!
If you get bored you can move on to someone more interesting!
60 seconds is an introduction and not the entire performance!
You are positively encouraged to do it with a variety of different people!
You get to enjoy something to eat, occasionally a glass of wine but always some fun banter throughout.
You can't wait to do it again!

There you have it networking is just like dating and all about relationships.

Take your time, be interested, give something first, have fun and enjoy it and about all leave them wanting more!

Cathy Dunbabin is the founder of Opendoorz Networking in Oxford, United Kingdom. After many years as a networking facilitator Cathy has created a unique opportunity for business networkers in the UK. If you're a serious networker looking to raise your game and make new quality connections that will bring you genuine new business opportunities, then Opendoorz is what you've been looking for.

Opendoorz challenges the tired format established by many networking groups. Its success is founded on the quality and calibre of the membership, the experience and passion of its directors and the unique blend of meeting content.

Contact Cathy at http://opendoorz.wordpress.com/ or email her directly at cathy@opendoorz.biz

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cathy_Dunbabin

Cathy Dunbabin - EzineArticles Expert Author

6 Effective Networking Tips

1) Look people in the eye - A politician from our city taught me what not to do. As he shook my hand he would look over my shoulder to see who he would rather talk to and I obviously wasn't the only one as he is not an elected official today. Be present with the people you meet.

2) Stand up when being introduced - Don't fall into the sexist trap that says women can remain seated while being introduced. If you want to be treated like an equal, rise to your feet and shake hands with everyone all around.

3) Be an active listener - Make an effort to not only hear the words but listen for the true meaning behind them. Nod, maintain eye contact and smile to encourage the speaker. Reduce the pressure to add a comment of your own by prompting them to continue - simply say, "tell me more".

4) Keep moving - As interesting as one person may be you want to be sure to network by meeting others. To exit one conversation without offense create a "win-win" by introducing that person to another. Include something personal in the introduction to show you were listening.

5) Trust your intuition- Walk into a room, make eye contact with someone, and trust that is a person you should meet. Allowing your intuition to guide you removes a lot of the anxiety - you don't have to try meet and impress a lot of people. Those you are meant to connect with will feel like a friend already so relax and just talk to them.

6) Follow-up - After meeting someone you can remain "top of the mind" by phoning, inviting them for lunch or sending a thank-you note. Some make up kits in advance and put them in the mail that night when they are still fresh in peoples' minds. Others use technology such as Facebook to keep their name in front of those they have met. The key is keeping the connection alive.

After a highly successful career in business, including 26 years with PotashCorp where she was Senior Vice-President, Betty-Ann retired in 2007, the same year that she was named to Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Hall of Fame?. She now works as a speaker, author and mentor and is committed to using her personal and professional experiences to inspire and empower other women. A firm believer in the value women bring to organizations, Betty-Ann explores changing perceptions of male and female roles including candid observations about what she calls "Good Gender Physics" on her blog at http://www.stillettochick.com/. She helps both men and women understand the primary energy of their gender but also accept and appreciate the strengths of their opposite.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Betty_Ann_Heggie

Friday, 8 April 2011

The 5 W's of Networking, Plus How

We all need a community - people we can call on when things get tough and we need a hand. A network is nothing more than friends helping friends. Here's the 5 W's to making that happen.

Who: You can learn from anyone so be curious with everyone you meet, from taxi cab drivers to restaurant proprietors. Each may have a contact to help you reach your goals. And, if they don't, you may be surprised to find that there is someone in their network who does!What: Form relationships which aren't all about you, but rather are all about "us." Send others articles of interest, introduce them to your friends, comment on their Facebook page, and give them glowing recommendations. If you work for them, it will come back to you.When: Begin at birth or, at the very least, start today. Always form a network before you need it. Don't wait until you are out of work or trying to raise money for an important project or idea. It's the old adage, "build it and they will come."Where: You can network at the office, at a club or acting as a volunteer. It doesn't matter if you collect miniatures or curl, if you follow your passion, you'll meet others who are doing what you love to do. Creating a bond with them will happen very naturally.Why: Business happens between people who know each other, like each other and trust each other. People who are part of my community have recommended excellent suppliers, put my name forward for bookings for and supported my causes, amongst many other things. I've certainly accomplished more in life with them than I would have done without them.How: Get to know others authentically, on a soul-level. That means getting past stereo-types and generalizations. It means revealing a weakness so others believe you are human and sharing what you like to do for fun so they will know that you are more than your job. It is easier to network if you relax and be yourself!

Even if the sky looks dark and full of clouds, having a network means that you'll have people you can call on. And, like the song says, "Ain't it good to know that you've got a friend?"

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Betty_Ann_Heggie

This article has been viewed 36 time(s).
Article Submitted On: February 16, 2011

Monday, 4 April 2011

Do You Interrupt Conversations?

Many of you have experienced the following scenario: You work diligently to get an appointment with someone. Often finding a date when you are both available can be a big task in itself. You finally come up with a date and time that works for both of you. You agree to meet at a local coffee shop.

At the appointed time, you both arrive. You get a cup of coffee and settle down to begin your conversation. About five minutes into a conversation, someone stops by to say "Hi" to your companion. Introductions are made, and the person who stopped by your table says, "Frank, glad to catch you, I have been meaning to share this with you". Then he proceeds to go on about his latest project he is working on-saving the rivers in North County. At first you are thinking, this will be a quick update, and then the person drones on and on. You can tell your companion is uncomfortable. Not only does your companion not care about the project, he is very aware the time you were to share is being eaten up quickly. Everyone is uncomfortable except for the person sharing his work on the project.

How can you approach someone if he is having a cup of coffee with someone else?

Go up to the table and say, "Hi, Frank, I would like to talk to you some time. Here's my contact card, would you give me a call?" Normally, with this approach, you will be greeted with a smile and, "Sure I will be happy to".

It took me a while, but now I understand why politicians and people labeled "important" like to find hideaway places when they are out of their office. They have experienced too many times, thoughtless people interrupting their conversations.

IT'S THE LITTLE THINGS

Show up before the appointed time to get your coffee so you are ready to start the conversation immediately.When you see someone you know, and you want to talk to him, give him your contact card. Either offer to call him or ask him to call you.Make sure you follow up on the brief encounter-that is how you build trust.

Check Your Ego at the Door!

If so many people agree that networking is more about the other person then why do so many people forget to check their ego at the door? It is disconcerting and sometimes downright irritating to talk with someone who uses a dozen "Is" in the first few minutes.

Over and over again, no matter the event, you hear "I" am doing this, "I" am enjoying this success, here's what "I" did when that happened to me. And for good measure, they throw in a few "my" book is outselling others in its genre, and "my" workshop was such a big hit.

Why do people do one thing when they profess to believe another? Here are four reasons/solutions when it comes to checking egos.

Challenge:The biggest block is inherent in being human. Listening for any length of time goes against the grain. Most people want to talk more than listen. They think what they have to say is more important. And what they have to say is frequently about them or their unsolicited opinions about your business.

