What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing? (Part 1 of 3)

If you've never been involved in Network Marketing before you're probably are asking yourself this question right now. You've probably heard of the "fabricated stories" of people losing everything they own in a Network Marketing business. Or worse, someone spent the time and money to build up a huge monthly income to only have the company they represent go out of business. So, you're probably skeptical about the Network Marketing industry in general and want more information before you decide to step out and join an opportunity.

If you're currently in a Network Marketing business (or you were once before) and you're not making a profit, you're probably saying "When will I ever make money in Network Marketing?" Or, if you've been jumping from program to program looking for the "winner" you need this article.

Early on in my Network Marketing career I asked myself these same questions. And believe me, so did my wife! So, let me answer the question for you: "Yes, you can make money in Network Marketing!"

There isn't a week that goes by that I don't get a phone call from a new prospect that asks me "What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing?" I get asked this question all the time. Especially from the frustrated network marketer who just spent their last dime on a mailing or an advertisement that went very bad. My goal is that after reading this article, you will have an better answer to this question. My hope is that your answer is "YES, I really can make money in Network Marketing?"

I know you can make money in Network Marketing because I am living proof. I now make more money in a month than I used to in a year. For the first time in my life, I don't have to worry about paying my bills. In fact, I've paid off all of my bills! Now, when I buy something, I use the universal payment method-CASH! It's nice. I feel blessed. But, I also have to do a weekly maintenance to not only help direct my organizations, but also to continually bring in new people.

Now am I sitting back and getting wealthy in Network Marketing? Quite frankly, YES.. I spend every morning playing with my daughter and work with my business associates in the afternoon. Late afternoon I stroll into the office and return phone calls and stay in touch with my growing downline and new prospects. Most evenings are spent communicating with my International parts of my organizations, usually via a conference call or webinar.

So, how did I get from corporate-weenie to where I am today? I used the simple techniques and principles I will outline in my e-book "How the Responsible Network Marketer can Go to Market" due out summer 2008. Now I didn't just do them once and walk-away.

My secret was consistency. I never quit. Once I found out what worked I simply looked for someone in my downline who wanted success as bad as I did and would "listen" and follow my advice.

That sounds simple, but in the first 2 years of my Network Marketing experience I couldn't find anybody who was willing to work as hard as I was. That was quite depressing at first. I was afraid I was just working myself into another "job". But, in reality, I was laying the foundation of what would be a lifetime residual income. Was it worth all the hard work and frustration? You bet. Would I do it all over again? You bet. A quote made famous by billionaire J. Paul Getty, which I firmly believe describes my definition of Network Marketing success:

"I'd rather have 1% of 100 people's efforts than 100% of mine own!"

One thing I truly believe is if you're not happy with what you're currently doing, you must change and do something you've never done before. That usually means changing not only your work habits, but also your attitude. You might be thinking, "I just want to know what technique to use so I can get rich-so stop talking about attitude and philosophy and get on with the nuts and bolts of making money".

What you must realize is that you must attract wealth by being professional and knowing what you are doing. You must also create value for your prospects or they will come and go like a revolving door. People look to join a Network Marketing opportunity to make money.

If you can't help them do that in a relatively short period of time they will quit. It's that simple. But, if you can create some kind of positive relationship or an atmosphere of real value, then they'll stick with you through the months where they spend more than they make. If you get only one message from this article I would hope that it would be this one:

"Everybody joins a Network Marketing opportunity to make money. But, they stay in because you've created a valuable relationship and you've helped them to become financially successful"

Most Network Marketers I speak with today are looking for a Network Marketing opportunity where someone does all the work and all they do is fold their arms, sit on their butt and wait to become wealthy. It doesn't work that way, so get over it!

Sure, you can make a few hundred bucks a month using this "strategy", but you're not creating any kind of relationship between you and your downline.

Network Marketing was created with people in mind. When you take people out of the equation, you loose. If simply mailing out catalogs, post-cards and brochures were all it took to make money, why would the company need you? Think about it? If that was the case, technology today would make you obsolete before you woke up in the morning.

They could do the distributions themselves and save on all the commissions they pay out to their distributors-couldn't they? This is where I see the breakdown has occurred over the last 15 years in this industry-it's become too commercialized and impersonal. Network Marketing started out face to face-or what is now known as "warm marketing".

Going to university or college, getting your degree(s) and working for either a "big" corporation or the government hasn't set many people financially free as previously promised by our parents. Many of our friends have found the climb up the corporate latter is full of trap doors and heartache.

And, for those who dare to dream big and start their own traditional business, they've experienced more heartache and hard work than they had anticipated. Neither our parents nor college can prepare someone for all that is necessary to start and maintain their own business.

Most people today half-hazzardly jump into a business of their own without even knowing what it takes to really make a profit.

- End of Part 1 -

See Part 2 of "What Is The Truth About Making Money In Network Marketing?

