Networking Knowledge

5 Steps To Make Your Networking Work For You

2008-03-13T01:17:00.000-07:00

It's sad, but true. Most networking is a waste of time! This isn't because networking doesn't work, it's because most people don't know how to make networking work for them. The art of networking-and it is more art than science- is overwhelming misunderstood by most people. Thankfully, when you network efficiently and effectively, it can be fun, lucrative, and an excellent use of your time.

All too often, business professionals are let down by the results they earn from attending business mixers and networking events. Although you may come home with a wallet full of new business cards, that doesn't mean that your networking efforts were a success. Why not? After all, don't most business books teach you to meet as many new contacts as you can? Shouldn't your M.O be to schmooze up everyone within arm's reach? Isn't that the point of attending mixers? So, if you've done all of these things, why haven't your networking efforts led to new business?

Quite simply, you're not networking. You're net-meeting. Or net-introducing. But schmoozing and exchanging business cards isn't real work. Networking, as its name aptly applies, will require that you work at it. However, that's not to say that the work involved won't be fun; on the contrary it can and should be. Likewise, networking is a great way to increase your business, and should prove to do so, if you commit to taking it seriously.

But, like all successful business models, your networking efforts will require a succinct plan or strategy. After years of study, data analysis and research into the habits of highly successful networkers (and consequently successful business professionals), we have discovered a clear 5 step networking model that they use. When used properly, this five step system of networking will deliver sure-fire results, all while you're enjoying the process. Best of all, networking can take place anywhere. In fact, some of the best networking that you can do, may occur well outside of networking functions.

1: Determine Your Target Market.

This sounds like a piece of cake, but determining a target market is actually the most difficult step in the process of becoming a savvy networker.

If you're in sales, your target market will be consumers, right? Well, wouldn't that be the target market for those involved in service industries as well? Likewise in the public sector? While consumers are part of nearly every professional's target market, the problem with defining your market so generally is that you won't be able to customize your efforts. That is, you won't be able to tailor your efforts in the subsequent steps.

Many professionals shy away from becoming too specific in their target markets for fear they'll lose business, by pigeonholing themselves. This isn't the case, because there is no limit to how many target markets you may choose to select. The point is to narrow down the types of people (by profession, by region, by services needed, etc) that you will focus on networking with. That way, you can customize your elevator speech or pitch to appeal to their specific needs or wants in a networking partner.

2. Immerse Yourself in Pools of Prospects

Once you've determined a target market or two, you need to determine a way to put yourself in the presence of prospects. For example, if you're in the pet grooming business, your target market is undoubtedly pet owners in the vicinity of your business. A natural pool of prospects would likely be a dog park in your area. Or, you may visit pet adoption fairs. Taking it further, by volunteering your time at an animal shelter, you'll be sure to meet potential pet owners, or at the very least animal lovers. The method for finding pools of prospects can be arrived at by analyzing where people who share similar interests might get together.

3. Uncover Their Needs

Once you've found potential pools of prospects, and have started meeting with them regularly, you're in a position to begin to uncover their needs. Some of their needs will be obvious, but others needs may not be as easy to unearth. There is a very simple way to uncover both their obvious and not so obvious needs. The key is merely to spend more time listening to your prospects than you do talking to them.

Using the example from above, consider that you're at a dog park every Monday evening, immersing yourself in a pool of prospects. The same dog owners are there each week. By actively listening to the dog owners, you're likely to uncover needs they have regarding their pets. Keep your ears attuned for statements that begin with "I need to find," or "I'm not happy with my current," or "I've been looking for someone."

Statements such as these are almost unanimously followed by a need that your target market has, even if they don't realize they have it. But, by listening intently and making mental notes of what they say, you're in a great position to move to the next step.

Step 4: Form a Team To Help Your Prospects

Once you've uncovered the needs of your target market, you'll next need to form a team specifically designed to meet those needs. This step sounds easy enough, as you've done a great deal of the work already. But, forming an effective team designed to meet the unique needs of a specific target market may try your patience.

Consider that the most successful networkers don't only strive to provide their prospects with the services that they can offer to meet their needs; but they strive to help enhance the livelihood of their target markets' personal and professional lives as well. Or to put it another way; they seek opportunities to help others, anyway they can.

Again, using the example of the pet groomer, to be a successful networker, they would build a team of veterinarian, pet sitter, dog trainer, and the owner of a respectable kennel. That way, they can provide their target markets with referrals to providers who serve the needs that the target market must fill.

Forming a team will take effort, as you must only include like-minded team members who share the common goal of fulfilling all of the needs of the target market. The team must be mutually respectful of one another, and value each of the other team members' responsibilities.

Step 5: Manage The Team

Remember the adage that "There is no I in team," when structuring and managing the team you've built. Successful networkers are managers of their own teams and to that end spend time strategizing plans for reaching as many potential clients as possible within their target market. They refer their team members, they participate in marketing the services of all members, and they listen to the feedback provided by members. However, they do have to set some clear expectations, so that all members fulfill their individual responsibilities, ensuring that the team as a whole is successful.

By using these five steps to identify your target market, and then build a team to meet the needs of that market, your networking efforts will pay off and you'll increase your business. Instead of returning from a business mixer with a briefcase full of unqualified business leads, you'll now hone in the best suited markets for you to target, and you'll have a team of non-competing like-minded professionals working hand in hand with you to increase business for everyone involved.

Ed Craine is CEO of San Francisco based Smith Craine Finance, an award winning mortgage brokerage. He was appointed Vice President of CAMB in 2007. Ed serves as an Executive Director for BNI, and is a contributing author to several NY Times Best Selling Books. Visit http://www.smithcraine.com

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Benefits Of Business Networking Groups Exclusively For Women

2008-03-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

Just as it is for men in the business world, for women, life is just as hard and some would say somewhat harder. I've launched a new business venture and know exactly how hard the small business enterprise can be to get off the ground.

I'm a passionate believer in business networking because my business has grown as a result, in fact I've seen so much power in word of mouth marketing that I know run my own business networking clubs in the area where I live.

Exclusive women only business networking groups are becoming more and more common but does it really make sense? After all the basis of business networking is that you want to convey your business services to fellow networking partners so that they can refer clients to you, so why would you want to cut your audience in half by restricting it just to women?

Many women feel more comfortable in an all woman environment and actually get to trust other networking partners much quicker. There's evidence to suggest that women network better than men because women focus more on the relationship building whereas men will focus on the end result of getting the referral. Having both networking partners in line is surely bound to deliver a faster and more powerful result.

Whether it's politically correct or not to say so, it's clear that in some business circles, women are still perceived to be less than equal. I think that there are countless examples of great women in business to demonstrate that this perception is a completely outdated position and gradually it is dying but not before time. So again when it comes to feeling comfortable when networking, clubs exclusive to women meet the need.

Many women running small businesses also have to juggle family life and therefore feel an affinity with other women in the same situation. It may help build rapport or it may simply just help understand the challenges but whatever the reason it helps get to that point in the relationship where you know, like and trust the other person and so are ready to start giving and receiving referrals.

Many traditional networking groups have been established over decades and probably don't fit in with family life in terms of the meeting times. Women's networking clubs understand this point and ensure that the meeting times are at a time of day that isn't going to conflict with the school run. This may be the difference between being able network or not.

So it's not really about cutting your audience in half, there's clear reasons why all women networking clubs work well but by nature of the fact that half the business population is excluded, womens business networking clubs should be regarded as complementary to the networking concept as a whole and not a substitute.

So why aren't there all male business networking clubs?....come on, that would be sexist!

Louise Yates shares business networking tips and advice for word of mouth marketing, generating referrals and free sales leads. She also runs business coaching centres for your business performance, life and career development.

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Successful Networking for Introverts - Three Proven Strategies

2008-03-04T00:50:00.000-08:00

How many times have you stood at the entrance to a networking mixer frozen in fear? "A root canal would be easier than this," you say to yourself. Having to make small talk with strangers, trying to be interesting and charming, is not your strength nor your idea of a good time. But you believe that if you can just endure this for an hour, you might walk away with some valuable new contacts. The reality is that your discomfort often has negative results, and you don't gain the new relationships you had sought.

In the 1930s, Swiss psychologist Carl Jung coined the term introvert as someone who tends to find his psychological energy within... in the world of thought, contemplation and reflection. This inward focus can result in a tendency to pull back and maintain a safe distance, especially around new people.

In the world of networking, introverts can face a long list of daunting challenges - not the least of which is sending nonverbal messages that may be misinterpreted as aloofness. And "aloof" is not a good message when your purpose is to mix, mingle, and foster new relationships.

As a card-carrying introvert myself (by Jung's definition), I've developed some guidelines that have always worked well and have allowed me to be confident and outgoing at networking events. Practice these, and you will soon become the "master of the mixer":

1. Create a plan before each event: "Winging it" never works for introverts, because spontaneity is not usually a strength. So having a plan can greatly boost confidence.

? Do some pre-work before the event. Think about who will be there and who you would like to meet.

? Make a list of goals before you leave the house - how many new contacts do you want to make tonight? How will you approach them? Prepare for "small talk" by reviewing current events in your head; take a mental assessment of recent books you've read, movies you've seen, or interesting stories you've heard -- always good conversation starters and fillers for awkward moments.

2. Enter the room with a purpose and a plan: Most of us feel uncomfortable during the first few moments when we enter a networking event, particularly if we don't know anyone.

? First, think positive, powerful thoughts "I am energetic, confident and successful. Tonight I will meet (3, 5, 10) people who will be helpful to my business or others in my network." By thinking and visualizing positive situations, your energy will draw others to you; it's a law of nature!

? If there is no greeter to make you feel more comfortable, take a moment to stand at the entrance and survey the room (As though you are looking for someone...). Be aware of your body language; don't slump or try to disappear into the woodwork, but enter with authority. Pretend you are the king or queen making your grand entrance, and your body language will say that you are confident and approachable.

? As you enter, get the lay of the land and look specifically for three things: (a) the buffet, (b) the bar, and/or (c) someone sitting or standing alone. Choose one of these as your target, so that when you make your journey across the room, you have a goal and are not awkwardly meandering around.

(a) The buffet line is always a good place to meet people. Make a mental note of anything interesting and just "think out loud" to the person next to you. "Incredible ice sculpture," you could comment. Or, "Wow, I didn't know shrimp came in this size!" She will have to respond in some way, and you can follow with, "Is this your first _____ event?" The conversation will easily flow from there.