Solution:Use this folk saying as your guide: "God gave us two ears and one mouth so we could listen twice as much as we talk."

Challenge: Some people's networking style is Dauntless, which means they naturally exhibit a powerful aura; use strong, forceful gestures; are impatient and, therefore, dislike small talk, get bored easily, finish others' sentences, interrupt and talk over others.

Solution:Accept and use networking etiquette and protocol even if you don't agree. Listen even if the outcome doesn't affect you. Refrain from trying to run the conversation, the event, the meeting or the project. Amazing what different results you will see!

Challenge: Over-inflated egos. Some people actually believe they are better than others, and their mission is to let the world know.

Solution: Pay attention to how others try to break away from conversations with you. Notice how they quit talking because it is useless to try to talk over you or top your stories. Make a pact with yourself to ask questions about those you engage in conversation and their businesses/interests. Be quiet, and let them answer. Then respond to what they said. If you are talking with good communicators, they will ask you questions as well. Another hint. Count to three after you think someone is finished speaking... to make sure they are.

Challenge:The person is desperate because her/his business is hanging by a thread, and they need to "sell, sell, sell." The seasoned observer senses this desperation quickly and will try to move on to talk with people who appear more confident and relaxed and are probably better connections.

Solution:Be upbeat. Concentrate on the positives. Ask others what you can do to help them. The law of reciprocity will kick in. Perhaps you should have been networking like this from the start. Keep in mind that most networking events are band aids, and when your business is failing, you may need a cast. Double and triple your networking efforts and concentrate on others.

Here's to meeting more people who have checked their egos at the door and personify that networking is more about "you" than "me."

Sunday, 3 April 2011

Are You Missing The Networking Boat?

Did you know that of the people you connect with most online they consist of relatives, colleagues at your company or someplace you used to work, customers or prospects, schoolmates and neighbors?

It's great to keep connections with all these people but if they are the only ones you are connecting with it is going to slow you down in growing your network or your business.

You need to have a diverse network that you branch out to of people that can help you as you grow. Look for people in other industries that complement what you do to connect with. This is a great way to build new relationships that could turn into possible joint ventures down the line. It will also provide you with resources that you may need in the future.

You need to nurture your networks in order to have them grow. Be helpful, give advice, answer questions in groups if you have a valuable answer. Don't respond to questions that you are just guessing the answer to. Make sure you know what you are saying and are able to back it up with fact if asked to. This will show you are the expert on your topic and will have more people wanting to connect with you and do business with you.

Connect others that you think would be a good match. You have a wide network and there are lots of people that would probably be a good fit with people you know. If you see one of these opportunities take a moment to send an introduction email to both of them saying how you think they could benefit each other. Once you do this they can each connect with the other if they choose to. This is a win- win situation for everyone because more business is being done!

Spend a little time each day in your networks. It will be very productive for you as you grow your relationships. It can be a little time consuming but if you put a system to it you will have it go much smoother. Don't spend all day finding out what updates people are sending out. Take some time in the morning and at the end of the day to find out what is going on, respond to posts that you find interesting and post something about yourself as well. This will keep you in the loop and opportunities often arise in these networks that you may not have found otherwise.

Now, as important as online networking is, offline is just as important.

Networking is a continual effort and human contact is a critical component. You want to make sure you get out from behind your computer from time to time.

Go to events for networking and learning opportunities. You can find out more about your target market when you are talking to them directly.

Offer others advice and resources that can help them with any problems they may be having. Don't constantly sell to people. Build relationships by serving. Eventually the selling will come naturally.

Be professional, dress nice, speak clearly and maintain eye contact in conversations. Be in charge of yourself and what people know about you.

These in person times are important so people get to connect a name with a face, get to know, like and trust you and want to learn more about you. Not everyone is going to be a client. Don't go into the events thinking that you are going to come home with a ton of new clients. Instead, go into the events with an open mind and a friendly attitude. Reach out and connect to others that are there and learn all you can. These people you meet can become good friends, valuable resources, and yes, on occasion great clients.

Have fun networking and building relationships!

Erin Alli is a Virtual Business Manager and Writer. She has 13 years experience as an office manager and the skills to teach you how to manage your time, stay organized and make your business run more efficiently while you become increasingly more successful.

As a writer, she handles sales copy, web site content, brochure content, ghost writing for blogs, articles and motivational writing. She takes away the pain of writing while still giving you the edge and allowing you to reap the benefits of more sales and services to your business.

To find out more about Erin and her products/services you can visit http://www.essentialassisting.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Erin_Alli

5 Tips for Those Who Talk Too Much

There are two people in my life who have come to bug me and they both talk incessantly. When we have a conversation, I feel invisible because it is always so one-sided. Neither are good listeners and both are adamant about having the last word, no matter what the topic. What irritates me the most is that each will exaggerate to victoriously register the final point.

What I have come to realize is that they bug me because I see all the characteristics that I don't like about myself in them. Let me explain: Silence is tough for me - I love to express myself and talking is a great release. I also pride myself in being persuasive so, of course, I want the last word - it's my measure of success. My husband says the reason that I tell such a good story is that I am given to hyperbole.

So you see, there is really no difference between me and the two individuals who irritate me. They are my mirror and I am projecting my thoughts about myself onto them. Any advice I would like to give them, I would be wise to take myself. Here's the 5 tips that I'd offer:

Build self-esteem: There is no need to embellish - we are good enough the way we are (and so are the facts of our story).Relax: There is no need to fill the gaps in conversation. Let it move fluidly. Silence is charismatic and so is talking with our eyes.Have confidence: If we are thinking it someone else is as well. Neither of us have to say it and the message will be delivered. It's only our egos that want the credit.Be a witness: Listen without planning what to say next, without editorializing and without judgment. We can really "feel" the conversation this way and the communication will be even richer.Be unattached to outcomes: There is no need to control with talk - trust that the conversation will unfold.

The talkers in my life are there to teach me about myself and I realize there's lots to learn. Is there anybody who bugs you?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Betty_Ann_Heggie

This article has been viewed 37 time(s).
Article Submitted On: February 15, 2011

Saturday, 2 April 2011

LinkedIn Profile Secrets - No 1 Reason Why Your LinkedIn Profile Fails to Attract More Prospects

Right under your name, does your LinkedIn profile headline look like this...

* CEO & Founder at XYZ and Associates?
* Business Owner at ABC Consulting?
* Speaker at YourName.com?

3 Reasons Why Your Profile Should Not Be the Same as Your Position

1. Think of your headline as your first sales pitch to people who want to connect with you. If I am unfamiliar with you or your company, how does mentioning your company name and your position show me what you do and why I need to connect with you? It doesn't! These headlines are too general, simple and straight forward. They are too vague and too broad. In order for your headline to be effective, it needs to grab my attention. It needs to make me want to read the rest of your profile. As a potential client or potential referral source, I need to see right away how you can help me or my clients.

