tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89849141968002414062024-02-06T20:12:01.576-06:00Networking InkBuild your business by driving traffic online and offline. Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-16030170339526253952013-04-30T02:43:00.002-05:002013-05-05T01:42:33.840-05:00Build Buzz For Your Online Business Through Offline Marketing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnmkuuw44Ij6jFlI-0ue049HKyZ1n8mD3yjg6TaDAW4C48GNPXF0IrxEBaNYjLERdCHVXKUFrVellGZ3IMCdfpPc2wFKld1kIFTKY8UsxYZHc2DXGoMDGK6jBf3hSSmdaXv2o3KRVK8zM/s1600/Let's+Network+N+Dallas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnmkuuw44Ij6jFlI-0ue049HKyZ1n8mD3yjg6TaDAW4C48GNPXF0IrxEBaNYjLERdCHVXKUFrVellGZ3IMCdfpPc2wFKld1kIFTKY8UsxYZHc2DXGoMDGK6jBf3hSSmdaXv2o3KRVK8zM/s200/Let's+Network+N+Dallas.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
So far the posts on this blog have been networking offline for building a offline business. Offline marketing is also important when you are building a online business.<br />
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In fact, having a well rounded online business that has traffic coming from online, SEO, social networking and offline marketing, will create a stronger business that is not dependent on a single source of traffic. This becomes extremely important when it comes to algorithm changes that search engines do on a regular basis. Many have lost significant incomes due to search engine algorithm changes.<br />
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When website administrators take on affiliate marketing they often forget the potential clients available in the non-virtual world. Additionally, many of the clients that go to website from the non-virtual world tend to have more trust for the website administrator and are more likely to make a purchase without hesitation about trust.<br />
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Reading through the posts on this site will help you to build the trust necessary for a successful business and it will help you to fine the potential clients to meet and greet. Many times there is a lack of ideas for integrating online and offline marketing strategies so here are a few ideas:<br />
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Business Networking Ideas<br />
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• Networking with people that are your family, friends and acquaintances Often times we tend to not share some of the activities we are doing when building a online business. Do not underestimate the needs of others. You may fine that your next door neighbor is in need of a service that you are offering on your website. When a purchase is made ask permission to get a testimonial and make sure you thank them for trusting in the information you provide.<br />
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• Join business meetings, forums, and conventions. One of the best methods I have found for finding business meeting is through a website called <a href="http://meetup.com/">meetup.com</a>. Membership is free and you can search for anything from knitting circles to programming groups. Meetup will provide you with information about where most local business owners gather together to discuss business ideas. Business meetings will provide information about the latest strategies and technologies for businesses online and offline in any trade. Once you attend a few meetings you will be able to start gathering information about other meetings that you may find of interest.<br />
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I do suggest that before attending a business network group that you read my post about, <a href="http://networkingink.blogspot.com/2009/07/different-rules-in-different-network.html" target="_blank">Different Rules in Different Network Groups</a>. This article will help you to understand the unwritten rules of business network groups.<br />
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Here are a few more ideas to keep in mind when networking offline:<br />
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• Network yourself with local business professionals. Join business associations and activities like Chamber of Commerce, industry events, networking organizations, and trade shows to expand your network.<br />
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• Know who you are networking with and be selective with whom you are networking with. My post on having a <a href="http://networkingink.blogspot.com/search/label/one%20on%20one" target="_blank">business one-on-one</a> will help with evaluating the people you encounter and get to know. Select only the best networks.<br />
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• Establish good, strong relationships with your network business partners.<br />
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• Talk with people about their business.. You'll be surprised how many people are actually interested in building up their own businesses. You'll also get to gather new business ideas this way.<br />
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Relationship marketing ideas<br />
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• Fortify your base market. Maintain and continue to improve your relationship with current and past customers. Don’t waste your initial marketing efforts by not sustaining your current base market. Continue marketing to your existing clients.<br />
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• There are a few things you could do to keep your base market loyal to your business. You can keep in touch with them on a personal level by sending out holiday cards. Some online business owners go so far as sending their clients handwritten letters that update them regarding industry news.<br />
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• Create a newsletter and ask permission to add people to you mailing list. Never allow your base market to forget about your business. Keep it foremost in their minds by giving away things, newsletter for example, that may directly or indirectly remind them of your business or your services.<br />
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• Form relationships with new markets. Don’t be content with your current market base. Expand as much as your resources would allow.<br />
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• Participate in local trade shows. You can either be behind the booth reaching new customers or outside doing the talking to potential business partners.<br />
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• When introducing yourself to potential new customers, never complicate business terms. If you're trying to build new business relationships, keep your information simple. Customers don't have all day to figure out what you’re trying to sell. Follow the kiss principal.<br />
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• Throw special events or parties for your customers. Such events could help brand your products or services as well as expand your network connections.<br />
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Print Marketing Ideas<br />
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• Use effective business cards that contain everything your clients need to know about contacting you or availing your products or your services. Hand out your business cards to anyone either to expand your client base or to expand your network.<br />
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• Use brochures and flyers. So long as these are strategically placed, these could bring in potential customers. Never leave out your previous customers as well.<br />
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• Advertise on print media. Newspapers and magazines still rank high among the most effective offline marketing tools. Use these tools effectively.<br />
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P.S. Make sure that you are enjoying yourself and compliment others often. Smiles and sincere compliments go a long way in building relationship fast.<br />
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<br /></div><br><br><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RA0DAS/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007RA0DAS&linkCode=as2&tag=netwink-20">
</a><img width="5" height="5" style="margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=netwink-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B007RA0DAS" border="0" currentcolor="" /><img width="81" height="112" style="width: 100px; height: 155px;" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B007RA0DAS&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=netwink-20" border="0" />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007RA0DAS/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007RA0DAS&linkCode=as2&tag=netwink-20">Business Networking Success: The 5 Easy Steps to Building Your Business Network Without EVER Going to Another Business Networking Group!!</a><img width="1" height="1" style="margin: 0px !important; border: currentColor !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=netwink-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B007RA0DAS" border="0" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06473610816184255631noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-54980185095850334572013-04-09T22:49:00.001-05:002013-04-09T22:53:33.825-05:00Time for a Facelift on Networking Ink<h3>
Networking Ink has been around for about 4 years now. </h3>
I have not always dedicated time to this site that I should. I now am getting much more active on the world wide web, I have decided that I need to give this site an update. <br />
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Networking Ink will always have a special place in my heart because it is the how I cut my teeth on building a blog site and helped me to really understand just what it takes to get a site going.<br />
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Building a website is not a part-time commitments. If you make it a part-time commitment you will get part time earnings from it which will likely be...nothing.<br />
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Commit time and effort and you may actually earn something in return.<br />
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My focus has really gone to building this blog and my website <a href="http://workathomeboomer.net/" target="_blank">"Work at Home Boomer Network"</a>. <br />
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You can guess what my website is about and this website is obviously about networking but it is about to expand further on the idea of networking.<br />
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Networking Ink is going to start focusing on building traffic not only to your offline business but to your online business as well. <br />
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I will be sharing how you can build traffic to your website that is organic and the way the google likes it. <br />
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Networking Ink is about to really live up to its name and provide you with information to grow your backlinks and grow your traffic, online and offline.<br />
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P.S.<br />
Also, be sure to visit my <a href="http://snowbirdslifestyle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Snowbirds Lifestyle</a> blog on blogger<br />