See You On the Beaches of the World,

Kevin "K-Man" McNabb

Tried Network Marketing before and failed? It's not your fault. Let this rookie "unknown" marketer show you how he embarrassed the "gurus" by placing over 4,120 people in his downline in 14 short months, while pocketing over half-a-million dollars. Now he has honed his SYSTEM into an idiot-proof step-by-step can't fail, never-cold-call-again recruiting machine on steroids! He'll even PAY YOU to check it out.

==> http://www.global-networking-online.com/Recommends/GetNetMLMProfits.html

Kevin "K-Man" McNabb is the author of "The Responsible Network Marketer" series that can be found at:

http://global-networking-online.com/

Networking Is A Sexually Unbiased Skill

Building beneficial relationships knows no gender boundaries. It is equally beneficial for men and women, and the process can be equally daunting or equally easy Networking is a Sexually Unbiased Skillfor members of either sex.

There are, however, some differences that impact the networker's bottom line. Male chauvinists and radical feminists agree on one thing: Women, probably by nature or because they are the bearers of children, are more nurturing and tend to be more cooperative, empathic and understanding in a non-biased manner. After all, they share their love unselfishly as they rear boys and girls.

Most women are natural networkers. They, their mothers and their grandmothers have been recommending recipes, hairdressers and skincare products across kitchen tables for generations. Where the challenge for some women arises is in the business arena. The increased emphasis on teaching relationship building is helping women become more confident and competent about transferring their skills to the workplace.

Some "older" women were taught by their mothers (who thought them to be positive qualities) to be seen and not heard, not to exploit their personal relationships or to "brag" about themselves. Hopefully, fathers and mothers today are teaching their daughters that it is acceptable for women to be just as assertive as men, socially and in business, and, that as their daughters enter the business world, this issue will be largely non-existent.

As a reminder, assertive behavior is what all human beings strive for: to be concerned that the other person gets his/her needs met while you do the same. Passive behavior is when you are concerned only that the other person's gets his/her needs met while you don't put any emphasis on yours. Aggressive behavior is when you are concerned only about meeting your needs and pay little attention to the needs of the other person.

What does remain a challenge is that in business likes tend to want to work with likes, i.e. women with women and men with men. Because there are only a handful of women CEOs in the Fortune 500 companies, it's easy to understand why women may not have the same opportunities to build high-value business relationships. This will change only as more women rise to top jobs at major corporations and become more than token members of corporate and organizational boards of directors.

That's exactly what the ole boys' network was and in some cases still is: men at the top helping other men rise to the same levels. Women are not yet as privy to networking in these elite places so while their skills are top-notch, their results may be less impactive and powerful.

Women, however, are gaining in numbers what they lack in force. Because of the corporate glass ceilings (and, yes, they still exist), so many of them are starting businesses and becoming owners and presidents that they are beginning to gain clout through sheer numbers. This, in turn, adds clout to the relationships they are building. While they may not be managing the same number of people, they are learning important leadership skills.

Another positive force for women is the number of company-sponsored women's networks that are being formed within major corporations. Some of them, though, are still perfunctory.

A representative of a newly formed women's group at a Chicago professional services firm contacted me to present a program on relationship building. We agreed it would provide valuable skills for the women's professional development. When we started talking fees, she said there was no budget. Ironically, she continued to say how top management (all men) was so supportive of their initiative ... yet they wanted to get a speaker - a woman - to donate her time. It was even more pathetic that management wouldn't even agree to pay my travel expenses (simply gas mileage from a Chicago suburb)!

Perhaps, I am optimistic in stating how far women have come. However, I am optimistic by nature, so I believe that by working together, men and women, we can help the process move forward positively ... and soon.

Lillian D. Bjorseth is a people-skills speaker, trainer, coach, prolific author and certified DiSC trainer who helps you build high-value business relationships by improving communication and business networking skills. Named Great Woman of the 21st century. lillianspeaks@duoforce.com http://www.duoforce.com 630-983-5308.

Business Networking - 7 Tips to Keep Food from Sabotaging Your Networking

The networking season has begun. And if these events include cocktails and canap? you'll be caught in the same bind as everyone else. How do you network and eat and drink, all at the same time?

Here's the typical scenario. You approach someone who's shoveling food into his mouth, and he puts up his hand as if to stop you. He can't really talk right now.

Or you put out your hand to shake someone's hand. She is holding a cold drink, so she has to find a place to put the drink down. Then she wipes her hands on their pants or jacket and shakes hands, all the while apologizing for her cold, clammy hand. Not a pretty picture, is it?

Here are 7 tips to help you network well, and still enjoy the food!

1. Don't try to network and eat at the same time. Networking isn't about eating, it's about meeting people. That's why it's called net-work, not net-sit or net-eat. If you are hungry before the event, try to eat before you go.

2. If you don't have a chance to grab a bite before the event, when you arrive, find a place to sit down and eat some of the delicious food. Then get up and network.

3. If you still plan to eat and talk, here's how to do it. Choose foods that are easy to eat, like baby carrots or cheese and crackers. Warning: Don't pick up that cherry tomato. It's likely to squirt tomato juice on the person in front of you.

