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.
With the next Essential Class application deadline looming (Monday, June 15th), and the final recruiting reception scheduled for this Wednesday evening at Whole Foods I thought it only appropriate that I write a little bit about my experience as a member of the 2009 Leadership Austin Essential class.
Before being accepted into the class last year, which is sort of like applying to college (Big fat envelope = good, skinny envelope = bad. I should know I've received both kinds), I had heard consistently incredible things about the program. I was actually a little aprehensive after being accepted, because it had been positioned as such a great thing by several people that I have a whole lot of respect for. My concern was that this would be like a good movie that gets a lot of buzz and great reviews and everyone tells you that you just have to go see it. Then you end up being let down because it's been so built up. That was my fear going in, and fortunately that fear was never realized.
I'm not going to talk a whole lot about what actually happens in the class because the discovery of that is half the fun. Besides most of the experiences just can't be described. For those who know, no explanation is needed; for those who don't, no explanation is possible. You just have to trust that after doing this for 30 consecutive years Leadership Austin does darn near everything just right. In a nutshell though all of the activities are designed to help in three areas: Relationships, Issues and Skills.
For me the most amazing part of Leadership Austin is the quality of people they attract, and the impressive job they do in their selection process. It is an unbelievably humbling experience the first time you read through the bios of your fellow classmates. Perhaps more incredibly is that they've selected 30 classes like ours and the things Leadership Austin alumni go on to do afterwards is nothing short of awe inspiring.
The thing that absolutely makes the class is the quality of people. Hands down. The diversity of the class is truly amazing, and I'm not even talking about the ethnic, age or socioeconomic type of diversity either (although they do a great job with that as well). I'm talking about the diversity of experience and interest. One of my biggest learnings from our whole class experience is the way we as individuals tend to live in silos. If you're a professional you may know lots of folks in the professional world, in your industry, and those who share similar interest and hobbies (think kids or running for example). However, there are so many of these different broad silos. Business, healthcare, education, government, arts, etc. etc., and often times there's not a lot of cross polination. Leadership Austin brings them ALL together. Out of our class of 54 people there's almost nothing, no matter how obscure, that somebody in just our class had some type of connection to. I can't think of another organization that brings this diversity of talent and leadership together into a single place, and has such a significant and lasting impact on all of them.
When Leadership Austin says "Igniting Passion," they're really not kidding. Certainly some of the reason I decided to leave a really good corporate job and go back to NetworkInAustin full time was because of what I learned and experienced through Leadership Austin. There are other word for it, but my passion was ignited for sure!
So here's the point. I can't endorse an organization more than I do Leadership Austin. They offer a huge range of programs that are all impressive. The flagship Essential class is a major committment, and is not for everyone, and if you're ready I highly encourage you to apply. Leadership Austin needs you, and you need Leadership Austin. They also have an Emerge program for budding leaders. This is a smaller committment, and a very valuable program for the right individuals. You can also get involved through Experience Austin or their Engage breakfast series which don't have a selection process to get into.
If you haven't already download an application now and RSVP for the Recruiting Reception on Wednesday: www.LeadershipAustin.org
Are you a Leadership Austin Alumni? I'd love to hear your thoughts on your experience. Comment away!
With our Get Hired! event coming up tomorrow I thought it only appropriate that I write a post about Job Networking. Networking isn't just what you do at mixers and job clubs. It's really a part of every conversation and activity you're involved with; since you never know where that next opportunity is going to come from.
We all have certain strengths and abilities. Often times we discount the value of these abilities especially when they come really naturally and with almost no effort. They're just part of what you do. It's important to remember that these talents of yours have value. Frequently a lot of value. But you don't always get to demonstrate these skills as part of your regular job searching activities. Maybe if you're in sales, but I digress.
For so many reasons I think it's important to somehow get involved in something you're deeply passionate about outside of your job search. You should be doing things like this when you have a job, so why wouldn't you do them when you're looking for your next gig? This is easiest if you start with something you absolutely love. It might be a favorite non-profit, your church, your kids activities, a favorite sport or hobby. It really doesn't matter as long as it's an organization you care about. Approach one of the organizations leaders and tell them how you'd like to help. Make this easy for them. Don't just ask to help, which creates work for them to figure out how they can use you. Instead figure out a way that you can really demonstrate some of your highly valued skills and offer to do that for them. That way they can just say yes, they don't have to think and you get to show your stuff rather than getting stuck doing some menial task that you can't get excited about.
So now you're probably thinking. Why Scott? It's really important that I find my next job, and I need to focus on that and you want me to spend 5-10 hours a week volunteering my time?
Yes! Looking for a job can be really difficult work. It sometimes leads to depression especially in our society when you may define yourself by what you do. Besides, sending off a few more blind resumes probably isn't going to help you anyway. The psychological boost you'll get from making a difference will be invaluable during your search. Your attitude is so important and you impact your attitude most by what you do. Why not do something really worthwhile? It also will help you develop and deepen new relationships. Don't do this work in isolation, get out and be visible about it. Talk to people, tell them about the things you're doing and how much you enjoy it. Let them know that this is the kind of work that you love doing, and you're looking for your next opportunity to do it full time. Not only will you be demonstrating your skills, you'll also be keeping them sharp. It'll make interviewing easier as you'll have current examples you can point to in a positive light.
I'm yet to meet anyone who's sorry they took on this type of project. It may or may not directly lead to your next position, but it sure can't hurt.
Usually I think most people already have some ideas of where they want to be involved and how, but if you need some additional help there are a bunch of great resources to help you find this type of work. Here are just a few:
Oh yeah, and this doesn't have to have anything to do with a job search. If it's a good idea when you're looking for work isn't it also a good idea when you're not?
You may have noticed that there are a bunch of different ways to get involved lately. There always are, but perhaps there's more emphasis because many of these organizations could use just a little more help right now.
I believe the most important thing is just getting involved. Whether that be doing a little bit of volunteer work, or making a small contribution. It seems that many choose not to participate at all either because they're not in a position to write a big check, or they don't have a lot of extra time to contribute. That's too bad, because to these different causes every little bit counts. Even a $5 or $10 contribution helps. It sure beats $0. Sure you don't have the time volunteer at your favorite cause for 20 hours each month. Could you spend a few minutes calling a handful of friends who might share in your passion?
It's probably not appropriate for most to give every time they're approached. If I did that I'd have a tough time finding enough money to feed my family. Instead consider some way to make a small contribution (time, money or both) each time there's an opportunity to help a cause you're interested in. Heck, sometimes it's not even the cause itself, but wanting to help a good friend's cause because they've always been there for you.
This is a busy month for me and many of my friends as there are some really neat opportunities to get involved.
My very good friend Thom Singer is raising money for the Kate Singer Endowment For Cranio-Facial Research, a cause that the Singer family started on behalf of their oldest daughter (who's now doing just fine). Thom donates a portion of his proceeds from every speech to this fund. This month is Kate's birthday and he's running a special online campaign. I hope you'll consider joining me in making a contribution to this fundraiser. Especially if you find yourself getting extra benefit from Thom's talk at our event Monday afternoon and the subsequent conference call.
The Austin Twestival is coming this Thursday, February 12th. This is an incredible global initiative occurring in 175+ cities world wide to raise money for charity : water. An organization that helps bring clean drinking water to the 1 Billion+ people on this planet who don't have that luxury. It's amazing to think of clean water as a luxury, but for many it is. Heck, maybe you don't even care that much about the cause and you're just interested in a really great party. There's nothing wrong with that. 100% of your ticket price is still going to charity! I'm sure you won't feel bad about that.
Finally we have our own NetworkInAustin 'Gives' initiative we're working on. Our efforts are currently directed at the Capital Area Food Bank the end of this month. There are 2 ways to get involved. Please consider one or both of these opportunities.
1) Make a contribution through our Virtual Fund Drive. Remember, every contribution counts whether it's small or large
2) Join us at the Food Bank on either Thursday the 26th or Friday the 27th and volunteer for a shift to make a difference.
How will you make a difference? You'll be surprised at how far even a little bit goes for the organization and for YOU.
The first NetworkInAustin Gives project is here! We will be partnering with The Capital Area Food Bank for the next month. Between now and the end of February we will be running a Virtual Food Drive online, culminating in 2 days worth of volunteer opportunities at the Food Bank.
Hopefully you'll begin to hear about this effort from numerous sources, and help us spread the word.
The real kick-off of this project will follow the NetStorming event on Monday, February 9th. That event runs from 4:00 - 5:30pm at the Norris Conference Center. Starting at 6:15pm David Davenport, the CEO of CAFB, will give a short presentation. You'll learn a about the Food Bank and how it works, the various ways to get involved in this initiative and the impact your involvement can have on our local community. [David's presentation is open to ALL regardless of whether or not you are attending the NetStorming event prior]
The Virtual Food Drive is up and running NOW! We hope you'll consider making a contribution directly to the Food Bank and asking your friends, family and co-workers to consider doing the same. Give as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. What's most important is your participation, and every contribution matters.
During David's presentation you can also learn about how to setup your own food drive in your office if you'd prefer to get involved that way.
Finally the part I'm most excited about is the chance for us to volunteer and work together at the Food Bank on Thursday, February 26th and Friday, February 27th. There will be 4 different shifts available:
Thursday, February 26: 6-9pm
Friday, February 27: 7:30-9:30am
Friday, February 27: 9:00-12:00
Friday, February 27: 1:00-4:00pm
Space is limited, so please let us know which shift(s) you're interested in. For now you can just leave a comment on this blog post.
Thank you in advance for your willingness to participate and all of your hard work for this important organization.
You may have noticed that a big part of what we're trying to accomplish with the NetworkInAustin events is more productive networking. Not just talking and writing about it, but demonstrating it in an experiential way. If you're like me you learn a lot better by doing or experiencing something rather than reading about it or being told about it. Which brings us to the next step in highly productive and meaningful networking.
I've written and talked before about the idea of Passionate Involvement. In my experience this form of networking is by far the most powerful and creates the best outcomes for you and your community. This is such an important concept we wanted to create ways for you to experience these benefits in a low-risk way that will also have a tremendous impact on local organizations here in Austin.
Enter "NetworkInAustin Gives." The idea behind this initiative is to partner with a different local non-profit organization each quarter and offer a couple of ways we can get involved together. With each of these quarterly programs there will be a volunteering component and a fundraising component where you can get involved with one or both aspects. We'll be partner with a variety of organizations in an effort to broaden your horizons and understanding of the many different causes who want and need your help here in Austin.
Our hope is that these programs reach beyond just the NetworkInAustin membership. Networking is not just something that happens when you're out at events or in a professional setting. All of your relationships are important: Family, friends, co-workers, church, neighbors, etc. We hope that you'll use these projects as a tool to help strengthen all of your relationships. We'll be working to keep these opportunities broad enough that you can get many people involved. Demonstrate your leadership and value to your organization by raising money for one of the causes, or bring together a group of your close friends to volunteer.
In the end we hope to strengthen our own community and the broader Austin community through giving. Please join us in NetworkInAustin Gives!
I am honored to be a nominee for the Texas Social Media Awards.
The Texas Social Media Awards is a brilliant idea brought to us by the Austin American Statesman. The Statesman is truly leading the way not just in Austin, but nationally when it comes to traditional media's usage of social media. They're not eligible for their own awards, but I would argue that its the Statesman who really deserves to win the Social Media Award. With nearly all of their reporters on Twitter it's now possible to truly have a dialogue with the daily paper. They really understand that the power of social media is creating community and conversation, and that's just what they're doing.
Currently there are 125 nominees. The top 25 will be chosen and displayed by Feb. 18. An overall Statesman winner will be awarded at a party on March 15 which coincides with SXSW.
It appears that much of the selection for the finalists will be based on the public comments about each nominee. Hopefully this doesn't turn into too much of a popularity contest. I'd much rather see the individuals who set the best examples of social media usage be finalists, not just those who receive the most comments. That being said I'm personally not beyond doing a little bit of campaigning, and would like to ask for your help.
If you've benefited from the events and networking tips I share in the NetworkInAustin.com Newsletter or from any of the hundreds of blog posts I've written over the last 3.5+ years I hope you'll share your comments about the specific value you've received. Also if you have learned anything from the way that I utilize LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter I hope you'll share that as well.
I'm probably not the only nominee you know. Please also considering commenting on the nominations of some of the other nominees who you feel are deserving.
Here is a list of some of my friends and others I'm quite familiar with who certainly deserve a nod:
If you really want to learn what social media is all about spend some time understanding what these folks and the rest of the nominees are doing. Something tells me your time will be very well invested. I hope to find some time to do this myself. Congratulations to all of the nominees!