2. When I am invited to connect with someone, I view their profile before I choose to accept. The first thing that I look at is their headline to see if there is any possible synergy between the person who wants to connect with me and my business. By doing this I can see if it is worth my time and energy to view the rest of their profile. Make your headline enticing so I will want to read your profile and connect with you.

3. If someone is going through people search or through the groups to see who they should connect with, they are looking at hundred to thousands of opportunities. You need to make your business stand out to entice others to want to click on your name to read your profile and learn more about you.

Now that you know that you need to drastically improve your LinkedIn profile headline in order to attract more clients, the question is, how do you fix it?

4 Questions You Must Ask Yourself When Creating Your LinkedIn Profile Headline

1) What can you say in your headline that will give your instant credibility?

One of the easiest ways to gain that instant credibility is to use any media attention. For example, I was recently called a "Social Media Expert" by the New York Times. Look how I use this media mention in my new LinkedIn profile headline to give me instant credibility:

"Read my profile now and discover LinkedIn secrets from the woman the New York Times called a social media expert".

2) Does your LinkedIn profile headline command action?

The best way to get someone to read your profile further is to tell them to do so. Just look at my example above. Notice I'm giving you a call-to-action. By stating read, view or learn more by reading my profile, you are instructing the reader to do so. And, guess what - chances are they'll listen. You just have to tell your prospects what to do - and why they need to take the action.

3) Does your LinkedIn profile headline show why you are different?

Go to people search on LinkedIn and type in your career description. Look at how many people match your description. For example, when I type in "internet marketing consultant" into people search it gives me 139,041 results. The phrase "life coach" gives me 83,847 results. The phrase "business coach returns" 224,274 results. In your headline if you show how and why you are unique chances are your prospects will explore your business further than that of your competition.

For example Article Marketing Experts Eric Gruber's profile headline was: See how we can get you published on websites like About.com - instead of just article directories like our competition.

4) Does your LinkedIn profile headline show a benefit to the reader?

By implying there is an advantage to your reader by viewing your profile you are telling them that there is a benefit of using your products or services. The reader needs a reason to accept a connection with you. By giving them a benefit you are instilling confidence in your business. For example:

* Help My Website Sell Founder Adam Hommey's headline is: Top internet marketing consultant and expert webmaster reveals how to make your website sell more products and services

* The Global Institute of Visionary Executives Founder Carrie Jacobs has this as her headline: Read my profile and learn from a champion visionary executive coach how you can profit from your own brand of success.

Just by fixing your LinkedIn profile headline, you will begin to attract more prospects and referral sources. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. In fact, in my free special report, I reveal 14 mistakes that most internet marketers and small business owners make - and the opportunities they are missing. I invite you to get this free report at http://www.getlinkedinhelp.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kristina_Jaramillo

Business Card: Most Convenient Networking Application

Business cards are the cards bearing business information about a company or an individual. It speaks about our work standards. They can be shared during formal introductions as a convenience and a memory aid. Your card is your unique opportunity to initiate interaction with your prospective customers. You have only a few seconds to make a powerful impression.

But always remember to make your cards impressive and appealing. Your great promise to your clients is contained in your headline. It is beneficial to define your USP, i. e. your unique selling proposition so as to leave a memorable impression on them. If you have a great headline, it will entice people into further reading your business cards. They should be designed with eye-catching contents, attractive logos and slogans related to the product. It is one of the most powerful and inexpensive marketing tool you can use.

Your card should be able to communicate not only your contact information, but also you're your services and your credibility too. Also ensure that your card includes a tag line that gives details about what you or your company are engaged into. It will be the first impression your prospects receive of your business. So let the card convey the information in the best possible manner. It should be simple but at the same time attractive too. Too many fonts should not be used and do not try to cram too much information in it. Your main message should not get lost.

Your business card is an integral part of your brand or corporate identity strategy. Design your card in such a way that it stands out of the crowd. Your name should be the largest piece of information after the logo. Professional graphic designers can be hired to prepare the layout and the design of the card. Spending a little more now on effective advertising that actually generates business is no doubt affordable. If your business card is innovative, you will experience a drastic change in your business image. So, just take good care of your card. Keep them clean and crisp in a cardholder. Do not give away cards that are bent or damaged. It acts as a starter for new relationship that could be very productive in the near future. What begins with a professional commitment turns into a long term business relationship. So, just turn your business cards into the most desirable marketing application!

Friday, 1 April 2011

Networking - The Power to Transform Your Business

One size does not fit all...

Networking works. You know that. We know that - it has the power to completely transform your business.

People regularly ask me about which networking group I would recommend. A fair question considering how many years I have been networking... However this is often preceded by negativity about networking whether from first hand experiences or hearsay, moans about not getting results and lots of excuses as to why it isn't happening.

My personal belief is that all networking (we almost all) is good networking....

Where people get it wrong is not finding the right group and not being prepared to put the time and effort in to enjoy the rewards. Follow these three steps and improve your results.

Step One

Decide what you want to achieve from your networking. You can enjoy many of the benefits below from the same event but you do need to decided which one is your primary objective.
Gain ConfidenceMeet other business ownersGet support and advice from fellow professionalsEnjoy the lunch and keep up on the gossipGrow your bank of business contactsHear some motivational guest speakersMeet service/product suppliers for yourselfImprove the way your run your businessGain regular businessGain valuable business

Step Two

Find the right networking group for you. You can talk to people about their experiences but that is their opinion and I would recommend visiting groups yourself. Ask yourself the following questions when making your decision.
Can I make the meeting times comfortably and attend regularly?Was the format and content right for what I want?Do I share similarities with the members ie reasons for attending?Are the businesses involved ones that I could potentially refer to?Do the current members have contacts with my ideal clients and introducers?Could I see what the members are gaining from the group?What are the tangible benefits? ie referrals, support, personal development?Can I uphold all required commitments of membership?Was there a positive feel to the event, did I enjoy the event and would I look forward to going again?

Step Three

Once you have decided which group is right for you STOP and double check that you are willing and able to commit. Being a little unsure and nervous is fine but you have to be willing and positive. An ' I'll give it ago, I can always leave' attitude will not get you the relationships, opportunities and success you deserve. The first things to do now are.
Attend any training available to youMake sure you have a clear message so other know how to help youMet the members on a 1-2-1 basis to get to know them, find a way to help them quickly.Follow up on everything efficientlyAlways thank people for introductions, opportunities and businessEnjoy your networking, taking it seriously doesn't mean it has to be boring or scary.

Contact Cathy at http://opendoorz.wordpress.com/ or email her directly at cathy@opendoorz.biz

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cathy_Dunbabin

How Networking Can Attract New Business for You

Even in this day and age of hi-tech solutions and web-based applications, networking is still one of the best ways to attract new business. Whether offline or online, networking is a valuable tool that all small businesses need to take advantage of.

In two plus decades of business experience, I can honestly share that networking has proven to be one of the best methods I've used for business development. It has allowed me to make connections and contacts that otherwise would not happen through my other marketing and sales efforts.

Networking can put you in touch with many different people and enable you to build credibility, plus gain exposure. It can also be utilized as a way for your business to grow and expand.

