Every business has networking meetings. You exchange business cards. You visit a little... and then you go home.
Those little networking meetings do nothing, except waste time, if you don't do anything with the business cards except put them in a pile next to your desk saying "Someday..."
To make those networking meetings fruitful... and you never know from whom you'll need "fruit"... you need to make a record of what you've learned about people and keep it handy. In addition, you need to learn as much as you can that is personal. I'm not talking creepy personal here. I'm talking about the kind of personal that says you've been listening.
As you chat with someone, listen for what's important to him or her. What's their specialty in business? What are some of their passions? If they talk about their favorite sports team, make note of it. If you learn what high school or college they went to, remember it. If there is an unusual way you are connected, perhaps through friends or a family member, file this away in your mind.
As soon as you can, you need to unload the file cabinet of your mind and put it on paper. If you can, jot a few notes on the back of their business card before you see the next person. Just some words to trigger your mind for after the meeting.
As soon as possible after the meeting write down more fully everything you can remember about each person. Put this somewhere you won't lose it. Organize it. When you learn more about the person, such as accomplishments or something about their children, write it down with your other notes about them.
The key is that the information is only as good as how you use it. You want everyone you meet, well, almost everyone, to remember who you are. As soon as possible, send them a card or note that says something like, "Jennifer, I enjoyed meeting you at the Whiz Bang Event on Thursday. When you... "Here is where you put in something personal. It could be as simple as "Hook 'Em Horns" if they went to the University of Texas. Be sure and put in a sentence that identifies who you are in case her memory needs a little jogging.
What you're doing here is establishing a cordial relationship. You want people to remember you. You want them, when they need someone with your skills, to think of you. That's why you want to keep in touch. Send them a note occasionally.
Cathy Chapman, PhD is newly aware of the importance of keeping in touch with clients and other's she's met on a professional level. One way she does it is through an automated system which stores in one place all the information mentioned in this article. She's also able to send quick notes to people without the drudgery of envelopes, stamps and the mail. Try it today with two of your contacts.
Go to http://www.yourhomebusinesspower.com to learn how easy it is keep your name in front of someone.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cathy_Chapman,_Ph.D.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Networking Can Make You Rich - Top Ten Networking Tips
My most successful clients are master networkers. They are engaged in networking on a daily basis. They seek out opportunities to network. Accumulating wealth and networking are joined at the hip. You cannot create wealth with poor networking skills. Good networking skills create opportunities that absolutely will translate into more customers or clients and, of course, more money. If you are seeking more income you must develop good networking skills and process networking into your job or business on a daily basis. You simply cannot become rich without good networking skills. Those who fail to grasp this truth are relegated to getting by in life. If you want to become wealthy learn how to network.
Top Ten Networking Tips:
Networking is a process. Developing a networking process is critical to success. When you network the right way, you gain customers, clients, strategic business partners, followers and networking partners and this translates into more money. So how do you go about creating a networking process and incorporating it into your life?
1. Join Networking Groups/Clubs: BNI International is the most popular but you can create your own networking group.
2. Join Boards of Local Businesses: Reach out to your clients, customers, business partners and local business community and ask if they have an advisory board. If they do, offer your services as a board member. If they don't, help them set one up.
3. Join Civic Groups: Lions Club, Rotary Club, Chambers of Commerce, Optimist Club. There are many business and non-business civic groups who are looking for members. These groups often refer business to one another.
4. Become a Speaker: Speaking engagements are probably the most valuable networking tool available. One speaking engagement can mean thirty or more potential clients/customers. Since many are afraid to speak, doing so sets you apart from the masses and you will be viewed as an expert.
5. Join a Non-Profit Group Board or Committee: Non-profit groups are a very valuable resource for referrals. You gain an opportunity to showcase your skills and develop long-lasting relationships. Referrals come from every direction; fellow members, vendors, donors and beneficiaries of the organization.
6. Write: Writing sets you apart from your competition. As you develop your repository of articles you increase, exponentially, your readership. Writing also hones your technical skills and makes you more competent in your field or industry. When you increase your technical skills your eyes open up to opportunities that were there all along. Writing creates opportunity luck.
7. Hello Call: Make a habit of calling at least one person every day for no other reason other then to say hello. This helps build the relationship and opens the door for opportunities.
8. Birthday Call: Call your clients, customers, family members, friends, business associates, neighbors and anyone one else you may know on their birthday. Our birthdays are very important to each one of us. When someone acknowledges a birthday it says "you are important to me." People remember those who call them on their birthday.
9. Life Event Call: Call your contacts when something special happens to them or one of their family members. This could be a birth, death, newspaper mention, award, get well soon call, etc.
10. Breakfast/Lunch/Dinners: Periodically reach out to your contacts and ask them to breakfast, lunch or dinner. This casual get together is the perfect setting to generate opportunities.
Tom is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Financial Planner, CLTC (Certified Long-Term Care) and President of Cerefice & Company, the largest CPA firm in Rahway, New Jersey. Tom works with clients helping them manage their money, retirement planning, college savings, life insurance needs, IRAs and qualified plan rollovers with an eye towards maximizing tax benefits and minimizing taxes. Tom is founder of the Rich Habits Institute and author of "Rich Habits".
