Networking is a two-way street. I really can not say it enough. Many people think, “I need new clients. I need more money. I need to network!” While all of that might be true, don’t just network when you need something. As you work on your goals for networking (you are working on them, right?), make sure you also keep in mind ways that YOU can help others. What do YOU bring to the table?
Making everything about what others can do for you or give to you is the quickest way to see your network dry up. Wondering why the …read more

There are many keys to success. This year make networking one of your most important keys.  We have a fresh calendar in front of us. Now is the time to make plans for your business this year. In addition to marketing efforts or hiring quality staff, having a strong network is important to the success of your business. here is some of my advice for networking this year:
Set Goals
Setting goals is incredibly important for any aspect of your life that you want to be successful in. Networking is no exception.  What are your networking goals? Join a professional network or …read more

I was reading this post on Freelance Switch and the part we’re going to go over here is the section titled, “Love me, love me, love me!”
All about client communication.
Because it’s true that while people may want what you have to offer, what they need is for you to hold their hand while you’re giving them what you have to offer. It’s taking the lead and not only keeping deadlines, but telling them how you’re doing it.
When I read
As any person who has ever taken a “the work will be enough” approach can tell you, it’s never …read more

The power of networking is located right past the fear of talking to strangers and a little to the left of figuring out your elevator speech.
The power of networking – the true power – is in your goal.
Networking can get you a husband or wife as easily as it can get you a job. It can bring you more clients just as easily as it can bring you more friends.
But if you don’t have a clear goal – it’s like going into a single’s club, standing on the stage and yelling “PICK ME!”
Sure you’ll get picked, …read more

I decided to take my own advice over the weekend and talk to a stranger.
After going to Caribou Coffee to get some work done with a friend of mine we heard this guy in a chair close-by start to laugh out loud. I asked my friend (via IM, we’re subtle like that) what he was reading. She replied that it was a book on physics of some kind.
He stood up and started talking to this kid about physics and I boldly eavesdropped on the conversation. Then I interrupted and asked, “What book are you reading?” To which he …read more

Over at Gal’s Guide there’s a great (co-ed friendly) post on getting to know your co-workers without resorting to gossip.
Check out the post by fellow Chicagoian (I’m close enough to Chicago, don’t judge me!) Blagica Bottigliero: Bond With Your Coworkers – Avoid Office Gossip.
As you all know I’m only okay with a certain type of gossip – the type that keeps your friends and associates from losing money on bad business deals. The kind of gossip Blagica is talking about is to be avoided at all costs.

Even if you are working in a corporate job.
Even if you are doing what you do for completely philanthropic reasons.
Even if your boss made you go to a networking event and you don’t really want to be there.

It is in your best interest to be able to explain what you do and why you are good at it. Sure it’s not a requirement to be able to explain it…but what if you meet someone that could give you the job of your dreams? Do you think they’ll consider you for a minute if you just stare at …read more

When people asked you what your major was in college, you probably told them the vaguest answer possible.

English
Math
Business

If you liked the person you might have thrown them a bone and told them your minor as well. Getting excited about school was not encouraged nor was it rewarded. You either looked like a dork or you didn’t.
Now, having this drummed into you for years, you’re expected to give elevator speeches and discuss what you do with a level of interest designed to get the other person excited too.
See the paradox? You are supposed to suddenly be amazing at …read more

If you ever wondered how savvy Londoner Mike Butcher came to be head of TechCrunch UK, go check out the live interview of Mike Butcher by Donna Jackson over at Digital Money World!
I’ll give you a hint…networking…

I think this is what we should ask kids instead of, “What do you want to be when you grow up.” Not only is it less pressure than asking a child what they want to do forever-and-ever (no pressure, kid!) There is also the added bonus of starting a habit that can last and be continuously helpful throughout life.
You have to make a plan to work a plan For little ones (and adults) it can be difficult to plan so far out that time becomes more of an abstract theory than a date that’s coming …read more