(b) Same thing at the bar -- While waiting in line, strike up a conversation, "Wow... this already looks like a great event; I didn't expect so many people. Have you been here before?"

(c) Once you have your food or drink in hand (Only occupy one hand; keep one free for shaking), approach the person sitting alone, and say with a smile, "Mind if I join you?"

3. Ask questions, listen carefully, and don't worry about selling yourself: The most charming and fascinating people are the greatest listeners. Listening also gives you an advantage in uncovering potential customers or job prospects.

? Ask the person about her business; about hobbies, family, city of origin, etc. It's very probable that somewhere in that conversation you will uncover a need, and you will be able to help her find an answer or resource.

? Armed with information, you can say, "Oh! So your brother is looking for a home in the area? I know a great (realtor, landscaper, plumber)."

? By giving before asking, you encourage people to trust you, and they will feel an unconscious need to reciprocate by sending business or resources to you as well.

Once we introverts practice the simple principles of planning our approach; reviewing topics for conversation; and taking the spotlight off ourselves by focusing it on other people, we'll not only become more comfortable in networking situations, but may find ourselves the life of the party!

Christine Donovan is an award-winning writer, speaker, and trainer. Before launching her own training firm, http://www.christine-donovan.com she was a corporate training director in organizations such as Disney, the Olympics, the University of Texas, and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Today she speaks extensively on leadership, customer service and corporate culture.

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It's Raining Clients! Five Ways to Attract Referrals (Without Asking)

2008-03-03T23:04:00.000-08:00

Referrals can be the difference between success or failure in any business. A prospect referred by a friend or previous client is nearly always an easier sell than a cold prospect; they already know you've done a good job for someone they know and trust. However, getting referrals doesn't always come easily.

Most experts will tell you that if you want to get referrals, you have to ask. And that's sound advice-you'll never get referrals if people don't know you're looking for them. But many business owners are uncomfortable about asking for a variety of reasons. Luckily, you don't need to ask to get referrals. Here are five ways you can increase the amount of referrals you get-without having to ask.

Be low-risk. When someone refers a business contact to you, he or she puts his own reputation on the line. If you make a bad impression, that impression could carry over to the person who referred you. So if you're not getting referrals, take a look at your own business: do you look and act highly professional at all times? In addition, do you offer money back guarantees or free consultations? These allow referrals to get an "out" if they're not a hundred percent sure you're right for them-and lessens the risk that they'll judge the referrer harshly.

Offer a referral program. You can generate more referrals by having a rewards system in place for those who generate business for you. Try offering cash for referrals-offer 10% of the sale to the person who referred new business to you, or offer a discount or coupon for your services. If they know they'll get something out of it, you're sure to get people to send you business.

Partner with complementary businesses. Find some businesses that offer services that complement yours. Don't team with those who compete directly with you; instead, look for companies that sell to people who might be interested in your product as well. For example, if you own a gym, you could form a partnership with a sports apparel company, a health food store, or a personal trainer. Offer them a financial reward for referrals; join together to offer a discount on both your services bought together; or agree that you'll promote their service in return for them promoting yours.

Be lavish in your gratitude. Always be thankful to people who refer business to you. Send cards, send gifts, or offer discounts. Some businesses throw a party or host a luncheon once a year or so for preferred clients, including referrals. Look into ways you can thank people who bring you business.

Give referrals. Want to generate referrals? Be generous in giving them. This will make other business owners feel indebted or grateful-and eager to point business your way as well. Spread your referrals far and wide, and you should be able to get business back for it.

Asking for referrals can be nerve-wracking. But although asking can definitely generate more referrals, you don't have to do it. Follow these tips, and you should be able to generate referrals from your current clients and business associates-and grow your business.

Jennifer Williamson runs a successful business as an article writer in southern Pennsylvania, writing for clients all over the world. For flawless writing at affordable prices, check out her content creation services. For more of her advice on writing and article marketing, visit her writing blog.

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What I Hate About Networking

2008-02-09T05:49:00.001-08:00

OK, I admit it. I hate networking.

OK OK, I don't really hate networking, but there are some aspects of networking I really do hate. Why do you care? Because if you understand WHY I hate these things YOU will make more money. Let me explain:

I was thinking about this in my car the other day. Networking is like hunting for birds in the bushes with a Gatling gun. You can't really see if any birds are actually in the bush but you shoot anyway. Every once in a while a bird drops dead out of a bush and you think "Success! This really works!" Except the gun fired 100 rounds and the bird was sick...

Networking's alot like that. You spend 80 percent of your time networking and every once in a while you get a referral. Success! This really works! Except you've spent dozens of hours to find a client that wants a $1000 job. Sound familiar?

When most people decide to go into business, they are brilliant at "the thing" that they do. They may take business classes and hear things like - "you must spend time marketing your business" and that networking is important. So they join a group with a vague idea of what they're supposed to be doing and what they'll get out of it. Meanwhile, they can't identify who they REALLY want as a client (their true target market), and they go in with the hope of thousands of dollars in referrals and quickly become very disappointed.

See, most people are networking in the dark. Well, let me flip on the light switch!!

Networking groups are great and they're really important to your business IF and only if you understand how deep networking really is.

Take out a penny and study it. Right now. Study the penny for two minutes. Go ahead. I'll be here when you get back.

So what did you notice?

The penny is more complex than that thing you left on the sidewalk because it wasn't worth picking up... Networking is like that too.

The thing that drives me crazy about networking groups is that some of them offer pretty good education on how to work their system. The problem is most people think that's it. "Oh I see, it's a penny. Well, that's all I need to know...so where are my referrals? This system doesn't work!"

By their very nature, networking groups focus on referrals and results and when people don't see the results they want, the "system" doesn't work. It IS the system's fault (despite what the group will tell you) to the extent that nobody told them how to work it as it applies to their business and it's overall vision.

If you're out there in a networking group or going to a chamber and you don't know exactly what you're looking for (and it isn't "as many referrals as you can get") STOP!!

If you don't know where you're going that's exactly where you'll end up. And if you're just out there giving referrals to get referrals and you have no idea who your dream client is, then all you're going to get is the kinds of referrals and clients you DON'T want.

Do yourself a huge favor and decide what kinds of customers you really want. Which of your clients make your life easy? What company specifically do you want to do business with?

The big lie about networking, infomercials and introductions is this: If you have a great infomercial that makes people want more information that is all you need to do.

That's a lie. If you have a great infomercial and you don't know what kinds of clients make you money and which once don't, a great infomercial won't help you.

Don't be like so many of my students who discover that, although they get a ton of referrals, they are people who drive them crazy and don't generate enough revenue to begin to cover the time they take out of the day.

Remember, you are the average of the five people and or groups you spend the most time with. You can apply this to your clients as well. Take a look at the clients you have right now today. With whom are you spending the most time? Are they making you rich or are they making you poor? Figure out who is generating the most revenue for you and ask for clients like THEM the next time you're out networking.

Otherwise, you just shooting at theoretical birds in a bush with a Gatling gun.

Want to use this article in your newsletter? You can! Just be sure to include the entire article and include this complete blurb with it: Networking Expert Karen Frank publishes Miss Karen's Networking News, the semi-monthly email newsletter. If you're ready to jumpstart your networking, make more money and spend less time doing it, get your FREE tips now at http://www.misskarensproductions.com

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3 Things You Should Know Before You Go To A Networking Event

2008-02-06T05:52:00.001-08:00

Very few people make any preparation for a networking event. Those that are experienced networkers are even worse. We think that being dressed professionally and having a good opening line is all that we need to have a good networking event.

But you are going to spend several hours of your free time doing this event. Does it make sense to arrive unprepared with no clear goals? Remember it's YOUR time that you are using at these events.

So here are three things that you should be clear about prior to arrival.

1. Know yourself.

How are you feeling? Rushed? Stressed? Put upon? Don't really want to go? First be aware of your mood and if negative, figure out how to put it away for the event. If you need to, arrive a little late and give yourself some up time. Go browse a favorite store, grab a cup of your favorite coffee, whatever it takes to put yourself in a better place, relaxed and positive.

What happens if you don't? You see it all the time. People looking stressed, tired, unfocused. More worried about the food or drink than networking. They just want to relax, join up with someone they know and talk (whine?) about their work day.

I certainly understand. But what are you accomplishing then? If you are using a networking event to unwind, wouldn't it make sense to just head on home? The other thing is that you are sending out signals, negative signals. Not a productive use of your time.

2. The second thing you should know is who's going to be there.

Many networking events are constructed so that you know who else is registered. You should check it the afternoon of the event. (Typically 50% register within the final two days, depending on the type of event). Search for people you would like to talk to, whether similar businesses, to sell or buy from or even a business that you would like to know more about.

By focusing on several people you would like to meet, you already have made the event more meaningful for you to attend. It's also going to force you to circulate the room more (to find them), introduce yourself to people and make you more active at the event. You don't need to tell them you were specifically looking for them, but introduce yourself as you would to anyone else.

When you do meet up with 2 or 3 people that you had marked for conversation, you'll have accomplished something positive! Unconsciously, you will be feeling good about that and it will show. Chances are you'll be feeling pretty good and people will respond to that.

On a final note for this section, when you look at who you would like to meet expand your idea of who would be useful to you besides just a possible sales prospect. How about meeting someone that ....

o Has a business that you have an interest in?

o Appears to be well connected in the community?

o Is in a position that you have an interest in?

o Might have services that YOU could use?

o Might have services that someone you know could use?

o Has an off the wall business that you aren't clear on, but it might be interesting to know about?

o Or business that you should know more about, but don't understand... something like internet marketing? (I still don't get it!)

The bottom line is that there are a lot of people out there with a lot of knowledge that YOU may not have and networking is a fantastic opportunity to meet them and gain from it. Certainly we would like to get business from networking, but by opening yourself to the wide range of people that you could meet, you have a much better chance of making any networking event a more profitable use of your time.

3. Know your goals!

Certainly adhering to step 2 would be a great start to making a goal for networking. But there are certainly other things that you can focus on as well depending on what you want to accomplish. Getting an appointment to meet (or meetings) with one or more people, getting to know someone better (building that relationship), getting a certain amount of business cards, introducing yourself to the powers that be (if a chamber event, the officers and the people who work at the chamber), and meeting X amount of new people (a great networking goal!).

Making goals doesn't have turn into this high pressure "business" thing. But BY making goals, you are more likely avoiding the opposite extreme which is to show up, talk to some people and then go home.