4. Always keep a napkin in your left hand, so you can wipe your fingers after you eat something. And always keep your right hand ready to shake hands.

5. Avoid anything greasy or sticky, such as fried chicken wings. Be careful of very hot canap?that can burst open or fall apart in your fingers.

6. Hold cold beverages in your left hand, so your right hand is always ready to shake hands. Hold your wine glass by the stem in your left hand as well.

7. To hold both a plate and a drink, use the Layering Technique. Here's how it goes. Hold a small plate in your left hand. Put your wine glass on the plate and anchor it with your thumb. Put a napkin under the plate and hold it there. Every time you eat, wipe your fingers on your napkin. Voila! Now you can add finger food to your plate, and still keep your right hand available for shaking.

There's much more to successful networking that just eating and drinking. You have to know how to approach people, how to introduce yourself, and how to follow up.

You are invited to find out how to network for fun and profit, at http://www.ImpressforSuccess.com/howto.html

You're also invited to receive a free report: "Breakthrough Communication Skills" packed with powerful tips for business success, at http://www.ImpressforSuccess.com when you join my Communication Capsules newsletter.

From Lynda Goldman, author of How to Make a Million Dollar First Impression

Business Networking - 3 Business Card Tips for Making a Great Impression That Doesn't Cost a Cent

Business cards are a great tool to help you make a positive first impression. The Japanese have an elegant way of presenting business cards. They hold out the card in front of them with both hands, and hand over the card with a slight bow. It's a sign of respect, and almost becomes a little ceremony. When they receive your card, they look at it carefully and admire it. You are expected to do the same when you receive their card.

How can you use this etiquette to make a great impression in business today? You don't have to be Japanese, and the extra moments you take in handing out your business cards won't cost you a penny.

1. Compliment the card. When you receive a business card, don't stuff it into your pocket. Instead, take a moment and look at it carefully. Admire it. Find something to say, and make a positive comment. It can be about their product or service, their logo, or the location of their office. It doesn't matter what you say, as long as it's positive. In reality, you are complimenting the person who gave you the card.

2. Treat it with respect. Don't fold the card in half. Don't pick your teeth with it. Never put it into your back pocket and sit on it. Don't write anything on it without first asking permission. Instead, carefully place it in a business card holder or pocket of your jacket.

3. Don't hand out your card while you are shaking hands. When you meet someone and shake hands, give that person your full attention. Make eye contact long enough to notice the color or his or her eyes. Shake hands warmly and firmly. Smile. Say their name, and how nice it is to meet them. Then when you exchange business cards afterwards, make that a small ceremony, as with the Japanese. It will give you a way to connect again.

Business card etiquette says a great deal about your professionalism in general. It only take a few seconds, and doesn't cost a penny to show etiquette when you hand out a business card. Why not take that extra step to create a great first impression?

You are invited to use these tips to make a great first impression when networking.

You're also invited to receive a free report: "Breakthrough Communication Skills" packed with powerful tips for business success, at http://www.ImpressforSuccess.com when you join my Communication Capsules newsletter.

Would you like to attract new customers, increase sales, and boost your career? Click here for a simple How-to Guide called Networking for Fun and Profit. http://www.goldmansmythe.com/howto.html

From Lynda Goldman, author of How to Make a Million Dollar First Impression.

Popular Business Card Mistakes To Avoid

Business cards are almost old fashioned when compared with new gadgets and high technological items of today. In fact, most people would just get their Blackberry, mobile phones, or PDAs if they want to remember your information and contact details.

And still some would prefer that you just email it to them when you get yourself in front of your computer.

Nevertheless, a business card still has charm on its own. Even with new electronic gadgets coming out everyday, you still cannot question the position of business cards in the world of business. Without a business card, you are most likely to have a difficult time introducing your business to anybody, and to get them to remember your contact information.

Yet, many business cards come out terrible and cheap representations of some businesses. More often than not, these print cards have become representations more of creativity rather than what it should be - a demonstration of class and good taste.

In order to have classy print cards at your disposal, here are business card printing mistakes that you'd do well to avoid:

* Number one rule that you should not forget: avoid printing your own cards. Stop being noble trying to save money for your business. If you can't do it, just get a business card printing company (a professional one at that) to produce your custom cards for you. It can't hurt very much to hire a commercial printer especially if you're not confident that you can do a better job.

* Big typefaces are just a no-no. Particularly on the address and contact information, please, do not use large fonts and all capital letters. If you don't want to come off as over sleazy and cheesy, you'd do well to avoid these fonts.

* Your face should stay where they are - on your head. Just because it's becoming fashionable to put your face in your business cards, it doesn't mean that you should also have it printed in yours. Only ordinary real estate agents should have the license to do this.

* Metal business cards can get you detained. Sure, metal business cards are unique ideas to print your cards. But you might want to reconsider when the airport authorities order you to leave them in the counter before you board an airplane.

* Big lousy pictures on color business cards are just that - lousy. What is important is your name, address and contact information. Nothing else. If you want to impress with big images and pictures, go get yourself a brochure or a catalog perhaps to advertise your business.