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Corley
Top Ten Networking Tips:
Networking is a process. Developing a networking process is critical to success. When you network the right way, you gain customers, clients, strategic business partners, followers and networking partners and this translates into more money. So how do you go about creating a networking process and incorporating it into your life?
1. Join Networking Groups/Clubs: BNI International is the most popular but you can create your own networking group.
2. Join Boards of Local Businesses: Reach out to your clients, customers, business partners and local business community and ask if they have an advisory board. If they do, offer your services as a board member. If they don't, help them set one up.
3. Join Civic Groups: Lions Club, Rotary Club, Chambers of Commerce, Optimist Club. There are many business and non-business civic groups who are looking for members. These groups often refer business to one another.
4. Become a Speaker: Speaking engagements are probably the most valuable networking tool available. One speaking engagement can mean thirty or more potential clients/customers. Since many are afraid to speak, doing so sets you apart from the masses and you will be viewed as an expert.
5. Join a Non-Profit Group Board or Committee: Non-profit groups are a very valuable resource for referrals. You gain an opportunity to showcase your skills and develop long-lasting relationships. Referrals come from every direction; fellow members, vendors, donors and beneficiaries of the organization.
6. Write: Writing sets you apart from your competition. As you develop your repository of articles you increase, exponentially, your readership. Writing also hones your technical skills and makes you more competent in your field or industry. When you increase your technical skills your eyes open up to opportunities that were there all along. Writing creates opportunity luck.
7. Hello Call: Make a habit of calling at least one person every day for no other reason other then to say hello. This helps build the relationship and opens the door for opportunities.
8. Birthday Call: Call your clients, customers, family members, friends, business associates, neighbors and anyone one else you may know on their birthday. Our birthdays are very important to each one of us. When someone acknowledges a birthday it says "you are important to me." People remember those who call them on their birthday.
9. Life Event Call: Call your contacts when something special happens to them or one of their family members. This could be a birth, death, newspaper mention, award, get well soon call, etc.
10. Breakfast/Lunch/Dinners: Periodically reach out to your contacts and ask them to breakfast, lunch or dinner. This casual get together is the perfect setting to generate opportunities.
Tom is a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Financial Planner, CLTC (Certified Long-Term Care) and President of Cerefice & Company, the largest CPA firm in Rahway, New Jersey. Tom works with clients helping them manage their money, retirement planning, college savings, life insurance needs, IRAs and qualified plan rollovers with an eye towards maximizing tax benefits and minimizing taxes. Tom is founder of the Rich Habits Institute and author of "Rich Habits".
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Corley
Best Networking Tips For 2010
Even though about 80% of all jobs are found through networking, developing a professional network is not about looking for a job. It's about creating professional resources for information, referrals, expertise and collaboration that last well beyond your current job search. Networking offers long-lasting benefits, and exponentially increases your exposure to people who need your talent.
So, what are your specific talents? You'll need to be able to succinctly tell the world about your "product" - that's you! What do you do; why are you unique or different; where have you provided your services or talents, and what was an outcome? A 30-second "elevator speech" is the first tool you'll need to develop your network.
Once you're armed with your elevator speech, you'll need to get out and meet people. The easiest place to start is with family and friends. Talk with former work associates, PTA parents, school contacts, and fellow church members. Consider volunteering at events and community meetings to expand your pool of networking possibilities.
Research your career field or a particular industry you're curious about, and find out about professional associations and professional clubs in the field. Many of these groups have monthly networking meetings you can attend. In addition, some have job posting sites. For example, Doostang (http://www.doostang.com ) posts jobs targeted at top-tier schools.
If you're drawing blanks, start with your Chamber of Commerce monthly business mixer. Your local college or university can provide additional sources for discovering events and activities.
People love to talk about themselves, but to be a good business networker, you'll need to be an interested listener too. Keep conversation focused and simple; frame your conversation around 3 specific networking questions and be prepared with your own responses as well:
What do you do? How long have you been doing it? What did you do before?
Try to keep conversations under 5 minutes. Your ultimate goal is to gain more time with people who can add to your resource network, so remember to close your conversation with more than just a business card exchange. Be sure to ask when and how you can contact them again. "Can I phone you this week?" "I'd love to get together again and see if we can connect each other with some of the great folks we know!" are perfect closing remarks for your new networking partners.
Make sure you leverage online business networking sites and social networking sites. Connect with all your friends and family, then investigate their connections. You will find many people you know indirectly that can help you get an introduction to the company you've targeted. Don't be intimidated to reach out to people directly and explain how you are connected. People love expanding their business networks, so they will want to connect with you. Once you connect with them, don't be afraid to ask them to turn your resume into HR. They get paid if the company hires you, so they have incentive too.
Good luck.
Joblirious is a leading provider of information for job seekers. Joblirious provides information, articles, tools, tips and techniques for online career colleges, career change, job searching, and interviewing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Ciampi
So, what are your specific talents? You'll need to be able to succinctly tell the world about your "product" - that's you! What do you do; why are you unique or different; where have you provided your services or talents, and what was an outcome? A 30-second "elevator speech" is the first tool you'll need to develop your network.