Successful people in any business today know the value of preparation. For some meetings, the preparation can take a great deal longer than the meeting itself. But good prep is likely to create good meetings. It is no different with networking. The good news is preparation time is pretty short, checking out where our head is at, how's coming and what you want to accomplish. In fact, after doing it a time or two, it will be pretty natural and talk just a few minutes. But the payoff is significant.

You can expect to have more meaningful networking events. You will open yourself up to learning more, getting to know more people, having more people know you, building better, stronger relationships, opening yourself up to opportunities that you may not have thought of.

And isn't that what networking is all about?

Terry Bass, of CHADONS Resources is a business coach in the ChicagoLand area. He speaks, coaches and facilitates focusing on helping the individual and business succeed. If you can use help for yourself or your organization in identifying, understanding and achieving your goals, then you should contact Terry at 773-769-1992 and begin the conversation. You can also visit http://www.chadons.com to learn more.

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

2008-01-30T08:11:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-29T05:38:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-27T11:50:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-19T10:28:00.001-08:00

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.

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

2008-01-17T08:19:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-16T05:17:00.000-08:00

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.

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

2008-01-15T01:06:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-13T06:23:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-12T04:11:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-11T05:22:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-01-10T05:14:00.000-08:00

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

2008-01-09T08:05:00.001-08:00

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?

2008-01-05T14:30:00.001-08:00

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

2008-01-03T13:27:00.001-08:00

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

Networking Your Way To Greater Success

2007-12-31T11:20:00.000-08:00

Networking is the ability to know people, who know people, who know people, who know people who can help you succeed. Networking is your personal and professional success tool. But there's a catch - networking is as much about giving as it is about receiving.

True and lasting success comes from helping as many people as possible achieve their goals. It's based on what is called the Law of Reciprocity. The more people you help succeed, the more you succeed.

Networking is much more about giving than it is about receiving. Many people join a networking group with the attitude, "What can I get out of this relationship." A true networker asks, "How many ways can I help the other person achieve her/his goals?"

The Law of Reciprocity states that the more you give, the more you get. Give of yourself and time wisely. Give wisely, but not selfishly. Give of time, intelligence and experience without expecting something in return. The giver will end up the winner.

With that said - Start your networking with friends, family and associates. Ask yourself, "Do my friends, relatives and social contacts really know what I do for a living or what my goals are?"

Prepare a one-minute infomercial about yourself, your career and how your network can help you succeed. When you meet someone new, you'll have a minute infomercial ready to help get your point across effectively. If you can't condense what you do into a one-minute infomercial, you may not be clear about what you want or how your network can help.

Sit down right now, and make a list of twenty people who can help you go forward with living your life's mission. If they can't help you directly, they may know someone who can.

Be sure to keep your network posted about all your career moves and changes. When your goals change, professionally and personally, let your network know.

Remember too, that you are a part of network too. That's a responsibility that shouldn't be taken lightly. Actively help make contacts, referrals, and connections for your network. Not only will you feel personally satisfied, but also you're building a foundation of mutual respect, benefit and support.

You're not alone. There are people you know - right this minute - who want to help you live your life's mission. You, in return, can help them make their dreams come true, too.

I always remember a quote by Denis Waitley, "Cooperation is a two-letter word - WE."

Sharon A. Michaels is an e-mentor to women who want to work for themselves. Sharon has over 20 years of business, speaking and writing experience on issues of ending self-sabotage, living in abundance and wealth and making money in network marketing. Sharon offers books, webinars and tele-conferences on how to give yourself the power to succeed.

You can learn more about Sharon Michaels at http://SharonIsMyMentor.com

Sharon A. Michaels is also the Editor of the Abundance and Wealth site on BellaOnline.com To read more of Sharon's articles and sign up for her weekly newsletter go to http://abundanceandwealth.bellaonline.com

Copyright Sharon A. Michaels - When using this article please give full credit to Sharon Michaels and use the bio as written above.

Have you heard the latest on the Bhutto Assaniation in Pakistan?

It's All In The Relationship - The Power of Guan Xi

2007-12-29T12:42:00.001-08:00

Successful business in China is not reached through merely a good project and good management, that's all significant of course but what can really make it or break it? Relationships - the Chinese call it "guan xi" (pr. Gwan shee). This term is so central to the Chinese culture that most people who have spent only a short period of time in China will come away knowing the word.

A winning business venture in Asia can almost be compared to a friendship in the way it grows and develops; an exchange of ideas and an acceptance of differences where input and effort are being applied by both parties. There is an understanding that true friendship is worth nurturing and developing because we never know when we may need a good friend. Strong relationships are most important when we have nowhere to turn, when we find ourselves in a hard spot.

To the Chinese guan xi may be protected at almost any cost. Consider the expression - Zai jia kao fu mu, Chu men kao peng you; At home depend on family, away from home depend on friends.

How do these ideals translate over into our borders? In this fast-paced, disposable culture it is sometimes easier to do away with something than to spend the extra time and effort to maintain or fix it. Do we also see our relationships in this light?

What is the motivation for the Chinese to maintain strong relationships in times of aggravation? Rather than looking at the negative they tend to realize the value of maintaining a positive bond. They may look beyond the here-and-now to envision how the relationship might be beneficial in the future. In the present, they may not have realized a mutually desirous outcome but realize that one or two years may bring a new opportunity. When the relationship is maintained in a positive light the window to opportunity will remain open.

How does face fit into all this? Understanding face is important in nurturing good relationships in Asia. The nearest illustration of face in Western culture would be the basic idea of pride; though face goes much deeper and is more complex than pride. In China face can be given, taken away, and even bumped. Sensitivity to face requires a sense of diplomacy - sensitivity to the pride of an individual or nation and the values and ideals that may not cross boundaries in style. Sometimes it's easy to have high expectations, when it comes to what we want for an outcome, but like in any relationship there is more than one individual involved, if you've had a personality clash before imagine something bigger; a culture clash - the clash of big personalities. The basis of mutual successes can be realized through well cultivated guan xi.

Life Experience

Focus Your Networking For Success

2007-12-28T06:32:00.001-08:00

Not long ago, I attended a breakfast meeting of a group that was completely new to me. Panic set in when I entered the room. I had gone at the suggestion of a friend who thought I might meet potential clients for my coaching business there. I thought I would duck under the radar the first time and take time to plan my strategy for future meetings. No sooner was I on the buffet line than I realized this was a bad idea.

I quickly regrouped and found my focus, thinking about the questions used at a women's networking group in which I participated. I was able to spit out my name and name of my company and say I was "interested in meeting decision makers interested in transforming their ability to produce results." That led to the inevitable question, "What kinds of results?" and we were off and running. I had to leave the meeting a few minutes early but was pleased when almost everyone at the table I sat at gave me their cards as I was on my way. So much for ducking under the radar! The lesson: always be prepared for a networking meeting (or, for that matter, a trip to the supermarket or to the dentist's office)... you never know.

Your most important task is to know just how to describe your core business- clearly and succinctly. Make sure to include:

? Your name and role

? The value or ultimate impact to them of using your service or product

? Up to three examples of how you deliver your product or service

? Ideally, what you need or are spending your money on so you can give them a chance to help you.

The next, and most important in my mind, is be prepared to say exactly what you are looking for. Everyone is there because they are looking for something, too. Be as specific as possible. Include:

? Types of clients

? Business resources- lenders, vendors

? Other businesses for cross referral

? Decision makers in large organizations

? Help with solving a problem in your own business or personal life- a good accountant, computer expert, professional organizer, insurance or mortgage broker, financial planner, coach.

? Resources for your clients- their client profile, people who work in a particular industry, resources they need.

? Job leads or hiring resources

Here are a few examples:

"My name is Mary Smith and I help small business owners solve their computer problems on site or at my shop at reasonable cost. I am looking for women business owners [name where-- be a specific as you can] who are frustrated with computer consultants who spend too much time talking and don't solve their problems..."

"...I help sales people or improve their sales by providing one-on-one coaching and working with sales teams. I am looking to meet HR managers at X, Y and Z companies."

"... I founded a non-profit organization that provides environmental education on green space to companies and municipalities. We are putting together a board of Directors and are looking for experienced business people for our Board."

"...I recently left X Company. I am interested in meeting hiring managers in [name of industry] or hearing about any specific job leads getting ideas about using my skills [name them] in a new area [name it]."

Here are some examples of how to express what you might have to offer:

"I am planning to redesign my website and would love the name of a good web designer if you know one." "I am looking for a good accountant, bookkeeper, professional organizer, etc." "I am interested in trading my services with someone who can help me with [name what you need]. Would that be of interest to you or would you know someone?"

It is helpful to be "other-focused." Letting others know how you can help them is essential to building trust. There is no need, however, to remove our own needs from the equation. When others can give to us, it makes their heart feel good.

Marilyn Edelson, MCC

Marilyn Edelson, MCC, President of OnTrack Coaching & Consulting http://www.ontrackcoaching.com and principal and co-owner of IT Decisions Coaching http://www.itdecisionscoaching.com is former Managing Director of eWomenNetwork--Boston Chapter and can be reached at 617-964-3202 or marilyn@ontrackcoaching.com

Putting Your Distribution Network to Work for You

2007-12-24T01:42:00.001-08:00

When you own a business, it is very important that you ensure you have a good distribution system in place. From the software you use, to the distribution manager that you select to even how your entire distribution network works together it is very important to ensure that you always have the best setup possible so that your business is running at full capacity.

Keeping your business flowing is very important, and this includes ensuring that your distribution network is working properly as well. With a good system that is running correctly you should not notice any problems in moving your products, nor should your customers and clients experience any delays or hiccups in your system. This makes it much easier for the entire company to work much smoother and keeps your business at the top of its potential.

While you may wonder exactly what purpose it serves, there are few times when it is possible to run a company without having a good network in place. In order to really keep your products flowing to customers you are going to find that you need an effective system in place. So while you are building your distribution system, you should consider the exact needs of your business so you can ensure that your distribution network is functioning in the exact manner you need it to function.

This could mean that you need a custom software solution, or it could even mean that you need some help in ensuring that it runs properly by hiring an employee or two to manage the department for you. It could mean you need to work with a shipping company to work out a shipping discount, or even a shipping schedule. You need to work carefully to ensure that you are designing it to work around your exact needs.