For years resisted the idea of NetworkInAustin.com hosting events. I originally started the site to help people find appropriate networking events for themselves and we've built a huge calendar of business networking events in and around Austin, Texas. I always thought there were already too many things going on, why would we want to create another.
After 3 years of hearing "when is your next event," and "how can I meet your members." I finally decided to listen. We started working on this several months ago. I reached out to members, newsletter subscribers and those who'd joined our LinkedIn Group and asked how we could create the most productive networking events in Austin.
I honestly think we've found the answer! What started with those initial comments turned into dozens of conversations that have lead to a format that you should be incredibly excited about.
My first issue was speakers. I frequently make fun of myself when I speak to organizations. I'll ask how many people attended event with one of their primary motivations being "networking." Typically 70%-90% will raise their hand. The problem is that they probably had 10-15 minutes to network before the event started. Then they're expected to sit down, shut-up and listen to me while eating some form of rubber chicken for 40 minutes to an hour. How is anybody doing any networking? Then the event ends and most run off to re-engage their incredibly busy lives.
Our answer is to still have speakers, but to have those speakers present an executive overview of their topic in 20 minutes. Light on details, but heavy on concepts. Then for those people who want to learn more about that topic we'll be offering a 1 hour teleseminar with the speaker(s) the following week. This will be free to members and those who attended the event. It should also give people a chance to think of really good real world questions for the speakers, and have a chance to try out some of their suggestions before the teleseminar.
Timing was also a big concern. All of the traditional networking event times seem to have issues. Austin is NOT a morning town. Making breakfast a challenge which is compounded by traffic and those who have to get kids to school etc. Lunch meetings seem to be hard as they cause you to cut your morning short and most want to bolt back to work as soon as the events is over. Then there are mixers. One person told me that if there was another mixer in Austin they might lose their liver. Not to mention those of us with families can have a tough time making too many of these.
The solution? Tea Time Events! Our initial events will be held the second Monday of each month from 4pm - 5:30pm. Most people aren't super productive at 4pm anyway, so you're not losing much by leaving a few minutes early. Then if you have a family or another event to get to afterwords we'll be done early enough that this shouldn't be an issue.
Finally I'm most excited about the format that we've created for the last hour of the event once the speaker is finished. It's a concept called NetStorming. I'll write a whole blog post about this, and those who register for the event will receive a special NetStorming primer to take full advantage of this format. In essence this is a model that teaches REAL networking by doing it, real time. A combination of Networking and Brainstorming I've found that it's nearly impossible not to get value from this structure. It forces people to focus on giving to each other, which also means they'll be focused on giving to YOU. It also provides a level of accountability when it comes to follow-up which is the biggest area where would be networkers fail.
If you thought you knew what networking was before I hope you'll attend these events and experience what it's really about.
The most excited part of the new NetworkInAustin.com monthly meetings is the NetStorming format that we've spent the last couple of months refining.
Most networking events don't provide a structure for truly productive networking to occur. Most just throw a bunch of people in a room together, perhaps they apply some alcohol and then hope for a successful networking experience. Others give everyone an opportunity to stand and give an elevator pitch. That's not networking. That's advertising to each other. Not exactly productive.
I think many people become frustrated with networking or find that it isn't productive and doesn't produce the results they were looking for. That's because they're not really networking. They might be going to networking events, but they're not getting enough opportunities to really network.
NetStorming fixes all of this. You'll have an opportunity to provide value, get value, demonstrate your unique expertise and begin building real profitable relationships.
This is about experiencing what networking really is. Not talking about good networking, or learning about it from a speaker. No, we're talking about experiencing productive networking in real-time.
In a nutshell you'll be seated at a table with 7 others. Each person will have 5 minutes to do whatever they like with the group. Those who don't know better will probably pitch for 5 minutes. The good news for you if there's someone like this at your table is that you only have to put up with them for 5 minutes. The real networkers will provide 30 seconds to a minute of background and context and will ask for very specific advice or specific introductions from the others at the table. All of this advice and follow-up items will be captured and e-mailed back to the group to provide a level of accountability for the follow-up items that were committed to. Plus you don't have to stress about taking a bunch of notes and can remain fully engaged.
I'm not going to explain every nuance of the format here. Those who register for our events will receive a NetStorming primer prior to the event where you'll learn more about how the format works and how to get the most out of it for yourself.
The results from my initial tests of this format were phenomenal! I tried NetStorming with a small group that's been getting together consistently for the last 3 years. This is a very productive group based on real revenue results from our relationships. After just one demo we agreed that this was the single most productive meeting we'd had together. As in the best of over 150 meetings!
Come join us and experience for yourself what NetStorming is all about.
How do you stand out when you're networking? Are you just another face in the crowd or is there something you say, do or exhibit that demonstrates your uniqueness?
My friend Ragen and her business partner Willi really stick out in a crowd; attending networking events in professional attire and big pink fluffy slippers! You see they represent a team of Virtual Assistants who are very professional and qualified, but work from home. (I'm not sure if the pink slippers are part of their Virtual Assistant's uniform or not, you'll have to ask Ragen).
Their appearance at networking events is just the beginning of their differentiation. What really sets them apart from many other networkers you'll meet is their unique business model. Just take a look at these capabilities and success stories:
--- Ragen and Willi from Cloud Nine Virtual Office Staffing aren't the only professionals in their pajamas. Their Virtual Assistant Team is full of exceptionally qualified professionals doing every administrative, telemarketing and bookkeeping task you can imagine, all from their homes.
The Cloud Nine Model offers an incredible group of benefits:
Our VAs are exceptionally qualified, and have all passed our seriously stringent assessment process (less than 1 in 200 pass)
No need to waste money on extra space or equipment
Use exactly as much help as you need - there is no minimum or maximum number of hours
No payroll or HR headaches
We are a team so, even though you are assigned a specific VA for your account, back-up is always available in case of emergency
We make it easy, even if you're technologically challenged
Success Stories
We have a client who is a small business owner. He knew that he was spending too much time being a secretary. He had tried hiring people for 20 hours a week at $8.00 per hour, but was frustrated with the quality of people he was getting. We matched him with a VA from our team who is a former Executive Assistant to the CEO of a major corporation. We reversed the equation, cutting him down to 8 hours per week at $20.00 per hour. Less than four months later he told us that he couldn't believe the difference that skill made. She was doing more in 8 hours from home than his other attempts had done in 20 hours in the office. He said that he had doubled his income because of the work that we were doing for him. Now he uses her 20 hours a week and estimates that she pays for herself more than 5 times over every week.
We have a client who was five years behind on her taxes. She hired a VA to get her receipts organized and her bookkeeping up to date. She called to tell me that not only is she (not to mention her CPA and the IRS) thrilled that her taxes and bookkeeping are finally up to date, but her VA created a simple system for her so that she could stay up to date in the future. She said that it felt like a 5,000lb weight was lifted off of her shoulders and that she is not actually spending less time staying caught up than she was spending when her system wasn't working. She is now using one of our VAs once a month to do her bookkeeping data entry. She said the she is happy to pay us for 4 hours of work rather than spend the 8 hours it takes her to do it herself.
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What can you do to set yourself apart both in the way you are seen and how your business is perceived? Those who are persistent and creative in seeking these answers will reap the rewards.
A few weeks ago I blogged about the concept of Passionate Involvement. On November 5th there is an incredible opportunity for you to find your own passion and get involved. Next Wednesday Greenlights for NonProfit Success, The Junior League of Austin, Leadership Austin along with Comerica Bank and Vinson & Elkins will present the Fall 2008 Board Summit.
This event will be held from 5:45 - 8:00pm at Vinson & Elkins (2801 Via Fortuna #100) and Registration is only $35.00
You'll have the opportunity to network with 150+ business professionals and listen to business and community leaders talk about nonprofit board service.
The best part is you'll have a low-risk opportunity to learn about 20 diverse, pre-screened local nonprofit organizations that are actively looking for board members just like you.
There are so many reasons you should attend this event. Do yourself a favor and Register Right Now!
Here is a little more information and links to the websites of each of the 20 participating nonprofits: AIDS Services of Austin, Inc.
Mission: AIDS Services of Austin responds to the HIV needs of the Austin area by providing services that enhance the health and well being of individuals and the community in the face of an evolving epidemic.
American YouthWorks
Mission: Building productive lives and better communities.
Anthropos Arts
Mission: Anthropos brings professional Latin and jazz musicians into low-iincome public schools (Grades 6-12) to lead students through free music programs: workshops, individualized lessons, concerts, and master classes.
Austin Child Guidance Center
Mission: To improve the mental health of children and their families through early intervention, diagnosis and treatment to help them develop the emotional skills for meeting life's challenges.
Big Brothers, Big Sisters
Mission: To help children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one relationships.
Breast Cancer Resource Centers of Texas
Mission: To be a centralized source for breast cancer information, education and support that enables women to become active, knowledgeable, participants in their healthcare.
Camp Fire USA Balcones Council
Mission: Camp Fire USA builds caring, confident youth and future leaders by engaging children and their families in inclusive, coeducational activities.
Citizen Schools
Mission: To change the life trajectories of low-income students. We challenge them to be producers, leaders, and stewards of their own futures. We strive to move them onto a “success track,” heading toward high school graduation, college attainment, and positions of leadership in their careers and communities. Citizen Schools also seeks to lead the nation to reconsider the traditional school day and to re-imagine a new “learning day.”
Crime Prevention Institute
Mission: To break the cycle of crime and strengthen individuals, families and communities by supporting individuals with education, information, resources and case management as they transition from incarceration to communities.
Down Home Ranch
Mission: To build a rural, self-reliant community for adults with intellectural and developmental disabilities, offering training, housing, recreation, and dignified employment, as well as opportunities for growth in mind, body, and spirit.
EmanciPET
Mission: To provide services and advocacy that will result in a more humane and effective approach to controlling our pet population.
Girls Rock Camp Austin (GRCA)
Mission: Girls Rock Camp Austin is dedicated to empowering girls and women of all backgrounds and abilities through musical eduation and performance.
Heart House of Austin
Mission: Heart House is a safe place for under-served children to be every day after school where free programs teach them how to be successful in school and in life and to think critically and be self sufficient, kind and responsible citizens.
Launch Pad Job Club
Mission: To present programs that lead to employment of its members through networking, training, and maintaining a positive attitude.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Mission: Cure Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Myeloma and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
Mobile Film School
Mission: The Mobile Film School is committed to bringing media arts education to rural and underserved communities; creating long-term mentoring relationships by pairing students with seasoned industry professionals and educators, and cultivating a unique appreciation of local history and culture using storytelling in film.
SAHELI for Asian Families
Mission: SAHELI helps and empowers Asian victims and survivors of domestic abuse, improves their access to services and increases community awareness of various forms of violence and oppression.
Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering
Mission: Enabling Texas students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) by creating partnerships among educators, industry, government, and families to inform, educate and motivate students with particular focus on underrepresented populations.
The Care Communities
Mission: Provide practical, compassionate, non-medical care through our volunteer care teams to people with AIDS or cancer so they may live in their homes for as long as possible.
Waterloo Counseling Center
Mission: To provide affordable mental health counseling services and training with an expertise in gender and sexual diversity.
Wonders & Worries
Mission: Wonders & Worries helps children cope when their parent or caregiver has a chronic or life-threatening illness.
YMCA of Austin
Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Many people have been asking me how they can become the featured member in NetworkInAustin.com's Weekly Referral Newsletter (not yet a subscriber? Subscribe here).
The answer is really quite simple. The first step is that you must be a member of NetworkInAustin.com. That's easy enough: Click Here to Join! and right now it's only $4.99/mo or $49.99/yr.
The second step is not much more difficult. You must find a way to add value to the NIA community. That can be done in any number of ways using your own unique talents and skills. Of course you'll also need to let me know what you're up to so I can recognize you.
Right now I'm working hardest to grow the newsletter subscriber base (currently 2,000+), membership in our LinkedIn group, and of course new members.
This week's featured member, Thom Singer, is a perfect example of how to do this.
Here's what he did for me after my mentioning these needs to him less than two weeks ago. I also told him that I was looking to grow my number of followers on Twitter. At the time I had just 79 followers, now thanks primarily to Thom's efforts I have over 120.
thomsinger: hey..lets help @scottingram get over 100 followers. He is at 79. He is a local austin person who is cool and has intersting things to say
This is also a pretty good example of my asking specifically for what I needed in the meeting Thom and I were in. (see my previous post)
Obviously Thom showed some serious persistance and dedication to my cause even offering a free copy of his book to my 100th follower. His efforts didn't stop there either. He also wrote a very nice promotional piece for me on his widely read networking blog: NetworkInAustin on Thom's Some Assembly Required Blog
What assets do you have that you can leverage to help grow and improve the NetworkInAustin.com community? I'd love to make YOU the next featured member.