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Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-16976112843190317612013-02-03T02:37:00.004-06:002013-02-03T02:45:35.253-06:00Do You Have a Great Business Card? Part III<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Shape can play a large part of getting your business card noticed and remembered</em></strong>. Here are a few ideas about shape. I saved this one for last because there are some really good ideas and some really bad ideas out there.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How about a round shape to a business card? It makes your card unique, noticeable, gives you some cool ways to put your information on the card with the look of the font or graphics. This card will definitely stand out. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here is my opinion surrounding, (no pun intended) a round business card. I have gotten a round business card in the past. At the time I thought it was a good idea and noticeable. Today, I can no longer find the round business card. Why? Well for one thing it did not fit in any business card hold and it did not stack properly with other business cards. Because I could not store it properly, it kind of floated about on my desk. I either had to store it alone somewhere or cut or fold the card to fit into my card sleeves to store it with other cards. If I cut the card I removed important information. If I folded the card it made my organization weird (I have a little bit of OCD with it). Therefore, I did not carry the round card with me because it became a burden to manage. Now, I don't have good feelings about the card because it just was a problem and life is hectic and those feeling transferred to the person who gave me the card. I got to where the next time I saw them I wanted to give them back their business card. I just did not want to deal with it and over time I simply lost it. Not good. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The conclusion? You can go for a unique shape but make sure that it fits into the card sleeves most organizational systems that people will use.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some good ideas.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Your shape of your business card can reflect your business.</em></strong> How about if you are a restaurant, you can have teeth marks embossed into the card or just have a bite taken right out of the corner. If you sell makeup, you could have your business card resemble a lipstick or compact. As a chiropractor, maybe shape it like a bone. If you sell alarm systems, you can have the edge of the card look like it is scorched or burn a hold through the middle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some business cards can serve a function such as a bottle opener, a letter opener or a note pad.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can be unique and extreme but make sure you think about the recipient of your card and what they are going to do with your card. Your goal is that others will share it with others to show how unique it is.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>Make sure you can write on the card.</strong></em> In my pile of cards I kept some that were pretty dark colors. This particular card was two sided with the dark color on both sides leaving no ability to make a few notes on the card. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I added a note to my design to not have both sides completely full AND I will have to lighten the color to allow for reading of ink on the card.</span>Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-85473118135504287132012-11-27T02:35:00.001-06:002012-11-27T02:38:30.196-06:00Do You Have a Great Business Card? Part II<span style="font-size: large;">This took me a while to get written and posted but it is because I am spreading my proverbial wings on the Internet and learning of other ways to earn money on the World Wide Web and offline. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Look for more on that in future postings when I reveal my new website dedicated solely to making money in other ways besides in a job, online and offline.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This post is the continuation of developing a great business card and in this post we will cover content.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Begin by thinking about the image that you want to project on your business card. Do you want your image to be relaxed and fun loving, or maybe serious and professional. What ever the image is that you want to project, then your business card needs to represent your brand when you are not there to speak for yourself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is a proven fact, people will hold onto a business card longer when there is a picture of the card holder on the card. However, if you are like me, every picture you see of yourself always has something wrong. You want to portray your business as the perfect answer to your potential client, and an imperfect picture may not help in conveying that message.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You can create a great business card without having a graphic on it. In that case you need to have a good font that is in the style of the image you want to portray. There are hundreds, if not thousands of fonts available for free and there is even a site where you can create your own font. A site called </span><a href="http://www.yourfonts.com/fontgenerator/266937.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">YourFonts</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> offers to create a font from your handwriting. You can even create your signature for digital signing. Do you think your business card would be noticeable with your signature on it? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As a suggestion from someone who is now using bifocals. I would suggest that you keep the font as large as possible without compromising your design and please use a contrasting color. It is painful to try and read the card that is medium to dark gray and black font. I immediately transfer my pain to the card and virtually to you. Your card needs to be easy on the eyes and should attract the reader. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Obviously, your name is important when it comes to your business card. In fact, your name is so important, that when I get a business card that is generic and does not contain a personal name, it is one of the first to go when it comes to throwing out business cards. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you are building your brand around your business name, it is important for people, like me, to feel that I have a personal contact through the card in my hand. Building a business online or offline is still all about relationships and when you do not include your name on your card you immediately remove the ability for me to have a relationship with you. I don't want to connect with your business, I want to connect with you and the service YOU offer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This leads into your brand. What is your brand? Your card should announce your brand. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When someone looks at your card they should immediately notice your brand whether it is your name or something else. This goes back to the blog post, </span><a href="http://networkingink.blogspot.com/2012/07/do-you-have-great-business-card-part-i.html#links" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Do You Have a Great Business Card? Part I</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, where you are building on the shape, texture, and initial design of your business card. All these elements are building on your brand.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Try this experiment with yourself and other people you know. Take a handful of business cards that are of a variety of designs. You will need for people to not look at the cards, so maybe spread them out and then cover the cards. Then start a 15 second timer and pick up at a minimum 5 cards that catch your eye. Don't read the card, don't think about anything except what caught your eye.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now, examine the cards that you picked up. What is it about those cards that caught your eye. Every person that you try this with will pick up some of the same cards that you did but there will be one or two that are different. Find out from others what they saw on the card that made them pick it up? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">By doing this exercise you will begin to shape the look and feel of a great business card. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Your goal? You want people to ask for your card. You want people to comment about your card. You want people to like your card and connect your card to you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Achieve that goal and you have a Great Business Card!</span><br />
<br />Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-15056321906629234692012-07-16T14:04:00.000-05:002013-02-03T02:36:54.378-06:00Do you have a GREAT Business Card? Part I<span style="font-size: large;">Probably about a year ago, I decided that I wanted a new business card. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My original business card was...well...OK, but not great. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It served the purpose that I thought it should at the time I made it. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEOpPSxJMKlVMPKmcr4PkA9DFVXbcDjwAff6dYiBAPg1LH7lNjx_e13uIqBMDfWy4Sp15GPKUWQ3ac5QutXUeDtffm6H9DbGSqyCtdYuCCHwAF_XGFWc-FBam3NN0fjO4puYh9Q5ymfBL/s1600/Doing+Business.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" ca="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVEOpPSxJMKlVMPKmcr4PkA9DFVXbcDjwAff6dYiBAPg1LH7lNjx_e13uIqBMDfWy4Sp15GPKUWQ3ac5QutXUeDtffm6H9DbGSqyCtdYuCCHwAF_XGFWc-FBam3NN0fjO4puYh9Q5ymfBL/s200/Doing+Business.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">My original business card had the name of, my company, my name, my phone number, my website, and my email. Sounds good, right? All the elements were there so if someone wanted to get in contact with me they had all the information necessary.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After about a year of using this practical business card, I realized that I needed a better business card. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With a mission of making a better business card, I started out pretty much with nothing in mind.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To develop an idea, I decided that in every network meeting I went to I would analyze other peoples business cards and when I saw a business card that had an element that caught my eye or that I just particularly like I would save it in a special place in my binder.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After a few months of saving, I took out the business cards and started to analyze what I liked and this is what I found.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>First, a noticeable color tended to get my attention</em></strong>. Very few, again, very few of the cards that went in the 'like' pile were plain white with black ink. I had quite a few colored cards that drew attention such as, any shade of red, purple, neon green (actually any neon color), and bright blues and I had one bright yellow, very noticeable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>The second thing that seemed to draw my attention, was the print.</em></strong> Large print on the card and on many of them the print was taking up much of the real estate and in a contrasting color. Some of the large print had some fancy curls but nothing to drastic. The card was still easy to read and I could read it at a glance without any eyestrain.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Third on the list that got my attention was material.</em></strong> Some of them were very unique and made of non-traditional as well as traditional material. Non-traditional such as leather, fabric, hard plastic, wood, hard acrylic, metal, cork! If you are trying to come up with ideas, just take a walk around your house or apartment and start jotting down all the different materials in your home and what might work for you.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had a few cards in my like pile that was made entirely from recycled materials. One was recycled plastic and another was recycled paper. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The plastic one was interesting, it was somewhat transparent and that was neat. The problem with the plastic one was I could not write on it. It need maybe a matte finish on one side that will accept ink. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The recycled paper was better for accepting ink. You could see the fibers from the different paper and it had that nice 'feel good' green thing that is so popular right now. With the recycled cards the card owner did have a notice on the card that let people know they were practicing 'green' by having small print that said, 'We are a conscientious company and practice recycling all the way to our business cards' . </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Recycling may not be something you can fit into you image but it is something to think about. I say, if you just want to be green then go for it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was not in my pile but I do remember getting a business card that had seeds imbedded in the card. The idea was that you could plant it in your garden. Nice idea but like I said, I no longer have the card and I can't remember who gave it to me. Guess why I don't have the card....I planted it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's it for Part I of having a great business card. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>Next time, I'll be sharing more about developing the content of your business card. </em></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>If you decide to become a member of my site. I just want to thank you.</em></span><br />