Here are several ways that you can Network and get the Ball Rolling:

On the Web, you can use social media sites and services for free. In exchange for a little bit of your time, you get valuable exposure for your business while creating connections and establishing relationships. Online you can build your credibility through forums, blogs and sites related to your business or industry. Using online networking as a way to be helpful and informative is best. Being intrusive will damage your credibility, so be careful with your comments. Remember, you're looking to build relationships, not tear down walls.

Offline Networking is a great way to get exposure. Again, you exchange your time for free publicity. As one example, you might volunteer as a guest speaker on a radio program. Radio shows are often looking for various experts to go on air and answer questions that callers may have. You could be that expert. On the radio show, you would be answering questions with confidence and based on your areas of expertise pertaining to the topics being discussed. In some cases, you answer questions for the show host and receive free publicity in return. The radio station is grateful because you volunteered to be their guest speaker, you've connected with new people and hopefully the information you shared proved to be valuable to the listening audience.

At other offline events, you can also build trust between you and your community. By giving your business a face you help build the rapport between you and potential clients. People in general can be exposed to dozens of advertisements and articles every day, depending on what they read, listen to and view. You can use networking to really establish yourself as a competent expert. So look for ways that you can participate in communities both on and offline.

Networking can also be a way to improve your small business as it can get you in touch with similar individuals. Through networking, you can meet prospects, new business partners, a mentor and even establish connections with other successful business owners.

If you are looking for a different angle to promote and expose your business then you might consider adding networking into the mix. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose.

Thursday, 31 March 2011

If You Are Just Going Through the Motions, Take Off the Mask!

I thought about this when attending one of his concerts. He clearly loves what he is doing, sliding across the stage and boyishly interacting with individuals in the audience.

There is no "rote" repetition but rather a performer full of enthusiasm, exercising an uninhibited ability "to be who he is." He demonstrates the benefits of operating from "Effortless Energy" and we can all get there if we drop the masks, get in touch with our authentic selves, and live from that truth everyday.

When spending time with Byron Katie, I learned three things which have really helped me to get out of the facade and in touch with my authentic self. By using them and adapting them, I've found more meaning and pleasure when conducting my daily tasks and I encourage you to do the same:

1) Speak openly and honestly about who you really are. Allow answers to come to you and really feel them with no pressure or preconceived ideas about what might be more acceptable to the outside world. You'll be surprised how others agree, relate or have been there themselves.

2) Express your truth. That includes having the integrity to say "no." Each time you say "yes" when you mean "no," you come out of your authentic self and deplete your energy. Be clear about saying "no" so there is no confusion as to your position or intent. Katie says that a "no" to others is a "yes" to yourself and, ultimately, to the other person.

3) Stay out of judgment. I have always known that, as soon as I judge others, it takes me out of a happy state of being. That's because it is all a projection. Whatever we think of others is really what we think of ourselves. When we judge, we get out of the flow and block our "Effortless Energy."

Each of us has a unique gift...something we were put on earth to do. It may not be a large concert performer like Michael Buble but, when we are in that flow, we have more vitality. Our authenticity provides "Effortless Energy" and it's there to be had, if we are open to it. Are you going through the motions when you could take off the mask and feel more alive?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Betty_Ann_Heggie

Tools To Run Your Business Help You Succeed

Starting a business can be overwhelming, but with the right tools you could be on your way to success. There are all sorts of places that offer freebies and include free business letter samples and business cards. With the internet abundant in sites that provide necessary tools for success, there should be no problem getting started on the right foot.

Definitely get those free business cards and start handing them out to everyone. This is one of the most powerful tools you can have when starting an enterprise. The more people who know who you are and what you have, the more your business will become recognizable. Even people you already know should have your card, if not several of them to share with everyone they know. You don't know who they might run into. For instance, my friend gave me her business card and it turned out that someone I saw in my yoga class told me that she needed to learn how to set up a blog for her site. It is much easier to give someone a business card then to start looking for a pen and a random piece of paper tot jot down information. Plus, it is easy for a scrap of paper to get misplaced.

When you are trying to make new contacts and find prospects, giving away something is an excellent tool. This can be a free consult, a 7 day trial at a gym or a booklet related to one's industry. For instance, a massage therapist can give away a free fifteen minute session or a handout on how to reduce stress between appointments. People appreciate getting something that is free and does not have a sales pitch. You can also give free talks in the community in order to let people become familiar with your services. For instance, a chiropractor can speak about dealing with an old neck injury. Other types of free offers is a special where you buy one item or service and get second one at no cost. For instance, a new restaurant can offer a kids meal for free with purchase of an adult meal.

Be creative when you think about ways to get the word out to the community and also think about offering an online newsletter to stay in touch with customers.

Wednesday, 30 March 2011

You Need a Sloggo

When was the last time you were at a networking event, or a business lunch, a seminar or an exhibition? It's inevitable that someone will have asked you - "And what do you do?" The question is; how did you answer?

Perhaps you said - "I'm in the printing business." Or "I'm the sales manager for a software company." Or "I'm a Biodiversity Action Plan Co-ordinator." (I saw this job advertised in the local paper, and haven't a clue what it means!)

If you're saying anything similar to this, then I want you to stop forthwith! It's boring, it stops the conversation dead in its tracks, and it does nothing to help your business.

You need a 'Sloggo' - an 'Elevator Speech' - 'A Sixteen Second Sizzler!' Call it what you will, but it needs to be a brief description of what you do, and who you do it for.

There must be a benefit

It needs to be a benefit statement that offers value to your customer or client. It needs to be short and punchy (10-20 seconds) and encourage the other person to say - "Tell me more!"

You can have different Sloggos depending on whom you're speaking to. It's also something you would say when you call a prospective customer on the phone or leave a voice message. It should be on your outgoing voice mail messages, business cards, brochures, letterheads, website and email signature.

And just in case you haven't worked it out yet; Sloggo is a combination of Slogan and Logo. It is not to be confused with Sloggi, the underwear people, unless your Sloggo turns out to be 'pants!'

Practise, practise

Write out your Sloggo and practise until you're comfortable with it, and it becomes part of you. It's also important not to be glib or smart and it needs to come across with enthusiasm and energy. Try to associate what you do with good feelings, and appeal to the emotions.

However; once you have gained the other person's interest, your goal is to find out about them and what their needs are. Only then can you 'tailor' what you say to suit the other person. Remember; they are not interested in all the wonderful things you do, they are only interested in 'what's in it for them.'

Examples

I like the interior decorator who says - "We are in the three bares business; we deal with bare walls, bare floors and bare ceilings!"

Or the insurance broker who says - "I buy insurance!" and when questioned he replies with - "I buy the best insurance to meet the needs of my clients"

And of course mine is - "I help clients motivate their customers, motivate their staff and motivate themselves!"

I'm sure you can do a lot better than that; so go to it!

Alan Fairweather, 'The Motivation Doctor,' is an International Speaker, Best Selling Author and Sales Growth Expert. For the past seventeen years, he's been developing the talents of Managers, Sales and Customer Service people, and turning them into consistent top performers.