I was hoping to post all of this in the discussion section of the new NetworkInAustin.com group on LinkedIn. Unfortunately I discovered the hard way that there is a 2000 character limit. I’ve moved the content to my blog, but would like everyone with an interest in this topic to post their comments to the discussion on LinkedIn. All are welcome to join the NetworkInAustin.com group on LinkedIn.
First let me say thank you for joining the NetworkInAustin.com group here on LinkedIn. I'm very hopeful that this will be a good venue for us to share meaningful thoughts and ideas.
The most common question I'm asked about NetworkInAustin.com is "When are your events." My answer has always been that we don't have events. NIA was designed to be the hub of networking in Austin and I thought that if anything there might already be too many events and the last thing we need to do is create another vent. People just need help finding the events that are most appropriate for them. Apparently I’ve been wrong for a long time...
Recently the demand for events for NIA members has been just overwhelming and I think it's time to give in. Based on all of the feedback it seems that people need to have some type of physical relationship with NIA outside of just the website.
That being the case I want to know how to make these events wildly productive and valuable. Something that you'll look forward to attending and want to bring all of your friends to because of how useful it is for you.
The feedback I'm looking for is your ideas on how to make this happen. First let me share my own thinking that you can either agree with or shoot holes in and provide your own suggestions. I'm open to it all because these events are really going to be about you, not me.
First I'm thinking of doing a monthly event, and based on the feedback I have heard a breakfast meeting would be most appropriate (One person told me that their liver couldn't handle another happy hour!)
I don't want these events to duplicate anything else that's out there. Otherwise what would be the point?
I hope that most NIA members are on an ongoing quest to become better networkers. So why not have a networking breakfast focused on the who, what, when, where and why of better networking?
Of course we need to have facilitated networking opportunities, but I also think that we can learn about the various facets of networking from the multitude of local experts we have right here in Austin.
What about a 50/50 model for these events? Half of the time will be devoted to some type of facilitated networking. The other half will be a speaker or panel discussing some facet of building a truly powerful professional network.
Here are some of my ideas for topics. In your feedback please let us know which you’re most interested in, least interested in, and feel free to suggest your own topic ideas for areas you and others would be interested in learning more about:
Networking – the basics
Advanced Networking – best practices
Personal Branding
Social Media
LinkedIn/Facebook/Twitter
Leadership Development (someone suggested a “taste” of Leadership Austin)
Selling for the Networker
Marketing to support Networking
Public Relations/Working with the Media
It’s also been suggested that we do some level of segmentation in the facilitated networking sessions. Grouping B2B and B2C or doing small group pairings based on probable synergies or other common interests, etc.
That’s it for my own brain dump. What are YOUR thoughts???
I am really excited to tell you that on December 2, 2008 a truly impressive event will be coming to Austin. Zig Ziglar, General Colin Powell, Rudy Giuliani, Suze Orman, Tom Hopkins, Dr. Robert Schuller and more will all be coming to Austin to speak live and in person.
This event will be at the Austin Convention Center from 8:00am to 4:45pm.
Dr. Robert Schuller
America's Best Inspirational Speaker
Zig Ziglar
America's #1 Motivator
Suze Orman
America's #1 Personal Finance Expert
General Colin Powell
Legendary Soldier-Statesman
Rick Belluzzo
Legendary President of Microsoft
Tamara Lowe
Motivational Expert and Author of Get Motivated!
Tom Hopkins
America's #1 Authority on Selling
Here's the best part. Members of NetworkInAustin.com who wish to attend will receive 2 free tickets!
Somehow it gets better. Those who attend will also receive Zig Ziglar's 5 Keys to Igniting Motivation & Success DVD and CD Set, plus one year of Best-Selling Book Summaries via e-mail (an additional $495 value).
If you're already a member you'll receive the Member's Only e-mail with instructions for claiming your tickets.
If you've been reading my blog for any length of time you know that I consistently write about finding ways to add value to your network. A couple of ways that you can quickly add lasting value to those deserving individuals in your network are through award nominations and testimonials.
If you pay attention to it you'll notice quite a few requests for nominations for a variety of different awards through out the year. Here are just a few examples:
Austin Business Awards - Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce
Austin Under 40 - Young Men's Business Leage (YMBL) and Young Women's Alliance (YWA)
Entrepreneur of the Year - Ernst & Young
BiG IDEA Awards - BiG AUSTIN
Best Places to Work - Austin Business Journal
Keeping an eye out for these calls to nominate and spending just a few minutes to think about the one or two people in your network who are really deserving of this type of recognition. Investing just a few minutes of your time to fill out a nomination form can bring some great recognition and publicity to your nominee. Please don't make the mistake of thinking that somebody else will nominate them. Worst case scenario there is nothing worse than for them to receive multiple nominations. How do you think these awards get won?
The most deserving of recognition in your network might not fit a particular award category. That's ok, you can always write an unsolicited testimonial. Again, this act takes just a few minutes but can be incredibly valuable to the person you're testimonializing. Best practice: make the testimonial public. An easy way to do this is to write the Testimonial on LinkedIn. That way the person you've written it for has the choice of whether or not to display what you've written (they'll be thankful either way). If they do choose to add it to their profile both your entire LinkedIn network and their network will be made aware of your kudos.
The next time you see a nomination request take 2 minutes to think of someone you can nominate.
Right now, choose the one person in your network most deserving of a testimonial (the name should pop into your head almost immediately). Now take just 5 minutes to write a quick testimonial and send it to them. I promise you'll make their day.
I am proud and excited to be part of this year's Leadership Austin class. Meet my fellow classmates:
Greg Abel - Grande Communications, Inc.
Damon Arhos - Freescale Semiconductor
Mason Arnold - Greenling Organic Delivery
Aman Bandali - Bandali Builders and Estate Developers
René Barrera - City of Austin
Dayna Blazey - Travis County District Attorney's Office
Brian Block - Keep Austin Beautiful
Geoffrey Brow - Dell Inc.
Scott Brutocao - Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart, PC
Amber Carden - Bank of America
Angie Castilleja - Make A Wish Foundation of Central & South Texas
Tom Coopwood - Community Volunteer
Priscilla Guajardo Cortez - The University of Texas at Austin
Christi Cuellar - Ballet Austin
Peter Daniels - A New Entry Inc.
Carol Drennan - Katz Builders, Inc.
Chris Ewen - Client Outsource
Traci Fish - Tangoe, Inc.
Tina Gramann - Zachary Scott Theatre Center
Ann Greenberg - Walsh, Anderson, Brown, Schulze, & Aldridge, P.C.
Laura Griebel - Goodwill Industries of Central Texas Inc.
Amy Holloway - Avalanche Consulting, Inc.
Scott Ingram - ADP
Mark Isaak - PBS&J
Gwen Jewiss - PageSoutherlandPage
Olivia Juarez - Wells Fargo Bank
Bill Kempf - Applied Materials Inc.
Tamra Kerns - National Instruments Corp.
Ali Khataw - Encotech Engineering Consultants, Inc.
Tara Kirkland - Greenlights for NonProfit Success
Adams Kirkpatrick - Sunflower Design
Michelle Krejci - Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders
Jamie Lagarde - Overwatch Systems
Marion Martin - YMCA of Austin Inc.
Michael McGill - Freescale Semiconductor
Linda Medina - Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Craig Moore - Travis County District Attorney's Office
Brandy Mueller - The Mueller Law Office
Andrea Ogilvie - The University of Texas at Austin
Patricia Paredes - Texas Campus Compact
Tina Prentice - St. David's Community Health Foundation
Diane Rhodes - Texas Dental Association
Pilar Sanchez - Housing Authority of the City of Austin
Carolyn Schwarz - Health Alliance for Austin Musicians
Paul Scott - Equality Texas
Emily Shaw - I&O Communications
Kevin Smothers - pulse
D'Andra Ulmer - grand beginnings, Inc
Alex Valdes - Winstead PC
Arthur Vargas - Austin Community College
Madge Vasquez - Wachovia Bank
Amy Welborn - Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP
Matt Williamson - The Beck Group
Pat Wilson - First Marathon Financial
For more information on Leadership Austin’s Essential Class and other programs, please visit www.leadershipaustin.org.
I'm sure most of you have noticed that NetworkInAustin.com is not what it once was when we launched this site in early 2005. This is about to change. Stay tuned, especially around our target date of 9/1/2008.
When I originally launched NIA in April of 2005 it had nearly 100% of my attention. At roughly the same time my first daughter was conceived. Fast forward 8 months to a conversation I had with my wife. We were both running start-up businesses. They were both profitable, but not nearly profitable enough to support our growing family. Since then NIA has been on the back burner and not received very much of my attention.
I'm a little upset with myself that it's taken this long, but thanks to a great conversation with one of my business coaches, Stan Tyler, he made the solution sound all too easy. Since that conversation and another referral Stan provided we're roughly 30 days away from a complete relaunch.
There were some major flaws in my original business model (primarily in the pricing). We've found a simple solution for some of these gaps and I know you're going to be pleased.
Ordinarily I am rediculously diligent about having business cards with me. With stashes in my coat pockets, glove compartment, laptop bag, etc. It's nearly impossible for me to be without cards.
Of course this Sunday I was caught in a perfect storm of not having cards. I went for an early morning cycling trip on Loop 360 here in Austin. Met with a small group that had invited me in the past and got a chance to get to know a couple of really great guys during the ride. When we got back to the parking lot where we'd all started it was time for the card exchange. There I was.... No Cards! I'd brought my bike in my wife's van where I didn't have a stash.
The situation was easily rectified. I did get cards from the other guys and followed-up with my own contact information. However the experience taught me (again), that you never know where you're going to be when you need a couple of cards.
The solution is pretty straight forward. Stash those puppies everywhere you can think of: At home, at your office, in your coats (purses for the ladies), in your cars, everywhere! I'm never a fan of the mangled card in the wallet, but a mangled card with your phone number and e-mail address sure beats the heck out of no card at all when you really need it.
There has been a lot of news lately here in Austin created by John Mackey the CEO of Whole Foods. It began with open attacks on his blog against the FTC who it appears is trying to block the Whole Foods acquisition of Wild Oats. Things quickly went down hill when it was discovered that Mackey has posted comments anonymous comments about both Whole Foods and Wild Oats on public message boards.
At a time when I'm constantly talking with folks who are thinking about starting their own business or company blogs this can't be encouraging news. However, I think it only serves to reemphasize the points I've made all along about what you should and shouldn't blog about.
I love blogs because they tend to have a much more personal feel to their writing. More personality comes through due to the more informal nature of the medium. But, there's a fine line between being personal and real and making inappropriate comments that are instantly public. These days it's not just blogs. If you're in any type of high level position ANYTHING you put in writing could become public in the future. Too few people think about that reality when they send an everyday e-mail. It's just too easy to forward that e-mail.
Think before you write! Whether it's your own blog, and e-mail or any type of communication it's important to think it through. My general rule is to not write anything I wouldn't want my mother to see. (I found out recently that she actually reads my blog so it's a good thing I've always followed this rule) Also consider the worst case scenario. If I were to write something disparaging about one of my colleagues and they were to read what I wrote what would happen? It's too easy for this to happen, so it's probably best not to write it in the first place.
Blogs, e-mail and online forums are all incredible ways to communicate. We shouldn't stop using them because we're afraid of them. We just need to use some common sense and be respectful (even if we think we're anonymous).
It has been absolutely amazing to watch the growth in Austin lately. The face of the city is changing almost overnight. It certainly is a lot of fun to watch and be a part of. Apparently this is what the future is going to look like:
Confirming your appointments is a good practice to get into anyway. For the next 3 weeks it's going to be almost a necessity.
If you haven't noticed already everyone's schedules are a little fouled up with the early change to daylight savings time. This change was enacted by Congress just 2 years ago and many software programs that automatically account for daylight savings time are off by an hour. I noticed it myself last week when I was trying to schedule an afternoon appointment. Somehow my Rotary meeting that always happens at noon thought it was starting at 1pm.
There are just too many ways that times could have gotten crossed for the next couple of weeks. Perhaps your software moved something to the wrong spot. Maybe the person you're planning on meeting got tripped up by their software.
The easy fix is simply to call ahead and confirm the time of the meeting.
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
For those of you who read about the first meeting of the Austin Business Bloggers Club you now have a chance to join us.
We'll be meeting next Monday, February 5th at Guero's Taco Bar on South Congress at 5:30pm.
I'll be inviting as many local business bloggers as I can find. If you haven't started your own blog and have been thinking about it this is your chance to learn from some other more seasoned vets who've been doing it for years.
Thom Singer and I presented a new program called: "Networking in the New Year: Developing Your Strategic Plan" to the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce last night.