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<strong></strong><br />Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-20782462550598990122011-08-18T03:28:00.002-05:002012-07-16T14:08:39.222-05:00Small Business Owners Vacations On A Budget ....How about Camping?<span style="font-size: large;">As a small business owner we tend to neglect outselves and taking that much needed break from building our business. For many of us money is also a deciding factor when it comes to taking a vaction. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I am just as guilty of this as anyone. I tend to feel that if I am not contributing something to my business at all waking hours then I am slacking off. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We have all heard it, balance it key to building a business and taking time for yourself is included in creating balance.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you are starved for a vacation and the staycation is not doing the trick you might want to consider a Nearcation (aka Nearby vacation). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A Nearcation can be a vacation very close by but not at home and keep your cost down by camping or RVing. Camping can be sleeping in a tent or sleeping in a recreational vehicle either towable or motorized. My thoughts on each of these are as follows and since I am a pretty average person you will probably find you agree. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Tent camping is the cheapest form of camping. You can pickup a new tent providing shelter from most of the elements and you can at least standup in the tent for around $50 to over $200 depending on quality of material and features that a tent has to offer. Purchase a inflatable mattress or a few cots, sleeping bags and a grate for over a fire and most people have the remainder of necessities to have a nice weekend camping. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Tent camping is affordable and can be comfortable. However, a tent will only offer shelter from rain and provide minimal cover from elements. If the temperature is 100 degrees outside or under 40 degrees, which is the lowest temperature of most sleeping bags designed for family camping, you will be uncomfortable. My own experience with temperature and tent sleeping are mostly in cold conditions. I simply refuse to camp if it is over 85 degrees outside. I do however camp in the cooler weather which can be uncomfortable when it gets close or below 40 degrees. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you decide to sleep on an air mattress in a tent, then be aware that you will be sleeping on air and the air in the mattress will be the same temperature as the outside air. If the outside air is under 60 degrees it tends to be a bit cold when sleeping. The only way to make it warm enough in the sleeping bag is to build up a thick barrier between the sleeping bag and the top of the air mattress. I have been known to empty the entire contents of my suitcase and layer all of my clothing on top of the mattress to create a barrier. Additionally, I have had a leak in the air mattress and by morning I was sleeping on the ground. Tent camping also can be quite revealing, where if you are in your tent at night and you have a light on then people at night can see your silhouette and pretty much observe everything you are doing. Because the tent only offers minimal protection from elements you will also find when it gets cold that your head gets cold also. I have learned to take a coat with a detachable hood to remedy this problem. I have also found that to remedy this problem is to no camp in a tent anymore.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When I think about tent camping the image I see is packing, and packing, and packing. UGH. Sleeping bags, tents, grill, cooler, shovel, cooking utensils, coffee pots, buckets, and then we pack the clothes, towels, toiletries. Oh, the list is unbelievable and a lot of work both going and coming back home to unpack.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Recently, my DH and I have been entertaining the idea of a small camper. These small campers provide better protection from the elements, bugs, critters, privacy and security. The variety and features range from just a sleeping quarters and outside kitchen such as what a Teardrop trailer offers to inside kitchens, bathrooms and showers which can be found in some of the larger but still small models such as the Shasta, Bolerama, TAB, Roadking, Scotty, Bubble and that is just a few. The trailers mentioned are mostly vintage trailers some are modern such as the TAB, which I really like, however the cost can be steep. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The small trailer craze first became popular in the United States in the early to mid 1900�s and then popularity dropped off. With the latest recession and squeeze from the economy small trailer camping is resurfacing as an alternative to the Staycation and many people are taking a Nearcation in a tiny trailer. Again you can buy a modern trailer with all the amenities and it can cost some significant money. You can rent an RV and price ranges are determined by time of year, distance traveling, and features. Finally, if you think that RV trailer camping may be something you might enjoy and you are handy you can build your own or refurbish a vintage trailer</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Start by browsing the internet and learning features and prices. You may want to attend a local RV show in your area and again this information can be found on the internet by simply searching for RV shows in your state. If you take the time and really start studying the possibilities you will find many trailers for sale at a reasonable price and if you are handy you can obtain the instructions to refurbish and trailer or even build your own trailer from bottom to top. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Trailers offer comfort that you cannot obtain from a tent. When the temperature drops outside the trailer can provider enough shelter that you can stay fairly warm. Trailers also offer the convenience of sleeping on a mattress that is filled with something other than air and provide you with comfort. Many trailers can be fitted for heat or air-conditioning which offers additional comfort and you will find your camping experience much more enjoyable. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We have found our interest in the direction of the Teardrop trailer which is designed to be a sleeping shelter with the kitchen on the outside under a hatch built in to the back of the trailer. Inside there is room for a mattress for sleeping and some internal storage compartments. The beauty of the Teardrop trailer is the compact package, light to tow, and contains all your needs. You sleep inside the trailer which can have heating and/or air-conditioning and indoor entertainment such as a television, DVD, or radio and the galley kitchen on the outside under the back hatch where you can store your cooler or have a small refrigerator, stove portable or built in and a sink. The level of classiness for entertainment and built-ins is determined by your pocketbook and your handyman or handywoman skills.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you want to be able to standup in the trailer, check some of the other models such as the TAB, Bubble, Shasta, the list is endless. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As a female I have been concerned with comforts that make traditional camping not so fun such as the community bathroom and the community shower. There is nothing worse than waking up in the middle of the night and at first you don�t have to go but as soon as you think about it and try and decide that you are ok and you don�t need to go well, guess what�. You have to go. If it is raining or especially cold or especially far away you have a moment that you just wish for home and the convenience of the built-in bathroom with flushy toilets. In my next writing I�ll provide some information exploring some of the possibilities to make this little inconvenience when camping into something more convenient.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Keeping it economical is the key to a Nearcation. The average cost of State and National campgrounds is anywhere from $5 to $20 per night. Private campgrounds range in price from $10 to $40 with basic needs such as bath water and electric to as much as $100 or more for the elite campgrounds that offer private pools, spas and other resort type amenities. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, I want to provide you with a few resources to start your own research on this subject. </span><br />
<div class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:86a75604-621c-40fe-a8b0-f245ea35d19d" style="display: inline; float: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2T82eH_4JE&feature=youtube_gdata_player" target="_new"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('28b92d94-3f49-4538-890f-0bfef9159b5f'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/G2T82eH_4JE?hl=en&hd=1\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/G2T82eH_4JE?hl=en&hd=1\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"448\" height=\"252\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--vPVGXIFJwA/Tk4ffEy4BDI/AAAAAAAAAF8/alSWwP-jRf4/videod054fe10a47d%25255B23%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I encourage you to learn more about options available through well know sources and enjoy the adventure of not only finding your ideal recreational vehicle but once found enjoying the adventures you can experience on the road and in meeting people around the world.</span><br />
<ul>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Camping Tips, Information And Advice To Help Beginners Get Started And Prepared With Their Camping Trip. </span></strong><a href="http://345b2enbwlwrx3-mrky5vodw7p.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Click Here!</span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></strong></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<li><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Romantic Camping - Create the perfect, low-cost outdoor experience. Turn up the heat in your relationship with a romantic campout. In this one-of-a-kind guide, readers learn how to put together an adventure theyll never forget... one thats sure to create lasting memories. </span></strong><a href="http://51a9ekpl-vypu1r6yy3kz02pex.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Click Here!</span></strong></a><strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></strong></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A Book Devoted Purely For Budget Travel And Discount Travel. All The Travel Hot Spots, The Unknown Secrets, The Special Deals. </span><a href="http://9a94fkbg0mogu7mewvxc0jtez8.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top"><span style="font-size: large;">Click Here!</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Software For Hotels, Motels, Guest Houses, B&Bs, Lodges & Inns And Campgrounds Worldwide. </span><a href="http://30adeshenvrlt3u7ln7pjvbu0d.hop.clickbank.net/" target="_top"><span style="font-size: large;">Click Here!</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></li>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Find the best camping spots in the United States and Canada </span><a href="http://www.reserveamerica.com/" title="http://www.reserveamerica.com"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">http://www.reserveamerica.com</span></strong></a> </li>
</ul>Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-45600380778189033752011-08-13T00:29:00.000-05:002012-11-11T03:12:54.284-06:00Finding Your NicheWell, I am at a loss. <br />
<br />
I have read all kinds of websites about developing a blog. About creating an income from a blog. Finding your niche and developing your niche. Making money with Adsense. Making money as an affiliate. You name it, I have read it. <br />
I realize that reading and doing is two different activities. I make it akin to thing about something and doing someting. Without action it is only a thought. <br />
The problem I am running into is my interests. The things that I love to do seem to be all kinds of things. How do you make a blog that is about all kinds of things. <br />
I then thought well NetworkingInk could actually be all kinds of things. After all the word networking is defined as:<br />
<span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">A</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">system</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> </span><a href="http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/computers">computers</a><span id="hotword"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">that</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">are</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">joined</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">together</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">so</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">that</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">they</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">can</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">communicate</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">by</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">exchanging</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">information</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">and</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">sharing</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #0055bb; cursor: pointer;">resources.</span></span><br />