Once you're armed with your elevator speech, you'll need to get out and meet people. The easiest place to start is with family and friends. Talk with former work associates, PTA parents, school contacts, and fellow church members. Consider volunteering at events and community meetings to expand your pool of networking possibilities.
Research your career field or a particular industry you're curious about, and find out about professional associations and professional clubs in the field. Many of these groups have monthly networking meetings you can attend. In addition, some have job posting sites. For example, Doostang (http://www.doostang.com ) posts jobs targeted at top-tier schools.
If you're drawing blanks, start with your Chamber of Commerce monthly business mixer. Your local college or university can provide additional sources for discovering events and activities.
People love to talk about themselves, but to be a good business networker, you'll need to be an interested listener too. Keep conversation focused and simple; frame your conversation around 3 specific networking questions and be prepared with your own responses as well:
What do you do? How long have you been doing it? What did you do before?
Try to keep conversations under 5 minutes. Your ultimate goal is to gain more time with people who can add to your resource network, so remember to close your conversation with more than just a business card exchange. Be sure to ask when and how you can contact them again. "Can I phone you this week?" "I'd love to get together again and see if we can connect each other with some of the great folks we know!" are perfect closing remarks for your new networking partners.
Make sure you leverage online business networking sites and social networking sites. Connect with all your friends and family, then investigate their connections. You will find many people you know indirectly that can help you get an introduction to the company you've targeted. Don't be intimidated to reach out to people directly and explain how you are connected. People love expanding their business networks, so they will want to connect with you. Once you connect with them, don't be afraid to ask them to turn your resume into HR. They get paid if the company hires you, so they have incentive too.
Good luck.
Joblirious is a leading provider of information for job seekers. Joblirious provides information, articles, tools, tips and techniques for online career colleges, career change, job searching, and interviewing.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Ciampi
5 Social Media Secrets That Work Effectively For Offline Networking
Social media has created an Internet phenomenon and has taken online networking to a dynamic level. Do you ever wonder why social media is so successful? It's viral and it spreads quickly - just like word-of-mouth spreads quickly in offline networking.
When you meet people for the first time, take a few lessons from the social media gurus and apply their secret tactics to your offline networking strategy. Secret #1- Social means both talking and listening. Listening is just as important as talking
When you interact on a forum or leave comments on a blog, you first read what the other person wrote and then you comment. If you constantly leave comments about yourself and don't interact and comment off-topic, you will make a bad first impression. Other members will ignore you.
This same philosophy applies when you are first introduced to people. You want to learn about them and ask questions. How can you learn about a person if you are constantly talking about yourself? Pay attention, listen and ask appropriate questions according to the conversation topic. Secret #2- Widgets that instantly find thousands of followers don't always give the best return on investment
Social media gurus always tout the benefits of handy widgets that automate Facebook and Twitter followers. Do you realize that the 5,000 people you just added probably won't be interested in your products or services? You just wasted time and money adding people who don't care about what you're pitching.
Use this same social media approach when you attend networking events and collect business cards. Don't just pitch your products/services to just anyone you meet. Talk to people who might actually benefit from what you offer. It doesn't make sense to attend a networking event filled with seniors if you are a nightclub owner whose target audience is 21 year-old college students.
Secret #3- Freebies don't always mean more subscribers, BUT worthwhile freebies make all the difference
Freebies don't always mean instant success. Contests don't always draw thousands of new members to your site either. In the social media world, if you make your prize too abstract or unappealing, you will drive away visitors.
This social media tactic also applies to freebies offered in the offline world. If you attend networking events and conduct raffles or contests, make your prizes worthwhile for guests. Target your audience and get inside their heads. You want your guests to actually use the product or service you're giving away.
o How will this freebie benefit the contest winner? o Will this freebie make them contact me for more services or products? Secret #4- Don't scare away others with the "me me me" syndrome
If you start every blog comment or tweet with "I did" or "I want" then you are headed down the "me me me" syndrome path. Social media is all about helping others. Being an expert in your field doesn't mean acting like an egomaniac.
If you start every networking conservation with "I" you will be met with glazed over expressions. Don't be surprised when people make excuses to leave the conversation. Remember the "social" in social media and apply that to your offline conversations. Social means give and take - social doesn't mean a one-sided, it's all about me conversation. Secret #5- Always use professional Net-iquette
Don't come across as rude or condescending in your Facebook or Twitter updates. You never know who will come across your updates in the cyber world, and how it can come back to haunt you.
This tip should always be applied to offline networking. Always remember to practice professional, ethical etiquette whenever you meet new people. Think before you speak, and remember that you represent your company/business. First impressions make a lasting impression, so always put your best face forward.
If you liked this article about meet people, tell all your friends about it. They'll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don't forget to mention meetingwave.com as the original source).
John Boyd is a professional networking expert and founder of MeetingWave, a community where people connect online to meet offline: http://www.MeetingWave.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Boyd
When you meet people for the first time, take a few lessons from the social media gurus and apply their secret tactics to your offline networking strategy. Secret #1- Social means both talking and listening. Listening is just as important as talking
When you interact on a forum or leave comments on a blog, you first read what the other person wrote and then you comment. If you constantly leave comments about yourself and don't interact and comment off-topic, you will make a bad first impression. Other members will ignore you.