* When you do round edges, don't forget to work on your margin. You need to leave enough margin space to make it look good.

Final note: margins do matter. So invest on a good margin. Don't let your text get anywhere near your margin and you'll do just fine.

Janice Jenkins is a writer for a marketing company in Chicago, IL. Mostly into marketing research, Janice started writing articles early 2007 to impart her knowledge to individuals new to the marketing industry.

For comments and inquiries visit:
Business Card Printing

Business Cards - 4 Things Never to Say When Handing Out a Business Card

Business cards can be one of the most effective ways to gain new business. Think of them as little billboards with your name on them. They help you make more sales, create more customers, and increase your business.

Have you ever thought about what you say when you hand someone a business card? The words that come out of your mouth set the tone of your meeting, and can leave a lasting impression.

4 things to never say:

1. Sorry it's so dirty. I must have spilled coffee on it this morning.

You should never give a prospect a card that is stained, dirty or dog-eared. Your business cards represent your business image. Keep them in a case, or an inside pocket where they will remain clean and fresh.

2. This is from my last job. My phone number's still the same, though.

Update your business cards, especially if you change companies or positions. If your company is paying for them anyway, why not have them print new ones? If you work for yourself, printing new business cards is an expense, but there are many services that print them at very modest fees. It's worth updating your business image.

3. This is the only one I have on me. My other cards must be in my suit at the cleaners.

A basic rule for networking events or visiting clients is to make sure you have your business cards available. Think about how much more impressive it is to hand out a card, rather than to write your contact information on a napkin or scrap of paper.

4. Don't worry about the stuff I wrote on the back. I don't need it.

Although in North America many people write on them, in many countries, writing on a business card is bad etiquette. People treat business cards as part of their persona.

You should never write on anyone's cards without asking their permission. Writing on your own cards isn't as bad, but don't hand out a business card where you wrote someone else's information on it, to another person. That's just bad taste, and can also reveal other people's information.

You should never have to apologize for a business card that's in poor condition. Instead, make sure they are always in good condition and up to date. You'll make a better impression, and people will be more likely to keep your card, and call you back.

You are invited to use these tips to increase your business success.

You're also invited to receive a free report: "Breakthrough Communication Skills" packed with powerful tips for business success, at http://www.ImpressforSuccess.com when you join my Communication Capsules newsletter.

Would you like to attract new customers, increase sales, and boost your career? Click here for simple How-to Guides that give you immediate results. http://www.goldmansmythe.com/howto.html

From Lynda Goldman, business communications and etiquette consultant and author of 30 books, including How to Make a Million Dollar First Impression.

10 Tips To Make Your Networking More Rewarding

Good relationships are essential to any career. It doesn't matter if you have your own business or work for someone else that network is critical. Lawyers, solo professionals, freelancers, and sales professionals must constantly network and generate new business. You prove your worth to your employer by bringing in new business. Those who do not network will not advance their careers as rapidly as those who do. You find your next employer by keeping your network alive and active.

1. Review the names in your address book on a regular basis. Plan to have lunch with one of the people or invite the person to a networking or social function. Work becomes fun when your networking connections become friends and you are likely to do more business.

2. Before you attend a networking event, think of a few topics that would be interesting to discuss with people. Keep the conversation flowing by asking thoughtful questions of the people you meet. That way when you meet a great contact you'll be able to reference the conversation when you reconnect with them.

3. Using email is a great way to connect with others, but make sure to move on to other methods of communication. Talk to the person by the phone, or if possible get together for coffee and start to build a relationship.

4. Don't rush the process or expect too much too soon. Networking feels awkward at first and often those who are new at it become discouraged. It becomes easier and more natural after a while. Don't focus on getting a client/customer/job. Focus on building a relationship.

5. Don't get stuck talking to the same person all evening. You are there to meet several people. Excuse yourself from the present company every five to ten minutes with a pleasantry such as, "It was nice meeting you." and move on to introduce yourself to someone new.

6. Keep good records of your networking contacts. Whenever you connect with someone online, on the phone, or in person, jot down a few notes to remind you of who they are and what you talked about. Record the ideas you have about working with that person too so you can schedule a future meeting to discuss those ideas.

7. If the event has a speaker or if someone at the event receives an award be sure to acknowledge the person if appropriate. People always appreciate positive reinforcement. You can do this at the networking event or write them a note afterwards.

8. When entering a conversation first listen to how you can help the other people in the group. Don't try to dominate the conversation or focus it on yourself. Your goal is not to control the conversation but to participate in it. When appropriate offer information about yourself that will be interesting to your new contacts.

9. The purpose of networking events is to make connections not to get business. Ultimately you will get business from it but don't expect it to happen immediately. Your success rate will improve if you have a give and take attitude. Listen to what other people do and show interest in their work.

10. Some people find networking events a little intimidating. If this happens to you, try attending with a friend who is in a different business so that you can help each other out. You can work as a team, introducing each other and giving testimonials about each others business. This will build your confidence as well as your credibility to others.