<span name="hotword" style="color: #0055bb; cursor: pointer;"><span style="color: black;">I don't think it has to be computers to network. We all network as in communicating, sharing of information and resources. By mouth or machine no matter how you slice it you are networking when sharing information and/or resources.</span></span><br />
<span name="hotword" style="color: #0055bb; cursor: pointer;"><span style="color: black;">This blog is about to go through some changes and take on a different kind of resource for the world. Your job as a networker on the WWW is to share why, your site is so great and what you offer to make me visit your site.</span></span><br />
<span name="hotword" style="color: #0055bb; cursor: pointer;"><span style="color: black;">Over time I have begun to realize that you can develop a blog site on any kind of niche. </span></span><br />
I am now able to help you to understand what a niche is.<br />
If you are searching for a niche then the first place I would suggest that you start your search is at the largest magazine stand that you can find.<br />
I actually really like magazine stands in bookstores.<br />
The key with magazines is this. If there is a magazine there is interest. Look in a magazine you like and you will find the products the people are interested in for that magazine. <br />
The magazine can be the niche. You can even take it further and find a sub-niche based on the magazine and that will be common articles that occur in the magazine. <br />
An example might be Bicycling.<br />
There are a number of magazines about bicycling. Open one of them and you will find adds about equipment, clothing, places to go, and ways to transport a bike and that is just a few.<br />
Look at the table of contents and the articles will provide you with subniches that can be expanded on further. <br />
This approach is a low cost way to find a niche if you don't want to make the investment of buying a niche product.<br />
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<span name="hotword" style="color: #0055bb; cursor: pointer;"><span style="color: black;"></span></span>Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-10069577871183545552011-07-31T00:06:00.000-05:002011-07-31T00:06:33.360-05:00Health and Wellness for your skin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/NukTaws8_QE/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NukTaws8_QE&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NukTaws8_QE&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div>I know there are those out there that have skin like me and that is fair, fair, fair. You would think I was borderline redhead with how bad I burn.<br />
This year I found out about getting a spray on tan. All I can say is WOW. I love it. No sweating. No laying around. You get sprayed and wa la...tanned.<br />
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With this kind of service for people to use there is no need to lay in the sun and damage your skin. <br />
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Most people think that their skin will heal and it does on the surface but the UVA and UVB rays actually cause some real radical damage that can never be undone if the damage is severe enough. <br />
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We need the sun to get that precious vitamin D that has been found to be to essential to bones, skin, and cancer prevention. Additionally we need great skin care products that help to repair and undo some of the damage caused by neglecting ourselves when we are young.<br />
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I have had compliments on my skin and I am no where near a model and I don't look like one of those people that are forever young. <br />
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I invite you to check it out for yourself by viewing the video above and learning the science behind the product. If you think you want to get it for yourself like I have then click the link for Artistry Essentials found on the right side bar of the screen.<br />
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I love being able to get a tan by just getting sprayed and I love that I can protect my skin in a simple and serious way.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-1933254951964735322011-06-02T21:09:00.001-05:002011-06-02T21:12:23.866-05:00When Networking........ Don't Violate Business EtiquetteToday I received a phone call on my 800 number. <br />
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With my 800 number it is setup that when someone leaves a message I get a email containing the recorded message. <br />
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Over the past year I have found I am frequently getting recorded messages from other businesses that are soliciting me to do business with them. <br />
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I ask you to think about this and tell me. If someone calls you and asks you to do business with them but just to have them ask you has cost you money, are you going to do business with them. My answer to this is NEVER....why on earth would I do business with someone that called MY 800 number that I have to pay for with every incoming call.<br />
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To me this is a huge violation by a business owner of not respecting my business. <br />
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Am I wrong on this? It cost me! Not them, for that phone call. <br />
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How can this be stopped! <br />
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In my opinion because of lack of respect by the caller I would never, ever, ever, do business with them or repeat their name to anyone.<br />
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How do you feel about this?Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-47392173846439464592010-10-11T21:56:00.000-05:002010-10-11T21:56:00.511-05:00Network Marketing Isn't What It Used To BeHow many new network marketing businesses have you observed appearing that a few years ago or even a few months ago. <br />
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The face of change is happening in network marketing because of the internet. <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4PxMUfHBDH_39UjzmAIW2Gq_rUT70sph7xx1vp77NOxH4kU9x3EGvZhK1wx74VKYX1x16CnpX5EyF5-0svg-V2NSDs8Z0tRjdHjwZKevLqjMMdYhWhwMx1D1MQUGsdVxpd6rthViC-ta/s1600/Networking+Puzzle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4PxMUfHBDH_39UjzmAIW2Gq_rUT70sph7xx1vp77NOxH4kU9x3EGvZhK1wx74VKYX1x16CnpX5EyF5-0svg-V2NSDs8Z0tRjdHjwZKevLqjMMdYhWhwMx1D1MQUGsdVxpd6rthViC-ta/s200/Networking+Puzzle.jpg" width="200" /></a>With the internet, product inventory is no longer a need for the network marketer. The parent company can house products, do research and development, update product lines, and handle shipping and delivery without the need for the network marketer to do nothing more then drive traffic and create a loyal base of customers and other network marketers. </div><br />
The internet has created a beautiful opportunity for people looking to have their own business without investing hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars into brick and mortar businesses.<br />
Many time when buying products from a non-brick and mortar business you get a much better product. <br />
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Along with the better product you also get personal touch, a guarantee, and a new friend. What more could you ask for. <br />
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Feel free to investigate the companies I have aligned. I believe that everyone who does not have a business is putting themselves into the highest tax braket in the country because they have nothing that they can write off. By the time you add a federal income tax, property tax, state tax, sales tax and all the rest you are probably only keeping maybe 50% of your earnings and very possibly less. <br />
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Robert Kiyosaki wrote that in his book Prophesy alot about that very subject. His other book, The Business School, he states that if he had to do it all over again he would start his business in network marketing. <br />
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The face of business is changing. Maybe take a closer look at Network Marketing which is nothing more than a franchise on steroids.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-61626938241393941972010-08-17T18:03:00.000-05:002010-08-17T18:03:05.608-05:00Advantages To Large And Small Network GroupsI have now been actively networking in business network groups for the past 4 years. <br />
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I have noticed that many people tend to not return to smaller network groups that are less than 10 people. <br />
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When I see people not returning to a network group because they believe it to be too small the first thing that comes to mind is, they want to sell to the people in the room and therefore do not have the like mind of helping others.<br />
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We have all heard that each person you meet knows approximately 250 people that you do not know. <br />
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That means that in a room of just 5 networkers there is a grand total of 1,250 people that are not in the room that these networkers know and you do not know! <br />
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In a smaller network group you will build closer and probably more loyal relationships than you will in a room with 25 or more networkers. <br />
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As a business builder it is more valuable to have 5 strong, solid relationships than 25 so-so relationships.<br />
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I personally have found that in a room where there are more than 20 networkers, I become just a number in the room. It seems that the room takes on the air of each person having just one thought in mind, "sell to the room", which is not what networking is about. A "sell to the room" attitude will not build a strong business and while you may be able to sell to a few, repeat sales will likely not be forthcoming.<br />
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Another advantage to a small networking group is you are a member of an elite group that "built" the network group. You become a kind of passive leader. <br />
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However, becoming this passive leader requires that you help to build the group by inviting others on a regular basis.<br />
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That was a few of the advantages to participating in small business network groups so what about the large network groups. <br />
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First and foremost a large network group can provide immediate connections easier than a small group. <br />
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It is vital that in a large network group you pay absolute attention to your commercial and make sure you ask for a referral of, "who you would like to meet", since your likelyhood of getting an immediate referral is much greater. <br />
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Another advantage to a large network group is the connections to more events and activities that allow you to network with even more people. <br />
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There are many people out there that their only job is to build a community following and therefore they pretty much network full time and are great connections to find...more connections.<br />
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Large network groups provide you with ample opportunity to have unlimited one-on-ones which if you do not know what a one-on-one is then I suggest you read my previous post, <a href="http://networkingink.blogspot.com/2009/07/how-to-conduct-one-on-one-when.html">"How To Conduct A One-On-One When Business Networking"</a>. <br />
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Having a one-on-one provides you with an opportunity to find out if your commercial conveyed your business or not and to ask for suggestions as well as getting to know and understand the needs of others.<br />
