Business Networking Tips in February 2007

Networking On Fire!

posted on February 26, 2007

Late last week I attended the kick-off meeting for a new networking group concept called: Networking On Fire! I really liked what I saw. There are quite a few issues with the way most structured networking groups operate. The founders of this organization have spent the last 3 years working on this new concept. On the surface they appear to have found solutions for nearly all of those issues. This was only an overview meeting and not a regular meeting, so the proof will be in an actual meeting. If they're able to deliver on even half of what they talked about then checking out these groups will be well worth your time. You can learn a little more about their philosophy and get additional information from their website: www.networkingonfire.com Happy Networking! Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com

Author: Scott Ingram

The Austin Library

posted on February 21, 2007

I've recently rediscovered my local library. Until a few months ago it had been years since I'd been to a library. I can't believe how much is changed. I'm also a little disturbed at how much money I've spent at Amazon.com and other local book stores over the years when I could have just as easily used the library. Especially since I almost never re-read books. (Networking tip: If you DO buy books, loaning or giving one to someone is a great way to extend a relationship) I'm sure this has been around for quite a while and maybe I'm the only one that hasn't known about it. But with the technology the Austin Library has with their online catalog and the ability to put holds on books I feel like it's better than Netflix and Blockbuster combined. You can pick out the books that you're interested in and even have them set it aside for you at the most convenient library for you. Plus if you're going to be late you can always renew the material online or worst case pay 25 cents a day vs. Blockbuster's $4 late fees. If you're not a regular already, do yourself a favor and reaquaint yourself with your local library. Think you're too busy to read? They also have a great collection of audio books. So rather than listening to some radio talk show and feeling yourself get dumber as you drive you can listen to a great book you don't have time to read and get smarter! Happy Networking! Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com Need an online degree to help further your education and legitimize your business? We offer grants for education and online college courses for business people. Get started today!

Author: Scott Ingram

Austin Marathon

posted on February 18, 2007

After getting its start as the Motorola Marathon, then becoming the Freescale Marathon for the first time today this Austin Marathon was finally called just that: The Austin Marathon. Emily, Colette and I got up early to go watch the first part of the race which passed within a block of our house. I'm not sure how many times they changed the course before deciding on the one they used today. The first couple of attempts were very hilly courses and there was an awful lot of complaining from the running community. That's not a good thing for a race that bills itself as a fast race and a good Boston Marathon Qualifier (the pinacle for regular marathon runners). Unfortunately I didn't get to run in today's race. I spent August through December training specifically for the Half Marathon, but after twisting my ankle VERY badly in late December I haven't been able to run since. I was a little bummed that I wasn't able to run the race myself, but watching a Maraton is always an inspiring thing for me. Growing up in Southern California I'd always watch the LA Maraton on TV. It's probably that annual event that lead to my being a runner today. Not having run the race I don't know if the final course was really good or not. On paper it looked like it represented Austin well. Especially with the finish on Congress with the Capital as the background. We also walked about a mile of the course and saw no less than 3 live bands. Gotta love Austin! Congratulations Finishers! Your hard work and persistence have paid off. Enjoy your accomplishment. Happy Networking! Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com

Author: Scott Ingram

WalMart at Northcross Mall? For or Against?

posted on February 18, 2007

I ran into my friend Jason Myers, the publisher of Austin Business District Magazine, earlier this week. He shared with me that he is starting a new weekly radio program on Sunday afternoons at 3:00pm called the Business District Hour. You'll find the show on KJCE - 1370 AM His innagural program will cover an issue that has gotten a lot of press here in Austin lately: Should the city of Austin allow big box retailers to locate within the city limits. In support of big box retailers will be Gary Hoover, Austin serial entrepreneur, founder of Bookstop, Hoovers.com, Travel Fest, and now Road Story, and an expert on retailing. In the opposing position is Jan Triplett, Ph.D. Chief Operating Officer of the Business Success Center Virtual Incubator. She serves as the Business Liaison Chair on the board of Responsible Growth for Northcross. (rg4n.org) I wish I were able to allow comments on my blog. If I could I'd share my personal position and ideally start a pretty interesting conversation here. Since that's not possible I encourage you to check out Jason's new show. Happy Networking! Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com

Author: Scott Ingram

How Often do you Network?

posted on February 17, 2007

I was recently asked this question after speaking to a local group of folks in the middle of career transitions. It took me a little while to formulate an answer after I realized it's not something that I think of as taking time. Really it's more of a lifestyle. I'm always networking. Whether it's trying to help a co-worker solve a problem, making a connection for a job seeker, or the give and take of thoughts and ideas with a friend at lunch. It never stops. Networking is not about mixers and "networking events." It's about making a difference in the lives of other people and building relationships. Something we should all strive to do all the time. Like anything else, if you do it long enough you'll find that you're doing it without even thinking. Happy Networking! Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com

Author: Scott Ingram

Austin Business Bloggers Club Continues to Grow

posted on February 5, 2007

The second meeting of the Austin Business Bloggers Club was tonight. The group has more than tripled in size from our first to second meeting. Check back soon for a list of the bloggers who attended and links to their blogs. For information about our next meeting on March 5th: Austin Business Bloggers Club Happy Networking! Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com

Author: Scott Ingram