About Alvah Parker

Alvah Parker is a Practice Advisor and Career Coach as well as publisher of Parker's Points, an email tip list and Road to Success, an ezine. To subscribe send an email to join-roadtosuccess@go.netatlantic.com

Parker works with successful attorneys who feel overwhelmed by their work and are willing to take action to create a more profitable practice and a more fulfilling life. Alvah also helps attorneys and others who want to change careers and find the work that is more meaningful and fulfilling. Alvah is found on the web at http://www.asparker.com She may also be reached at 781-598-0388

Sincere Networking Success - The 7 Steps to Great Networking Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know

Are you tired of attending networking events that don't provide the results you are looking for? You may be feeling defeated, and wondering if all of the hype around networking for small business is just that, hype.

Do you find yourself asking, "Can't there be an better way to network?"

I am a firm believer in the success of networking to create relationships, find potential clients and promote your business. Knowing how to network effectively is more important than attending event after event without a sincere purpose. The secret is to understand that you need to take the time to get to know the networkers as people first and as prospects last.

Follow these 7 steps and you will be on the right path:

1. Find the Right Forum

Not all networking events are created equal. There are groups that are business-focused, social networks, support networks and more. I suggest that to figure out which style suits you best, visit different groups in your trading area to see which you feel the most connected with. Speak with the organizer of the event, they often have the most influence over the atmosphere of the event, providing the agenda or format for the meeting. The members who attend contribute to the energy within the group. Learn from the regular attendees to find out why they enjoy being part of their group, then decide if it is also a good fit for you. And ask yourself; Is this a group of people that you will enjoy spending time with to nurture the know, like and trust essentials of building a business relationships?

2. Don't Settle for Second Best

Who is your ideal market? Is it your intention to network with those people face-to-face? Or are you meeting other business owners who also serve their needs? Are you spending your time with others who understand and are interested in your services? There are different levels within business that you need to be aware of. Understand how you fit into the hierarchy and ask yourself; "Do these people find value in what I do?" If they aren't interested and don't ask you questions, you may be out of their league. If so, move on, and move up a level to a more affluent group of business people.

3. Be Deliberate with Your Presence

There are three basic types of networkers:

• The Hunter, who locates their potential prey and pursues them relentlessly. If you have a universal type of product, one that almost everyone at the venue would easily and immediately buy into, the hunter approach may be just what you need.
• The Scavenger, who hands out a business card to everyone without spending the time to make a genuine connection. If you are unconcerned with the quality of customer you are looking for, and don't need to rely on personal relationship, scavenging is an effortless yet inefficient way of getting your business.
• The Gatherer, who spends time listening, laughing and learning about others. The developer of long term relationships, who cares about their clients and instills compassion and eventually trust.

Decide which type you will be at each event and be deliberate with your presence.

4. Set Your Intention of How You Will Serve the People You Meet

The most important concept that will allow you to create successful relationships within a networking environment is to understand that you can provide value to others without selling them your product or service. You will create greater trust and further opportunities if you believe one simple concept. Once you serve their needs first, yours will be taken care of in the end. Hold that intention with every conversation and be patient.

5. Listen, Learn and Laugh

Take the time to get to know the people you meet. It is essential to let your guard down and listen. Ask questions. Learn about who they are, what they do. There is nothing worse that being pitched a product or service that you don't need, don't want and aren't interested in. And remember to bring your sense of humor. The best way to break down barriers is to share a good laugh.

6. Pitch Perfectly

Have you found a great lead? Is this your ideal client? Before you get too excited, have your pitch down pat. This is the "make it or break it" of your meeting. Timing is everything. You can lose rapport if you rush the exchange. Have the pitch ready but be patient with the delivery.

7. Take the Time to Make the Time Follow up

Simply and efficiently. After you have made a contact, started a relationship, and created some trust, now is the time to continue to show your potential client that you are still interested in them, not just their business. First impressions are important but a lasting impression takes a genuine commitment. Take the lead and continue to build the relationship, you will be rewarded in the end.

Daina Bright "The Success Coach" is a motivational speaker, coach, writer and Mompreneur. She provides a FREE ezine `Clear Path Success and Survival Guide' that inspires women to follow their own path to success. If you are ready to achieve your goals and gain more freedom, time and success on your terms, visit her site at http://www.Brightambitions.com for more great resources.

Preparing To Network - 7 Ways It Can Tip The Scales In Your Favor

Of all the things that hold people back from networking, one of the biggest is the belief that they don't have a networking personality. But if being comfortable connecting with others is the most recognizable trait of a successful networker, it's really only one part of the equation.

No matter how much networking I do and how much success I have with it, I'll always be an introvert. But the one trait that I rely on above all else is my propensity to prepare.

Here are 7 reasons why preparation is so important and how it can tip the scales in your favor the next time you're out making connections:

1. Gives you clarity about your GOALS for networking.

A runner has to know BEFORE he gets to the starting line whether he's running 2 miles or 26 miles. Each requires a different strategy for both training AND running the race. When you take some time before you network to define what you want to get out of the meeting or event, you can develop the best approach to achieve your goal. This might mean being sure you get to the event early to spend get some quality one-on-one time with a speaker, or working on a different elevator pitch to target a different audience.