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I think I have provided some food for thought on this subject and right now network groups are in need to support from the community during these lean times. <br />
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Don't be a number, be a member of your network group.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-85732020401987752282010-04-27T01:01:00.001-05:002010-04-27T01:13:00.889-05:00How Often Should You Redesign And Refresh Your Business Card?I recently heard that a refresh of your business card can be beneficial to business growth.<br />
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I am not sure if this is true but I will share this with you.<br />
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Several people in my network groups heard the same thing. As a result I have noticed some new cards.<br />
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When I see the new card I am compelled to take it? I want their new card even though I have their old card which likely contains the same information. <br />
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Another interesting thing happens when I obtain the new card......I examine it. <br />
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I don't mean I look at it. I examine it. Thinking about this I can recall two different cards that I received and I really looked at the card and examined the details.<br />
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This has to be good. I have found that I am a pretty normal person. When I mention that the card is new to other people they exchange the same observations that I had. <br />
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I am not sure how often you should refresh your card. I was unable to find it through basic research so further investigation is required. If you know feel free to share.<br />
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A refresh is suggested for websites about every 6 months. We can use this as a measuring stick. <br />
Especially if your business card reflects information from your website or visa versa.<br />
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This whole subject of refresh brings up another topic about business cards. The look.<br />
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Is your business card boring? Mine is....<br />
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My business card is a white background, average size, basic black text, with a graphic on it. Yuck!<br />
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In my quest to improve the look of my business car I used tools at hand, other peoples business cards. I spread them out on a table like in a game of Go Fish. <br />
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I would mix them up and then just pick out ones that stood out. <br />
Then I would mix them again and pick out a few more.<br />
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This is what I found. <br />
Cards with a bold color stood out.<br />
Cards where more then 1/4 of the card had a strong graphic stood out.<br />
Card with personal photographs on them stood out.<br />
Cards with expecially bold colored decorative text stood out.<br />
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I included my card in the game and ......it did not stand out.<br />
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What about your business card. If you did the same thing with your card, does it stand out?<br />
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Does anyone ever express that they like your card?<br />
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When I have gotten cards that especially took my interest by being a unique shape, or having a personal photograph I have found these are cards hang around the longest. <br />
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Thats what we all want for our business cards. <br />
I am in the process of a business card redesign. I think I found what I want. My old card is Boring.....<br />
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What about your card? Just something to think about and maybe change.<br />
Later.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-17714910886571794002010-03-25T00:15:00.004-05:002010-03-25T01:18:14.242-05:00Networking Your Business And You Are The BrandThis building a personal brand is pretty involved.<br /><br />I am finding that I have to monitor several different social networks and post frequently.<br /><br />I am also finding that the time of the day that you post can make a huge difference.<br /><br />My time online happens late late late and most people are done networking and are winding down for the night. Because of this I don't think that my posts get noticed much.<br /><br />Of coarse it could be that I just don't post things that people feel compelled to respond.<br /><br />Face to face seems to be so much better but I am determined to get this social networking thing down to an art.<br /><br /><em>If anyone feels compelled to offer suggestions you can do so anonomously on my blog site.</em><br /><br />Today I read another article about further building your brand of you inc. In this new networking world it is vitally important that each of us build our social network through all of the following means:<br /><br />Facebook<br />LinkedIn<br />Twitter<br />Your blog<br />You website<br />Face to face when possible<br /><br />Each of these elements must be interlinked and should reference to each other.<br /><br />Additionally when you post or send email you should have a kind of signature that people can select and get to your website and/or blog.<br /><br />I am still trying to get better at this and share what I learn with others. I just wish others would share more of what they learn with us.<br /><br />For now I just keep trying to build these virtual relationships and hope that I am not an annoyance.<br /><br />I probably have not shared anything that is that earth shattering but realize this....if you are still in the workforce, know that employers are now using tools like facebook, linkedin, and twitter to check potential employees out!<br /><br />They are looking to see if you are controversial, are you a complainer, do you appear to be a potential leader or are you already showing leadership?<br /><br />If you are a small business owner you get the same treatment from your potential clients.<br />They want to see what people think of you, what do they think of your services, do you have fans, are you endorsed?<br /><br />Take the time and build your virtual front door.<br /><br />Make sure all your profiles are updated. <br /><br />Ask your customers to give you an endorsement.<br /><br />Update you blog and website on a regular basis. (I need to work on this one too)<br /><br />We are all busy but this tool is not going away and is here to stay.<br /><br />Embrace it.<br />Till next time.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-34660878833301316122010-02-04T01:35:00.003-06:002010-02-04T02:16:54.166-06:00Networking - Name Branding "You Inc."I am a Co-Founder of a networking group called Referral Networking.<br /><br />I am also the Vice President of Programming for a American Business<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Women's</span> Association Express Network called, Texas Vineyards Express Network.<br /><br />I am a small business owner as an Independent Associate for a statewide electric company that I will not name because of advertising restrictions...but people that know me know what company I represent.<br /><br />My email signature contains my electric company. I have made sure to build my brand with the company I represent but I am still missing so much more in building on my personal brand.<br /><br />I seem to have developed some kind of tunnel vision that has made me feel that I can only associate my personal brand with one entity...my electric business.<br /><br />I had an interesting conversation today with a pretty successful business owner and one of the things she pointed out to me was that her personal brand is everything she decides to dedicate herself.<br /><br />Think about this. The doctor has a signature that effectively is a instant resume of his education and skills. In your head you are thinking doctor as in MD for medical doctor but what about a PHD. He might have a doctorate in mechanical engineering or maybe he's a dentist. Eitherway his signature provides a instant resume to anyone reading it.<br /><br />What is in your signature. I think I should be adding that I am the Vice-President of a chapter in a national organization and the co-founder of a local organization. Is that not part of my brand?<br /><br />How about it, are you involved in other organizations that can build on your brand? Can you help people to know you better by indentifying some of your passions?<br /><br />I think this can be overdone. You might have been a eagle scout, involved on a church board, on the board of a networking group, and owner of a small business. Putting all of that in a signature may be overkill. If I was trying to make connections in a PTA I might add some of my social titles.<br /><br />The point is business is now built through social networking and that social networking is spilling over into the common networking world.<br /><br />Email is so widely used now that part of your personal brand should be contained in your signature. Which can contain your instant resume.<br /><br />Think about your brand, "You Inc." and what your signature says.<br /><br />Do you have some cute quote attached to your signature? Does your signature say anything about your passion and tell the reader a little more about "You Inc."?<br /><br />Feel free to share your thoughts I look forward to hearing from you.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-2028855479552024992010-01-24T20:23:00.007-06:002010-01-24T21:21:35.739-06:00Networking Etiquette<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdzsQNyS6Yv1WeMAIfSHwvjnwjnYoiMPfh66whi_X5qmZrkl1FfCsomuTpKJX4c52QhoGT9KaGWos5GzbCypVsMPeaeLxXfLxQqHusmc4mxkMaZYWV2jVZAUbIHPlRXzA2vn87tHHMVWw/s1600-h/Polite.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 280px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430508545786434706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdzsQNyS6Yv1WeMAIfSHwvjnwjnYoiMPfh66whi_X5qmZrkl1FfCsomuTpKJX4c52QhoGT9KaGWos5GzbCypVsMPeaeLxXfLxQqHusmc4mxkMaZYWV2jVZAUbIHPlRXzA2vn87tHHMVWw/s400/Polite.jpg" /></a><br /><div>We have all hear the saying, all is fair in love and war, and while this may be true, all if not fair in business networking.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>As an organizer for several networking groups I have seen a number of violations that people do. Sometimes on purpose, most times the violation is unintentional. I always find it amazing that the on purpose violations believe that others don't know about the violation. Reality is most are aware when they witness someone overstepping courtesy.<br /></div><div>90% of the people out networking are honest people with integrity and humility. Many times when someone violates networking etiquette it is usually due to them just simply not being aware of the unwritten "rules".</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>If you attend networking meetings then there are just a few things to be aware of.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Most networking meeting have a set time to accomplish an agenda. Business introductions are where people will violate business etiquette. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Business introductions are usually a timed event during a meeting. This is where you want to be prepared to help the audience to get to know you. This is for your elevator speech and time adherence is important. You demonstrate that others are important by not abusing your allotted time.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Another propriety for network meetings is to pay attention to who is a member and the type of business they have to make sure if you invite someone to the meeting you are not violating membership exclusivity.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Most network meeting have a time set aside for "Thank you" and "annoucements", and you should not being doing another commercial. This time is set aside to help others in a business network group to shine, it is not a time to buff up your business. Acknowledging the services and offerings of other people is what will bring people into a networking group. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Finally, attending a meeting one time and expecting to make sales is wishful thinking. This is a huge mistake and is obviously coming from someone who is used to being paid for their time. If the <span style="font-size:+0;"></span>person continues to do business with this mentality it will not be long before they are back to a job where they will be paid for their time. (Which is what they may have wanted)</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>These are just a few of the networking etiquette "rules" that are common when building a business through network meetings. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>There are many more but the above seem to be violated more often than most.</div>Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-68634890251930976092009-12-30T01:16:00.006-06:002013-05-04T18:35:11.260-05:00The Devil's Yard Sale. Don't go there.<h3>
