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New Year, New Goals
by Judy Austin
So... what are your resolutions for 2005? Will you lose weight? Quit smoking? Increase your client roster? Manage your time better? Everyone needs goals. Without them, one loses focus and rarely feels a sense of accomplishment. How do you set goals as they relate to networking?
Begin by identifying your motivation for networking; are you trying to make new friends or develop your professional rolodex? Either or some aspect of both is fine, just know what you want.
Understanding your motivation will determine which avenues your pursue to expand your network. Socially, consider forums where you can meet new people: fundraisers, parties, fitness centers and sporting events. Take advantage of such opportunities to attend and make a commitment to yourself - a personal goal - to attend 2 such functions each month. This will quickly expose you to new people and enhance your social outlets. Another tactic can be to volunteer for a cause you are passionate about or offer to serve on a nonprofit board.
For those pursuing professional contacts and enhancing your career, goals can be better defined. Give thought to various avenues for networking: joining a chamber or professional organization, attend a trade show or training classes, attend after hours events, speed-networking and speaking engagements. Each of these opens up a wealth of possibilities to meet people within your industry.
If you choose to join an organization, set a goal on how many functions you will attend each month and how many people you plan to meet. Numerous opportunities exist for after hours events - for example, set a goal to attend 3 events per quarter and mix it up between those offering speed-networking and more standard networking events. Speaking engagements are one of the most powerful tools to generate awareness for yourself and demonstrate your expertise. Decide the number of times you want to speak and which audience you want to address. Organizations are always looking for dinner or lunch speakers, so contact those you want to get in front of and tell them about your desire and availability.
Networking is more of an art than a science, so set goals for yourself that are truly SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely). Never over commit and remember to create a balanced approach. Networking is a key ingredient in your career and business development; it should always be enjoyable - so have fun! Set goals for 2005 and follow thru.
Judy can be reached via email or phone, 319-9393.
411 - What you need to know
Here's what some of the participants have said about Strategic Business Network Events.
"This activity [QuikConnect] has been beneficial. There was an effective group here today and I am glad I came this morning. I met ten new people that may be able to help me with my business." - CPA with 10 years experience
"[Networking] is painful for me - I am shy about meeting new people. But, QuikConnect was relaxed and fun!" - Art Director with 10 years experience
Do you have something to tell us? Do you have ideas on how to make the newsletter better? Send us your ideas and we'll include in a future newsletter.
What is Speed-Networking, and Does It Work?
by Judy Austin
Fast food, fast computers and fast cars, is it any wonder speed-networking emerged?
Believe it or not, speed-networking or SBN's format QuikConnect, is just what it sounds like - accelerated opportunities to meet those who can propel your career and business. And, YES, it does really work! We all desire to accelerate our careers and get on the path to success, with speed-networking, you can accelerate your networking. You can meet more quality contacts in just 90 minutes than any other method!
Speed-networking is FUN and EFFECTIVE. Whether you are an introvert or extrovert, young in your career or experienced - you will enjoy meeting people in this format. SBN is a firm believer in putting people face-to-face to facilitate direct conversation. QuikConnect is set up as a series of one-on-one mini-meetings. Half the participants stay seated, while the other half moves around the room to new tables after each 5-6 minute exchange.
A few other different styles of speed-networking include:
Roundtable - Typically 7 people sit down at a table and each person has 1-2 minutes to share their elevator pitch. After all have spoken, each participant moves to a new table.
Triad - three people per table with one remaining seated throughout the rotations. After 6 minutes, the other two move in opposite directions around the room.
But, how does it work to help you achieve success? First, without a doubt you will meet more people in a short timeframe than ever before. Second all those who participate are like you in that they have invested their time and energy to build their network. Third, and most important - follow up is the key. Speed-networking delivers high volume and quality connections, but you must follow up and begin to cultivate the relationships. Consider all the new people you can now help by knowing what they do and in turn who can help you! Imagine attending even one speed-networking event per month, you will meet over 360 new people throughout the year. And, if you do it right, you can leave a lasting impression making sure 360 people in your community REMEMBER you.
If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it. In today's world, networking is critical from the receptionist to the CEO. Speed-networking offers an efficient and effective tool to propel your career and expand your influence! Never has networking been this fun and this rewarding.
Strategic Business Network also offers interactive training classes to help be the BEST you can be. If you are interested in learning how to network in the most efficient and effective manor, watch for emails announcing SUPERCHARGED Networking - The Basics of Effective Networking. The class will be offered once each month and include an opportunity to network with a broad base of professionals. Contact us if you wish to be included on the email list. Type the word "Training" in the subject line.
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