He is the author of two books:
'How to be a Motivational Manager' A down-to-earth guide for managers and team leaders.
'How to Manage Difficult People' Proven strategies for dealing with challenging behaviour at work.

To receive your free newsletter and free eBooks, visit:
http://www.themotivationdoctor.com/.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Fairweather

Getting Rich Over Time Or Overnight

My grandma used to say "anything worth having is worth working for." I have to agree with grandma. However we are at a time when so many people are looking for a get rich magic potion that will fall out of the sky all while not putting in the work and getting their jersey dirty. Getting rich takes time and effort unless you have that rich uncle or a winning lottery ticket.

Robert Kiyosaki defines the law of compensation as returns are minimal in spite of massive effort at the start, yet returns can be massive with minimal effort over time. Those who are in the trenches realize that if you press relentlessly in pursuit of your dreams and goals, you will be rewarded for the fruits of your labor.

Now this will require patience. There will be disappointments and days you feel like throwing the towel in. You may even question yourself, is this worth it. The person who wins the race is the one that keeps going in spite of the naysayers, in spite of not being able to see the finish line. They have a don't stop won't stop mentality.

I am reminded of reading Jordan Adlers' story in his book, Beach Money. Jordan tells the story of not making a penny in network marketing until his twelfth marketing company. Today, Jordan makes a seven figure income and is richly rewarded for not giving up. Wow, now that is what I call relentless. The question is do you have what it takes while in the building phase you have yielded a small amount of money or perhaps none. Most people won't, they decide it's not worth the time.

Think of the magic of compounding interest. It all starts with one penny. Then like magic, you are compensated with extra money BUT it all started with one penny. Building a house requires one brick at a time. Brick by brick and then one day, you have your dream home BUT it all started with one brick.

First lesson, find your passion and then GET STARTED. Next, get training, a great coach, a mastermind group, and add personal development to your plan. Last, never ever, ever give up on yourself and your dreams in spite of the circumstances and regardless of the situation.

Till next time.....Live on purpose and make it happen,

Tuesday, 29 March 2011

Inflatable Toys

There are many types of toys available in the market which includes foam toys, rubber toys and plastic toys, etc. Recently new family of toys has embraced the shops of toys and those are. Before I move forward it is better to let you know what actually the are. Inflated toys are those toys which are inflated with the gas maybe helium or hydrogen and can be stored in the small place when not inflated. As these toys totally depend on the gas for this the producers has given the advantage to set the fan by you.

One of the biggest sources of entertainment for our young ones is, which may include bouncer's slides, obstacles, water pools and sports. One of the greatest advantages of these toys is that they are portable, which enables you to carry them where needed. For instance, you can carry the waterslide if you are going for swimming. I think the best inflatable toy which the children enjoy most is the inflatable waterslide.

Before buying these you should consider the following points.

1. First of all, decide for who you are buying the inflatable toy. You can have more than one toy if required. If you are a beginner or the one for whom you are buying is the bigger I recommend going for the basic tube which is easy to handle and use.

2. Then you should consider the safety points of these which are more than easy to apply. If you are using the water slide make sure all the users have a life jacket that fits to their body easily. Then make sure that those who are going to ride on the toy can swim or not, if they cannot then it is not recommended to let them ride on the inflatable water slide for this you can buy any other inflatable toy if you don't know how to swim.

3. Some essentials are needed for these to be used. So make sure you have them before using.

4. These come with the patch kit, though they made from heavy plastics but mishaps can happen. So always keep these patches on the place where you can find them easily.

Meetup Groups for Small Businesses Makes Networking Easy

Small businesses face an up hill battle finding new prospects in our current economy. An easy small business strategy that every owner should utilize is Meetup groups.

According toMeetup they are the world's largest network of local groups making it easy for anyone to organize a local group or find one. There are more than 2,000 groups meeting face to face every day. Their mission "Is to revitalize local community and help people around the world self-organize."

The key for the small business owner is to find groups that fit what they are looking for. Just joining groups that focus on the needs and resources for small business is a good way start. When I did a search in Denver for "Business Prospecting" I came up with 7 groups that meet within 25 miles. All of these groups focused on helping their members succeed.My search for "Small Business" turned up 280 groups in Denver. That's more than I can join however when I started looking individually I found many with 40 - 80 active members and some let attendees speak in front of the group.

That's another part of Meetup.com that is so great for small business owners, being able to do a short presentation of who you are and what you do can open a lot of doors. These are the groups that I focus on and have my clients focus on. Some groups will give you the floor for the entire Meetup, 30 to 60 minutes devoted to you. And the cost is negligible.

Sponsoring groups that fit your niche is another way to get involved. Some groups need a place to meet, some are looking for discounts to pass on to their members. Just look in the sidebar for the Sponsor Us button ans make an offer. We sponsor several and hold our own. The key here is get involved.

As a business owner time is a valuable commodity and fitting in Meetups isn't easy so look for ones that meet your time constraints. You'll be surprised at the number of groups that meet early, before work, at lunch or evening mixers. There are weekend groups too.

Don't forget to focus on groups that are special interest, like golf, skiing, health and wellness, knitting you get the picture. Being well rounded keeps you in balance and you can meet great business prospects in a more casual setting. Think back, how many business prospects have you met over the years through recreation or hobbies?

After 35 years in business I still look for new prospects everyday and Meetups help me build my prospect list for Bayes Squared LLC and our 5 Step Sales Jump Start program.

Start with one group that fits your needs and build from there.

Monday, 28 March 2011

Using the Phone to Prospect

The phone is the second best way to prospect.

After face-to-face, the phone is another great way to prospect. The phone still allows for that immediate two-way communication. If you say things that will arouse their interest, they will be willing to talk with you. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions, find out what they are thinking and what their needs are, and determine whether they might be a fit for your company.

Ninety percent of your time should be spent on prospecting.

You'll want to make the best use of your available time to grow your business. Things like spreadsheets, cleaning your desk, etc. are important tasks, but are better suited for time periods when you can't actively prospect.

If you're not actually talking to a prospect, then you should be looking for them. The telephone is a great way to further your business. There are many ways to get leads, and that is really a discussion on its own, but you'll want to make it a point to call them on a regular basis. Get on the phone and go for 3-4 hours straight. Set a goal for how long you will spend on making phone calls, and don't quit until you reach that goal. You'll be surprised by how well those efforts will pay off. Do this for 2 weeks in a row and watch your business explode!

If you have to leave a message on a voice mail or answering machine, say "I have exciting news! Call me back!" Then when they call, be prepared to tell the prospect what the exciting news is. It could be a new product, or a special on the sign-up process, or even a big meeting or event coming up. Be excited and your prospect will be too.

Tips On How to Make Yourself Memorable When Generating Small Business Leads

Do you remember the last time you went to a networking event or met with a group of other small business owners to improve your small business networking? Chances are you met a handful of people and came away with business cards or other identifying content. How well did you remember the faces and conversations that went with the names? How easily could you recall the business of an individual you met by their face and story alone?