You must keep in mind when designing your system that there are times when you simply cannot use pre-designed software as well as you cannot use a system that has been designed by another business. You may discover that the system that has been designed for a different business is not capable of meeting all of your needs without causing potential problems. While it may seem easier initially to simply copy the system of another operation you should never do this without caution since you will be forcing your business to adapt around a preexisting one, rather than adapting your system around your own.

Keeping your business flowing as well as all of your customers happy is a huge area where opportunity always exists. Working to ensure that everyone is as happy as possible is a key element to ensuring that your distribution network works flawlessly and really supports your business rather than causing you increasing stress and anxiety. Your business relies on you to provide leadership and management, so rely on it to provide the tools you need for an effective system.

Read more about how Distribution Management can help your business from software to distribution channels at http://www.managementdistribution.com

Article Source: Free Ezine Articles

The Power Of Joint Venture Marketing And Strategic Alliances

2007-12-22T07:08:00.001-08:00

Joint Venture's and Strategic Alliances, what they are and how they can help you, to who's using them to succeed - and yes even how I made $88,000 in 60 days.

Joint Ventures have changed the way we do business just as the Internet has changed the way we find customers and deliver our goods, services and information. Together they make an incredible and extremely powerful ally.

I've worked behind-the-scenes with many multi-millionaire internet entrepreneurs and info-preneurs and, quickly realized that most people do not fully understand the full potential of joint ventures or even how to set them up.

So let's change all that!

Overall, think of Joint Ventures in the form of this picture. Joint Ventures can bring customers from around the world directly into the palm of your hand.

So, what exactly is a Joint Venture?

Forbes Magazine wrote: "Good-bye mergers and acquisitions. In a global market tied together by the Internet, corporate partnerships and alliances are proving a more productive way to keep companies growing.

JV's may be the most powerful trend in the history of business in the America's and fast becoming world-wide, followed by Asia Pacific region (China), then Europe (3rd) and then Japan and Africa - according to data collected by Thomson Financial.

A Joint Venture or "JV" can simply be two people (or companies) working together for a specific purpose. The purpose may vary; one time can it be to promote you, then the next time to promote your partner, or both at once. Other purposes could be: to make money; to gain exposure; to enter a new territory or to market with the help of someone who has solid ground in that market; another is to add a piece of technology to your product without re-inventing the wheel, etc.

It is an arrangement where businesses come together to share knowledge, resources, target and/or geographic markets, and profits. Joint ventures can take on various forms.

Companies can come together to form a Joint Venture that becomes its own entity with ownership rights and shares. Typically this happens in BIG Business, or multi-national companies, where the term "Joint Ventures" typically refers to a merger of 2 companies into a new legal entity.

OR what is most common (and often the preliminary to anything bigger) they form more casual JV agreements where they launch a special one-time promotion or share resources to individually increase market reach and profits.

Joint Ventures are a phenomenon in the business community - big biz and small. It's really powerful for entrepreneurs as it can introduce you to new targeted customers in a very fast and effective way - particularly if you don't have a huge advertising budget or none at all.

In the Internet marketing world and small or medium sized offline businesses, many people use Joint Ventures as a marketing technique where they find partners that offer different (yet complementary) products or services, and who share the same or similar target markets. They create an informal arrangement together where they work together to expand their customer reach and advertise and promote with ZERO out of pocket expense.

For example they could "borrow" each other's company's customer list by promoting each other and pay a commission on any leads that turn into new customers for the JV Marketing Partner - this way there are no advertising expenses or up-front costs. While this is the most common way to "JV", there are also many others and we encourage you to discover them within our club.

Business owners are discovering that by working together everyone wins, you scratch my back, and I'll scratch yours. That's how JV's work. Don't compete - Co-operate and Partner.

Is a Joint Venture the same as Affiliate Marketing?

"Affiliate Marketing" is another term closely associated with Joint Ventures. This is a form of joint venture where one person, known as the affiliate can be the go-between for the person who has a product or service to sell, and the customer wanting to purchase it. Affiliates earn a percentage or "affiliate commission" on each sale. Affiliates can range from the average entrepreneur or individual who personally recommends a product or service to their customers that they don't typically carry, all the way to multi national companies. An example of this is the bridal shop that recommends a particular tuxedo shop or dry cleaner. The customer is happy for the recommendation, and the bridal shop owner is happy as they may receive a commission or referral fee from the customers purchase. The dry cleaner or tuxedo shop is happy as they receive new paying customers.

In the last 10 years or even less, there have been virtual affiliates or "super affiliates" who have built their own home businesses, simply by finding great products and services and then matching them up with customers who want them. Some super affiliates are so good at it and make their joint venture partner so happy by selling the product or service that they may receive 25% - 50% commission on some items. In fact, some business owners have started offering 75% or higher commissions to super affiliates on small "lead generating" products. They don't mind large commission fees as they know that their new customers will buy other products which they can sell directly and make 100% of the profits.

Is a Joint Venture the same as a Strategic Alliance?

Strategic Alliances happen in large corporations as well. Typically a "Strategic Alliance" is an arrangement made between 2 or more companies where no legal entity or new company structure is formed. Instead they simply build a relationship with other companies, trades people and/or entrepreneurs where both agree to offer cross promotional opportunities. They recommend each others services and can often split advertising costs by sharing direct mail-outs.

Another form of Strategic Alliance is actually telling customers that they have formed an "alliance" with sister companies and therefore the customers will receive special treatment or discounts from other participating companies.

How can Joint Ventures help me?

Think of Joint Ventures or JV's as bringing you closer to your customer (almost directly) through the channel of another business, where you each create a win/win situation. The benefit of this, besides the obvious cost savings of fewer sales people and high advertising costs, is that when both partners win, you both want to keep the partnership going and you will grow together in both profits and relationships.

Joint Ventures can be used to increase your publicity and put you in front of your target market. They can also be used to launch a new product or service directly to your target market (with zero cost fees) through other people's list(s). You can use Joint Ventures to co-create products, books, seminars or communities with.

Let's quickly go through some of the fun and profitable types of Joint Ventures you can do and how they can help you. In fact, there are over 20, that we will reveal to you in the new privatejvclub.com, but below are just a few that you can do:

Agree to cross promote for zero or some commission.

Find places to advertise on member's websites, newsletters, email campaigns etc.

Offer an affiliate program for constant referrals.

Find people to co-create new products with.

Locate internet radio shows to be interviewed on.

Find other experts (members) you could interview on your teleclasses, podcasts or websites to gain publicity, content and leads.

Find other experts (members) you could interview on your to create a CD product to sell with their permission.

Offer a lead generating product to members to use for incentive marketing (free bonus when people buy their product). Example: free 7 day e-course or e-book or report.

Offer a lead generating product to members to use for generating traffic to their booth at trade shows & expos (free bonus when stop by booth). Example autographed book.

Look for entrepreneurs who can endorse your product or give you a testimonial for your product or write forward in your book.

Research your product, ask for critique/ feedback on products, ideas, services etc.

Trade Links exchange to increase traffic to your website.

Who uses Joint Ventures in their Marketing Strategy to grow their Business?

Ok, the quick answer is probably every major business large or small that is successful in generating a lot of income is using Joint Ventures.

But let's look at a few examples (the list is simply too long to list them all):

Just a sample of the many Big businesses: WAL- MART, Home Depot, Starbucks, Airlines, ING Direct - The Amsterdam-based global financial services group.

Many marketers and entrepreneurs use Joint Ventures to get their products out to the masses quickly by asking partners to participate in a product launch, or getting their book to a best-seller status, or even to gain leads for their own customer base by asking other speakers or experts to participate as a live or 'virtual' speaker. The JV Partner sends out a promotion about the event, both parties collect leads, and if any one of those leads buys a product, both parties share in the revenue.

I have participated in this type of joint venture myself. I simply asked 2 companies to let their customers know about my product and sold close to $88,000 of product in less than 60 days. Of course, I offered them a thank you commission. So both parties benefited. But this promotion cost neither partner any extra expense to put on, so if no-one bought my product at all - neither myself nor my joint venture marketing partner would have lost anything.

Speakers/Authors: Drew Miles, Robin Elliott (dollarmakers.com), Cynthia Kersey, T. Harv Eker, Wendy Robbins, Mark Victor Hanson & Jack Canfield (Chicken Soup for the Soul Founders), Robert Allen (Nothing Down, Multiple Streams of Income)...the list goes on.John Assaraf, a best-selling author of The Street Kid's Guide to Having It All and contributing expert on The Secret (movie), used joint venture strategies to help propel his book to the Best-Sellers list. A.J. Brown of (TradingTrainer.com) promoted someone else's program and earned over $4500 in affiliate fees. Joel Christopher (www.masterlistbuilder.com) has been known to say his first JV project generated $33,000 in sales over 17 hours.

Internet Marketers/Experts: Alex Mandossian, Matt Bacak, Tom Antion, Yanik Silver, Joel Christopher, Lisa Cherney, Armand Morin... and countless others.

Almost every Author: Just open up a book jacket. Do you see testimonials? Endorsements? Many people trade their endorsement for free advertising in the book. Their endorsement, name and website URL appears on the book jacket or website. Both parties gain recognition, but also credibility through simple association. These are all benefits that cost neither party any money - no risk, no money and all reward. This is a form of Joint Venture.

Or have you seen chapters written by other contributing authors? Again, the person contributing gets more widely known and more publicity. In fact multiply that by 100 if the book they contributed to becomes a best-seller. This is a form of Joint Venture.

PERHAPS THE GREATEST NEWS:

The person doing it the least but yet could benefit the most is ... YOU!

Small Business Owners, Entrepreneurs and Service Professionals...from the handyman, mortgage brokers, accountants, financial planners, investment advisors, caterers, stylists, coaches, counselors, doctors, healers, naturopaths, to lawyers - the list goes on and on.

The fact is, if you're not using JV's today or within the next 30 days - you are throwing away massive income and many lost sales.

If you want to fast-track finding marketing partners and learning about JV's , the PrivateJVClub.com is a powerful Joint Venture club that helps you grow your business by creating strategic alliances around the world or in your local area. Inside you will find the tools required to take your business to new heights as well as a knowledge base ensuring that you know how to get every ounce out of each idea, contact or process.

The PrivateJVClub.com has the potential to open to you the secrets, the tools, and the contact relationshipsthat many of the most successful businesses use everyday. Visit: www.PrivateJVClub.com to receive a special discount today.