We promised to make the slides from the presentation available for the folks in attendance. So if you missed the presentation you can get an idea of what we presented: Austin_Chamber_Presentation_5.ppt
Here also are some quick links to some of the other resources we mentioned in our presentation last night:
Once again we had a great turn out and we appreciate all of you who took the time last night to learn how to improve your networking skills and develop some of your own strategies.
Unfortunately you're not able to post comments on my blog. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions about our presentation please write your comments on Thom's Blog.
Thom and I are both professional speakers and speak regularly to a wide variety of audiences. We are both available individually (if you have a preference), or together as we presented last night. If you have an event or organization that you need a speaker for please contact us.
We're now entering our third day of being iced in here in Austin. I'm beginning to go a little stir crazy, and I doubt that I'm the only one.
The entire city of Austin has literally bit completely shut down for the last 3 days. Nobody (in their right mind) is going anywhere... Yet somehow I keep getting my morning newspaper and my mail. How is that possible?
I've never met my newspaper carrier. All I know is that she drives a white truck and usually goes past my house at about 5am. This week she's also my hero! How do they find these people?
Austin American Statesman newspaper delivery application:
7. Are you able to lift up to 50 pounds?
8. Can you drive in rain, sleet, freezing rain, hail, snow, and on roads with a half inch of ice on them?
9. Can you do that one handed while also flinging a newspaper within 10 feet of the front door of the appropriate homes?
Needless to say I'm impressed.
Hopefully we'll be able to get out of the house tomorrow and get back to work.
If you're in Austin, Texas you're probably working from home like me today rather than trying to slide your car around on the hills and bridges of Austin.
Today face-to-face meetings are impractical and all of the regular meetings that you would usually attend have been cancelled. Plus you probably have even more time available than usual since you didn't have to hassle with any type of commute.
Therefore and henceforth by the lack of power vested in me by some non-existent authority I decree today to be: Follow-up Day!
What a great time to pick up the phone and reach out to all of those people you've been meaning to follow-up with, but haven't had a chance. I'm even a little ashamed to admit that I have a number of them myself. (How else do you think I came up with such a great idea?)
If the people you'd like to follow-up with are also here in Austin or Dallas or Waco or you get the idea, then they're probably more reachable than they might ordinarily be.
Only have an office number and they're not in the office? Start with an e-mail and ask if there's a number that they can be reached at. I'm willing to bet you'll get a pretty quick reply in most cases.
Take advantage of this adversity to take your 2007 goals and networking to the next level. Make today your own Follow-up Day!
As you can imagine I'm asked this questions a LOT. It was most recently posed by Chris Garrigues on LinkedIn's new service: LinkedIn Answers.
The short and the long answer to this questions is simply: "It depends."
People network for many different reasons, and there are just as many networking events in Austin. These groups all have different personalities and cultures and some will be a great fit for you, others will not.
First, ask yourself why you want to attend networking meetings? Is it to find more clients? Find a new job? Identify resources to make your business more efficient or grow to the next level? Maybe you're just new to Austin and are looking to make some new friends.
Once you know the why look for the who. Who is it that you want to meet? Prospective new customers, hiring managers, really nice people?
Finally you'll probably want to give some thought to the frequency of meetings. For some a weekly meeting is just too much of a committment, while a monthly meeting would be perfect. For others looking to build deeper relationships a monthly meeting may not be frequent enough.
Unfortunately once you've done all of this ground work the hard work starts. The only real way to know if a group is right for you is to visit a time or two. Once I know what people are looking for I can often make suggestions of groups that 'might' be a good fit. In the end you'll need to check them out for yourself to see if they're right for you.
Another strategy you can get a lot of mileage out of is simply to ask the other networks at the meetings you visit: "What other networking groups do you think are worthwhile?" You'll get a lot of different opinions and suggestions. By asking this type of question you'll be able to learn what may or may not be a good fit for you.
Here's a short list of groups I've visited myself and found to be very good:
Or course there are many more. Most of which you can find on the NetworkInAustin.com Calendar. We've added over 4,000 events for 2007, but still have a lot more work to do. Please check back often.
Thanks to a terrific business blogger who doesn't even live in Austin a new group was formed over dinner at Guerro's last night.
Thanks to the initiative of Jason Alba, founder of JibberJobber.com, 5 of us got together for some great food, networking and of course lively discussion and debate about blogging. Jason was on vacation in Houston, but went out of his way to connect face to face with just a few of the bloggers he's been networking with all over the country (The most important ones, the ones in Austin). This guy has taken blogger networking to a whole new level.
Thanks to Thom Singer who suggest we do this regularly the Austin Business Bloggers Club was born. We're hoping to include a few more local business bloggers at next months dinner. For those of you who fit the profile; consider this an open invitation.
The founders of this new group are pictured above. From left to right:
Jason Alba - JibberJobber Blog
I'll be talking more about JibberJobber.com very soon. For a sneak peak take a look at his website and read his blog. This is especially valuable if you're looking for your next job.
Thom Singer - Some Assembly Required
The 'other' must read networking blog here in Austin. This is my personal favorite blog, and not just because Thom and I are good friends. His posts are quick, concise and always on point.
Liz Handlin - Ultimate Resumes
Meeting Liz was a blast. I've just started reading her blog, and again if you're a job seeker this is an excellent read. She is unbelievably passionate about what she does. She's about a lot more than just a great resume.
Scott Allen - The Virtual Handshake Blog & Linked Intelligence
This was my second chance to get some face time with Scott and it's always a learning experience. Scott is clearly the most prolific writer in the group with multiple blogs and books.
The Austin Business Bloggers Club will meet regularly on the first Monday of each month for dinner at Guerro's starting at 5:30pm. Details will be provided on the calendar of NetworkInAustin.com
After suggesting repeatedly in my last post that you create your own networking plan I thought I'd share a little of my 2007 strategy with you.
Over the last several years I've literally met thousands of people in the Austin business community. However, just meeting someone and exchanging cards does NOT make them part of your network. So my own 'real' network consists of several hundred people.
I personally believe that I'm at a point that I will get the best return on my networking investment of time and money by focusing on deepening my existing relationships. Not that I will stop meeting new people or attending new events. But, I've built my personal network to a point that a lot of that happens automatically. My network continues to grow by itself as others in my network connect me with more and more great people.
When I say I'll be deepening my existing relationships I don't mean ALL of those relationships. First I'll focus on my core network. The total number is roughly a few dozen people who frankly I like a lot and who've made a difference in my life. They represent the quality portion of my network.
My core network is not a static list of folks. The dynamics of relationships change over time and some will come and others will go. That's half the fun.
Once the focus has been put squarely where it belongs comes the real meat of my own strategy. Making a difference in their lives. My job is to find ways to make a contribution to their success and the completion of their goals. Sometimes it'll be small contributions, other times I'll be able to make a huge impact. The important thing is to build the relationship by helping them. It's also important to help them help me. I have to be able to articulate what they can do for me. Relationships are bi-directional.
This strategy of focus, quality and contribution also applies to events. I will probably attend fewer events this year than I have in the past. I can get just as much if not more value by focusing on the events and organizations that have proven to provide me with the most benefit (quality). Then I'll again make a contribution by getting more involved in those organizations.
My hope is that by sharing some of my own strategies you'll have an easier time devising your own. So... What's YOUR 2007 networking strategy?
I’m frequently asked where the best place to network is. The short answer is: “it depends.” There are literally thousands of networking opportunities just in the greater Austin area. Yet some of the best networking doesn’t happen at traditional networking events.
The better answer is that there’s a right place for everyone, and it probably depends more on their personality then on their profession. The best place to network is in an organization that you’re passionate about where you can truly get involved.
Again this will mean different things to different people. For some it might be volunteering more in their church. For others it means becoming the president of their Rotary club. What’s important is that you find something that you truly love and enjoy and make a contribution to the best of your ability. Making great connections will be easy because the people you’ll be working shoulder to shoulder with will be just as passionate about the cause as you are. This provides a great foundation for a long term relationship.
There is an incredible opportunity in Austin to find the right leadership opportunity for your interest and skills. Greenlights for NonProfit Success is a local organization that helps strengthen Central Texas nonprofits through consulting, education, networking and resources. They’ve recently launched a program called BoardPlace where they will match individuals with appropriate nonprofit board positions. This is currently a pilot program and you must apply by November 30th
This is a great chance to find the perfect networking opportunity for yourself.
If you haven't already voted please be sure to take the time to vote today. Polls in Austin will be open until 7pm this evening. www.KeepAustinVoting.com
Thom Singer and I did another presentation for the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce this morning. This was our second breakfast in the series and we facilitated everyone’s networking by helping them to share their “signature stories.”
I’ve expressed my dissatisfaction in the past with elevator pitches. For the most part I think that most are ineffective, forgettable and just take up valuable networking time in group meetings. Rather than just complain Thom and I worked on an alternative solution. We asked people to tell a couple of different stories.
A client story:
Rather than explain what you do, tell a story about how you’ve helped one of your clients. First identify the client by name or type of company (this should represent your target market), then explain how you helped them (what you do), finally talk about the outcome or results that they experienced (this should explain why someone would want to work with you or refer you).
Your Austin story:
Nearly everyone in Austin is from somewhere else, and we all came here for different reasons. Yet we all have one thing in common. We love Austin! So tell your story about Austin. What brought you here, what keeps you here, etc. This is a great way to make a connection with almost anyone in this city whether you’re native or you’re brand new to Austin.
Your background story:
What did you do before you did what you’re doing now? Everyone brings unique talents and perspectives to any industry or occupation. Most often that’s developed by the type of work you’ve done in the past. What was that work, and how does it contribute to what you do today and make you better than your competition?
Think about how you might be able to use these types of stories in place of the traditional elevator pitch. It’s a great way to set yourself apart, and really show your passion in what you do.
Once again the feedback from this event was wonderful. Thank you those of you who took the time to come up to Thom and I afterwards and thank us. Hopefully you’d like to see more of these in the future. I’d encourage you to call the Chamber and tell them how much you enjoyed the presentation.
Of course, both Thom and/or myself are available for other networking speaking engagements whether it’s for your company or department or your association. Feel free to give us a call, we’d love to help.
I’ve been meaning to write this blog post for quite some time. In this post I’ll talk about why I’m a Rotarian, but I’m also planning on starting a series that will probably consist of about 1 post a week that profiles other local business and/or networking groups in Austin. Stay tuned!
I originally joined the Rotary Club of Fountain Valley in California after a good friend pestered me just about every time he saw me for an entire year. I’m really glad he was so persistent; it was probably one of the best things I ever did. That was in 2000. I became a member of the Rotary Club of Austin almost immediately after moving to Austin in 2004, it was one of my biggest priorities after getting here.
I am a Rotarian and will probably be a Rotarian for the rest of my life for several reasons.
The Four Way Test (An ethical test of all things Rotarians think, say and do):
1. Is it the Truth?
2. Is it Fair to all concerned?
3. Will it build Goodwill and better Friendships?
4. Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?
The main reason for my attraction to Rotary is this test, and the fact that most Rotarians subscribe to this test. They’re also focused on “Service Above Self.” Clearly these are the type of business professionals I like to associate with. Because of this principle I’ve found some incredible mentors through my association with Rotary. The funny thing is, the more I give the more I get back so I will be forever indebted to Rotary.
I could go on about Rotary for some time. Instead I’ll share 2 quick stories and if you’re interested in Rotary I’ll encourage you to join me for a meeting to see what it’s really about.
I once did a make-up meeting at the Laguna Beach Rotary Club. I sat next to a gentleman who spent 6 months of the year in Laguna Beach and the other half of the year in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. In conversation with him I learned that the sister club of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii is the Rotary Club of Hiroshima, Japan. I think that says a lot!
As the Treasurer of the club in Fountain Valley I learned a lot about the Rotary Foundation. It’s probably one of the best run foundations in the world. They take everything the raise in a given year and invest those funds for 3 years. The interest that those investments produce over that 3 year period is what runs the Rotary organization. Then 100% of the principal from 3 years ago is spent on Rotary projects. Typically those projects are fun by Rotarians so we know that our money isn’t wasted. It’s truly amazing!
One last story (can you tell I love Rotary?). If it weren’t for Rotary and the friendships I built there I never would have met my wife. For that whole story you can read this article: My wife was referred to me by a Rotarian!
Again, if you’d like to be my guest at a Rotary Club of Austin meeting, or have other questions about Rotary please don’t hesitate to give me a call.
I think I’ll probably write some more about this in the future, but generally speaking I think 30 second elevator pitches are useless. I think it’s time we start looking beyond the elevator anyway. Besides, nobody talks in elevators… they’re almost as quiet as a men’s restroom.
Stories are so much more powerful. Think about the movies for example. Hollywood can throw hundreds of millions of dollars at a movie and it can still fail. Most of the time this happens because there’s not a good story behind the movie, and no amount of special effects and well known actors can overcome this core problem. Great stories are the same reason that Pixar hasn’t had a miss yet. Every one of their movies starts with a really great story.