2. Helps you articulate WHO you are and WHAT you need.

Being clear in your head about your objectives will help you tremendously when the time comes to actually talk about it with others. The inevitable questions of "What brings you here?" and "What do you do?" will be easier to answer, and consequently, easier for the other person to understand and possibly offer their help. Make sure you prepare concise and compelling answers in advance.

3. Ensures you ASK for the right thing from the right person.

Every so often in the mail, I'll get a sample copy of People Magazine en Espagnol with a subscription offer. The marketers have made the assumption that just because I have a Spanish-sounding maiden name, I must be (i) Hispanic and (ii) can read Spanish, neither of which is true. Essentially, they are asking the wrong person to buy the wrong product and wasting their money in the process. Thinking in advance about what you need will help you pinpoint who you might ask to provide it to you, and keep you from asking inappropriately.

4. Helps you FOCUS ON OTHERS rather than worrying about what you're going to say next.

I find when I'm prepared for an event, I'm more relaxed and can be more present in my conversations. I can really hear what the other person is saying, and not be distracted with trying to get my own thoughts together. Figuring that all out in advance keeps you from sounding anxious and desperate. You know you'll get your chance in the conversation to say what you've prepared to say.

5. Makes FOLLOW UP easier because you've already begun with the end in mind

If you've done your research and have a specific reason for speaking to someone at an event, then chances are high that you'll also have a good reason to follow up with them afterwards. You don't want to call just to say hi. That's a waste of your time and theirs. It's a good idea even before you leave the initial conversation to lay the groundwork for your upcoming follow up call. Just say something like, "Do you mind if I call you later in the week to get more information about X?"

6. Saves you TIME.

All networking takes some time. But the more strategic your approach, the less time you'll spend spinning your wheels, and the more time you'll have to work on the highest impact activities with the highest impact people.

7. Gives you CONFIDENCE at every stage of the process.

A big reason we don't approach new people at networking events is that we fear rejection. But if we know exactly why we're there, who we want to meet and what we're going to say, it's impossible to fail. The opposite result is more likely to happen; that people will sense your confidence and be drawn in.

There's a famous saying that luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. When the next big opportunity comes your way to win a big client, land a new job, or line up an exciting new growth initiative, will opportunity knock or will it pass you by? A little preparation can mean all the difference.

Liz Lynch is a business networking expert whose products, programs and seminars help entrepreneurs and business professionals get clients, build their business, and reach their goals through networking. If you're ready to start networking smarter, get your free networking tips now at http://www.NetworkingExcellence.com

Alpha Dogs and Networking Success

Whom do you seek advice from? When you are looking to expand your technology or are curious about what trade periodicals you should subscribe to, who do you call?

The answer is easy. You need to call your Alpha Dogs. A.D.'s are a group of people that form a very unique profile. Now that the world has gone global, there is a whole new group of people that you need to focus on when you address your current marketing concerns.

If you go back in business history by twenty or more years, they were our community leaders. These leaders were also our opinion leaders. If these leaders liked or disliked a business or product, they told ten friends who told ten more and so on. They did not have the ability to start a blog and share their thoughts online or submit their views on a website for the world to know how they felt.

Times have changed. Alpha Dogs now have the ability to reach thousands of people with one comment placed on a key location within the world wide web. They have the know-how to make a connection with hundreds of people within a short span of time. They have the unique ability to get the word out fast when it is something that they feel strongly about.

If you are curious how to spot an A.D. within your circle of communication, look for the people that have a tendency to lead a forward-thinking life. They are usually leaders within their communities either in the business world, nonprofit community or civic arena. They believe that you reap what you sow, which leads to a pretty optimistic individual who believes that ultimately good prevails over evil. They like to take their ideas and develop them into successful venues. Most importantly, they are usually awesome relationship builders.

When you market to Alpha Dogs and they believe what you have to offer, you have the ability to control the market. You control the market because they will influence others by spreading the word. The next step to working with this important audience is to form a plan that will allow you to gain knowledge from this important group. This invaluable information will help your business grow and prosper.

Unfortunately, you will not find them running together. As nature has seen fit, they will be in charge of a pack of Beta Dogs (not influencers). It is your job to try to figure out who the best Alpha Dogs are for your product or service.

In This Case, Size Matters. You need to find eight to ten people considered to be Alpha Dogs and build a group who will help support your future efforts. Smaller groups will not function as well because your group dynamics will not be as effective. Ask your A.D's to participate in your six to eight month program, being careful to rotate people off and on so opinions stay fresh. This group has only one job. They need to listen, engage and commit to supporting your personal success with their ideas, content and support. They will share their point of view and clarify market access because they have the information you need to find greater success.

Communication Goes Both Ways. This is the true key to your newly formed group, communication. Your participants will basically be good relationship people. In this group, trust matters. Ask them to test products for your organization. Have this group look at your marketing and tweak it as they see fit. Be open with your world sharing products, services and marketing. Ask for honest input.