Considered one of America's most influential entrepreneurial mentors to help you get clients, skyrocket sales, and become famous in your niche or field, Stefanie Hartman, is known as "The Expert's Expert". CEO of Centaur Strategies, she founded the entrepreneur's "Millionaires-in-Training Mentorship Program" that literally teaches you how to re-invent yourself, become a published expert and create a six-to-seven-figure annual income from selling information you already have! Learn the "behind-the-scenes' marketing, business & profit secrets from the marketing expert to the guru's. www.mitprogram.com www.PrivateJVClub.com

Networking Opportunities - Make an Entrance and Leave with Recognition

2007-12-20T08:02:00.000-08:00

You've probably been to a party or two this winter with no success in the networking field. Most of us have. It's not always easy to get into the popular circles and negate the crowds at parties for attention and recognition, but there are a few solid tips that you might want to have in your repertoire before you enter the realm of networking. Establishing connections is important for your business.

Face to Face Interaction Required

No matter how dynamic your digital influence may be, you're definitely leaving money on the table if you have no personal identity. How many people do you see in the average week? Winter season offers magnanimous opportunities to be seen and get recognition for your accomplishments, but you'll have to get out there and squeeze the field.

Know the Territory Intimately

Regardless of where you're going for the party, you should know the territory. Find out who will be there ahead of time and be prepared with a few details of recognition before you arrive. Knowing something about the primary players at a party will give you the edge. When you ask about Mayor Heath's husband who slipped on the ice three weeks ago, she'll remember your name and that you inquired.

Identify Common Factors

What do you have in common with other guests? As you enter, if you've not noticed before, you might notice the vehicles in the parking lot. Are there a lot of pickup trucks and you drive an F-350 Duelly? You might recognize some kindred spirits inside. Smile and wave at those you know, and speak to them with recognition. Use names if you know them. (Be sure not to call someone by the wrong name.)

Read the Local Society Sheets

Keep up with local action, know the popular folks about town, and remember just who's been on vacation lately. Those details will carry you through a night of too many white wines and sarsaparillas. But more than getting you through, they will bring you recognition and identity. Your friends will remember that you remembered them.

Introduce Yourself to Strangers

Any loners standing off to the side, take a moment and befriend them. Introduce yourself and take a moment to get to know them. Nobody wants to be alone and by taking a moment to introduce yourself, you'll be remembered by that one person. You never know when that one person may mean success to your business.

Small Talk and a Smile

When you smile, the light opens up and you accept friends. No matter what you're talking about, smile. Don't introduce big issues, just get to know your new friends and let them know you'll remember them. Say their name frequently and remember details by repeating them back to the person you're talking to. This is a great time to exchange cards.

Above ALL Have Fun!

You may wonder about your next party if your last party was a bomb. Forget about that one, go on to the next one and expect to have fun. Arrive a few moments after the party has started and leave a few minutes before it's over. You'll make an entrance and leave a memory.

Do you need a statement that identifies who you are at your next business event?

http://brandyourmarket.com for a dynamic and memorable BRAND that identifies who you are in the business world. Claim your FREE Subscription to The Branding Iron. Jan Verhoeff has been identifying business Brands and Making Recognition her line for many years. Read more about this Entrepreneur at http://janverhoeff.com

Building Alliances Leads to Business Success

2007-12-17T21:58:00.001-08:00

The best way to achieve success in a competitive market is to conduct business with those that know you and trust you. Success is based on building meaningful relationships with clients that love what you do and desire to help blow your horn. The best concepts are networking and marketing, these are the quickest paths for business success.

Cold calling, direct mail and other traditional selling methods do little to build relationships- they simply anger and frustrate. With what frequency do you take cold calls? And when was the last time you spoke with a million dollar insurance agent that cold calls?

Today's selling professional requires techniques that help to accentuate and differentiate from others. In a business culture where social networks proliferate the only true network is that built between a client and business professional. Clients enjoy the candor and the knowledge that is shared from a vendor. To this end, there are several methods that assist selling professionals.

Networking

Truly the best selling professionals constantly network. Selling professionals by nature require constant engagement with others to comprehend business trends and meet new opportunities. For over 27 years I attend at least one to two networking events per month and I can measure these to business. Admittedly, there exist a plethora of networking associations and organizations, choose those close to your location and aligned with your business. Review your local paper for functions that interest you and attend as a guest, but go. If do not attend your competitors are. Others cannot know your business with just a shingle hanging in the breeze.

Referrals

Proper networking and selling etiquette involves referral acquisition. Similar to gaining closure agreement many professionals abhor asking for the order! Business is driven by the ability to ask for new business. If clients are happy with your work they will willingly provide others that can need to receive your value. The best way to seek referrals is when you are first engaged with the client and they are at that emotional high. More importantly you want to ask when you are in the account, since this is the best time to be top of mind. Post sale is not an alternative simply put, out of sight out of mind.

Another imperative item to remember is that there is strength in numbers, the more you obtain the fuller the pipeline. There is a story of an insurance professional that would visit clients and not leave without three new referrals. Even if the client provided one or two, the agent would not leave until he received three or more. Needless to say, the agent retired an extremely wealthy individual.

Follows up on referrals

It might seem pragmatic, yet there is much evidence to illustrate that a myriad of professionals that obtain do not follow up. Friends, family and clients typically provide these golden nuggets, so it is vital that one follows up. Call immediately after you receive a contract or verbal conceptual agreement. Ensure you mention the person that referred you and mention their enthusiasm for working with you.

Positive attitude

Good networking professionals have a positive attitude. They do not carry baggage with them nor do they illustrate negative feelings should things go awry. There is the story of a business professional that greeted all with "I am awesome!" Coincidentally he did this even through attempting to fight a debilitating disease. People enjoy doing business with positive people.

Enthusiastic/Energy

Remember the donkey from Winnie the Pooh- Eye Or? This poor donkey is about as unhappy as anything I know. Sometimes listening to him is depressing enough. This is true with human relationships. Individuals desire to be around warm, energized people. Many can feel the excitement of those around them. If you want to be a memorable networker, review your image, ensure you are excited about the event, the people and your business. People feed off positive energy, enthusiasm is fuel for networking, alliances and differentiation.

Trustworthy

Candor is the most imperative issue in today's business environment. Ironically, an important business trait constantly discussed is ethics. Appalling as it seems, there are numerous daily instances of those attempting to buck trends and gain momentum while not following rules. Consumers enjoy conducting business with trusting relationships.

Good listening skills

Remember a time when you were with someone either at a cocktail party or other event, and the person spoke and never came up for air? Bothered you didn't it? Clients are engaged with professionals that can provide value by understanding needs and listening. Clients clamor for solutions not prescriptions and the best people understand the art of listening. Use techniques such as open and closed questions and pausing to truly understand how to assist.

Enjoys helping

It is better to give then to receive. Those that want to gain will give first. Similar to tithing, professionals must provide content to gain something. Think of tips, techniques and referrals that you too can provide. This technique is a great opener for building relationships since others will identify with your willingness to provide helpful information.

Sincere

Avid athletes concentrate on CORE. Fundamentally this is the system upon which all musculature and symmetrical principles assist to build a nutritional body. Selling and networking exercises CORE too. One of the muscles of CORE is sincerity. Differentiation is built upon a sincere desire to build relations, become personable and assist coexisting needs. Admiration is built based on trust and willingness to assist. Dale Carnegie described this in his now famous work, "How to Win Friends and Influence People". Key exemplars: 1) Talk in terms of the other person's interests and 2) Make the other person feel important - and do it sincerely.

The key to business building and success is producing things others don't. One needs to discover methods to rise above the din and become visible. With global competition increasing and a shift in industries requiring selling professionals there exists the need to become outstanding. There is also the issue of working smarter not harder to produce required results. Refrain from tired non-functioning sales methods and begin new strategies that can escalate your rewards and make you an outstanding performer!

?2007 Drew Stevens Ph.D. All Rights Reserved.
Results is about choices you make
You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with. - Jim Rohn
2. Use approaches of the masters
Find a mentoring group or mastermind group and share the secrets that make others successful
3. Journal your success
Develop a journal of all your successes, do not lament about failure seek out positive results and attitude.

Why Most Home Businesses Fail

2007-12-15T15:10:00.000-08:00

Delegation Management is being introduced into the home business arena. It is proven to eliminate the fatality rate that plagues the home business industry. Statistics show that 99% of all businesses will fail which includes the home business arena. Through delegation management and marketing this failure rate is and will decline. As delegation management and marketing start to become more understood the public will gravitate to the home businesses that make these strategies their cornerstone.

It is a know fact that the existing system of duplication does not work. People have become weary to hype that promotes flawed strategies. The argument that the reason people fail is because they don't work at the home business is hollow at best. The person who purchases a home business usually does so because the individual selling the business makes promises that persuade the owners to buy. These promises are usually laden with untruths and false expectations. But the real reason why people fail is because they don't get the training needed to run a business. They are left to their own devices. The most critical point is that if the new home business owner is guided at all they are usually guided to duplicate the business model that everyone else follows. Because they get no training, except from the person who sold them on the home business, they are only taught to duplicate what the other person knows. Neither are skilled in running a home business therefore there is a great chance that both will only last a short period of time.

The duplication business model is one that requires a home business owner to do all the work themselves. If they are fortunate to team up with a spouse it gets easier, but for the most part they are being an employee in their home business. They are essentially the home business, and if one part of the system breaks down the whole business will fail. If the duplication method actually worked more would be successful and the fatality rate would be lower. The ones that survive are ones that figure out the delegation process.

By learning Delegation Management and Delegation Marketing you will assure your success. These new concepts have been around for many years in the Fortune 500 corporate marketplace, and now are introduced into the home business environment. Flawed strategies are usually not discovered until someone decides to look into why existing systems don't work. Or the systems that are being used are so bad that the failure rate becomes so evident that people stop attempting to create home businesses out of frustration. In the home business arena experts have looked at why such a huge failure rate, and discovered that the existing strategies don't work. Using duplication management and marketing, the home business owner will only accept a system that has its own unique strategic plan. Once the plan is decided upon then the home business CEO executes the plan. These plans are successful plans but require delegation management to implement them.

The home business evolution has escalated for several reasons. One people want to create multiple streams of revenue or individuals are either tired of working for someone else. Other reasons may be more individual like losses of job or economies are getting tight therefore more household income is needed. Either way attempting to create revenue through losing strategies will only cause more economic loss and hardship on the individual trying to create more wealth. Through strategic planning and delegation management the outcomes are known before they happen, guiding the home business owner to achieve the desired outcome. Multi-level marketing only works through delegation management and marketing, and will not occur under the old duplication model. But further setting up a model of business that allows you to hire sales people to build your business for you is even smarter.