This same philosophy applies when you are first introduced to people. You want to learn about them and ask questions. How can you learn about a person if you are constantly talking about yourself? Pay attention, listen and ask appropriate questions according to the conversation topic. Secret #2- Widgets that instantly find thousands of followers don't always give the best return on investment
Social media gurus always tout the benefits of handy widgets that automate Facebook and Twitter followers. Do you realize that the 5,000 people you just added probably won't be interested in your products or services? You just wasted time and money adding people who don't care about what you're pitching.
Use this same social media approach when you attend networking events and collect business cards. Don't just pitch your products/services to just anyone you meet. Talk to people who might actually benefit from what you offer. It doesn't make sense to attend a networking event filled with seniors if you are a nightclub owner whose target audience is 21 year-old college students.
Secret #3- Freebies don't always mean more subscribers, BUT worthwhile freebies make all the difference
Freebies don't always mean instant success. Contests don't always draw thousands of new members to your site either. In the social media world, if you make your prize too abstract or unappealing, you will drive away visitors.
This social media tactic also applies to freebies offered in the offline world. If you attend networking events and conduct raffles or contests, make your prizes worthwhile for guests. Target your audience and get inside their heads. You want your guests to actually use the product or service you're giving away.
o How will this freebie benefit the contest winner? o Will this freebie make them contact me for more services or products? Secret #4- Don't scare away others with the "me me me" syndrome
If you start every blog comment or tweet with "I did" or "I want" then you are headed down the "me me me" syndrome path. Social media is all about helping others. Being an expert in your field doesn't mean acting like an egomaniac.
If you start every networking conservation with "I" you will be met with glazed over expressions. Don't be surprised when people make excuses to leave the conversation. Remember the "social" in social media and apply that to your offline conversations. Social means give and take - social doesn't mean a one-sided, it's all about me conversation. Secret #5- Always use professional Net-iquette
Don't come across as rude or condescending in your Facebook or Twitter updates. You never know who will come across your updates in the cyber world, and how it can come back to haunt you.
This tip should always be applied to offline networking. Always remember to practice professional, ethical etiquette whenever you meet new people. Think before you speak, and remember that you represent your company/business. First impressions make a lasting impression, so always put your best face forward.
If you liked this article about meet people, tell all your friends about it. They'll thank you for it. If you have a blog or website, you can link to it or even post it to your own site (don't forget to mention meetingwave.com as the original source).
John Boyd is a professional networking expert and founder of MeetingWave, a community where people connect online to meet offline: http://www.MeetingWave.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Boyd
7 Savvy Secrets to Networking Success
If you thought you could avoid people and survive in the business world, think again. Success in business is all about people. Without people, there would be no reason for your business. Whether you are just starting out or wanting to give your business a boost, you may want to consider these savvy secrets to building relationships with your customers that go beyond a quick handshake and money in your pocket.
Be Yourself. Remember you are your personal brand. People want to do business with people who are "real" or authentic. They do not want to do business with phoney people. You want to look professional and well-groomed at all times because you never know who you may meet at the supermarket or at your child's sporting event. Look at yourself in the mirror before you leave the house or your office. Would you do business with the person you see looking back at you in the mirror?
Preparation is the key. Be able to deliver a clear and concise 30 second commercial or elevator speech about what you do and how it can be of benefit to others. Engage the person before you with your smile. Maintain eye contact and stand with confidence and belief in your business. What are some things that you need in the next 30-60 days?
Increase Your Visibility. Give people the opportunity to learn about you and your business. Volunteer in your community. Attend networking events, meet-up groups, and professional association functions. Get a website so people searching the internet can find you. It does not need to be fancy to get noticed and remembered.
Go Beyond the Business Card. You attended a networking event a while ago and have a stack on business cards on your desk. What are you doing with them? Are you following up with the people you meet? Mark the ones you want to follow up with and follow up with them within 48 hours of meeting by phoning them or meeting for a cup of coffee. Send a personal thank you card after meeting with them. How do you follow up with your current customers and the customers you want to attract to your business? Host an appreciation night or offer a discount for your product or service. Use a weekly or monthly newsletter to stay in touch and keep you on their minds. Write articles of value to bring new clients to your website to find out more about you.
Give First Attitude. Develop the "give first" attitude; it will serve you well. Help others to achieve their aspirations and do not measure what you do for them. When you give of yourself first, you will reap infinite returns. You will be repaid in others ways and not necessarily by the people you help.
Deliver Value. Social networking, newsletters, and blogs are a great way for people to get to know you and another way to stay in touch with others. If you are going to post something, make sure you are giving something of value. You may want to leave a thought provoking quote, a link to an information-packed article, or a referral to another business. Ultimately, people want to know what's in it for them.
Create Your Own Circle of Influence. Get to know the people within your network and create a mastermind group or a circle of influence. Discover something you have in common or a mutual interest. Develop a relationship with your network. Give first - show them that you are not just after the sale; you are there to serve them. They need to get to know, like, and trust you. People would sooner do business with a friend than a sales person. It can often take 7-9 "touches" or contacts with you or your business before you actually make a sale. If your business is not for them, they may refer you to others because they know the person you are.