OK, I admit it. I am guilty of the same sin that seems to affect many of the small business owners and even employees.</h3>
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The holidays get closer, time seems to actually speed up, suddenly I am behind, the holidays are getting closer, I need to get ready for family, I need to get shopping done, I need to continue to grow my business but, but, I need to think about the people in that are most important to me and get my house and home ready for the two big days......HOLD IT!...wait a minute, it is only two big days and it is going to take two months of my time?<br />
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What happened? Why does it seem like I have neglected my business. The truth is...well I have somewhat. I admit it, I am guilty of letting myself get sidetracked too much. I probably spent too much time, I probably spent too much money, I probably sent my cards in the snail-mail too late and everyone is getting them after the holidays. I probably....................well, as they say, hindsite is 20/20. I probably could have done better.<br />
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Here is the point of this post.<br />
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Are you feeling the same way? Are you chastizing yourself a little for not being as efficient as you should have been over the holidays?<br />
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I have news for you...it's OK! Keep it in perspective, what is most important?<br />
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All of us have a limited time in this life and at the end of this life, there will not be business people recalling the wonderful time they had with you over the holidays. There will be family and friends, remembering how much they loved and enjoyed you during the holidays.<br />
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One the family holidays are over. Do you have a plan for tomorrow? Are you performing up to your own standards?<br />
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Set your goals, write them down (this is really important), and then don't just think about it, you must take action.<br />
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In fact you need to take purposeful action, otherwise you may find yourself faced with making a long and painful goodbye to your dreams.<br />
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I'll never forget a story I once heard....I would like to share it with you.<br />
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One day I was looking at the ads for yard sales and I found a sale that was being done by the Devil.<br />
According to the ad, it seemed that the Devil decided to go out of business and he was selling off his possessions.<br />
Out of curiosity, I decided to go and see what could possibly be for sale from the Devil.<br />
When I arrived, I found a large tent and inside it were tables with various items displayed. Below each item was a label indicating what it was. As I wandered around looking at the items displayed I saw many items that looked new and hardly used such as fear, anger, and sadness. I then suddenly came across one item that did not have a label and was obviously used. It appeared rubbed, beaten, stained and chipped.<br />
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Right about this time, the Devil himself approached. He looked haggard and old and inquired if I found anything I wanted?<br />
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I quickly responded, that I had not but I asked if I could inquire as to the one item with no label that appeared to be used so much.<br />
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The Devil got a look on his face of reminiscence as he explained, "That one item is the most valuable item that I use. It always works and never fails. I did not label it because the price is great and only serious inquiries will be considered. You see that one item is, discouragement. Once discouragement begins it almost never retreats.<br />
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With that explanation he turned and walked away.<br />
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I quickly left also, a little wiser.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-52077584719859152082009-10-26T21:21:00.002-05:002009-10-26T21:29:11.961-05:00Networking - Guaranteed Networking Time WastersNetwork groups are one of the most successful ways to create word of mouth to market your business. A referral can create a chain reaction and start a windfall of opportunities.<br /><br />You membership in a networking group can generate regular income but it requires that you contribute to the network groups you participate to ensure your return on investment. Especially if you calculate your time, gas and money on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis you want to ensure that your investment provides a return.<br /><br />Your success will be realized when you have developed the relationships and created trust that the other group members begin to open up and give you their best referrals. Make sure that you are not creating an unprofessional image that cause you to not gain from your investments and waste your time.<br /><p>Here are things to ensure you are wasting your time in a networking group: </p><ul><li>When it is your turn to do your 30 second commercial or your presentation just wing it. Don’t keep up with the latest offering of your business. After all it still is the same old stuff. </li><li>Use one-on-one meetings to talk about your networking groups' issues instead of learning more about each other. </li><li>Focus your efforts primarily on selling your services to members of the group. </li><li>Make sure that you gossip or complain about other networkers and guests. The person you are speaking to wants to hear your complaints. </li><li>When you get a referral don’t feel that you need to contact the person right away. They know where to find you if they really need you. </li><li>During the 30 second commercials is a great time to check your text messages. You have heard everyone's commercial before. It just the same ol same ol and you’ll see them again next week. </li><li>Inviting guests is a lot of work and you can just depend on other people in the group to invite guests. </li><li>Make sure that you take the phone call or check you messages during the meeting. It doesn't bother anyone; and it shows that you put your customers first above all else and everyone admires that. </li></ul><p>If someone is continually these sure fire time wasters, then how enthusiastic are you about giving them referrals. Your connections are valuable. </p><p><br />Business networking requires your commitment to each member and to the group. Make a decision that you will be a participant and support the network groups that you are involved with and the support your give will be reciprocated. </p><p><br />Again, it all comes down to relationships and nurturing your relationships with others. Otherwise, you are just wasting your time. </p>Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-57387150113113096902009-10-17T22:14:00.004-05:002009-10-17T22:50:28.889-05:00Stay Focused And Fuel Your Fire<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfzQcJSblM7iTjbUbJYacPpBSpQvJFrrCY5nBoITTeVVDM8BOKy1r27tLkXuqZa_Fyh1AGrzkYEf0xAbVJ6mGCnwfkdW9jTB53mydRPGYX1ATR69v5JTF4uzVBkIbkfPo2_AldM173ArVt/s1600-h/CatchAStar.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 166px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393779148952326834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfzQcJSblM7iTjbUbJYacPpBSpQvJFrrCY5nBoITTeVVDM8BOKy1r27tLkXuqZa_Fyh1AGrzkYEf0xAbVJ6mGCnwfkdW9jTB53mydRPGYX1ATR69v5JTF4uzVBkIbkfPo2_AldM173ArVt/s400/CatchAStar.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Finally, we can say the hot summer is over. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here in Texas the heat of the summer is sometimes overwhelming. When Fall comes it is a welcome relief and we look forward to cooler days and nights. </div><br /><div></div><div>We look forward to spending time with family and friends as the holidays begin to be revealed through our daily routines.</div><br /><div></div><div>It's easy to just decide to not go out and work our business one day and just stay home, open the windows, let in the fresh autumn air. </div><div></div><br /><div>It's so easy to loose focus, so easy slow down. </div><br /><div></div><div>But now is the time that we need to focus more than ever. Create forward momentum and create excitement. </div><br /><div></div><div>Many of us have heard, "set yourself on fire and the world will come to watch you burn". Sounds pretty disgusting and painful. Right now, is the upward climb toward creating momentum that will get you on the downhill side after the holidays.</div><br /><div></div><div>I read something this week that said, "opportunity will show up at your door wearing work clothes".</div><div></div><br /><div>Do you have a dream because that is your fuel. </div><div></div><br /><div>Do you have a dream because that will keep you moving forward when the days get shorter and the nights get longer. </div><div></div><br /><div>Keep your focus on your dream. Write your story of what your life will be like for one day when you have achieved your dream. </div><div></div><br /><div>And if you don't have a dream. Then I suggest that you find one or pray for one. </div><div> </div><div>As a child we all had dreams. Ask any child if they have a dream. Most of them do and can describe it to you if they are not too embarrased. </div><div> </div><div>As adults we have allowed embarrassment and the real world to make our dream smaller and smaller. But if your dream has become so small then it is not longer a dream.</div><div> </div><div>If you don't have a dream find it. Find out other peoples dreams. You may find your dream wrapped up in someone elses.</div><br /><div></div><div>Having a dream will keep you young.</div><div>Moving toward the dream will keep you happy.</div><div>Achieving the dream will bring a new dream.</div><div>Everybody needs a dream. </div><div>Your dream is your fuel. Gas it up!</div>Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-31712486710726044672009-10-08T00:24:00.003-05:002009-10-08T01:02:49.084-05:00Networking - What It Is and What It Is Not!OK, we have all heard the term ...Networking.<br /><br />The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of networking is as follows:<br />Function: noun<br />Date: 1967<br />1: the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions, specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business<br />2: the establishment or use of a computer network<br /><br />With the above definition I think that this topic is pertaining to number 1.<br /><br />In the definition there are two key parts, the first is, "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions".<br /><br />The EXCHANGE, is the important action in this sentence. When you network it is important that you keep in mind this is an exchange. You give a little and you get a little. You give alot and you get more.<br /><br />How much are you exchanging when you are networking?<br /><br />Are you suggesting leads or key alliances for the other people that you get to know and trust?<br /><br />Are you sharing your successes and what works for you?<br /><br />When you or someone you know, needs a service or product, are you looking online, in the phone book, or in the business cards you have collected recently or in the not so recent past?<br /><br />The question is what are you doing toward your EXCHANGE?<br /><br />The second part of the definition is, "the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business."<br /><br />Cultivation is the action word in this part of the definition.<br /><br />How are you cultivating your relationships?<br /><br />Are you targeting people to develop your specific relationship and are you just moving from person to person trying to be that special someone for everyone?<br /><br />Think about the last statement. What do you think would be more productive to your business development?<br /><br />Trying to fit the mold for everyone or choosing specific people that can be key players to build a "productive" relationship?