So what’s your story? A good story is powerful, can help you get your point across much more clearly, and help you build credibility… and if you craft it right it won’t take much more than 30 seconds, although a couple of minutes is perfectly acceptable.
There are two kinds of stories that should serve you well when you’re out networking. A good business story should help someone understand more clearly what it is you do. The easiest of these is a customer success story. How did you help one of your customers? Who are they? What was their challenge? What were the results that you helped them produce?
The second type of story is a personal story. I’ll never stop saying it: “Networking is about relationships.” Telling a personal story is a great way to connect with someone you’re starting to build a relationship with. This can be about anything. The idea is to give your fellow networker a better glimpse of who YOU really are.
I have quite a few short stories about myself that I’ll often tell people when I’m getting to know them: How and why I started NetworkInAustin.com. Why Emily and I moved to Austin/Why we left California. How my wife was literally referred to me.
What’s your story? Think about how you might be able to better describe what you do, what makes you different, and who you are by telling stories. Besides, who doesn’t love a good story?
A long requested feature is now available as part of your NetworkInAustin.com membership. You now have the ability to select multiple business categories to describe your business. This will also improve your changes of being found in our directory.
To select you categories:
1) Login to your account 2) Click "Pages of Content" 3) Click the "info" button 4) Here you will find a list of available Austin Business Categories 5) Select away! 6) Click "save"
Don't forget that the more content you add to your profile the higher your listing position in the Austin Business Directory. So while you're there you might want to consider adding a picture, additional pages, or think about starting that blog to be listed at the very top of the directory.
When you think business networking do you think of more formal networking groups and events? Things like Chamber of Commerce mixers and luncheons, or some other type of leads group or referral group?
Networking doesn’t have to be formal, structured or organized at all. Networking takes all shapes and forms. You might even hang out at coffee shops and strike up a conversation with random folks who happen by like my friend Steve Harper “The Starbucks Stalker.”
Really what prompted this post was my wife. She has started developing an incredible network and probably doesn’t even realize she’s networking even though she lives with me. The Mommy Network is a powerful thing. She knows about all the best places to shop, free classes, and baby playgroups in Austin. When one of these babies gets sick you should see the reinforcements that get sent in. E-mails fly with help and advice, and offers of additional assistance abound. It’s unbelievable.
Then last week I witnessed a pretty spectacular event. For one full afternoon our home was turned into a baby food making factory. 5 moms with babies in tow peeled, diced, boiled, blended, sliced and strained 2 months worth of baby food for themselves. Colette now has far more food choice than I do, and I’ve got to tell you first hand that the stuff is awesome! Everyone was sent home with instructions on what could and couldn’t be frozen, and was satisfied having spent a very productive afternoon having a lot of fun together.
It just goes to show you that networks are everywhere. They’re not always about business, but the mommy network definitely means business!
Look around and find the networks that surround you everyday. Looks an awful lot like an opportunity to me.
If you haven't already been by to check it out NetworkInAustin.com has a Networking Resources area. Here you'll find articles, links to member blogs, a book list and the Weekly Referral Newsletter archive.
Members are encouraged to write articles about networking that would be useful to other networkers. I just received a great one today from Ragen Chastain. Ragen owns a business organization and outsourced administrative assistance company called Total Administrative Solutions. She has built a very successful company almost exclusively through networking.
P.S. If you're a member of NetworkInAustin.com and would like to write an article about the lessons you've learned through networking please e-mail me.
NetworkInAustin.com was publicly launched on May 2nd, 2005. Today marks our first anniversary.
Wow what a year it’s been. I’d like to thank all of members who make NetworkInAustin.com possible. Without you this site would not be what it is today, and this is just the beginning. There is no way I can possibly thank you enough, but I’m going to try. All premium members will receive a special e-mail this morning with a small token of my appreciation. Hopefully you can take advantage of that offer and join me on May 16th.
Special thanks to all of those who’ve added more value than just their membership here on NetworkInAustin.com. I have a lot to be grateful for because there are just too many of you to list everyone and their contributions here. As always I’ve tried to provide you with more value than you’ve provided me. I hope I’m succeeding in that effort.
I’m most excited about the future. The first year has been amazing and I expect every year to be even better. It’s hard for me to image how exciting our 5th and 10th anniversaries are going to be. I hope you’ll all be here to share those with me.
In the end NetworkInAustin.com is about you the networker and the Austin community. Here’s to a bright future of growing together.
For those of you who came out to support me at BiG Austin's Big Idea Awards ceremony last week... Thank you! It was a tremendous event.
For those of you who are members of NetworkInAustin.com... Thank you!!! This award and NetworkInAustin.com would not be possible without you. Thanks for your ongoing support and referrals. You're the reason I constantly work to make NetworkInAustin bigger, better and more valuable for everyone.
Networking doesn't have to always be about referrals, job leads and the like. Sometimes it can be as simple as sharing information and resources.
Emily, Colette and I just got back from a nice little vacation yesterday. We went to visit Emily's parents outside of Syracuse, New York. It was the first time we've traveled and vacationed with Colette. It was a dream! Not only were Emily's parents there, my parents were there as well. So was Colette's great grandmother. We all got together for Easter and Colette's christening. It really was a vacation for Emily and I since we were able to pass Colette between 4 grandparents, 1 great grandparent, 2 uncles and an aunt.
When I'm on vacation I love to read. It's about the only time I read fiction. One of the books I read on the flight to New York was one I had borrowed from a friend. The other 2 I finished while I was there I'm going to give to a couple of other friends.
Books like so many other things we typically use once and then set on a shelf forever. Rather then putting a book on a shelf I find it's much more productive to lend or give them to someone else. Especially if you've finished reading the book and know who would really get a lot of benefit from it.
Think beyond books. What else do you have laying around your office that you hardly ever use that someone else would get a ton of value from?
Having a relationship with your competitors is much more likely to help you than it is to hurt you. I’ve written about competition a few times on this blog (see the competition category), and I often speak about it as well. There is so much good that can come out of being on good terms with your competitor. Something recently happened here in town that showed me yet another benefit of this type of relationship that I hadn’t thought of before.
I’m going to tell this story and leave the names of the individuals and companies out to protect the innocent (and the guilty).
Company A had 2 local sales reps who were both excellent networkers. They both spent nearly 2 years building a very strong client base. During that time they both had a good relationship with one of the sales reps from Company B. Recently Company A had some major problems and couldn’t fulfill their promises to their customers. The 2 reps from Company A quickly saw what was happening. They both have a lot of integrity and quickly left the company to pursue other opportunities.
Both of these reps had spent a substantial amount of time building relationships through networking, and valued the relationships they’d developed with their customers. Because they wanted their customers to be taken care of they spoke with the sales rep they knew from Company B. They both knew that this former competitor could take care of their customers so they referred ALL of their former clients to the sales rep that worked for Company B.
Can you imagine having one of your competitors giving you ALL of the business they had spent the last 2 years developing? It gets better. Company B has over a dozen local sales reps. Only this one individual knew BOTH of the sales reps from Company A since they invested time networking and the other sales reps at Company B did not. Because they went out and networked and built relationships with their competitors they received ALL of the business from the former Company A sales reps.
Pick up the phone. Call one of your competitors today and find a time that you can get together for lunch. You’ll find that they’re people too, and you never know where that relationship might lead.
Recently a fellow networker told us that his wife had been diagnosed with breast cancer. We decided to take action and have formed a Relay for Life team. Out team name is Austin Networkers. The event will be held from 7pm on Friday, April 28th until 7am Saturday April 29th at the Texas School for the Deaf. This is an overnight event and there will be food, live music and the relay itself (please visit the website below for more details). If you can't stay for the whole night that is fine, but please do let me know when you plan to be there so that I can make sure we have people there for the whole time! If you aren't interested in participating please consider donating to any member of the team. Please feel free to forward the e-mail on to other networkers/networking groups that you might be in. The more team members the merrier! Just please have them e-mail me at ragen@totaladministrativesolutions.com so that I can add them to the team list.
You'll click on "Sign up Here" (on the left-hand side, then "I agree" on the next page, then Click on "Join a Team". A dropdown menu will appear and you will be able to select Austin Networkers from the list. The donation to participate is at least $5.00. You can pay with a credit card on the site or you can give me a check or cash for $5.00 and I'll take care of it for you (just click the button that indicates that you are on a team and have already paid).
Next is the fun part - Fundraising!!!!!! I will work with the leaders of the networking groups I'm in to see if we can pass the hat but it would be great if you could reach out to your individual networks as well. Every little bit helps. I have set our team fundraising goal at $2,500.00 and I think that we can blow that out of the water!!!!!! Once you've registered you can click on "E-mail Friends" and they will help you compose an e-mail to your family and friends allowing them to click on your website address and donate to you.
Please let me know once you've registered and (with the help of the fabulous Sue Foss at Cedar Valley Group!) we'll put together a team e-mail list to help us communicate. Thank you so much for your interest! I'm really excited about using all of our networks to support such a great cause.
Feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions and feel free to invite people from your other networking groups to join our team. The more the merrier!!!!!!!
Thank you Ragen for spearheading this! What better way to network than to spend 12 hours celebrating life with other committed networkers?
I hope you'll plan on being at the University of Texas Club on Wednesday, April 12th from 4:30 - 6:00pm.
My good friend Thom Singer and I will be presenting: "The Art of Building your Network" for the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce. Thom is the author of: "Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Keep and Grow Your Business Relationships" and truly walks the talk when it comes to business networking.
Tickets are just $25 for Chamber members and $40 for "future" Chamber members.
I was really excited about this event when I registered for it a couple of weeks ago. Now I have even more reason to be excited. I was told earlier this week that I was a finalist for their Rookie of the Year Award. I hope you'll come out and support me at this event.
Of course, I'm not the only reason you'll want to register today to attend on April 20th...
This year's keynote speaker will be Dr. Randal Pinkett, winner of Donald Trump's - The Apprentice. Dr. Pinkett will talk about his own successes and challenges in growing his own small business into a multimillion dollar company. Tickets for this event are only $50.
Better yet, for only $20 more you can start your morning on the day of the BiG IDEA Awards with Gary Hoover at the BiG Breakfast. Gary will share his 8 Keys to a Successful Business. For those of you who don't already know Gary Hoover is a gifted visionary and entrepreneur who has done it all, can explain it clearly and connects with any audience to whom he speaks. He founded Bookstop, Inc., which went on to over $2.5 billion in sales before being bought out by Barnes & Noble in 1998 and Hoovers online, the number one source for online business information that was sold to Dun and Bradstreet. He now devotes his energies to teaching the strategic thinking, learned lessons and principles of entrepreneurship that guided him up the ladder of success. He encourages audience members to step back from the details and look at the big picture of accomplishment.
On April 13th the Women's Chamber of Commerce of Texas will hold it's 16th Annual: Money and Power Conference (MapCon).
Be sure to register for this incredible event before April 7th and save yourself a few dollars. They'll also be hosting a VIP networking reception on April 12th at Laguna Gloria.
Their keynote speaker this year will be Sheila Johnson - the first African-American Woman Billionaire, Co-founder of BET Cable Network and owner of the Washington Mystics. She'll be joined by an incredible celebrity panel including:
Christine Haas - KVUE-TV Anchor Mo Anderson - Vice Chairman, Keller Williams International Diane Heavin - Founder, Curves International Norma S. Garza - Presidential Advisor, U.S. Department of Education Gloria Ray - President and CEO, Knoxville Tourism & Sports Corp. Patti Smith - President and General Manager, KVUE-TV
Coming May 16: The Austin Independent Business Alliance CLIC Trade Show: Connecting and Linking Independents with Commercial Developments
Created for the local business community, the CLIC Trade Show will provide you with the Knowledge, Connections and Tools you need to grow your business in Austin, Texas. To be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2006, 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. at St. Edward's University, 3001 S. Congress Ave.
Knowledge... Find out how to leverage public and private preferences for local business. Attend sessions on Leasing, Lending, Marketing, and General Business Development led by experts in these industries.
Connections... Network with leaders in the Central Texas commercial development industry, schedule one-on-one sessions with financial institutions, meet successful local retailers and representatives from the City of Austin. Make valuable connections to help you take the next step forward for your business.
Tools... Attendees will receive training opportunities ranging from business plan basics, setting up a DBA, and procuring build-out loans to negotiating leases and becoming a subcontractor for new developments.