These savvy secrets to success are about building relationships with people that last. People are the key to business success and long lasting relationships with your customers are the key to the longevity of your business. Be the key that opens the doors of opportunity for others, and doors will open for you!
Debra Kasowski is the Founder/CEO of The Millionaire Woman. She is the author and motivational speaker. Sign Up for her free special edition newsletter and receive monthly newsletter at http://www.millionairewomansecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debra_Kasowski
Be Yourself. Remember you are your personal brand. People want to do business with people who are "real" or authentic. They do not want to do business with phoney people. You want to look professional and well-groomed at all times because you never know who you may meet at the supermarket or at your child's sporting event. Look at yourself in the mirror before you leave the house or your office. Would you do business with the person you see looking back at you in the mirror?
Preparation is the key. Be able to deliver a clear and concise 30 second commercial or elevator speech about what you do and how it can be of benefit to others. Engage the person before you with your smile. Maintain eye contact and stand with confidence and belief in your business. What are some things that you need in the next 30-60 days?
Increase Your Visibility. Give people the opportunity to learn about you and your business. Volunteer in your community. Attend networking events, meet-up groups, and professional association functions. Get a website so people searching the internet can find you. It does not need to be fancy to get noticed and remembered.
Go Beyond the Business Card. You attended a networking event a while ago and have a stack on business cards on your desk. What are you doing with them? Are you following up with the people you meet? Mark the ones you want to follow up with and follow up with them within 48 hours of meeting by phoning them or meeting for a cup of coffee. Send a personal thank you card after meeting with them. How do you follow up with your current customers and the customers you want to attract to your business? Host an appreciation night or offer a discount for your product or service. Use a weekly or monthly newsletter to stay in touch and keep you on their minds. Write articles of value to bring new clients to your website to find out more about you.
Give First Attitude. Develop the "give first" attitude; it will serve you well. Help others to achieve their aspirations and do not measure what you do for them. When you give of yourself first, you will reap infinite returns. You will be repaid in others ways and not necessarily by the people you help.
Deliver Value. Social networking, newsletters, and blogs are a great way for people to get to know you and another way to stay in touch with others. If you are going to post something, make sure you are giving something of value. You may want to leave a thought provoking quote, a link to an information-packed article, or a referral to another business. Ultimately, people want to know what's in it for them.
Create Your Own Circle of Influence. Get to know the people within your network and create a mastermind group or a circle of influence. Discover something you have in common or a mutual interest. Develop a relationship with your network. Give first - show them that you are not just after the sale; you are there to serve them. They need to get to know, like, and trust you. People would sooner do business with a friend than a sales person. It can often take 7-9 "touches" or contacts with you or your business before you actually make a sale. If your business is not for them, they may refer you to others because they know the person you are.
These savvy secrets to success are about building relationships with people that last. People are the key to business success and long lasting relationships with your customers are the key to the longevity of your business. Be the key that opens the doors of opportunity for others, and doors will open for you!
Debra Kasowski is the Founder/CEO of The Millionaire Woman. She is the author and motivational speaker. Sign Up for her free special edition newsletter and receive monthly newsletter at http://www.millionairewomansecrets.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debra_Kasowski
How to Get the Most Out of in Person Networking - Take a Prospect to Lunch
Do a little homework on your prospective date. I met a commercial/editorial photographer who had relocated to Los Angeles from New York and wanted break into the same highly competitive market in his new home town. One of things he said he did was do a little research at his local library by reading magazines that he wanted to shoot for.
During his research he learned the names of the photo editors that handled the clients he wanted to work with. Once he had a few names he made sure that his body of work matched the style that he believed the editors were looking for.
Next he picked up the phone and introduced himself and made his invitation. Did everyone he contacted take him up on his offer? No. But that's not the point. He knew that if he wanted to be noticed he had to think bolder and that meant not going though the "normal" channels i.e. dropping off his book and waiting for response.
So he figured if he could get the editors out of their normal habitat and into an environment where had more control over the experience he stood a better chance of making an impression that yielded him the results he was looking for. This brings me to step two.
Look for a connection, not just a job. What mean is people like to business with people that they know like and trust. Think about it, when you go on a first date with someone new chances are you don't ask them to get married. Perhaps you do, I don't know. But I'd bet that you probably don't.
No, the lunch meeting is the first date meaning it gives you both an opportunity to get to know one another. Relationship building is key. People who you have a good relationship with will eagerly help you and vice-versa.
So if you approach your invitations from that prospective you'll stand a far better chance of working with this person in the short as well as the long term. And even if they can't help you if you made a good impression chances are they will most likely go out of their way to connect you with their colleagues. Finally.
Listen and Follow-Up. After you get the date, make sure you listen more than you talk. People love to be listened to and to know they are being heard. In addition if you focus on listening you'll learn fairly quickly if you are good match, if not, see how you can be of further help and don't forget to ask if they could recommend someone in their rolodex to you that may be a better match.