The last thing you want to do is become one of those faces or business cards that leave absolutely no impression once the event is over with. No matter how well you think you captivate their attention while you're speaking to them there's a good chance that if you're not branding yourself properly and making a memorable impression, those people you meet at small business networking events and groups aren't going to remember you. Here are some tips on how to make you stand out and be memorable (in a good way) when networking with other business and industry leaders.

Be Distinctive - You don't need to dress like a clown but a brightly-colored tie, a unique piece of jewelry, good cologne or even a certain grooming style can make you stand out in the memory of business partners in a good way. You certainly don't want to only be remembered because of your hairstyle or scent but those are excellent memory triggers that mark your encounter with a great big flag. Don't be outlandish to achieve this, but don't let yourself blend with the crowd.

Be Engaging - It's very important that when you network with others in order to build relationships that foster business leads, you need to stay engaged. It's obvious when you don't vest yourself in the conversation so make sure you listen well, respond promptly, maintain eye contact, etc. If you're truly present and accounted for mentally then you will stand out among the other people who are trying to "check out" early.

Carry the Conversation - Never let a conversation be one-sided. It's important to listen to the others while you're focusing on small business networking and fostering a foundation for a future relationship but don't just nod and smile. You need to do your share of carrying the conversation so ask thought-provoking questions. When you do this, you will undoubtedly stick out as one of the more engaging individuals. Your name, your face, your business and your interests will stick in the minds of those business owners when the day is done. Make an effort to take a genuine interest in the business owners around you.

Reinforce "You" with Keywords - The people you network with will be meeting a lot of people - that's the nature of being a business owner. They won't remember long descriptions of what you do so you need to break it down to a few key things about yourself. Name, Company name, Business, Product and Location. Use various points frequently and you'll be easier to remember - like "Joe the Barber from Soho"

Contribute to the Group Conversation - Everything about you is important, and you want eyes on you but you can't take the spotlight. Don't hog the conversation, just join it. Think in terms of the power of words and choose what you say carefully. Saying one smart thing in front of the group will make you more memorable than 15 minutes of semi-conscious chatter. Create value for others and you create value for yourself.

You have to sell yourself just as hard as you sell your products. When you're involved in small business networking for building business leads you need to approach those business owners like you're making a sale. This is your brand, and your brand is more than just a logo. It's an experience. If you focus on selling a memorable experience rather than a snapshot then you up the chances of creating a memorable experience. You are your business, so make an impression that won't be easily forgotten.

Sunday, 27 March 2011

Who Are You Connecting With?

Perhaps you've heard the saying it's not what you know but who you know?

I have a different twist on that. It's not only what you know, it's who you know and who you share your knowledge with.

Connections are important. In my humble opinion, connections are what make the world go 'round.

So, who are you connecting with? How are you connecting? Are you making the most of your connections in a mutually beneficial way?

I know that seems like a barrage of questions, but I really want you to think about it.

In both business life and personal life, connections are important. They feed your soul and your bank account and they need to be nurtured in turn.

I challenge you to think about what you are doing to create new connections and strengthen current ones. You never know where each connection might lead.

"Ask you get, don't you won't."

There is no truer statement and it's so important to continually ask for new business even when business is flush. And it's equally important to ask for what you want in your personal life too.

The beauty of asking for what you want in all aspects of your life is you really have nothing to lose.

After all, the worst thing that can happen is someone can say "no." It might not be what you want to hear and at the same time I assure you that you will have lost nothing. But, if the answer is yes, you will have taken a step closer to your ultimate goal.

So, go forth and ask. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at the outcome, no matter the outcome. Because once you realize that "no" is just a word and it doesn't leave you with anything less than before, you'll have a new outlook on life.?

This article may be reproduced in its entirety with the following inclusion: Lisa Manyon specializes in POWERFULLY communicating your marketing messages to increase results. She's a published author, professional copywriter, marketing strategist and owner of Write On~ Creative Writing Services, LLC. Manyon publishes a free electronic newsletter called Manyon's Musings and with subscription you receive a bonus Copywriting Action Plan & discover 7 Power-packed Insider Tricks of the Copywriting Trade to Dramatically Increase Sales of your Products & Services http://www.writeoncreative.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Manyon

Have You Tried Reverse Networking?

Networking events don't have to be painful. If you put yourself in the role of sleuth - on behalf of your strategic alliances - you'll enjoy yourself and still make quality connections!

Have you ever attended a networking event with the intention to find connections for someone else? Most likely not because that's not what we're taught to do. We tend to approach networking like a mission which sometimes ends up coming across as overly aggressive in our approach! If we're able to muster up any courage at all, we walk up to a likely looking stranger and start grilling him or her. What do you do, how long have you done it and gee I've got a great product (service) for you that will surely solve all your problems! Wrong on oh, so many fronts. More on networking etiquette and building relationships another time.

If that's what it feels like to you, just think of how much pressure it would take off your shoulders if you went to a mixer or other networking event on someone else's behalf! Think of all the good karma you'll generate when look for possible connections for others. And that's one of the key tenets we promote when working with business owners: uplift and support other entrepreneurs. Help them be successful. Because by doing so, your connections and relationships will also be strengthened and you too will win in the long run.

So for your next event, interview three potential candidates - say for your strategic partner or perhaps one of your clients, armed with the information you've gathered beforehand (what is their target market - gender? income? industry? etc.). Prescreen the referrals, get the contact information and if you're really good, go ahead and set up a date and time to make introductions (because we're always "going to keep in touch" and then life, work and time intervenes, and another opportunity lost!) Warmest introductions are personal introductions, so why not set up a 3-way breakfast or luncheon - or even over a cup of java if you're short on time - and bring everyone to the table at the same time?

Finally, once you've completed this task you're free to relax and be yourself. And who knows how that will turn out - your're much more approachable if you're not visibly stressed out - your next client might just walk up and find you! Reverse networking is easy and fun - you can make a game of it.

You just might like it!

Larisa Troche is a busy multipreneur living in Northern California. To find out more about Ms. Troche's business services, you can go to The Larisa Group for an overview. For more information about the Passport Living Lifestyle, Pink Passport Society has resources and information to help women become prosperous and financially independent. You can become an online member for free and have the information delivered to you directly!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larisa_Troche

Saturday, 26 March 2011

Types of Business Card Holders

If you regularly attend business networking events then you probably have a large stack of business cards that you carry with you. Many people just carry them in their pocket which results in them handing out bent and distorted cards - hardly a good impression to set!

For this reason any networker should invest in a smart business card holder or case to house their cards and keep them in good condition. In this article we look at the different types of business card holders that are available and help you choose the right one for you.

Leather card holders

These are probably at the premium end of card holders due to them being created from, or at least layered with, genuine leather. This gives a luxurious feel and due to the natural durability of leather they last a long time.

These make fantastic gifts for friends and colleagues but also help to create a good first impression when you meet somebody at an event for the first time.