Stacy Mitchell, Keynote Spreaker Stacy Mitchell is a senior researcher with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, a 32-year-old national nonprofit organization working to advance sustainable, community-based economic development. Ms. Mitchell specializes in strategies to strengthen and expand locally owned retail businesses and has served as an advisor to policymakers, community organizations, and small business groups across the country. She is the author of the book The Hometown Advantage, regularly contributes articles to magazines and newspapers, and has produced reports such as, 10 Reasons Why Maine's Homegrown Economy Matters and 50 Proven Ways to Revive It. A frequent speaker at conferences and forums, Ms. Mitchell also chairs the board of the American Independent Business Alliance, a coalition working to build awareness of the value of locally owned businesses. She lives in Portland, Maine. More information about the Institute for Local Self-Reliance can be found at http://www.ilsr.org/
Special Offer! Network in Austin Members can sign up for the AIBA member rate. Register Today for the Full Event, or the Keynote Breakfast at www.IBuyAustin.comor call 512-441-2123.
For Exhibitor Information, contact Melissa Miller at Melissa@IBuyAustin.comor 512-266-3328.
The global technology community will be converging on Austin the first week of May (May 1 -5). As I learn more and more about this event I am absolutely blown away by their plans and the audience and speakers that they're drawing.
Even if you’re not associated with technology in any way it’s worth spending 3 minutes on the WCIT 2006 website to learn about what will be happening here in Austin in just a few short weeks. Check it out at: www.wcit2006.com
If you’re not ready to spend your whole week at the conference you can still network with these folks. Their offering a “Lone Start Party” on May 3rd at the Bob Bullock Museum. Tickets are only $45. For more details about this party: WCIT – Lone Star Party
They’re also offering a “Social and Networking Events Package” that includes 2 additional events for $175. You’ll have to dig into the site a little deeper to find that (hint: click to purchase tickets on the lone star party page).
After years of networking, referrals still don't always make sense to me. They never seem to come from the people I'd expect them from. The lesson I've learned is that it's most important to take care of those people who DO refer you.
Referral partners don't always work out the way we think they will. I'll be the first to admit that I've spent dozens of hours getting to know certain individuals who I thought could refer me a lot of business. I've bought them lunch after lunch, learned about their business, their families and their interests. I worked hard to make sure I gave them value. Usually in the form of referrals to help them grow their own businesses. Even still, some of these folks have NEVER referred me. Not because we don't have a great relationship and trust each other. It just hasn't happened.
I went through this experience over and over while I was building my IT consulting business in California. Fortunately I've learned from my mistakes since I've been here in Austin.
I'm always surprised by where my referrals come from. The individuals that refer me are almost never the people I would expect. Here's they key: If someone refers you once they are far more likely to refer you again... and again... and again!
Pay close attention to where you referrals come from. Spend the bulk of your time cultivating relationships with those people who DO refer you, not on those who COULD refer you. Of course I'm not saying you shouldn't be building new relationships with people who are in a great position to refer you. I'm simply suggesting that you invest in the people who are already helping you.
Add value however you can. Certainly the best way to thank someone for a referral is to turn around and refer them. That's what most people are looking for, but don't assume. Take the time to get to know the great people who refer you. What makes them tick? Look for things that you can do for them that may not be obvious. Only by asking and building an even stronger relationship will you learn how you can really help someone.
If you're anything at all like me one of the key reasons you network is to get referrals. Do a good job of taking care of the people who take care of you, and you'll get more and wonderful referrals.
One of the things that separates good networkers from great networkers is their ability to ask specifically for what they need.
Good networkers know that you have to give to get. On the surface they're great, especially in the eyes of those they're giving those precious referrals to. Where the fail is in asking for what they need.
I don't mean asking generally for referrals, I mean asking specifically for referrals.
Too often we're afraid to ask specifically. We think we might miss out on those referrals for the other things that we do, or people will forget the full scope of our capabilities. In reality the opposite is true. If you ask broadly for what you need it's likely you'll get nothing. For some reason Dentists and Chiropractors seems to be the worse offenders of the broad ask. If I hear one of these lines again I'm going to scream: "A good referral for me is anyone with a spine." "The best referral this week is someone you know with teeth."
Let me make this very clear. I know hundreds of people and have their direct contact information readily available with me all the time in my ridiculously huge phone. I'm pretty sure that almost all of them have a spine, and the same goes for teeth. How many referrals do the generic chiropractors and dentists get from me? ZERO!
Now, if they ask a more specific question: "I'm looking for a parent you know whose child is suffering from repeated ear infections." Now I might know a person or two that fits that category. Don't be afraid to ask specifically, I promise you won't miss out on all of the referrals to people with spines.
The more specific the better. A great networker friend of mine recently asked if anyone at the table we were sitting at knew someone at a specific company here in Austin. He was immediately handed 3 cards.
From my own experience I don't want to have to work too hard. It's not that I'm lazy, it's just much easier if you're specific. Remember all of those contacts that live in my phone? If you can narrow that list down to 2 or 3 I'm much more likely to give you their information, and maybe even a personal introduction. If you can't narrow your request down to less than a dozen people that I know it's just going to be too much work for me. I'm sure I'm not alone. There are many networkers who are much lazier than I am. :)
I've created a simple task list for you the next time you need something: 1) Ask for what you want! If you don't ask nobody will be able to help you. 2) Be as specific as possible when you're asking for what you want.
To be honest this post is more of a preemptive strike on my part than anything else. It's now Thursday evening and I think I've gotten a total of 12 hours of sleep all week. Fatherhood is tiring business, even when Emily is doing most of the work. This lack of sleep has caused me to make some pretty goofy gaffs and blunders. Well, the lack of sleep is a good excuse anyway. Everything from introducing someone I spent two hours with the prior week by the wrong name, to getting up in the middle of one of my member's speeches to pace in the back of the room for fear I would fall asleep and snore loudly if I didn't.
We all make mistakes. I generally find that it's best to be humble, and have a good sense of humor. Admit when you're wrong, and be willing to laugh at yourself. It's also nice to be forgiving of others. Hopefully they'll return the favor when it's your turn to goof. At least that's my hope.
If you're lucky you'll make one of your goofs in front of a national audience and be imortalized in blogs and viral e-mails for all eternity. You know they say all publicity is good publicity. Even if you are a USC Cheerleader at the Rosebowl who cheers for a UT Touchdown on their way to winning the National Championship.
If you haven't already heard the buzz surounding Catalyst 8:
The mission of Catalyst 8 is to spread awareness about the Long Center for the Performing Arts and the arts in Austin. To provide opportunities for social and professional access and involvement and to develop future leaders for the Austin community.
Tomorrow, December 31, 2005 is the last day to become a founding/charter member of Catalyst 8. Your pledge of just $500 will take care of your membership for 3 years instead of one. In addition to your charter membership and recognition as a founding member you'll also receive invitations and free admission to all monthly Catalyst 8 events.
I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity before the end of the year and join me as a founding member of Catalyst 8
We're continuing to build the networking and business events calendar on NetworkInAustin.com and I need your help.
In 2005 from April to December we had over 4,000 events listed. My feeling is that this is maybe 25% of what's really out there in our community. It's my personal goal to make sure that the free calendar that you find here on NetworkInAustin.com be as complete as possible.
NetworkInAustin.com covers the Greater Austin Texas area from Georgetown to San Marcos and all parts in between. We list ALL networking events, and most business events.
If you are involved with events or know about events that are not listed we'd like to know about them. We're in the process of developing an event submission form. In the mean time please e-mail the following details to events@networkinaustin.com:
Event Name Date of the event Start and finish time Event frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, varies, one time, etc.) Cost Organization Location name Location address Contact name Contact phone number Contact e-mail Website address
Also, we're happy to include a description of the event. These descriptions may be edited.
Thanks for your help in making NetworkInAustin.com one of the best business resources available in Austin, Texas
In my last post, Investing in Networking, I compared networking to investing. You may want to read that post before reading this one. The way you invest in networking is by investing in people and relationships.
Each time you can make an impact in somebody else’s life you’re investing in them. You might be able to give them a referral, connect them with a mentor, or provide some other type of resource or advice. It’s these investments that will pay dividends in the future. Just be sure not to expect it from them. Forcing your expectations on these people you’ve invested in will quickly spoil your relationship with them.
I’ve made many many investments in people. Sometimes it’s a small piece of advice that may or may not have been useful for the person I gave it to. Other times I’ve gone out of my way to help someone on their own road to success. In every case I’ve always gotten back more than I’ve given. Even if what I got back was the satisfaction of having helped make a difference in someone else’s life.
I can’t tell you how many people have, and are making investments in me. The generosity I’ve seen, especially here in Austin has been amazing. Those of you who know me know that my memory isn’t always the greatest. That being said, I don’t ever forget the people who have helped me. It’s very important for me personally to make sure that those who have invested in me not only get back at least what they invested, but also interest on their investment.
It almost always works out… You might want to read my previous post about “Networking Karma.” Things don’t always come back exactly the way you’d expect, but a lot of times they do. I’ve been fortunate enough to have been on both ends of these investments where one person did so much more for the other it didn’t seem like it would be possible to ever repay them. In almost every case it’s worked itself out. These are the ultimate win/win situations.
Sometimes the results of your networking efforts go beyond your wildest expectations. On page 14 of the December 2005 issue of Living Magazine's West Austin Edition is a full page story about my greatest networking success... My wife! Also, this article is the result of networking and "showing up."
It's really an honor to be considered "Mr. Network." Of course I couldn't do it without a little help from my friends. That's what networking is all about. Thanks to all of you who consider me part of your network.
An important part of successful networking is being gracias and saying thanks. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of year because it forces many of us to recount all of the things that we’re thankful for (I also like holidays that revolve around food!).
Being thankful is not an event that happens once a year. It’s something that we should be doing, and saying, all year long. Thanking our families, our employees, our customers, our vendors, those that refer us business, and our mentors. The more we say thank you the more we realize how much we really have in our lives.
Now if you’ll indulge me I’d like to publicly share some of the things that I’m thankful for this year…
First and foremost I’m thankful for my wife Emily for her love and support and all that she’s willing to go through to give us our first child. She is absolutely unbelievable, and I am beyond lucky to have her in my life. Thank you Emily!
I’m thankful for my family. They’ve always been supportive of me, and are always there when I need them. Without them serving as my foundation I wouldn’t have been able to do many of the things I’ve done. Thank you!
I’m thankful for my health, and for Austin. I’ve actually gotten healthier since I’ve been in Austin, and I think we found the best place in the country to live. The people here are unbelievable. We’re home. Thank you Austin!
I’m thankful for all of my friends. I’ve made a lot of new ones here in Austin, and you know who your true friends are when you move 1500 miles away. I’m especially thankful for my running friends who wake up at ridiculous hours of the morning to run together. I wouldn’t be able to keep running without them. Thank you!
I’m thankful for NetworkInAustin.com and all that it’s provided for me personally. The people that provided the referrals and introductions and technology to allow for NetworkInAustin.com to even exist can’t be thanked enough!
I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me, and made so much of what you’re looking at right now possible. The referrals, support, ideas, suggestions, criticism, encouragement, and love have been priceless. I guess what I’m saying is that I’m thankful for my network. They’ve done things for me that I may never be able to repay, but I’ll sure as heck try. Thank you!
I’m thankful for my mentors, some of whom don’t even know they’re my mentors. I learn from them every time they make time for me. Their support and belief in me gives me a lot of drive and courage. They also save me from making a lot of mistakes that I’d make on my own. Thank you!
I’m thankful for all of you! If you’re reading this blog post it probably means that you’re supportive of me and what we’re trying to accomplish with NetworkInAustin, especially if you’ve read this far. You make this possible. Thank you!
I’m really thankful for the fact that this isn’t even close to everything I’m thankful for!
I'm really excited to announce that we've added the approved "Video Business Cards" to several of our member's profiles.
At the last NetworkInAustin.com member orientation Andy Choquette of Leverage Communications filmed these quick and dirty "Video Business Cards" of the Premium Members who were in attendance that day.
I think you'll agree that these videos add a whole lot more personality then just a picture and some text. Watch them all!
Yesterday I attended the InnoTech conference at the Austin Convention Center. All in all it was a great show. There were some fabulous speakers, and I think most of those who attended got a lot out of it. Especially at the bargain price it was offered for.
I just don’t understand why I always feel like I need to walk down the center of trade show aisles so that I’m not accosted by obnoxious sales people. A good sales presentation is a dialogue between two or more parties, and a good sales person knows that they should be asking a lot of questions. Why does this get thrown out the window at trade shows?
When I first walked in I had a very nice conversation with Jan Triplett of the Business Success Center. I already knew Jan, and she did a great job of introducing visitors to her booth to each other. Jan is the poster child of what good networking is all about.
Then it went down hill. Apparently I walked too close to another booth. A woman launched into a good 10-12 minute presentation about a $10,000 product that I have no need for, nor would I ever likely have a need for. She might have known that had she asked me a single question about who I was and what I did.