We teach delegation management and marketing, which results in our Partners earning high levels of income. In addition to our models we use a system called Jaguar Marketing which allows Partners to achieve the designated 10K Per week in income. Some earn even more. We are frustrated at the attitude of people trying to create a home business, and are even more amazed at the amount of money that is wasted in the attempt. I always refer to the statistics that "If ten percent of the people control ninety percent of the world's wealth, then this proves that the majority of the people follow the ninety percent advice." Do you want to be in the ten percent, and if so please call us? Only a small amount of people will take action. Our phone numbers is 610-280-7000 and ask for Rachel Coleman. she will set up an appointment for you or fill out the form click here, and one of our staff will call you to set up a convenient time for us to explain our process to you.

Dr. Raymond Jewell

Host, FinancialFreedomRadio.info

10K Week Income Program

Holiday Networking - Ten Tips to Create New Relationships and Shine at Any Event

2007-12-15T09:55:00.001-08:00

Holidays are a great time to schmooze and network - just remember the difference! Schmoozing is all about mingling with people you know, like colleagues and friends. Networking is meeting new people to broaden your circle of contacts, which can come in handy when you're looking for a new job or changing careers.

I like to look at networking like this: It's about finding out what someone else needs, then seeing if you can help the person fill that need. This way, you never "use" your network. Instead, you build healthy relationships based on helping to meet each other's needs.

Does networking make you uncomfortable because you're stretching outside your comfort zone and striking up conversations with strangers? Just keep in mind that it's all about building relationships. If you feel shy or are afraid you'll say or do the wrong thing, or worse, bore the person you're engaging in conversation, just follow my top tips.

1. Dress the part - Are you attending a formal event? Is it business casual? If you're a woman, you can never go wrong with a smart, white shirt and black slacks. Men, you'll look dashing in a sports jacket and tie. Add a sprinkle of individuality to your look. It can be a conversation starter by attracting someone to approach you.
2. Add a splash of color - If you're shy or uncomfortable, try wearing a dash of color to brighten your mood and exude confidence. Women, add a scarf or brooch. Men, choose a brightly colored tie.
3. Be a curious cat - Think about questions you can ask to get to know other people. Some ideas: What do you do? What business are you in? What's big in your plans for the new year? Stay away from topics on religion or politics unless you want to be known as someone who is bold and pretentious, or if you relish a good-natured debate.
4. Volunteer - Lend a helping hand. It can be a wonderful icebreaker to meet new folks.
5. Look for the little things - Watch for subtle types of communication. If someone smiles at you, smile back. If you bump into someone, start a conversation. Look for something you have in common to start a conversation on the right foot.

A party wouldn't be the same if there weren't some bloopers for which to watch out. Here are my top five suggestions:

1. Don't talk about yourself all night - Remember, conversations are never monologues. Make sure you give the other person plenty of opportunities to share comments, tell stories, and carry their 50% of the conversation.
2. Don't be an infomercial - Bring the best part of who you are to the party. Be genuine, be yourself. Never brag or use the networking event as an informal job interview.
3. Don't look removed - Crossed arms, a worried frown, or sitting in a corner are not magnets. It's best to keep your body language open. Try smiling and looking friendly. If you look approachable, chances are you'll meet new people.
4. Don't assume people want your card - If people want your business card, they'll ask for it.
5. Don't overdo it - Know when the conversation is nearing the end, and it's time to move on. Mingle and circulate. Don't talk with the same person all night. If you've really hit it off, schedule a time to get together and deepen your friendship.

Happy Holidays! And, happy networking!

Elizabeth M. Lengyel, President of PeopleCoach, Inc., delivers career breakthroughs. A trusted career coach, Elizabeth is passionate about helping ambitious professionals get juiced about their careers. The result? The right job in the career you love.

Visit http://PeopleCoach.com to receive Career Boost, a free 7-part audio program, and to hear her invigorating weekly radio show: Career Juice! Refresh & Revitalize Your Work.

5 Simple, Easy Ways to Stay In Touch With Clients, Contacts, and Prospects

2007-12-14T12:04:00.001-08:00

You've simply got to stay in touch with your network. The old adage, "Out of sight, out of mind," is grounded in real truth.

With time being in such short supply and your network continually growing, how can you stay in touch efficiently and effectively?

Here are 5 tips for staying in touch and remaining top-of-mind with your entire network:

1. Send Out Cards (www.sendoutcards.com).

Create personalized hard-copy greeting cards through an on-line service that uses real stamps and are mailed through the U.S. Mail. They are inexpensive and look just as good as a real handwritten greeting card. You can even scan in your own handwritten signature, and it's almost as fast as writing an e-mail.

Tip: Since so many holiday cards go through the U.S. Mail in December, why not consider sending a more outstanding "Kick Start The New Year" card campaign in January?

2. Send out a personal newsletter once a month.

Give your clients and contacts tips and free information. This newsletter doesn't have to be lengthy - just meaningful and relevant to your network. Tell your contacts and clients where you will be speaking, what articles you've written, and new information for their business.

Constant Contact (www.constantcontact.com) has a very easy, inexpensive service, and pre-designed templates that allow you to use your firm's logo, etc.

3. Use Google Alerts.

Set up a Google Alert system so that you know when your clients and contacts are showing up on the web. Go to www.google.com/alerts and sign up for various alerts that pertain to your network. When you see them appear on the web, send them a quick e-mail acknowledging you've noticed the news. They will appreciate your awareness and remember your attentiveness.

4. The 6-month Outreach Program.

Run down your contact base every six months. Check in by phone or e-mail with folks you are curious about or who you want to let know you are thinking about them. Isn't it worth just one hour every six months to be top-of-mind with your key contacts? You never know what new projects and needs have cropped up for them.

5. I was thinking about you...

Forward articles, tips, or newsletters that may be beneficial to your contacts or clients. Let these folks know their needs and interests are on your mind.

Nancy Fox is President of Fox Coaching Associates, a coaching and training firm specializing in assisting professionals and business owners nationwide"make rain without the pain(tm)." She has worked with hundreds of legal and other professionals in leveraging contacts, building successful relationships in business, and making lots of rain.

When Is a Referral Never a Referral?

2007-12-13T12:27:00.001-08:00

I am asked all the time: How do you know if a referral is a good referral versus being a bad referral? The answer is quite simple: From the involvement from the referral source.

I always advocate that a person should earn referrals by way of personal (in-person or telephone) introductions. Never ask for (nor accept) a person's name or telephone number. A person may feel as though they are genuinely referring you to another. But they are not. All they are doing is providing you a name and telephone number, and in most instances, cursory conversations about it.

This type of referral (or introduction) is missing some very important elements.

Here's a scenario that has happened to us all: A close colleague hands you a business card from someone they just met during lunch. Your colleague tells you that you should contact the person because they may be interested in working with you. How do you handle this situation? Take their card? Pick up the telephone??

Well, this is what I would call a cold-introduction. Before taking any action on your part, you are much better thanking your colleague for mentioning your name, and then replying to them, "That's great Sue. But would you mind contacting her again and seeing if the three of us could have lunch together?"

The key concept here is that personal introductions will always trump cold introductions, especially in the game of referrals. You should strive for this level of commitment from others who recommend you to others. After all, they are endorsing you by recommending you to others.

That's not being conceited. It's being downright respectful to the other person's time. You could say something like:

"Sue, again, I appreciate you mentioning my name. Have you told her to expect my phone call? Would you be willing to call her again tomorrow and mention that we both talked, and that I'll be calling soon? Would you please do that for me??"

Notice how you are enlisting the referral source's help in warmly introducing you to the other person, even after their preliminary discussions about you.

Action Step: Train your colleagues, clients and prospects that you want their personal introductions of you to others. Always attempt to enlist their help in introducing you, rather than just passing you a name and/or telephone number.

Daryl T. Logullo is the Founder of Strategic Impact! and MaximumReferrals.com He concentrates on referral building strategies for today's professional. Get a $199 FREE Sample Client Referral Letter, to study, adapt and apply to your own busines, here: http://www.MaximumReferrals.com/am

6 Tips To Better Networking - Things Anyone Can Apply Today

2007-12-13T09:57:00.001-08:00

The other morning I was networking with a kind woman who asked me what the most important things were in networking. As I wrote the email back to her later, I thought I'd make some suggestions on how to best network in general to the bulletin as well - who knows whom it may help?

(1) Remember to be yourself; speak with people like they are people and not sales subjects. You are simply meeting people, learning who they are, what they do, and then looking for ways in which you may be able to "broker synergy" - introducing them to someone who can help them, buy from them, or otherwise.

(2) It isn't about YOU. If you treat networking as a personal showcase, and talk only about you - you'll be mightily unpopular with your "network." If, on the other hand, you be sure to split time with those you meet - you can BOTH effect great results.

(3) Networking takes time and faith - no, I'm not talking religious faith - but more belief that it will work - and along with that patience and time. Rome wasn't built in a day - neither will be your network. Conservatively expect 12 months to see real results. You may be able to see something in 6-9 months if you try hard to meet and particularly to help people.

(4) Never stop networking - keeps eyes and ears open for how you can assist and help others at all times. While on vacation, floating down the river, I met someone I was able to refer a great place to stay to, in the next town they were headed to. You just never know....

(5) Never judge a book by it's cover - you never know (a) who people are and (b) who they may know. A quick anecdote - when I worked for AT&T a gentleman walked into our small business center and was dressed in overalls badly stained. The two women I worked with asked me to handle him as they figured he was a bad prospect by his appearance. Turned out he owned a huge local company with needs for over 200k in phone systems, and that he'd had to work in the one warehouse that day, to cover for a shift manager who was injured. In addition, Ronnie is still someone I network with almost 20 years later.

and

(6) Networking brings out a real chance to better yourself and increase your value to friends, family and others, as you help everyone get ahead and meet each other. It is also a chance to form superb friendships - with people you otherwise never ever would have met.

Cheers and happy networking!

Andy Greider
Google Me! - and follow the link to http://www.qaliassignup.com
Entreprenuer, Marketing and Business Consultant (http://www.carrollwhite.com)
Radio Show Host, Author (http://www.uniquenessispower.com)

Business Card Do's and Don'ts

2007-12-12T10:08:00.001-08:00

The business card is one of the most used and least understood tools in business today. Whether CEO of a Fortune 500 Company or founder and part-time CEO of a web-based start-up, the business card is an effective communication and marketing tool. But like any tool, it must be used properly. The do's and don'ts of business card etiquette, while not the key to wealth and success are helpful to prosper in a business or organization of any size.