Put On Your Big Boy Pants. You are asking for their opinions. Be sure you are paying attention to what they are saying because their comments will be an early indication of what others will eventually be thinking. A.D.'s work best when they are trying to solve problems. Take the information and act on the suggestions to insure your business growth.

In exchange, you must remember to always give them great respect and social validation in front of others who run in the same social/business circles. They want to be liked and are proud of the fact that they are influencing you and your business. Share the news with others!

Track Your Dog's Success. Want to know how well this group is working? See if your participants are doing an effective job of getting their ideas out to the public. Find out what venues they are using like web sites, publications, articles, etc. Then track what they are telling others about you through the same sources.

Consumers are looking for guidance because there is so much information available. The Internet allows people to find others whom they trust that can offer good advice and information about current trends and upcoming products. They get this information from our Alpha Dogs. A.D.'s influence others because they are always informed on these issues and can offer solid, reliable help on these issues. They post their opinions on the internet and at other sources. They get the word out any way they can.

Get out your proverbial dog biscuits and start whistling for those Alpha Dogs. Gather them up and start building your support system. Give your organization the strategic advantage it deserves.

You can read more articles by subscribing to Carol's free monthly newsletter at http://www.urpr.biz or view her monthly column in the Heartland Messenger at http://www.heartlandmessenger.com

Why Does Referral Marketing Matter!

Why Does It Matter?

Referral marketing is vital for businesses, professionals and service providers that want to be successful and realize growth. It is even important for companies that just want to retain their current level of business and customer satisfaction levels without expanding too much.

The reality is customers move away, lose interest or otherwise drop off the radar. Replacing them through referral marketing is an effective way to maintain a steady flow of business with clients who are pre-sold on products or services. In its most basic form, it puts a strong emphasis on customer service, which is an important facet of any business operation.

When referral marketing is personalized, hands-on and designed with an eye toward relationship building, businesses often realize a few very big benefits right away. These include:

? Better customer relations - When an emphasis is placed on building relationships in business, customer service benefits. If the message comes from the top down, the effects can be quite lucrative. Treat customers as people instead of numbers and they will notice and respond.

? Repeat business. Clients are more likely to return to a business for repeat service if they feel like they have a rapport with the people behind the scenes. When companies use referral marketing to build trust, customers do return.

? Sense of ownership. When relationship-based referral marketing becomes a part of a company's fabric, customers and clients feel a sense of connection and even ownership over the business or professional. Rather than call an accountant simply that in conversations, clients begin to describe professionals they feel connected with differently. The accountant becomes "my accountant." The sense of loyalty and enthusiasm rubs off on others who hear the recommendation, often prompting them to pick up the phone when service is needed.

? Up-sell benefit. If an insurance salesperson develops a relationship with a car insurance customer, that person is likely to return when future needs present. For example, one well-treated auto insurance policy owner might come back for life insurance, health insurance and even homeowner's insurance down the road rather than seek a different agent to handle those policies.

? Excited referrals. Let's face it; most businesses face a lot of competition from others that sell exactly the same products or services. When a business makes itself stand out by treating its clients or customers like they truly matter on a personal level, they set themselves apart from the crowd. The referrals that result from this type of relationship are excited, genuine and very motivating.

? Improved sales. When marketing efforts pay off, the bottom line shows it. If present customers are retained and new ones are constantly generated, business balance sheets tend to run in the black. Effective referral marketing has helped some business experience positive sales growth in the 200% to 300% range and even more. If the right measures are taken, the results can be enjoyed with very little investment of time or money.

If you would like to download my Free eBook on referral marketing please contact me at: http://www.beyondinaction.com/ask

To your success,

Juan Rezk
Beyond Inaction

Missing Element In Successful Networking

So you have made your prospect list as you were told, carefully qualified your top 10 prospects and have made your 3 way calls with your sponsor. You have given away your recruiting dvds and magazines and have even picked up your friend or family member to take them to the weekly business reception. In your 3 to 4 months in the business you had signed up a couple or so associates who have eventually stopped trying to put up with you and stopped coming to the meetings. One of them has actually stopped picking up the phone when your number shows up on the caller ID.

It is the common belief that duplicable activity is the key to success in MLM. So you triple your efforts and flagellate yourself with the proverbial wet noodles when success seems to be so hard to find. Or you wonder whether this business is not your niche and maybe you are better off keeping your day job. The good news is, the problem is not you but in you.

When a primitive hunter goes for days without finding game, he goes to the village sage to find the solution to his dilemma. The Wise One does not advise our hunter to go to another hunting ground or use a different trap. He is told to go within himself and find out why he is not finding the game which is there and has always been there. The solution is oftentimes in the mindset that creates the external conditions that we create.

A consciousness that is focused on lack will attract the condition of lack.

There is a saying that if one is to use an axe to chop wood, then it is necessary to spend 3 to 4 hours sharpening the axe so that it can efficiently cut the tree in 30 minutes or less. In the case of success in networking (or even just the plain business of living), it is important that the mindset is aligned with the consciousness of prosperity as a prerequisite to success. When the networker's consciousness is steadfastly attuned to Unlimited Supply, that which he longs for (a dream recruit) longs for him too.