If you are sincere and honest chances are great that you will get a referral or two. Now on to the one of the most critical components of this entire process and one where many drop the ball. Follow-up. This is imperative. As a matter of fact you should have the thank you note (handwritten, not email) ready to go before you even take the meeting.
Immediately after your meeting concludes drop your handwritten note on quality stationary in mail either the day of meeting no later than the next day. In you note thank them for their time and ask for a date to follow up again.
These three tips can a long way towards creating new relationships that can pay off for years to come.
© Rodney Washington
Are you an entrepreneurial minded photographer? Would you like to learn how to Attract More Clients & GROW your business in the next 12 months? Guaranteed!
To find out how I'd like to offer you my Client Attraction Starter Kit that includes: a 5-part mini audio course, "5 Secrets To Attract More Clients & Grow Your Photography Business!" Plus a complimentary subscription to my bi-weekly ezine "Eye On Marketing". You can claim your FREE Client Attraction Starter Kit by visiting: Photo Marketing Mentor.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rodney_Washington
During his research he learned the names of the photo editors that handled the clients he wanted to work with. Once he had a few names he made sure that his body of work matched the style that he believed the editors were looking for.
Next he picked up the phone and introduced himself and made his invitation. Did everyone he contacted take him up on his offer? No. But that's not the point. He knew that if he wanted to be noticed he had to think bolder and that meant not going though the "normal" channels i.e. dropping off his book and waiting for response.
So he figured if he could get the editors out of their normal habitat and into an environment where had more control over the experience he stood a better chance of making an impression that yielded him the results he was looking for. This brings me to step two.
Look for a connection, not just a job. What mean is people like to business with people that they know like and trust. Think about it, when you go on a first date with someone new chances are you don't ask them to get married. Perhaps you do, I don't know. But I'd bet that you probably don't.
No, the lunch meeting is the first date meaning it gives you both an opportunity to get to know one another. Relationship building is key. People who you have a good relationship with will eagerly help you and vice-versa.
So if you approach your invitations from that prospective you'll stand a far better chance of working with this person in the short as well as the long term. And even if they can't help you if you made a good impression chances are they will most likely go out of their way to connect you with their colleagues. Finally.
Listen and Follow-Up. After you get the date, make sure you listen more than you talk. People love to be listened to and to know they are being heard. In addition if you focus on listening you'll learn fairly quickly if you are good match, if not, see how you can be of further help and don't forget to ask if they could recommend someone in their rolodex to you that may be a better match.
If you are sincere and honest chances are great that you will get a referral or two. Now on to the one of the most critical components of this entire process and one where many drop the ball. Follow-up. This is imperative. As a matter of fact you should have the thank you note (handwritten, not email) ready to go before you even take the meeting.
Immediately after your meeting concludes drop your handwritten note on quality stationary in mail either the day of meeting no later than the next day. In you note thank them for their time and ask for a date to follow up again.
These three tips can a long way towards creating new relationships that can pay off for years to come.
© Rodney Washington
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rodney_Washington
Things I Have Learned About Networking
I have been networking a lot of years. I would go to a group, not meet anyone that I could relate to then not go back, sound familiar? I read a lot of business books and articles about networking and found that the reality is very different then what the books say.
You have to find the right group for you. Everyone is different and everyone's business is different as well, a networking group that works for one person might not for another. Who is your target audience? Where to they go? That is where you should be going, not just to sell but to get to know them so they see you and get to know you. Some networking groups are for specific types of businesses, B2B rather then B2C (Business to Business rather then Business to Consumer). Go to a group a few times with the goal of meeting people, not selling things, then you will find out if the group is right for you. Sometimes you can meet people who could use your product or service not at formal networking events but gatherings of people with similar likes.
A friend of mine sells what I call balloon art, balloon animals that she creates at home and either delivers or posts. My business is Software Training and Coaching. We go to a couple of the same groups, one she talked about her product and someone ordered one right then and there. I talk about my service and keep going back and again and again, once people get to know me, ask a few (OK lots) of software questions they build a relationship up and then book time with me.
They then will tell people how I have helped them and someone will talk to me at a networking event saying, "I heard you helped so and so with such and such, could you help me with..." Each type of business is different, most have to take time and exposure, if you attend all the events for a specific networking group, someone will remember you and if you are there when they need your product or service you might be lucky enough for them to book or purchase there, but mostly people will remember you for later.
Collect business cards, I do write on the cards where I met the person and if they mentioned they were interested in something, depending on the event I will email just to say hi, usually when they have mentioned something I go back with a link to a website or article I think they are interested in, I never add them to my mailing list and start sending them information about my products or services. Think about what you would like to happen, do you want to attend and event then start receiving someone's newsletters or sales pitch? Even if you are interested in their product unless you asked for a brochure to receive one can be a real turn off and could loose you clients.
What do you talk about networking? I have heard some "professional networkers" say that you should as the person what they do, but I genuinely want to know, it also leads me to ask how they got into it, why did they change careers, and then I learn about the person rather then just the business. But that is me. If your personal life revolves something, you have interests or hobbies, for example football, it is worth finding out if anyone else there likes it. Then you can get to know the person as a person, and have an excuse to keep in touch. If you are memorable (in a good way) people will remember you and if meet someone who could use your product or service they will pass your name along.