Metal card cases

These are often smaller and able to carry fewer cards than other holders but they are still quite stunning nonetheless. Available in a variety of metals from chrome to aluminium, these card cases are very strong and look great.

Rotary card holders

You will recognise these from the desks of cops and office workers in movies from the eighties! These rotary business card holders enable you to quickly flick through your contact list with the aid of index tabs. They often hold hundreds of cards so make a great addition to any office desk.

With the advances in technology however, many people are opting to keep their contacts completely digital and as these rotary systems are not designed to leave the office, their popularity is diminishing.

Savvy business people still have one for cases of technical emergencies anyway, allowing them to find the details of that PC repair guy they met a few months back with ease!

Card wallets

These are usually much larger and are designed to store many business cards for the purpose of presentation. A little bit like a photo album, card wallets provide a great place to put all of the cards you have collected over the months and years in one single place for reference.

These have additional benefits other than simply finding contacts; if you are a fan of innovative design like myself you can use these as a place to store your favourite business card designs and use them for inspiration next time you design a new card.

Giver's Gain: The Key to Successful Networking

"Networking is the key to finding new opportunities, it's a terrific way to advance your career and grow your business."

If networking is so full of promise, why do most people get a sinking feeling when they hear the word?

Learning to connect with strangers can be challenging! Even confident, capable professionals often feel awkward and intimidated at a networking event. The key to moving past this discomfort is simple: instead of networking to gain (connections, opportunities, business, etc.), look for ways to give.

When I first started my business, I knew networking could help me grow my business, but it felt strange to show up full of self-interest and self promotion. Looking around the room, I knew I wasn't the only one feeling this way.

I started reaching out to people - not for what they could offer me, but to find out how I could help them. I introduced myself, and then introduced people to each other. The more people I talked to, the more connections and opportunities I saw among the people within my growing network. Once I set my own interests aside, networking felt more natural.

I truly believe that whatever you give will come back to you in some way, often completely unexpected. When you shift your perspective from "what can I get" to "how can I contribute" magic happens and networking becomes a rewarding experience.

Top 3 Ways to Improve Your Networking Skills:

1. Play the role of the host, no matter where you are. Thank people for coming and make introductions among the group.
2. Stop talking and start listening. Show genuine interest in others.
3. Always look for ways in which you can contribute.

Julia James, CPCC, PCC, M.Sc. is a multi-lingual certified life coach, award-winning author and international speaker. She helps busy professionals around the world achieve balance in their lives through individual coaching and workshops. Author of the book, The Mini-Retreat Solution and the audio CD series, Guided Mini-Retreats for Busy People, she provides tools to manage stress effectively and to relax and re-energize quickly. Julia has been featured on Joy TV, CBC News, as well as in The Globe & Mail, Glow Magazine, BC Business Magazine and The Vancouver Observer. For more information visit: http://www.juliajames.ca

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julia_H_James

Julia H James - EzineArticles Expert Author

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Article Submitted On: February 26, 2011

Friday, 25 March 2011

Low Cost Lead Generation - Disciplining Yourself For Growth

Low cost lead generation like any new skill takes time, patience, and effort to happen.It is a matter of time, taking action on organized plans, studying, and having the discipline to carry it out. There are several important discipline steps to take, all of which are very important.

One of the first and most important disciplines is time management or self management. This is something that I am continuously striving to become better at and the more I work on this, the more I am pleased with the outcomes.

Have you ever noticed how much you can get done when you have a short deadline approaching? For example, you may have a project, or report that is due in 30 days, yet it is postponed until the last week when the sense of urgency is at its highest. I recommend taking projects, articles, or anything that has to be done on a long or short term basis and breaking it down to little steps with the goal of completion. Low cost lead generation canned be learned the same way and before you know it, the steps become easier and easier.

Another important discipline is good health.The combination of exercise, eating a balanced diet, and plenty of rest makes the difference when doing your daily activities. Something like taking a daily walk not only can help you feel better, but can help you produce some of the best strategies for improving your low cost lead generation business. I find that when I write, then take a walk and come back to it, I come up with ideas that help my creativity.

Continuous learning is essential for long term growth. You may have a great strategy for recruiting leads, following up with people, or promoting your business, but things can always be improved and tweaked. I recommend tailoring this to your own individual learning style.

Perhaps you like to read, listen to audio, or a combination of both. Take advantage of the resources out there to help you with any area that will help you with low cost lead generation and success.

Balance is another important discipline to cultivate. This can be a tough one because not only do you want to have time to work, but you also want to have time to have fun or do important things such as spend time with your family or friends.

I recommend taking some time to sit down and plan time for not only your daily and weekly activities such as working on low cost lead generation, but also time for unplanned interruptions. This is not new advice, but helpful in the event something happens that alters your schedule. Scheduling two to three extra hours of free time for the unexpected can really help.

Reflecting on your experiences, goals, and measuring your progress are all part of becoming better at what you do. Follow your heart, make a plan, and stick with it.

Strive for achieving bigger and better things out of life. Your potential is greater than you can even imagine, and the daily discipline will reveal your true capability!

To your success!

Lee Reffel

Do You Believe In and Have First Hand Knowledge of the Products That You Market?

Do you believe in the products that you market?

Will the products you market bring you excitement when you make a sale?

You should ask yourself these questions before you market any products to a consumer.

All the products you market should increase your work ethic, to not only market the products, but know that the products will be satisfactory to the consumer.

Having first hand knowledge about all the products you market will also increase your sales, due to you being able to thoroughly go into detail about your products when you are in the process of making a sale.

The products you decide to market should bring a certain level of joy when you make a sell, and not just because YOU MADE A SALE.

If you truly believe in the products you market, you will put so much more effort into your business.

When deciding what would be great products to market, ask yourself if the products are worth you buying it, before you market it to anyone else.

If the answer is yes, purchase the products and try them for yourself first, so you can have first hand knowledge about the products before you market them. Consumers will always ask questions about your products before they decide to make a purchase.

First hand knowledge about products will make your marketing efforts and conversations with potential consumers go smoothly, due to you being thoroughly familiar with the products.

I was in the mall recently and walked by a kiosk where cell phones and cell phone accessories were being sold. The guy at the kiosk, who was the owner, stopped me as I walked by. He asked if I was in the market to upgrade my cell phone.

I told him that I would consider upgrading my phone and stopped to look at his product line.

I inquired about several different cell phones before I settled on one cell phone in particular. I asked the owner several questions about the cell phone which he could not answer.

His lack of knowledge about his product lost him a sale. If he had been familiar with his product, I would have purchased it.

I did decide to purchase the cell phone from another store several days later. What made the difference was all the information the sales rep provided when I inquired about the cell phone.

All strive to be on top of your game in your business when it comes to being completely familiar with your product line.

No one wants to lose the opportunity to make sale, like the kiosk owner did, due to his lack of knowledge about his own product.

Work with me at http://successfulwithoutmlm.com/?t=ez

Thursday, 24 March 2011

Highlights of Networking

Networking, as we all know, is an essential and important skill required in order to be successful in your business. The skill can help to grow your business and take it to new levels. Successful networking can help you in getting new ideas and increase your market share so that you can cater to more people. For everyone one person you are speaking with you is effectively networking to their whole database.