Maybelle Campo
Founder, CEO,
Wealth Paradigms, LLC
http://successfulnetworkmarketer.blogspot.com
http://maybellecampo.info
http://wealthparadigms.info

Who Are Your Secretaries?

One of my favorite examples of marketing persistence is the story of the scientists at the 3M Company who found a use for an adhesive which didn't stick. Originally developed in 1968, by Dr. Spencer Silver, no one saw any use for the product.

A few years later, another scientist, Art Fry developed applications to use the adhesive on bookmarks. Despite discouraging feedback from the marketing department and his peers, he believed in the potential of this unique product.

Bypassing traditional channels, he made a batch of the pads in the lab and distributed them to the secretaries of all the executives at 3M. He correctly assumed, these professionals would use the product, become fans and share them with others. And he was right! In no time at all, the secretaries and their bosses, were using the handy notepads, and calling for more.

Initial launch plans in the late 1970's built on the same strategy as pads were sent to secretaries of executives of all major Fortune 500 companies. And the rest is history!

Post-it? Notes were successful because they were a great product, put into the hands of people who would use it, and more importantly, share it. Introduced in 11 Western states, consumers in those communities actually shipped notes to their co-workers in cities where the product was not yet available.

Everyone needs a great secretary

You simply have to find your "secretaries", people who understand your product and will share information with others! Begin with your most loyal customers, asking them for testimonials and referrals.

Then, the next time you go to a networking event, shift your focus; instead of trying to find your next customer, look for people who call on your customers. These strategic connections will become your best secretaries over time. If they truly see the benefit of your product or service, just like the secretaries and the Post-it? Notes, they will become evangelists for your brand.

Of course, in return, you need to be their secretary, too. Networking is a two sided process. If you want other business owners to carry your message to the marketplace, you have to be willing to carry theirs.

Be patient, these relationships don't occur overnight. It takes time to turn a customer or strategic partner into a raving fan!

There is another important lesson in the 3M story. Although not really a networking lesson, I would remiss if I didn't point the successful launch of this product began with a free trial.

People Need to Try Before They Buy

Even after 3M execs were hooked on the product, they still couldn't figure out how to get others to buy it. Simply describing the benefits was just not enough and the product received mixed reviews in the market.

Sales really took off when they distributed free samples in office supply stores. Sampling works with products and services. Take a lesson from 3M - Accelerate your brand growth by demonstrating your expertise or giving away a small free sample to people with the potential to be your secretaries and tell your story to others.

A veteran of corporate America, Lorraine Ball teaches business owners across the country how to use creativity and planning achieve exceptional results. Her marketing firm, Roundpeg http://www.roundpeg.biz, helps small business owners find a starting point for growth and change.

An accomplished marketer, she has won regional and national communication awards. Her books "The Entrepreneur's Notebook" "Business Map" and "Confessions of a Networking Junkie" are popular resources for business owners across the country.

Lorraine has an MBA from the University of Texas, and a BA from Queens College, City University of NY. She has been on the faculty of the University of India.

Trust in Chinese Society

In China, trust is important for successful business ventures. Usually trust will be placed in persons that you have known for a long time, such as family members or schoolmates. These are people that you have grown up to trust and who have proven themselves trustworthy over a period of time. There is a Chinese expression, "lu yao zhi ma li, ri jiu jian ren xin" - You will know a horses strength over many miles and a mans heart over many days - this time-tested saying tells us that strong relationships take time, signaling us that we must be prepared to wait.

Trust does not come quickly to the Chinese; it takes the passing of time and the passing of tests to feel trust in a person or business partner. Fear of the unknown is always lingering in the background when interacting with unfamiliar people and in unfamiliar places; even different cities in the homeland may be considered a risk. A person from Beijing may not trust a person from Guangzhou, whom they may know fairly well, as quickly as they would another person from Beijing whom they just met.

While interacting with Chinese businesses and establishing relationships with Chinese partners, it is important that you do so by avoiding misunderstandings that could fester distrust. How do you go about doing this? First, you need to enter into the relationship with an attitude that you may not be perceived as you think, and what you perceive may not be what it seems. Some interactions that seem perfectly "normal" and "acceptable" to you may be out of the question for your Chinese partner. Do what you can to avoid a faux pas as in China there is no easy make up for mistakes.

It would also be a good idea to have someone who can assist you to bridge the "cultural-Linguistic" gap. When choosing this person you should seek out someone with whom you feel comfortable, someone who you know understands your culture and communicates clearly with you in your language. Next, they need to be able to carry your ideals and communicate your messages across to your Chinese counterpart; ultimately forming a catalyst for positive business relations. Note that the most important aspect is that this person is in tune with you, if there is any doubt of that then you should continue looking. If they cannot communicate with you freely and understand your ideals and objectives with ease they will not be able to optimize for your communication needs. You will ultimately be wasting your time.

Life Experience