So when networking, try different groups, socialize more, not less (I need to remind myself of this often). Make friends with the people at the events or at the very least get too know them on a personal level, don't sell sell sell, back off about your business, they will get to know you as well. I can't stress this enough, that if you do collect business cards, don't add them to your mailing list unless they specifically said to, people may avoid doing business with you. You want to build relationships up slowly over time, give your self 6 months with one group before you expect any sales and treat them as appointments not to be double booked or missed.
Katherine Davison
Sign up for her free monthly newsletter at http://www.katherinedavison.co.uk/about-me/newsletter and receive an Outlook Quick Reference Card.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Katherine_M_Davison
You have to find the right group for you. Everyone is different and everyone's business is different as well, a networking group that works for one person might not for another. Who is your target audience? Where to they go? That is where you should be going, not just to sell but to get to know them so they see you and get to know you. Some networking groups are for specific types of businesses, B2B rather then B2C (Business to Business rather then Business to Consumer). Go to a group a few times with the goal of meeting people, not selling things, then you will find out if the group is right for you. Sometimes you can meet people who could use your product or service not at formal networking events but gatherings of people with similar likes.
A friend of mine sells what I call balloon art, balloon animals that she creates at home and either delivers or posts. My business is Software Training and Coaching. We go to a couple of the same groups, one she talked about her product and someone ordered one right then and there. I talk about my service and keep going back and again and again, once people get to know me, ask a few (OK lots) of software questions they build a relationship up and then book time with me.
They then will tell people how I have helped them and someone will talk to me at a networking event saying, "I heard you helped so and so with such and such, could you help me with..." Each type of business is different, most have to take time and exposure, if you attend all the events for a specific networking group, someone will remember you and if you are there when they need your product or service you might be lucky enough for them to book or purchase there, but mostly people will remember you for later.
Collect business cards, I do write on the cards where I met the person and if they mentioned they were interested in something, depending on the event I will email just to say hi, usually when they have mentioned something I go back with a link to a website or article I think they are interested in, I never add them to my mailing list and start sending them information about my products or services. Think about what you would like to happen, do you want to attend and event then start receiving someone's newsletters or sales pitch? Even if you are interested in their product unless you asked for a brochure to receive one can be a real turn off and could loose you clients.
What do you talk about networking? I have heard some "professional networkers" say that you should as the person what they do, but I genuinely want to know, it also leads me to ask how they got into it, why did they change careers, and then I learn about the person rather then just the business. But that is me. If your personal life revolves something, you have interests or hobbies, for example football, it is worth finding out if anyone else there likes it. Then you can get to know the person as a person, and have an excuse to keep in touch. If you are memorable (in a good way) people will remember you and if meet someone who could use your product or service they will pass your name along.
So when networking, try different groups, socialize more, not less (I need to remind myself of this often). Make friends with the people at the events or at the very least get too know them on a personal level, don't sell sell sell, back off about your business, they will get to know you as well. I can't stress this enough, that if you do collect business cards, don't add them to your mailing list unless they specifically said to, people may avoid doing business with you. You want to build relationships up slowly over time, give your self 6 months with one group before you expect any sales and treat them as appointments not to be double booked or missed.
Katherine Davison
Sign up for her free monthly newsletter at http://www.katherinedavison.co.uk/about-me/newsletter and receive an Outlook Quick Reference Card.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Katherine_M_Davison
Networking - Steps Toward Building Your Career
As a mom entering continuing education and the workforce, I had the challenge of presenting myself while others who were younger had a head start. I was pleased to discover that age, creativity and common sense had benefits. One thing moms are good at is making the most of limited resources.
As I was seeking employment, I came up with the idea of contacting directors of non-profit organizations. I asked to treat them to lunch and hear about their programs. Each time, I would ask the person for another contact. I bought a lot of lunches. I built my resource file and learn from each person.
When I began applying for jobs, I obtained reference letters from each of the individuals I had built these working relationships with. The letters were wonderful. I had left an impression on them. After I obtained professional employment, not only did I use them as resources, I also became a resource for them as well.
When you desire to start your own program, a good way to get support is to begin by volunteering with an established program. Volunteering helps build your resume. You become known in the community. People will be watching to see if you are competent and dependable. This is a good way to start when facing obstacles such as lack of previous employment or a criminal record.
Another way to make yourself known is to submit articles for internet magazines. You will gain exposure with people who you otherwise would never have met. You never know when a door of opportunity will open. Save all your articles and compile for a larger work at a later date.
Once you learn the skill of networking, you will find that reaching your goals becomes easier when you have others you can draw from for advice. You can also become the one that others come to. That is a rewarding experience. Before you know it, you become the expert. We all have skills and talents to share. Each of is a resource to someone else.
Author, Laura Schroeder, has experienced life change first hand. She and her husband have three grown children and reside in Maryland. To join an online community of care, visit her website at http://lauramschroeder.com. There, you will see the blog, hear podcast stories and see offered available products. To contact Laura, email at laura@lauramschroeder.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Schroeder
As I was seeking employment, I came up with the idea of contacting directors of non-profit organizations. I asked to treat them to lunch and hear about their programs. Each time, I would ask the person for another contact. I bought a lot of lunches. I built my resource file and learn from each person.