It is imperative that you let others know that you exist and present yourself in such a way that sets you apart from everyone else. Try attending interesting and exciting events such as clubs, meetings, seminars, conferences and presentations in order to expand your clientele base. Starting your own networking club is also a good way to go about - however, remembered this option does take time and motivation.

Maintaining and keeping a good image in the industry is extremely important, as people will judge you on the basis of what you say, how you look and your reputation. Always try and present a professional image by dressing, speaking and maintaining a strong and professional body language.

When attending a networking event, you might feel scared and experience fear but at the same time it is exciting to meet new people and build new relationships. A lot of other people who are there may be feeling exactly the same way - so appear confident and approachable.

Attending various networking events is great ways to meet different types of people who can belong to various networks such as schools, social life, business or even family have friends you haven't met yet. This can lead to building mutually beneficial relationships.

When approaching new people it is always better to portray an image of warmth, understanding and empathy, as this will make it easier for you to interact and engage with others. It is better to be yourself rather than trying to emulate someone else. Meet everyone, listen to them and interact as much as possible as this will help you in building strong and beneficial relationships.

Being able to talk to anyone about any topic is an important skill that has its advantages in networking. If you can start a conversation with anyone on any topic then you tend to come across people who may turn out to be valuable in the future and may lead to a much more successful relationship in the long run. It may be difficult to initiate a conversation but it can lead to something much more valuable and beneficial in the long run. If when starting a conversation the person you are speaking with doesn't engage in the conversation, change the topic. Ask questions about what they do or like and select your discussion topics from there.

Networking is not about selling what you have to offer, unless appropriate. It is important you listen to the other person attentively and show interest in what they are offering. Give them your attention even if it is for a small amount of time. Networking is about building relationships.

If you feel the fit is right and you would like to maintain contact with someone, the best way to do so is by asking for their business card. Ensure you give them one of your business cards in return. Having a business card ensures you look professional. It should have your name, contact number, address (if appropriate) and your email address. Make it easy to stay in contact.

Networking is important if you want to expand and grow your business, so make sure you do it often and develop the skill of networking in order to be successful.

Start Your Business With The Pre Paid Legal Opprotunity

If you have intentions of getting into the legal advisory sector, one should note that one can actually get a lot of pre paid legal opportunity in terms of the chance for you to make some money. Make sure that you look up on the opportunities and the risks that are involved in starting such a business and you must be thorough in terms of your research. Although this is of the most dependable and credible things that you could get into but the truth is that you have to work a lot and market the business that you have before you can actually make headway and get profits.

There are several independent legal firms which sell legal coverage for people on prepaid basis which ensures that you can receive legal coverage. However if you want to start with this business then you will have to formulate the coverage options and should consider including such things like increased coverage at reduced costs such that you can attract more customers.

This entails that the owner of the plan will then be entitled to the coverage options after they have paid their initial fee. You can however also get into a business where you have the pre paid legal opportunity.

In terms of the pre paid legal opportunities, there is a huge window that you can exploit as this works with the network marketing plan where everyone can come into the net. So basically if you are in the network, you can earn by getting people into this network from which you will be paid a healthy amount of commission from this.

This is a way in which you can actually get more legal leverage for you with the assumption that you will need a lot of legal coverage over a particular period of time. To run the business you will need to have a pretty good business plan such that you can market it properly. However pre paid legal is not a scam at all.

Wednesday, 23 March 2011

Networking Can Help You Prosper in 2011

START NETWORKING NOW

If you're feeling a little unsure about how to begin networking, it may not be as hard as you think. Here are some great ideas to get you and your business out there - now!

Friends & family Begin by asking yourself this question:
How many of my friends and family really understand what I do and what my business is about?
If you can't answer: All of them, it's time to start talking. It's understandable that you have other things to discuss with friends and family, but why not tell them about your business too? They may know a small-business owner, or a human resources manager, or a real estate agent... anyone who could benefit from using your products.

They may even want to purchase some for their own gift giving. But, you can't benefit from any of that if you don't tell friends and family about your business.

JOIN THE CLUB

Many businesspeople find success networking by joining local business-related clubs. Groups, such as your area Chamber of Commerce, allow people who do business in a community to come together from mutual and reciprocal businesses. Members often promote and bring each other business. Other groups may serve to help educate you, learn from others and share your insights, or perfect skills. For example, joining your local Toastmasters chapter is a great way to practice and hone your presentation skills, while getting to know others in a variety of business fields.

Joining social, community, or cause-related clubs can help you make connections that will benefit your business too. Your career is often one of the first things discussed with someone you meet for the first time. And when that conversation takes place, it can be a great opportunity to find a potential customer or develop a relationship that could generate some referrals.

ELEVATOR SPEECH

Develop an elevator speech You can meet new people and make connections at any time: shopping at the grocery store, visiting the bank, stopping for gas, or even in an elevator on a quick ride to the 18th floor. Always be ready to talk about your business, by developing what's known as an "elevator speech," or a short, 30-seconds-or-less description of your business that can be used to answer the question, "So, what do you do?"

The key to a good elevator speech is to make it informative, results-oriented, and provocative. Informative so that the person you are meeting has an overall understanding of what you do. Results-oriented so that they know the benefits that your business provides to your customers. And, provocative in the sense that it provokes thought, questions, and/or additional conversation.

Get online There are so many ways to reach people online! Start or join conversations with others about rewards, incentives, their industry, HR issues, and employment trends on blogs and forums. Find interactive webinars and online meetings. Or, search for groups with live meetings in your community.

Social networking websites, like Facebook?, Twitter?, and LinkedIn? can help you make contact with people through other contacts and share information about your business too. Build a networking page for your business using the sites' free platform. Post and respond to comments. Add useful industry links and insightful links.

HOST YOUR OWN NETWORKING PARTY

Networking parties are a great way to find new clients and increase awareness of your business. Don't know of any in your area? Why not hold your own? With some prep time and work, it may be simpler than you think to hold a successful networking party.

The goal Keep in mind that you're hosting a networking party, not a sales party. The goal is to have business people meet, mix, mingle, and exchange information. This is not the time to sell your products; this is the time to sell you. You'll be introducing invitees to one another (a great reason for them to come!), and they'll be introducing their guests to you.

PRESENTATIONS

You can also use your Personal Retail Website as a presentation tool. Show potential customers how easy it is to order by walking them through your site on a laptop or their computer. If they're short on time, provide them with your web address to check out your website on their own. Then, follow-up in a day or two.

Welcome! If you enjoy finding new products that fit your lifestyle, you'll love what's "in store!" http://energizeyourlifetime.com/

Maximize it! Support your workout, your routine, your busy life with performance-boosting nutritional support to push you to your limits and beyond. Look your best, it's never been simpler to bring out your true beauty!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_C_Stewart

Ryan C Stewart - EzineArticles Expert Author

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