Since today is the first day of Kindergarten for my oldest daughter I thought it only appropriate to write something related to that. One of the first things she'll face a room full of new kids that she doesn't know. Not too different then what you might experience when you attend a new networking event. Read more »

Welcome to part 2 of my short break from networking tips where I'm sharing some of my favorite tools with you. Read more »

One of the best and most valuable ways to add value to the people in your network is through introductions. Typically making an introduction only takes a few minutes, and done correctly both individuals will think that you've done them a favor. Not a bad deal for just a little bit of thought and effort. Now let's look at making even better introductions and how you can follow-up to magnify the effect. Read more »

Networking OnFire!If your primary networking aim is B2B sales because you're either in sales, business development, marketing or are an entrepreneur or business owner you may find traditional networking organizations to be missing something. Typically this challenge comes from the lack of focus and attention on the needs of business to business service providers. This is a particularly pronounced challenge in tight referral/leads groups where one person per industry or profession is allowed. These groups like BNI (Business Networking International) are coveted by by several core industries that benefit heavily from this type of group (Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Brokers, Insurance Agents, Financial Advisors, Chiropractors, etc.). None of these primary industries are B2B, and this typically means that more than half of the group is not consistently in a position to refer you opportunities with other businesses. Even before the organization launched in 2007 I've worked loosely with the founders of Networking OnFire to help them create a  compelling solution for some of these problems in the B2B space. I even lead one of their teams that supported me in my sales efforts when I was working with ADP, and it was literally the most productive group I've ever been a part of. Most recently Networking OnFire and NetworkInAustin.com have formed a strategic partnership, and I am personally involved in helping them develop strong B2B only networking teams. There are several things that really set this organization apart that I want to share with you. B2B Only - These teams are far more productive in the B2B space because of their focus. The synergies that are created when everyone is calling on similar organizations are powerful. Flexible Structure - Ad hoc groups tend to fall apart or become less and less productive over time because they lack structure. The right structure for the group keeps meetings productive. However there is also flexibility in that structure so that it continues to support the function of the team, not inhibit it. Additionally most groups meet bi-weekly as this seems to be the ideal interval for highly productive individuals. Weekly is just too much, but monthly isn't nearly enough. Committment & Accountability - In a one person per industry networking group it's exceptionally important for everyone in that group to be committed to the group and be producing consistent opportunities. Minimum accountability standards insure that the group as a whole is maximizing opportunity creation for each member of the group. On the other hand good highly productive sales professionals are a very competitive breed. Competition and rewards help top producers produce even more. Technology - Missed opportunities are prevalent in other formats because of the reliance on scraps of paper or members taking their own notes and forgetting to follow-up. Networking On Fire offers several web based tools to make sure that no opportunity falls through the cracks. You'll even have the opportunity to track your personal ROI based on your own closed business generated by your team. No MLM - Just like the value of the exclusive focus on B2B not allowing MLM helps keep the level of professionalism in the group at a very high level. Training & Education - It's so important for those generating revenue for their organization to continually hone and refine their skills. The group structure offers time in each meeting to do just that, as well as providing plenty of information to jump start the process. I've created and been a part of many focused networking groups over the years. They've all had their issues over time, and nearly all of those issues are solved by the Networking On Fire model. From what I've seen, even a very productive group that's been humming along for a while on their own can easily be 15-20% more productive (productive in this sense means Revenue generated by the group), using the systems and technology the Networking On Fire employs. If you're an above average producer in generating B2B revenue, and you think being part of a group like this would benefit you please give me a call (512-646-2701). I'd be happy to visit with you to discuss what might be possible. Happy Networking! -Scott Ingram NetworkInAustin.com