<br /><br />Networking is not, presenting your business to everyone and looking for NEXT.<br /><br />Networking is not, going to a meeting and as soon as the meeting is done getting out the door to the next meeting or appointment. (that is timeclock mentality)<br /><br />Networking is about relationships and building a team of people that feel comfortable with sharing what you offer.<br /><br />Networking is finding out what someone else needs and then being able to suggest a solution to the need and....guess what.... it may not be your product or service but it may be someone you know in .....your network.<br /><br />Networking <strong><em>is </em></strong>about helping other people. Cultivating the relationships so that you want to help the other people and at the same time you will....let me repeat this...<em>you will be helping yourself</em>.<br />Look in the mirror tomorrow and ask yourself, "am I cultivating relationships to build my network for exchanging information, goods, and services?"<br /><br />Till next time...Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-56639376926822348542009-09-18T17:45:00.001-05:002009-09-19T16:43:54.190-05:00Networking Rule #2 Sharing of business and Strategies Behind Your One On OneIn my last one on one post I covered Rule #1 Getting to know the person and finding out if you trust them.<br /><br />In this post I will discuss proper sharing of business. So just to refresh you the three important elements of you one on one are:<br /><br />#1) Getting to know the person you talk to and begin developing a relationship<br /><br />#2) Sharing of business to provide a competent referral and to get a good referral<br /><br />#3) You want to know the approximately 250 people they know that you don't.<br /><br />As I stated in my original post on the one-on-one meeting, it is important that each party understand each others business.<br /><br />This understanding is not just the mechanical understanding, it is understanding how this person treats the people they obtain via a referral.<br /><br />Do they treat their customers or prospects with the respect and service that you treat your customers. After all if you give a referral to this person you are letting them borrow your credibility.<br /><br />If they treat your referral badly that will reflect badly on you and the customer will be hesitant to do business with you again if you are sending disrespectful people to them.<br /><br />Obviously this is an additional step in establishing the character of the person you are talking to.<br /><br />Additionally, if you do not understand their business it is difficult to refer anyone to them and the reverse is also true. In learning about someones business you have a chance to determine their passion for what they are doing. After all would you refer someone and then find out a year later they are no longer doing the same thing and now your referral is out in the cold? Obviously judgment must play a part in this. If someone is not making the necessary revenue then continuing to do the same thing with the same results is called insanity. So I tend to be less judgmental on this point.<br /><br />OK, so now you have listened to this person and learned about their business. They need to reciprocate and listen about your business. This is very important also because if someone does not give you the opportunity to find out about your business then there are a few questions you might want to ask yourself.<br /><br />Was this person actually intending to provide me with quality referrals if they do not know about my business?<br /><br />Is there already enough of a relationship established that they would give me a quality referral and feel confident I would treat the referral with the utmost respect and service and therefore, understanding the mechanics of my business is not as important as my character?<br /><br />You could ask the person if they feel comfortable with giving you a referral? Of coarse most people will say, "yes". I would suggest that immediately after this question you ask, "Is there anything about my business or how I treat my customers and/or associates, that I can answer for you?"<br /><br />This second question will usually prompt them to ask if there are any doubts.<br /><br />Just remember your relationships you are building are important. They are however business relationships and each person is responsible in the process for developing and moving the relationship in a positive direction.<br /><br />As always I welcome your comments about this post so feel free to share your thoughts on this subject.<br /><br />Till next time.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-60904595545978498492009-08-26T14:56:00.003-05:002009-08-28T21:42:39.267-05:00Networking and Social NetworkingYesterday, I attended a short presentation on Social Networking. The information was great and I am excited to share what I learned with you.<br /><br />When I consider social networking, I compare it to the ATM machine. When ATM machines first came out there were alot of people that felt uncomfortable about using the ATM machine. They did not want to use a machine because they did not trust the machine to count the money properly and were worried about getting short changed. They also felt that it was a privacy concern. Then there were those that just felt the machine was too complicated to learn and just wanted to stay with what they knew and trusted, the teller at the bank.<br /><br />I can take each one of those issues and tie them to online social networking. With social networking people felt that if they hire someone to help them manage their social networking that they will be short changed because of money spent and no results. Then there are those that are concerned about getting involved in the social media world because in order to participate they would have to become too personal and be sharing with others things they would rather just keep to themselves. Finally, there are those who just don't understand the social networking commerce and feel that it is too complicated and time consuming to participate. Sound familiar?<br /><br />Lets say someone refuses to use the ATM, they can still access their money and make withdraws and deposits. It will take a little more time and effort such as driving to the bank and doing business, during the banks business hours.<br /><br />The same is with social networking, you can still grow a business. It will however take more time and effort.<br /><br />Starting and blending all the elements of social networking together is the leap we all must make if we want to grow a strong business that will fit into the new Information Age. In order to participate and prosper we must make a decision to learn it and do it.<br /><br />What I learned yesterday is "at this time eight elements" to the social networking strategy.<br /><br />#1 Facebook<br />#2 LinkedIn<br />#3 Twitter<br />#4 Articles<br />#5 Ezine or ENewsletter<br />#6 Video media such as Youtube<br />#7 Blog and it was suggested it be a domain you own. (If you don't know what a domain is just ask me I can help you)<br />#8 SEO or Search Engine Optimization<br /><br />These eight elements can be worked together to create your social presence on the world wide web. My prediction is in the future there will be tools and programs developed to manage these elements from a single source. For now you have to do each independently and it is time consuming.<br /><br />Speaking of time, what if we were to breakdown traditional network marketing time consumption and social networking time consumption.<br /><br />With traditional networking you have to drive, attend meetings, have 1 on 1's. There is alot of time devoted to planting one seed. With Social networking you have to write, and write and write and there is alot of time devoted but you are planting many seeds.<br /><br />Between the two they do take alot of time but the market penetration with social networking is far more effective than with traditional networking.<br /><br />Social networking is about using all the necessary elements and bringing each of these together to create your presence on the world wide web.<br /><br />If you want to start a campaign then the first thing you must do is find a niche. Determine a niche that you can have plenty of material to write on and you must be a teacher. Make yourself the expert of your niche.<br /><br />Also find places to answer questions and then drive traffic to your blog or to your articles. Alot of people know I write articles and alot of my articles are about all kinds of elements that may or may not have anything to do with networking or electricity. In fact not long ago I wrote an article about Making Hard Candy. If you want to check it out here is the link: <a href="http://www.helium.com/items/1503997-recipes-old-time-hard-candy">Making Old Time Hard Candy</a>.<br /><br />My goal is to build on my name and for me most of my topics are about networking, electricity, technical issues, and other stuff. You may want to stay more to your profession and or niche when writing articles and if your goal is to drive traffic to your web site then the Helium site I used is not for traffic. I mostly use it just to publish articles and get my name known.<br /><br />To drive traffic you want to article websites such as ezinearticles.com, ask yahoo, even LinkedIn can be used for driving traffic to your blog.<br /><br />At this point this post is beginning to get into how to drive traffic and that needs to be in a future post.<br /><br />Till then.<br />See yaNetwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-19532532302238686592009-08-12T16:32:00.001-05:002009-08-17T17:25:25.512-05:00Have You Noticed All The New Business OwnersSomething I have noticed over the summer is the influx of new business owners?<br /><br />When talking to these new business owners most of them are volunteering that they recently became unemployed.<br /><br />We all know have a fairly good idea about what is going on in the job market. As small business owners we control the market by shear numbers and hold the keys to moving the economy and our business forward. The question is can we use the current economy to help not only our business but the people that have had their lives changed in the past few months.<br /><br />Employers in the U.S. cut 467,000 jobs in June and unemployment rate rose from 9.4% to 9.5%, the highest since August 1983. The payroll decline surpassed its forecast and followed a 322,000 drop in May, according to Labor Department figures released recently in Washington.<br /><br />Payrolls were forecast to drop 365,000 after the 345,000 decrease initially reported for May, according to the median of 79 economists surveyed by Bloomberg News last month. Estimates ranged from declines of 150,000 to 500,000. Job losses peaked at 741,000 in January. The jobless rate was projected to climb from 9.4% to 9.6%. And, by the end of the year,<br />unemployment is predicted to reach 10%, according to the survey.<br /><br />With all this doom and gloom there is gain to be had by all. I recently attended a network meeting (this was a very new group), of the 8 people that attended 4 of them had either their spouse laid off or themselves laid off in the past 3 months. These individuals made a decision that they were not going to be idle and wait for a job. They were going to create a job.<br /><br />These are the people we want to align ourselves with no matter what kind of business you own. We want to help these people become profitable because not only are we helping another human being, we are putting money in their pocket that they will spend or invest in each others business.<br /><br />And it doen't stop there. They know people they worked with and they likely talk to them. If someone has a great experience in the private sector, they share it. They will talk about you.<br /><br />The point is, this is all about attitude and making lemons into lemonaide. Helping each in the marketplace is all part of the business network mentality.<br /><br />The current economy is creating an amazing opportunity for all. Look for ways you can spend time, spend a little money, invest in each other, and reap rewards for possibly years to come.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-71713922879414884022009-08-10T15:52:00.002-05:002009-08-20T15:49:03.179-05:00Networking – Rule #1 Do I Trust This Person?In my post <a href="http://networkingink.blogspot.com/2009/07/how-to-conduct-one-on-one-when.html">How to Conduct A One-On-One When Business Networking</a>, I provided three points to keep in mind when conducting a one-on-one. The three points were:<br /><br />#1 Do you feel the person you are speaking to has integrity and character? Do you trust them?<br />#2 Make a point that each party learns about the others business.<br />#3 Keep in mind that you are not selling to the person sitting across the table. You are however selling to every person they know and you are starting a relationship and creating a camaraderie building “sales ambassadors” for your business.