After that I spent the rest of my time at the show avoiding other vendors not wanting to get sucked into the vortex of another mindless sales pitch.
Those of you who’ve been reading my blog for a while now know that I don’t often complain or get upset like this. It just frustrates me to see people like this who miss the point and ruin it for the good exhibitors. Unfortunately I think too many of these people were “professionals” who work trade shows for a living. Somehow they’re the worst ones?
Selling is not difficult. It just takes some common sense. If you simply treat other people the way you’d want to be treated in a sales situation it’s easy. Respect other people, and learn about them and what they need. A good sales person should be the very first person to recognize when a particular product or service is not appropriate for someone, AND SAY SO!
Enough of my soapbox… Other than that incident I had a great time and met a lot of wonderful people. I’m looking forward to developing relationships with several of them who particularly impressed me.
Remember, networking at events like InnoTech is absolutely useless if you don’t take the time to follow-up with the people you met. All of the people I met yesterday (who I exchanged business cards with) will hear from me by the end of the week.
Call them what you will: card sharks, negative networkers, time wasters, unprofessionals sales professionals. The cure for these poor unfortunate souls is simple. Simply suggest that they read the "Business Networking in Austin Blog" which of course they can find on NetworkInAustin.com :)
Before I start today’s tip I’d just like to thank all of the NetworkInAustin.com members who came out to support me at Freelance Austin yesterday. For all of the freelancers who were in attendance I hope you learned a little bit more about business blogs and about networking and will find the rest of the information on my blog useful.
Following-up is probably the single most important part of successful networking and often the most difficult. Without following-up with the people you meet at networking events you can’t take the relationship to the next level. Networking is not about meeting as many people as possible, it’s about building quality relationships.
I don’t think I know anyone who is perfect at following-up. So don’t feel like you have to be perfect, just be sure to make the effort.
Don’t feel like you have to follow-up with every single person you meet either. You won’t be able to keep up. Focus on those that are most important to you, whatever those reasons are. If you participated in the networking exercise that I facilitated yesterday at Freelance Austin you talked with 4 people. Pick just one or two of those people and follow-up, preferably today (After you finish reading my blog of course!).
Make an effort to do your follow-up in a timely manner. The sooner you can do it after meeting someone the more likely they are to remember who you are. You won’t have to spend as much time reestablishing the relationships; you can simply start where you left off. You’ll see the best results if you can reconnect with those you’ve met within 1-2 days, but anytime within a week or so will work also. Even if you can’t follow-up within a week or 10 days don’t stress. Late follow-up is 100% better than no follow-up at all.
E-mail is certainly the easiest way to follow-up, and I think you should consider more than just an e-mail. If you can setup a time to get together via e-mail that’s fine. However, adding a phone call, or a quick thank you note will add a lot of impact to your follow-up. Why? Because very few other people do those things.
We’re all busy and probably have too much to do. It’s important to make the time to follow-up or we’re really wasting much of the time that we’re spending at networking events.
Since I’ll be speaking at Freelance Austin this afternoon I’ve decided to post all of my notes on my blog instead of bringing handouts. That way those in attendance can always go back and find what it was I talked about, and those who couldn’t attend can get the general idea of what was said.
Let’s start with the reasons why anyone in business whether they’re a freelance artist or writer or the CEO of a large organization should consider starting a business blog.
Demonstrate your expertise Showing that you are an expert on a particular topic is far more powerful than simply saying you’re an expert. Develop content Your blog will force you to write regularly. This writing easily lends itself to articles, books and marketing collateral. Make a personal connection Blogs don’t have to be dry and boring. By injecting your personality you can create personal connections with your readers. Low to no cost Blogs are one of the least expensive forms of marketing available today. The primary investment will be of your time. Networking with other bloggers As a business blogger you’ll instantly have something in common with other experts with whom you can network. Search engines love blogs Reiterate your core keywords and draw new customers to what you’ve written. Communicate with customers and prospects Keep your customers up to date on your company and new products. Attract new customers with new information. Show that you're current There’s nothing like a blog post dated yesterday to show that you’re still alive and kicking and ready for more business! Build credibility through consistency Blogging consistently demonstrates that you are reliable and committed.
I’m sure there are more that I’ve missed. To learn more about business blogging take a look at the “Business Blogging” category on this blog. This will bring up all of the posts that I’ve written about my blogging experience and blogging in general. If you have any questions or comments I’d love to hear from you. E-mail me at: scott |at| NetworkInAustin.com.
If you're available next Wednesday, November 9th between 12:30pm and 1:45pm I hope you'll attend the Freelance Austin meeting to hear me speak.
I'll be talking about how a business blog can bring you more business. You'll also learn about some other benefits of building your own blog. For example, you could use your blog to invite readers of your blog to your next speaking engagement. :)
Following my talk about business blogging I'll lead a brief facilitated networking session. This will give you a chance to meet some local Austin freelancers; writers, photographers, marketing consultants, PR professionals and more.
A friend of mine forwarded a request for the Austin Business Journal’s “Ask the Experts” feature. The question posed was: “How can you find a target market that will provide your best growth opportunity?”
I’m going to answer this question two different ways. First I’ll discuss choosing a niche, second I’ll talk about finding a target market that will allow you to leverage one opportunity into the next. Several years ago when I was still in Southern California I was at an event where the speaker was a SCORE counselor. His topic was business planning, but he didn’t spend a whole lot of time talking about writing a business plan. Instead he completely changed my concept of what a niche market is. I wish I could remember that SCORE counselor’s name, because I’d love to give him the credit he is due.
His definition of a niche market was one that was small enough that you could afford to communicate with them at least on a monthly basis. For most small business that is a VERY small number. He shared his own example of being a former PG&E employee turned financial planner. His market was all of the PG&E employees in one particular building. The total number of individuals was just under 1,000. He knew he could afford to market to these individuals at least once a month.
At first I thought the guy was a little nuts and was limiting himself. Then I understood the real power of such a tightly focused niche. He could complete dominate that niche and within a relatively brief period of time have the largest share of that market. How could any other financial services company possibly compete with him? Even the big boys wouldn’t be able to touch him. Why? Once he started working with a number of individuals it would invariably come time to make changes to their 401K plan. When people started asking around they’d get the same answer from several people: “Bob with XYZ Financial helped me out, he’s great.” Imagine the credibility he had when more than one person referred him. Plus he understood his market better than anyone else possibly could. As a former employee he was able to work with them using the PG&E memo format that they were so accustomed to.
The power of having such a narrowly defined, specific niche is incredible. The best way to ask for referrals is to be as specific as possible. With a niche that’s 100% defined this way it’s easy to ask for referrals. In ‘Bob’s’ case he could simply ask: “Frank, do you regularly have lunch with any co-workers? Would you be willing to tell them about the experience you’ve had with me?” It’s that easy.
Personally I have taken a slightly different approach. I always look to get as much leverage from my target market as possible. In all of my business ventures I have always targeted businesses that provide services to other businesses. If I can provide incredible service that is beyond the expectations of my client I know they’ll be willing to refer me. When all of their clients are made up of other businesses I have a large pool of potential clients that they can refer me to. This has always provided me with an unending source of new business, and I never have to make a cold call!
Currently I’m working to build relationships with businesses and individuals that provide marketing consulting and services to other local businesses. These relationships give us both a lot of leverage in creating a win/win strategic alliance. We are able to help these companies add more value for their clients by referring them to us, and we’re able to do the same by referring our clients to them, or by paying a referral fee.
Look at your own business. Could you get more benefit by more narrowly defining your target market? Are there ways that you could get more leverage in working with your existing target market? Spending some time thinking about these issues should prove to be a great investment of your time.
If you have any questions, or if there’s any way I can help you answer these questions please feel free to contact me. I’d love to sit down with you.
Now I just need to fit all of what I just said into just 75 words for the Business Journal. Wish me luck.
I was fortunate enough to meet Scott Allen last night. Scott is the co-author of a new book called “The Virtual Handshake” which discusses online and electronic networking. He is also the entrepreneurs guide on About.com (www.virtualhandshake.com and entrepreneurs.about.com). Lucky for us Scott lives here in Austin.
Scott and I had a great conversation about what’s missing from a lot of networking books. That is the fact that there isn’t just one way to network. What might be the perfect method for one person might be totally wrong for the next and vice versa.
The best strategy is one that helps you accomplish your networking goals. Whether that’s to land a new job, get more clients, get funding for your new venture or even to make some new friends. Think about what different strategies would be most effective in helping you accomplish that goal.
For instance… It might make the most sense for one person to build very strong and deep relationships with 8-10 targeted individuals for them to accomplish their long term networking goals. It might make more sense for another person to cast as wide a net as possible and build a vast network of thousands of contacts to reach their networking goal. It all comes down to each particular individual and their needs.
What do you need? Is your networking strategy really helping you accomplish your networking goals?
Yesterday I had the pleasure of meeting Dean Lindsay, the author of “Cracking the Networking CODE.” Dean had invited me to hear him speak to the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives (TCCE). We were able to sit down for about an hour before the event to get to know each other and share our philosophies.
Dean’s primary business is an organization he founded called Progress Agents. He spends most of his time speaking to groups and doing workshops in the areas of sales, marketing and customer service. When I asked him how he got into that business and how all of this ties together his one word for me was “Communication.” He then went on to say that what he teaches is Authentic and Honest Communication.
He is so right about these to elements. It’s the authentic and honest networkers who get the best results. They’re able to quickly build rapport with just about anyone, and for them it’s usually a pretty short trip from rapport to trust. Trust being the key ingredient needed before any referrals are likely to be given.
This caused me to think about great sales people. In my opinion the best sales person is the one who whole heartedly believes in the product he or she is selling. It’s that belief that allows them to communicate their sales message and be 100% authentic and honest in their communication. We all have a sixth sense about someone’s authenticity and honesty. We don’t always recognize it for what it is, but it’s what causes us to trust this person and makes us willing to buy from them.
This is certainly true for me personally. I know, unfortunately from experience, that I absolutely cannot sell anything that I don’t completely believe in.
Personally I love the fact that being authentic and honest get such great results. Why? Because it’s so easy. In order for me to get the very best results all I have to do is be ME. I can do that. I know that you can too.
P.S. You can learn more about Dean Lindsay and his book at: www.progressagents.com. I’ll also post a review of Dean’s book in the not too distant future.
Last Tuesday I attended Leadership Austin's first Leadership Horizons event where the topic was "Personal Branding."
Dr. Ted Middelberg of Systemic Leadership LLC did a great job presenting this interactive workshop. I think all of those who were in attendance got a lot out of it.
With Ted's permission I wanted to share the contents of one of his slides with you. The focus of the presentation was leadership, however I think the topic had a much broader appeal than just leadership. The slide was titled: Positioning and Leadership
Leadership research does find a consistent list of traits one might hope to possess if one wants to be PERCEIVED by other as leaders: - Intelligence, Self-confidence, Determination, Integrity and Sociability
Leadership research finds that a key difference between "effective" and "successful" leaders is their skill at networking.
Again, I think the context here is far broader than just leadership. I would submit that the five characterists mentioned (Intelligence, Self-confidence, Determination, Integrity and Sociability) are also the traits of a successful networker, and of someone who is "referable."
Thank you Ted and Leadership Austin for putting together such a valuable workshop. I look forward to many more.
If you're interested in Leadership Austin's Leadership Horizons learn about their coming events:
Since we’ll be at the Austin Business Trade Show next Tuesday I thought I’d share some specific networking tips you can use at trade shows. I’ll be facilitating some structured networking from 6:30 – 7:30pm during the event. Please come out and join us. Tickets are only $10, and if you’re already a NetworkInAustin.com member they’re only $5 each! What a deal.
Trade shows are a great place to network. People are there to meet other people, and learn about who’s doing what. These 6 tips will help you maximize the networking opportunities at any trade show.
1. Meet the exhibitors
The exhibitors at any trade show paid to be able to talk to you. Make an effort to visit as many vendors as you can. Learn about them and what they have to offer. You might also ask who their target market is, or who their ideal client is.
2. Make it fun!
Consider making a game out of your networking efforts. Try to meet at least one new person every 10-15 minutes. That’ll give you enough time to spend 5 or 10 minutes getting to know them. You’ll also have a few minutes left over to meet your next new friend.
3. Listen
When you’re meeting new people listen more than you talk. Try to find a common interest. Ask them about their business and their personal interests. This information will come in handy later when you follow-up with them.
4. Give people value, be a resource
Be listening for ways that you can help people. Direct them to the exhibitor you met earlier who might have a great solution for them. Tell them about the great drawing you just entered, and suggest that they do the same. Offer to introduce them to someone else you know at the event who you think they might be able to make a good connection with.