The Business Card

If you work for a mid-sized to large company or organization, the style and format of the business card will have been decided for you. If you have your own company or organization, then keep the business card traditional in size and shape. Have them printed with all your key contact information in additional to you company or organization's name, logo and tag line.

When to Carry Business Cards

Unless you are going swimming or otherwise actively engagement in sports, carry your business cards. Do no limit carrying them to work days, the office or business functions. Some of the best opportunities for business networking are at the least likely events or times.

How to Carry Business Cards

Some people carry business cards loose in their pockets or their purse. The best thing to carry them in is a business card case. These are available in metal and leather. I carry the leather one made by COACH and it has served me well. The metal ones are acceptable also as long as they are no bigger than the business cards.

When to Offer Your Business Card

Some people whip out their business card every time they meet someone at work or at a work related function. The best times to offer your business card are:
- When someone asks for your card.
- When you ask someone for their business card.
- At the END of a meeting with a client or potential client before they leave.
- If someone asks for your contact information (business or otherwise).
- At the end of an air flight if you have talked with the person sitting next to you.
- If you dine next to someone outside of your company at a professional or networking function (business-related), you may tell them that it was enjoyable talking with them and offer them your card as you shake hand and leave.

Business Card "Don'ts"
- Don't give your business card to people who work with you. If you are that unmemorable you may need a professional coach.
- Don't give your business card to people at a reception or networking function unless they ask for yours or your contact information.
- Don't drop them in bowls for raffles as you will only be contacted by someone trying to sell you something.
- Don't give them to others to hand-out for you.
- Don't leave them on bulletin boards or in stacks at any place other than your own desk - and only then if you meet face-to-face with customers or clients.
- Don't hand them out to anyone at a church service (social functions are acceptable) or at funerals.

Old Business Cards

Old business cards make great book marks and also work well for "to do" lists.

Business cards are both a blessing and a curse. Until everyone passes all contact information through technology, we will still have a tool called the business card. Know when and how to use them as an effective business development and communication tool remains essential to success.

George F. Franks, III is the President of Franks Consulting Group, a Bethesda, Maryland management consulting and leadership coaching practice. George has over twenty-five years of experience working with companies of all sizes plus associations, non-profit organizations and individual leaders. He is a member of the Institute of Management Consultants (USA) and many other professional and non-profit organizations. Franks Consulting Group is on the web at: http://franksconsultinggroup.com George can be contacted at: gfranks@franksconsultinggroup.com Franks Consulting Group also publishes a blog on related topics at: http://consultingandcoaching.blogspot.com

Pump Up Those Business Networking Genes to Increase Sales

2007-12-11T11:37:00.001-08:00

Business networking is one of the most effective marketing strategies. The more people you meet the greater likelihood of increasing leads and putting them into your marketing funnel.

Since people buy from people they know and trust, business networking event provide opportunities for people to meet you , to begin to know you and hopefully start to trust you.

How good you are at business networking is a reflection of how well you unite your marketing skills, selling skills and self leadership skills. All of these skills are necessary when you are actively marketing yourself through networking event.

So the question is: How good are you at meet and greet? And, more importantly what are your results from these business events? Do you have stacks of business cards accumulating on or near your desk? What process do you have in place to start capturing some of the hidden wealth within these cards?

Networking as defined by Lillian Bjorseth in her book Breakthrough Networking: Building Relationships That Last is:

A mutually beneficial relationship

Unfortunately, many in business see networking as a one way relationship - What's in it for me? They forget to view people as people, because they are viewing them as objects. This perspective is well explored in the book by the Arbinger Institute Leadership and Self Deception.

When you meet and greet people with the attitude (habit of thought) that you are there to help them, you can begin to develop authentic relationships that will last. Then you will learn if they have a need for your products or services. The more they talk, the more you will discover and be able to overcome any future stalls and objections if and when you make that sales presentation.

One indicator of how much your networking gene is really pumped is when people start asking you about this person or that person. When you are authentically connected, people will know and you will not have to tell them.

So keep exercising that business networking gene because you will never know where that next great relationship will begin.

Do you want more sales? Then register for FREE professional sales skills assessment http://www.processspecialist.com/sales-skill-assessment.htm.

Are you where you want to be? To find out where you are, then M.A.P. for Success, a FREE email course may help you begin to chart a course of business, professional or personal success. Visit http://www.processspecialist.com/action-plan.htm.

Please to contact, Leanne Hoagland-Smith, Your Chief People Officer and Business Coach, who works with individuals and organizations just like you that are tired of not being where they want to be and truly want more for their businesses and their selves. 219.508.2859

How To Network Your Way To Success In Any Industry

2007-12-11T02:38:00.000-08:00

You have no doubt heard the expression: "It's not what you know, it's who you know."

Your ability to quickly and effectively transform yourself from a perfect stranger into the perfect ally in a matter of minutes will give you a tremendous advantage over your reserved peers and competitors. It is through successful networking that you gain access to the people and resources you need to achieve your goals. But what exactly does networking mean? Webster offers the following definition:

"A process by where people who have common interests and concerns come together to exchange ideas and information, for the purpose of professional development and accomplishment."

If you have a product, service, talent, or company to market and you are fully prepared to do business with others, the following steps will help you network your way to success.

1.) Upgrade Your Appearance: Humans are visually oriented creatures. We develop impressions, form judgments, and make assumptions (right or wrong) based upon what we see. Take time to pay attention to the details of your appearance and look the part that you want to play (e.g. consultant, accountant, marketer, lawyer, etc.). This does not mean that you need to be decked out in designer clothes. It means you need to understand the importance of putting together a visual presentation that says you care about how you are perceived.

2.) Be Objective Oriented: Before you set out to network ask yourself, "What do I have to offer of value to others?" It's in helping others fulfill their objectives that your services, products, and talents are utilized. Your mission is to make sure that the information you share with others is applicable to the fulfillment of those objectives. Keep this in mind as you navigate your way through conversations.

3.) Be Tactful: In this reality tv-driven era that we live in where everything is bold and crass, those tactics don't work in networking situations. People are more likely to be offended by brash, over-the-top personalities. Don't let your personality quirks blind people to the benefits of doing business with you.

4.) Have A Mental Script: Practice your introductions and be able to clearly and concisely explain who you are, what you do. It's also crucial that you supply supporting facts and details to give people a deeper understanding and greater appreciation of what you have to offer as an ally. And be consistent with the professional information that you publicly divulge. People often share notes with each other about who they meet. When those notes are compared, you want to make sure that an accurate and authentic picture of you is painted.

5.) Provide Business Reasons: Why should anyone care about what you have to say? They don't - until you make your conversation beneficial to them and provide the business reasons to take interest in what you are saying. The real interest people have is not in you, but what you can offer or do for them. Cater to it at every turn.

6.) Qualify Your Contacts: This is done by done by asking questions. Asking questions allow you to get clarification or amplification of details which will confirm or diminish interest, and reflect your comprehension of what your contact is saying.

7.) Listen More Than You Talk: This rule applies no matter who you are networking with. Through active listening we can evaluate what our potential business ally has to offer and identify their needs and concerns. Talking too much reduces your chances of getting this vital information and makes you come off as self-centered. It's also annoying. You will discover that asking questions will help you to balance your conversations in both directions.

8.) Issue A Call To Action: After you have qualified your contact as a potential business ally, you should issue a call to action. This can be an invitation to meet with you at a future date to incorporate yourself into the equation for their (greater) success, to offer services that provide solutions to challenges/problems, negotiate the sharing of resources, or discuss business ideas, plans, or opportunities. This is usually done over lunch or dinner, but you can think outside of the box and invite people to activities and events that afford you the opportunity for one-on-one dialogue with minimal distraction. This is why golf has become the networking activity of corporate America. Rule of thumb: if you issue the invite, you pay the tab.

9.) Follow-Up & Follow-Through: Once you obtain your new contacts, it's imperative that you follow-up with them. Send an email to say hello, or to arrange for the aforementioned lunch or dinner date. It's important to note that it's during this critical stage which most people stop their networking efforts when in fact, the greatest effort and energy utilized in the networking process should be used to convert your contacts into profitable relationships. By profitable I mean relationships that yield beneficial dividends - financially or otherwise.

10.) Deliver The Goods: We network as a means to an end. Often that end is the delivery of a product or a service, but it's also being able to deliver on potential or a promise. Ultimately, when we network, we are seeking those opportunities. At the end of the day, that's what networking your way to success is all about.

Good luck in all of your future networking endeavors!

Gian Fiero is a motivational teacher, speaker, author, entrepreneur, and associate director of the National Association Of Record Industry Professionals, a networking organization that promotes career advancement for music industry executives. He has been a business advisor for the U.S. Small Business Administration in San Francisco, California, and currently teaches Career Planning, Publicity, and Public Relations at San Francisco State University.

Introduction To Social Networking

2007-12-08T19:57:00.003-08:00

Social network theory views social relationships in terms of nodes and ties. Nodes are the individual actors within the networks, and ties are the relationships between the actors. There can be many kinds of ties between the nodes.

In its most simple form, a social network is a map of all of the relevant ties between the nodes being studied. The network can also be used to determine the social capital of individual actors. These concepts are often displayed in a social network diagram, where nodes are the points and ties are the lines.

The shape of the social network helps determine a network's usefulness to its individuals. Smaller, tighter networks can be less useful to their members than networks with lots of loose connections (weak ties) to individuals outside the main network. More "open" networks, with many weak ties and social connections, are more likely to introduce new ideas and opportunities to their members than closed networks with many redundant ties.

In other words, a group of friends who only do things with each other already share the same knowledge and opportunities. A group of individuals with connections to other social worlds is likely to have access to a wider range of information.

It is better for individual success to have connections to a variety of networks rather than many connections within a single network. Similarly, individuals can exercise influence or act as brokers within their social networks by bridging two networks that are not directly linked (called filling structural holes).

Degrees of Separation and the Global Social Network

The small world phenomenon is the hypothesis that the chain of social acquaintances required to connect one arbitrary person to another arbitrary person anywhere in the world is generally short. The concept gave rise to the famous phrase six degrees of separation after a 1967 small world experiment by psychologist Stanley Milgram.