<br /><br />The purpose of this post is to get you thinking about #1 and your definition of trust and how you can measure trust.<br /><br />Many of us run on our feelings when measuring trust of one another. Feelings are great but sometimes our feelings are not enough so hopefully this post will help you to create your personal definition of trust.<br /><br />In this case the definition of Trust is: the trait of believing in the honesty and reliability of others.<br />I personally define trust as the trait of believing in the integrity and character of others.<br /><br />Lets start with the definition of each word.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><em>Honesty</em>: fairness and straightforwardness of conduct b : adherence to the facts : SINCERITY<br />synonyms HONESTY, HONOR, INTEGRITY, PROBITY mean uprightness of character or action. HONESTY implies a refusal to lie, steal, or deceive in any way. HONOR suggests an active or anxious regard for the standards of one's profession, calling, or position. INTEGRITY implies trustworthiness and incorruptibility to a degree that one is incapable of being false to a trust, responsibility, or pledge. PROBITY implies tried and proven honesty or integrity.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><em>Reliability:</em> 1 : the quality or state of being reliable. suitable or fit to be relied on : DEPENDABLE 2 : the extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><em>Integrity</em>: 1 : firm adherence to a code of especially moral or artistic values : INCORRUPTIBILITY. 2 : an unimpaired condition : SOUNDNESS<br />3 : the quality or state of being complete or undivided : COMPLETENESS. synonyms see HONESTY<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><em>Character</em>: moral excellence and firmness </span><a><br /></a><br />With these definitions we can start to form our personal definition of trust.<br /><br />About a year ago I attended a weekend training and participated in an exercise where there were 7 people in a group, myself included and you had one minute to tell about yourself and create trust on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being the least trust and 5 being the greatest trust. The exercise was interesting and eye opening.<br /><br />One point of interest was, women seemed to gain trust easier than men. Another interesting tidbit was more trust was gained in the one minute when the person shared a personal story than when people gave reasons to trust them.<br /><br />If you think about these two points it makes sense. Women are traditional caregivers and trust becomes a natural occurrence. Additionally, when we hear a personal story from someone, we relate, we measure and conclude this person has felt the exhilaration of doing the right thing or the regret of it, and therefore have learned the moral lesson. This builds on our trust faster than just providing reasons to trust.<br /><br />Like I said before, my personal definition of trust is a combination of integrity (honesty) and character (moral excellence). I believe most people give general trust easily but if ever violated trust will be gone and regaining it may never be achievable or will be difficult to gain back.<br /><br />I once attended a seminar and during the seminar the topic of trust was discussed by the speaker and his definition incorporated integrity and character. He explained his belief by means of a story that I have never forgot. To this day I use this story to aide in my personal measure of trust for the person I am speaking. I would like to share this story with you.<br /><br />Little Johnny came home from school and shared with his mother an experience from his day.<br /><br />Johnny said, “Mommy, while at school today there was a new girl that came to our class. A lot of the kids made fun of her because she was fat but I didn’t make fun of her.”<br /><br />Johnny’s Mommy said, “That’s very good by not making fun of her you showed integrity. But Johnny did tell the other kids not to make fun of her. That would have shown your character.”<br /><br />This small story was a great example of doing the “right thing”, (integrity) and character (having moral excellence). Do you do the “right thing” even though other people are not and do you stand by your moral beliefs?<br /><br />My little definition does not take into account reliability but I have found that reliability cannot be determined in a one hour meeting. I have found that someone can be reliable and not have integrity and character. So reliability to me is secondary to integrity and character.<br /><br />Now you have an idea of my personal definition of trust. Have you begun to define yours? Can you have a one hour conversation with someone and define on a scale from 1 to 5 your level of trust?<br /><br />No matter what your business, the goal is to develop relationships with the people you encounter each and every day and build trust. Because people do business with those they know, like, and trust.<br /><br />Do the people you encounter everyday know, like, and trust you? Most business owners think that 80% or more trust them when in fact the number is usually closer to 50% or less. So how can you establish trust with the people around you?<br /><br />Here are a few things to keep in mind:<br />• Be consistent in your actions and with how you treat other people. Use the golden rule, treat others as you would want to be treated yourself.<br />• When having your one-on-one provide stories about your experiences to help the other person feel you share like experiences that demonstrate your integrity and character.<br />• When you promise a one-on-one know that you will only be able to reschedule it once or twice. More than that you will be compromising your reliability and therefore compromising the level of trust other people have in you.<br /><br />I personally have had people who would promise a one-on-one with me and then cancel it several times. When this happens more than twice I stop trying to have a one-on-one with them and I throw away their business card because I feel the message they are telling me is I do not matter to them. I will never give them a referral because of the way they treated me. We have all had similar experiences so make sure you are consistent with each person you deal with and treat them as well as you would want to be treated.<br /><br />I hope this has given you food for thought. There are so many people we deal with everyday and making decisions on who and when you are willing to provide a referral and basically allow someone to borrow your name and reputation is important.<br /><br />Next time I hope to provide you with something to think about with #2 Make a point that each party learns about the others business.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-26671043946773442882009-07-27T15:38:00.001-05:002009-07-29T18:06:04.235-05:00How to Conduct A One-On-One When Business NetworkingThis post is another of many that is designed to help the new business networker to understand the dynamics and marketing strategy of a one-on-one.<br /><br />Attending Business Network groups is a great first step to developing an never ending list of names for building any kind of business. Whether your business resides in a brick and mortar building, a network marketing business, direct sales, or a mlm, business network groups will allow you to develop your business in a way you never thought possible.<br /><br />Of coarse there are still other means in addition to business network groups such as the new social networking movement that has taken the internet by storm but that subject will be reserved for another post. For simplicity this post is not going to engage social network. Look for future posts that will bring business networking groups and social media all together.<br /><br />When you attend a business network group meeting, a term you will hear frequently used is one-on-one. A one-on-one is when two business owners from different businesses agree to sit down and share information about each other and begin to develop a relationship.<br /><br />If you were to inquire around to different people and ask, "what is a one-one-one?", you will likely get many different definitions but there will be a consistent theme to each answer which is, "two business owners sit down and share information about each other".<br /><br />When I started in networking, I found this answer to be so vague that I really did not have an answer and with my personality it just did not work. Because I could not find an answer there were many times that I would sit down to a one-on-one and ask the person sitting across from me, "what do you expect the results of this one-on-one to be". The great thing with this question is it laid the groundwork of our meeting up front and each of us had a chance to voice our expectation.<br /><br />Over time I have come up with what I think is a good definition. I do encourage my readers to please provide your opinion since this topic does seem to be very individualized.<br /><br />When I have a one-on-one with a person there are a few things that I keep in mind.<br /><br />#1) I want to get to know this person and determine if I feel they are a person if integrity and character. This is a primary concern when having a one-on-one. If you feel the person you are facing is not a person of integrity then I suggest that you just have a nice conversation and then go your separate ways.<br />If a mutal feeling of trust appears to be plausible then your goal is to develop the relationship to a point where you would feel comfortable referring your mother to the person you are having your one-on-one with.<br /><br />#2) The conversation must consist of each party sharing their product or service. It is absolutely vital that they understand your business and that you understand their business. In fact, it is my opinion that if an individual does not share their business then they are either, a) treating their business as a hobby or b) they do not feel you are of value to their business development. And just to be fair that are alot of people out there that do not have self worth to share their business, which is another way of saying they do not believe enough in their business that it will work for them. If this sharing of business does not occur then each party should agree to have another informal one-on-one in order to provide quality referrals.<br /><br />#3) You want to know the approximate 250 people they know that you do not know. If you have conducted yourself properly through #1 and #2 then #3 has greater chances of occuring. Getting referrals is your goal. We have all heard about the guy that noticed the number of people that attended weddings and funerals and the number is around 200 to 250 people. Most of those people consist of family and close friends when attending weddings and funerals. Creating the relationship of trust and providing the necessary information for the other person to be able to convey your business is important since this creates your sales ambassadors.<br /><br />The three points above are your focus during a one-on-one. Our next "How to" post will cover how to maximize this strategy and create business growth.Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984914196800241406.post-38786584648785721762009-07-14T13:00:00.001-05:002009-08-03T15:23:04.347-05:00Privacy PolicyUpdate July 2009 - Privacy Policy<br /><br />This website/blog uses third-party advertising companies to serve ads when visiting this site. These third parties may collect and use information (but not your name, address, email address, or telephone number) about your visits to this and other websites in order to provide advertisements about goods and services of interest to you. 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I can't access or control these cookies once the advertisers have set them.<br /><br />Links<br /><br />This Blog contains links to other sites. Please be aware that I am not responsible for the privacy practices of these other sites. I suggest my users to be aware of this when they leave this blog and to read the privacy statements of each and every site that collects personally identifiable information. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by this Blog.<br /><br />Advertisers<br /><br />I use outside ad companies to display ads on this blog. These ads may contain cookies and are collected by the advertising companies and I do not have access to this information. I work with the following advertising companies: Google Adsense, clickbank. Please check the advertisers websites for respective privacy policies.<br /><br />Contact Information<br /><br />If you have any questions or concerns please contact Tammy Musack at <a href="mailto:tammy_musack@yahoo.com">tammy_musack@yahoo.com</a>. This privacy policy updated March 2008Netwinkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14567776517775765383noreply@blogger.com0