5. Use business cards
Business cards are a tool. After you meet someone be sure to ask them for a business card. Take a couple of seconds to make a couple of notes about what you learned about them. Before handing someone your own business card you might want to write a quick note that will add value. Write the name of a website they might find useful (NetworkInAustin.com perhaps?), a book, another networking event. Anything that will make your card stand out, because you’ve show that you’re a valuable resource.
6. Follow-up
This is probably the most important tip of all. Your networking efforts at any networking event are unlikely to bear any fruit if you don’t take the time to follow-up with those you met. Be sure to make at least one preferably two contacts with each person you met in the following week. A hand written note and a voicemail. A brief phone conversation and an e-mail. Just be sure to reconnect so you can truly begin building a relationship.
I've been fortunate enough over the past few months to get to know Thom Singer. Last week I had the pleasure of being one of the first people to purchase (in person) Thom's new book "Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships."
I'll be talking about Thom's book more in a later post, after I read it a second time. Fortunately it's a quick read and I know I'll get even more out of it reading it again.
I have a huge amount of respect for those who undertake the huge challenge of writing a book. Actually finishing that project and having a book in hand is incredible.
Blogging is becoming more and more mainstream. This article says that there are 10 million Americans blogging and about 35 million reading those blogs. Those are pretty substantial numbers. I think this shows that blogging is not something that can be ignored, of course if you're reading this than you're not ignoring blogging are you?
One of the most interesting parts of this article is the mention of a blogger named Bray. When he's interviewed for a job they really don't need to ask him very many questions because they've already learned so much about him by reading his blog. They also talk quite a bit about companies that are hiring "googling" potential employees to learn about them and their backgrounds. The results of a Google search are probably going to be a lot more telling than what's in a resume.
Googling is not just something that hiring departments are doing. Your clients, customers and even fellow networkers are Googling you. Blogs are a great way to be in control of what they're reading about you. It's not like they're trying to dig up dirt, for the most part they just want to get to know who you are. They're also a great networking tool.
I recently posted a comment on another blog and their comment back was: "I think I’ve networked with more people in the past 6 mths than I did for the last 2 years - and all because of my blog."
I've only been blogging for a few months and the results have been unbelievable. Sure there are some potential pitfalls. Saying anything negative is going to have consequences (I think my mother had something to say about that: "if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all"). It's really just common sense. A blog is public, and essentially a permanent record so you need to really think about the consequences of anything you say. That may turn some people off, but I think the benefits far outway the potential pitfalls.
The guest blogger concept is something Thom is planning on doing every Friday. I think this is an incredible idea. I talk about why in my guest post on Thom's blog: Networking and Blogging, Blogging and Networking
Are you as tired of this line as I am? I'm tired of hearing it, I'm tired of asking it. I think it's time, as a networking community, that we try and move beyond this overused question.
I asked my friend, Steve Harper, to post his insights about this very topic on his blog: The Ripple Effect. He was kind enough to oblige and wrote: "Dippy Do & Networking TOO - COME ON ORIGINALITY....WHERE HAVE YOU GONE?" Thank you Steve for taking the time to do this for me. Steve is also the auther of the book The Ripple Effect which is available to NetworkInAustin.com members at a discount on our book list. I highly recommend Steve's book. It'll give you some good insights into the relationship aspect of networking, and will show you that what comes around goes around even in business.
So... What do you do?
The real problem with this line is that it does nothing to move us in the direction of a personal connection with the person we've just met. Really all it does is opens the door for a canned and over used elevator speech. Yuck!
What we're really trying to do is to open the door into this persons world. Who are they? Why are they here? What is the meaning of life? Getting to something personal is what you're really trying to uncover. This is easier to do if you do as Steve suggests and don't take yourself or networking so seriously.
Now I'm not suggesting that you avoid the topic of business completely. It's still important and that's probably why you're there at a networking event in the first place. What I'm suggesting is that you move beyond and outside of business to learn something REAL about your new friend. You don't need to be pushy and overzealous. Just let the conversation develop naturally. I think you'll find that you're able to develop better rapport and more trust by taking this approach. Keep this up and more business won't be far behind.
Over the last few weeks we’ve been working with Nick Taylor who is organizing the Austin Business Trade Show. We’re proud to be onboard as a Gold Sponsor of this business to business event to be held at the Palmer Event Center on October 4th, 2005.
Along with our sponsorship we’re able to offer members of NetworkInAustin.com a 15% discount on vendor booths (and they were reasonably priced to begin with).
I will also be facilitating some structured networking during the event. Not only will you be able to learn about some other businesses, you’ll also have an opportunity to begin building some relationships through networking.
Tickets for this event are an absolute bargain! NetworkInAustin.com members can attend for only $5.00 (no I didn’t leave out a digit or misplace the decimal point). Even non-members can attend for only $10.00. I doubt that’ll break anybody’s bank.
I look forward to seeing you there. Stop by our booth and come to the facilitated networking. If we haven’t already met please introduce yourself. It’s always a blast meeting the folks who are reading my blog.
Business blogging is certainly a fairly recent phenomenon. Now that it’s here I think it’s here to stay, at least until it gets replaced by something better. I also think blogging for business presents some pretty unique opportunities.
The biggest opportunity in using a blog for business is using it to position yourself as an expert. The traditional route to demonstrating professional expertise is through writing articles, books and speaking. All of those except for speaking tend to remove the personality of the expert. What I mean by that is if you were to write an article or a book. By the time it’s been edited it’s really just information. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but would anybody know the difference if it was your name as the author of the book or my name? Generally your personality is removed from these vehicles. A blog on the other hand because of its tendency towards stream of consciousness and opinion tends to leave ones personality intact, if not accentuate it. From my perspective that’s a very good thing. We all want to feel a connection to the people we’re doing business with. In most cases we do business with people, not companies. A business blog allows us to demonstrate our expertise while at the same time building rapport and making a personal connection to our reading audience.
Blogging is a great way to develop content for those books and articles. A good blogger will post to their blog at least a couple of times a week. This forces us to write on a regular basis. Do this long enough and you’re going to have a pretty substantial set of content. This can easily be turned into articles or even a book. I’ve only been blogging for about a month and this will be my 17th post. I didn’t even realize how much I’d written until I just went back to count the posts. Imagine how much content you’ll have after several months or years of regular contributions.
Search engines love blogs! I can’t tell you how easy it’s been to promote this blog. Having also worked on positioning NetworkInAustin.com in the search engines I can tell you that promoting my blog was 10 times easier and has been 10 times more effective. There are hundreds of blog directories out there. It’s very easy to get your blog listed under very specific categories that pertain to the topic of your blog. This brings in readers who are actually looking to learn about what you’re talking about. That and because they change frequently and have very good content the search engines can’t get enough of them. There are even free services out there that you can use that will tell 15-20 of the top blog directories that you’ve made a recent post. With the click of a button you can tell all of these websites to come and read your blog and index it on their site. This can get a little technical. Let me just tell you that it works, and you wouldn’t believe how well. Then when you link back to your own website frequently it helps boost the position of your own website. It’s a win/win!
A well written blog can be very viral in nature. I’ve already had blog posts that other bloggers have talked about or commented on in their own blogs. Blog readers will also forward a link to a good blog post to a friend that might be interested in that topic. All of this benefit for something that only takes an hour or two each week.
Members of NetworkInAustin.com have the ability to blog for FREE as part of their enhanced or Lifetime membership. Our members can receive all of the benefits that I talked about above. Plus we’ll not only list your blog in our networking resources section, but we’ll also help you promote your blog and get listed in a lot of those directories. If you’re not a member I hope you’ll join us. If you’re already a member give us a call or shoot as an e-mail so we can help you get started.
For your second weekly meeting I suggest you get involved in a variety of organizations that typically get together just once a month. This would include groups like: Chambers of Commerce, industry associations, Breakfast Club Network, Independent Business Associations, Non-profit groups, etc. The idea here is to get some depth and to meet folks you wouldn’t ordinarily meet.
Here’s where the leverage comes in. In order to get referrals you’ve got to give referrals. The opportunity in this model is providing lots of referrals for your core network. When you’re out meeting new people each week at the Chamber of Commerce or association meetings be thinking of your core network. Who in these organizations could use their services? Refer, refer, refer. If you follow this model consistently over a period of time I promise you’ll be surprised at the results.
You’ll probably be able to develop relationships with several hundred people over the course of a year or so. A network of people who you’ve helped and who will be looking for ways to return the favor. We call this the law of reciprocity.
If you’re a more seasoned networker with a more substantial number of relationships you can probably get by with fewer traditional networking meetings. Your core network will consist of those that you already have ongoing relationships with. In this case I would suggest that you work more on cultivating these relationships rather than developing new ones. Focus on the top 10-20% of your relationships and make them stronger. Now I’m not saying you shouldn’t work on meeting more people. It’s important that you get out at least a couple times each month to establish new relationships, and look for business opportunities for yourself and your core network. What I’m suggesting is that you’ve already spent a lot of time cultivating your existing relationships. Don’t drop the ball now. Work on making those connections stronger.
Ultimately the decision is yours. What benefit do you expect from networking? How much time can you devote to working towards that benefit? Take some time to answer these questions and develop your own networking strategy. When you’re done I hope you’ll tell me about it. I’d love to share what you’re doing with the other readers of this blog. As always I love hearing from you. E-mail me your thoughts: scott (at) networkinaustin.com
Whether or not you were following the Tour de France as Emily and I did (How did we live without Digital Video Recorder's before?). Watching Lance Armstrong win his 7th straight Tour victory offers some very interesting lessons.
Team work. Lance couldn't have won the tour alone. Not only did his massively talented Discovery Channel teammates help him over just about every mile of the tour. He also had an incredible support team; from coaches and mechanics to product developers and masseuses. Each one a specialist at the top of their game. All focused on keeping Lance at the top of his game. Certainly a lesson we can apply to our own businesses.
Hard work. During the television broadcast of one of the stages Chris Carmichael, Lance's coach, described how Lance trains for the mountains. After his explanation of this training regimen the actual race stage itself sounded like a piece of cake. That was probably the point. If you work hard, and do it in an intelligent way that takes you towards a specific goal it WILL pay off. Just watch Lance climb mountains.
Attitude. The way Lance mentally focuses on winning the tour is amazing. You can see it in his eyes, and almost feel it radiating from him. I'm sure that in his own mind Lance KNOWS that he is going to win. With an intention that powerful, and an undeniable belief in the outcome he couldn't lose.
Focus on a very specific powerful intention, put together a great team, and work hard in an intelligent manner to get yourself there. You WILL succeed!
For those of you who know me well you know that I'm a runner. I have a group of friends that I meet most Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's under the Mopac bridge for a 5 mile run at O'Dark Thirty in the morning. The distance varies, but we also meet Saturday mornings for another long run. Just to make sure we've got it out of our systems for the rest of the weekend.
I just found out about an event that's going to allow us to combine many of our favorite activities... Running, Margarita drinking and supporting the Town Lake Trail Foundation, since we certainly use it frequently.
I'm talking about the Moonlight Margarita 5K Run and Party. For the uninitiated a 5K is only 3.1 miles. Even if you're not in the greatest running shape, this isn't too far to walk. Plus if you stick around for the party you'll be rewarded with Margaritas!
Check out the website for more details, but here's the skinny:
"First we run. Then we party! The race will begin and end near the trail at the American Legion Hall just south of RunTex on Lake Austin, where dozens of margarita machines and a full Mexican food buffet will await thirsty finishers.
Participation in the race is limited to just 3,000 racers. Only 500 tickets to the after-party will be sold, and they are going quickly, so we strongly encourage you to register now. Registration for the Moonlight Margarita Run is just $25. Tickets to the Margarita After-Party are just $40. Or you can take part in both events for just $60. On July 16, tickets will be $30 for the run, $50 for the party and $75 for both, but only if tickets remain available."
This is a great networking event in disguise. I know there will be a lot of really great people at the party. If you run in the 5K beforehand you'll have a great shared experience to talk about. And the best part... You'll be supporting a worthwhile cause!
For those of you who saw our picture in the Austin Business Journal this last week you need to know that they left out the most important part... The name of our dog! The caption reads: "Networking at a meeting of the Choose Austin First business coalition at DogBoy's Dog Ranch are (from left) Emily Ingram of Cafe Matisse, Scott Ingram of NetworkInAustin.com and Courtney Emken of DogBoy's Dog Ranch. Well the obvious star of the picture is Caesar! As you can see he's completely worn out from the 10 mile run that Emily and I took him on before this event. One of these days maybe we'll figure out how to tire him out. Any suggestions? Scott M. Ingram NetworkInAustin.com
As you can see he's completely worn out from the 10 mile run that Emily and I took him on before this event. One of these days maybe we'll figure out how to tire him out. Any suggestions? Scott M. Ingram 