In Milgram's experiment, a sample of US individuals were asked to reach a particular target person by passing a message along a chain of acquaintances. The average length of successful chains turned out to be about five intermediaries or six separation steps (the majority of chains in that study actually failed to complete). Academic researchers continue to explore this phenomenon. Judith Kleinfeld has written an article that points out the many problems with the original Milgram research.

A recent electronic Small World experiment at Columbia University showed that about five to seven degrees of separation are sufficient for connecting any two people through e-mail.

Internet social networks

The first social networking website was Classmates.com, which began in 1995 and used the Old Boy Network method of social networking. Other sites followed, including SixDegrees.com, which began in 1997 using the Web of Contacts model.

The year 1999 saw the development of two competing models of social networking, the Circle of Trust developed by Epinions and utilised by Ciao.com, Dooyoo and ToLuna and the Circle of Friends developed by Jonathan Bishop, which was utilised on a number of regional UK sites between 1999 and 2001 and flourished with the advent of a website called Friendster in 2002.

This is now one of the most dominant methods of social networking in virtual communities,

perhaps for the reason that it gives the user control rather than being computer controlled. There were over 50 social networking sites using the Circle of Friends in 2005 when one such online community, MySpace, was getting more page views than Google. Google has a social network called Orkut, launched in 2004.

Social networking began to be seen as a component of internet strategy at around the same time: in March 2005 Yahoo launched Yahoo! 360°, their entry into the field, and in July 2005 News Corporation bought Circle of Friends-based MySpace followed by ITV buying Old-Boys Network-based Friends Reunited in December that year. It is estimated that combined there are now over 200 social networking sites using these existing and emerging social networking models.

In these communities, an initial set of founders sends out messages inviting members of their own personal networks to join the site. New members repeat the process, growing the total number of members and links in the network. Sites then offer features such as automatic address book updates, viewable profiles, the ability to form new links through "introduction services," and other forms of online social connections. Social networks can also be organized around business connections, as in the case of LinkedIn.

Blended networking is an approach to social networking that combines both offline elements (face-to-face events) and online elements. MySpace, for example, builds on independent music and party scenes, and Facebook was originally designed to mirror a college community, though it has since expanded its scope to include high school, job-related, and regional networks.

The newest social networks on the Internet are becoming more focused on niches such as travel, art, tennis, football (soccer), golf, cars, dog owners, and even cosmetic surgery.

Most of the social networks on the internet are public, allowing anyone to join. Organizations, such as large companies, also have access to private social networking applications, known as Enterprise Relationship Management. They install these applications on their own servers and enable employees to share their networks of contacts and relationships to outside people and companies.

A recent development of social network is the integration of marketplace element in it, known as the Social Marketplace

There are many discussions as to where social networking is headed next. The advent of the Internet has enabled informal social networks to connect with people globally and with time shifting (through email), although in practice, most interactions are with people who live and work nearby.

A new type of social network are links between web pages. These can be studied in their own right (i.e., where are the hubs?) and as links between individual's web pages in social software where individuals begin with their address book, and expand their network by adding friends, "friendster" acquaintances and imaginary friends. This creates connectivity through being discovered through friends of friends, etc. Future applications may allow for discovering the social networks of others by stumbling upon them.

gibLink is poised to become a leader in the adaptation of social networking and a social marketplace under one roof. By revenue sharing with it's members, gibLink will create a huge impact on this new business phenomenon.

For more info on Gibline go to:
http://www.gibline.com/profitstorm

About The Author

Robbie Fanucchi has been involved with Internet Marketing for over two years.

For more home business information check out his blog at:
http://profitstorm.blogspot.com

Check out how social network is changing the face of Internet Business:
http://www.gibline.com/profitstorm

Networking & Business Advertising - Soft Sell or Hard Sell?

2007-12-08T19:57:00.001-08:00

Imagine being able to reach 1000s of business people for the fraction of the cost associated with general advertising. Well now you can use online networking platforms dedicated to businesses.

Many online platforms have dedicated areas where business people can advertise their services for free once they are a paying member. In Ecademy we have Marketplace which was a lot more powerful when the adverts were shown on the front page than it is now.

The best way to start on these sites is to participate in the discussion on the blogs page and slowly work your way towards advertising your wares in their marketplace. There is nothing worse than to join a site, plaster it with adverts for a few weeks and then leave never to be heard of again!

The worst thing you can do is to advertise your business in areas that are designated for blogging only. In Ecademy we have the Blogs area where it is OK to talk about business and non business related issues but is frowned upon by the members when they create what is known as a "blogvert" - in essence this is a shameless plug which makes almost no attempt at hiding the advert for their products.

Most of these sites promote "soft selling "as opposed to "hard selling" tactics.

In a nutshell what this means is that when you join do not blast your proposition to each and every member but rather try and entice them into asking about your business and what you can do for them. Do not be too pushy or manipulative. Realise that most people who join these platforms have also got businesses and that they will be trying to make contacts with potential buyers as well.

I believe in the theory of random connections. Basically what I mean by this is that one should not purely base their networking on the basis of potential business but rather focus on making decent connections and contacts. Strive to help other people and you never know who might in turn return the favour... if not now maybe in many years to come.

The art of online networking is to not to expect too much too quickly. The benefits will accrue over time and many years. Some people make the mistake of trying online networking for a few weeks and then giving up because they did not achieve any positive results. It takes time to build trust amongst other members especially the long serving ones who have seen many new people come and go.

I first tried my hand at online networking in June 2006 and quickly realised that normal rules of business do not apply. The best way to enjoy yourself on these types of platforms is to try and make friends. Business will come later... and rest assured it will come if you participate in the blogs and clubs.

Be enthusiastic and helpful, listen and join in the discussions but beware... do not let online networking take over from normal day to day business chores that still have to be carried out. It is far too easy to change networking to notworking!

Do you know any other platforms that allow businesses to advertise their wares? How has your experience been so far of business networking platforms? Have you got any tips for "newbies"?

About The Author

Naz Daud is the Founder of the CityLocal Internet Business Franchise Opportunity.
http://www.citylocal.co.uk
http://www.citylocal.co.uk/frontend/franchiseinfo.php?cityid=79
http://www.ecademy.com/account.php?id=120141

Networking: The Power of Being Visible

2007-12-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

There are numerous ways of marketing, but one of the most exciting and most rewarding is through networking. Whenever attending an event, imagine meeting at least one person who has the potential of generating an abundance of extraordinary business for you.

With this in mind, enter the room with a mission to meet or receive a business card from everyone there in an attempt to locate this one person. Here are eleven techniques to make this opportunity less challenging and more rewarding.

1. Determine exactly where you will network to reap the biggest benefit for your time and money. There is nothing worse than networking to a group of people who are not a match for your product or services. To determine where to find your target market, it is necessary to define in detail your ideal customer. Once you have done this, it will be easier for you to determine where to find them.

2. Dress professionally for the event. If you are in doubt as to the most suitable attire for the location or the event, simply contact the host and ask. A good option is to dress conservatively and if undecided, dress "up" rather than "down". Logo shirts may or may not be suitable depending on the event.

3. Arrive at the location early and "walk" the room. Take ownership mentally of your surroundings then place yourself close to the registration table so you will have an opportunity to meet and shake hands with everyone who enters. It is far easier to greet people as they arrive than to single someone out or join a group already involved in a conversation.

4. Prepare your own name badge in advance and be wearing it when you arrive. Print your name in a large font that is easy to read and then slip into one of the plastic holders that either attaches with a pin or clip. If your budget allows, you can have one engraved. Always keep this with you so you can use it at other events as well.

5. Use the stick-on nametag to write something catchy or humorous and then place it just below your personally made badge. This actually draws attention as people pass by and their curiosity often will generate a great conversation.

6. Eat either before going or after you leave. Remember your purpose is to meet people and develop business relationships, NOT satisfy your hunger. There is nothing worse than trying to balance a plate of food, eat without spilling it and always be wondering if you have food lodged between your teeth. You will always need one hand free for handshakes and receiving and passing business cards.

7. Whether you are uncomfortable initiating a conversation or not, break the ice by asking the people you meet at least five questions about themselves or their business that you would also like for them to ask you. Remember, they begin to like us when our interest is about them. This is the smart start for building strong professional relationships.

8. When approaching others, it is easier to walk up to a group of three or more people and gradually enter in the conversation. When you walk up to only two people, you risk interrupting a conversation already in progress.

9. Ask permission to give someone your business card before automatically giving it and assuming they want it. This gives more value to your card when they agree to accept it. Ask for their card before they have an opportunity to give it to you. A tip is to keep your business cards (and a slick pen to write notes) in your right pocket and the cards you receive in your left pocket. This way you will be less likely to pass out someone else's card thinking it is yours.

10. Make brief comments on the back side of the business cards you collect. Others are generally impressed that you are taking notes. This will also jog your memory when you follow-up with them. Make it a point to always learn something unique about them or their business. Always write on the front of the card the date (including the year) and the type or location of the event.

11. Follow-up, follow-up, follow-up. After the event is over, read through all of the cards you have collected and determine which ones (or maybe all) warrant your time in following up. At the very least send an email, post card or handwritten short note thanking them for sharing their time with you and your desire to remain in contact with them in the future. For the leads with the most potential for future business, call the following day to schedule follow-up meetings.

About The Author

Martha Lanier, President of IGNITE Your Potential, Inc. helps ordinary believers become extraordinary achievers. Her programs focus on personal empowerment which results in increased productivity both personally and professionally. She can be contacted at 770-886-6033 (Atlanta, GA), email at martha@marthalanier.com or visit her website at http://www.marthalanier.com. Copyright 2005, 2006 IGNITE Your Potential, Inc. All rights reserved. Duplication whole or in part must include this entire attribution.

Networking Knowledge

2007-12-08T16:03:00.001-08:00

Networking Articles Info A dvice & Tips. Find Networking articles & more online resource!

Networking Knowledge

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10 Tips To Make Your Networking More Rewarding

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

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Trust in Chinese Society

Networking Your Way To Greater Success

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The Power Of Joint Venture Marketing And Strategic Alliances

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Why Most Home Businesses Fail

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6 Tips To Better Networking - Things Anyone Can Apply Today

Business Card Do's and Don'ts

Pump Up Those Business Networking Genes to Increase Sales

How To Network Your Way To Success In Any Industry

Introduction To Social Networking

Networking & Business Advertising - Soft Sell or Hard Sell?

Networking: The Power of Being Visible

Networking Knowledge