When I began applying for jobs, I obtained reference letters from each of the individuals I had built these working relationships with. The letters were wonderful. I had left an impression on them. After I obtained professional employment, not only did I use them as resources, I also became a resource for them as well.
When you desire to start your own program, a good way to get support is to begin by volunteering with an established program. Volunteering helps build your resume. You become known in the community. People will be watching to see if you are competent and dependable. This is a good way to start when facing obstacles such as lack of previous employment or a criminal record.
Another way to make yourself known is to submit articles for internet magazines. You will gain exposure with people who you otherwise would never have met. You never know when a door of opportunity will open. Save all your articles and compile for a larger work at a later date.
Once you learn the skill of networking, you will find that reaching your goals becomes easier when you have others you can draw from for advice. You can also become the one that others come to. That is a rewarding experience. Before you know it, you become the expert. We all have skills and talents to share. Each of is a resource to someone else.
Author, Laura Schroeder, has experienced life change first hand. She and her husband have three grown children and reside in Maryland. To join an online community of care, visit her website at http://lauramschroeder.com. There, you will see the blog, hear podcast stories and see offered available products. To contact Laura, email at laura@lauramschroeder.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Schroeder
The Secret of Successful Business Networking Events
Networking is basically one of the skills that any businessman or entrepreneur should acquire. This is so because the business world is also a community of people that interact with one another and benefit from one another as well. In other words, businessmen and entrepreneurs, in one or another, patronize each other's businesses-directly or indirectly. As such, the creation of opportunities for businessmen to meet, has become the focus of business event's organizers.
Business networking events are simply opportunities provided by the organizers for entrepreneurs to meet in a casual event without any pressure of commitment whatsoever. Business events serve as avenues for new businesses to be conceptualized and created as well. This is practically expected as it is just but usual for great ideas to come up when great minds meet. In fact, because of network events, a number of new businesses have made it bigger than the existing businesses of individual networking participants.
Moreover, networking events also provide the opportunity for individual businessmen to promote their products and services. In this way, other entrepreneurs are made aware of each others' products and services. These events are also opportunities to meet great minds. In business events, one get the chance of comparing notes with other entrepreneurs and decision makers. In short, in network events people learn from one another's experiences; gain knowledge and expertise; and most of all, establish contacts and build relationships.
Surely, no businessman would pass an opportunity such as networking events. However, how do you get into the most successful business events? Moreover, how are successful business network events made?
Organizers of networking events have gained more than enough experience and knowledge in planning out the most successful events. As such, here are some of the most important tips in successful business networking events.
Make it memorable. Remember that there are a lot of other businessmen and entrepreneurs in the networking events; therefore it is important that you make yourself memorable by equipping yourself with attractive business cards. A business card should be made in such a way that people will refrain from throwing it into the garbage.
Make a good impression. This may sound unfair, but first impressions last. Giving your best impression in events such as these would certainly do you good. When people are impressed with your persona, you can definitely gain their interest and trust.
Learn to give and receive. In events such as business networking, one of the most important things that you can give aside from your expertise and knowledge is attention. Sometimes, the most effective weapon is listening. Listening is an important communication skill that businessmen should develop because a lot of things can be gained when one listens.
Networking events can be arranged through business networking events liverpool.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_W_Chow
Business networking events are simply opportunities provided by the organizers for entrepreneurs to meet in a casual event without any pressure of commitment whatsoever. Business events serve as avenues for new businesses to be conceptualized and created as well. This is practically expected as it is just but usual for great ideas to come up when great minds meet. In fact, because of network events, a number of new businesses have made it bigger than the existing businesses of individual networking participants.
Moreover, networking events also provide the opportunity for individual businessmen to promote their products and services. In this way, other entrepreneurs are made aware of each others' products and services. These events are also opportunities to meet great minds. In business events, one get the chance of comparing notes with other entrepreneurs and decision makers. In short, in network events people learn from one another's experiences; gain knowledge and expertise; and most of all, establish contacts and build relationships.
Surely, no businessman would pass an opportunity such as networking events. However, how do you get into the most successful business events? Moreover, how are successful business network events made?
Organizers of networking events have gained more than enough experience and knowledge in planning out the most successful events. As such, here are some of the most important tips in successful business networking events.
Make it memorable. Remember that there are a lot of other businessmen and entrepreneurs in the networking events; therefore it is important that you make yourself memorable by equipping yourself with attractive business cards. A business card should be made in such a way that people will refrain from throwing it into the garbage.
Make a good impression. This may sound unfair, but first impressions last. Giving your best impression in events such as these would certainly do you good. When people are impressed with your persona, you can definitely gain their interest and trust.
Learn to give and receive. In events such as business networking, one of the most important things that you can give aside from your expertise and knowledge is attention. Sometimes, the most effective weapon is listening. Listening is an important communication skill that businessmen should develop because a lot of things can be gained when one listens.
Networking events can be arranged through business networking events liverpool.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_W_Chow
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