When I talk to professionals in business communities across the country some roll their eyes at the thought of participating in their local chambers of commerce. But these organizations, with roots back to the 1500's in Europe (the 1700's in America), are more relevant in 2011 as they were 500 years ago.
Many business executives and entrepreneurs do not realize the power that a successful chamber of commerce can have on their local economy. We have been bombarded with information about the internet and social media, that many people instinctively push away anything that existed before 2005. But a good chamber or commerce, that is supported by local businesses, will be the catalyst to bring new employers, and other revenue generating business engines to the area.
The "too cool for school" crowd thinks that chambers of commerce are just for grandpa's business.... but the "Sunrise Breakfast Series" at the Austin Chamber of Commerce is sponsored by Google. Now if your company is more hip and successful (and currently more cool) that Google, then you can stop reading. If not, maybe you need to revisit the reason why supporting and participating in a chamber is a good idea for your business and your community.
This week I attended a the Austin Chamber's breakfast featuring author and speaker Jim Cathcart. Jim is a legend in the world of professional speakers, and the past president of the National Speakers Association. I attended the meeting to support my fellow NSA member (who was also speaking for the Austin NSA Chapter later that day). The real benefit was being with so many local leaders from a variety of industries.
While "liking" a popular Facebook page LinkedIn group is cutting edge and instant, you miss out on the power of sharing that live experience with 200 other people. Mr. Cathcart was great, but the interaction of the the crowd was what made the morning impactful.
There are a ton of "Social Media Gurus" who are getting rich counseling business owners and others on how to win friends and influence people on the internet... but they are missing the reality that social media is just one tool. Attending a chamber of commerce event is a great way to meet people and cultivate ongoing relationships. Hmmmmm, sounds like it is the same thing as social media (which is a tool to meet people and cultivate ongoing relationships).
Do not forget the power of live human to human interactions. Chambers of commerce (and other organizations) host great events. Do not think you can achieve all your goals and dreams by clicking your mouse.
Have A Great Day.
thom singer
Showing posts with label 66 Tips For Better Networking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 66 Tips For Better Networking. Show all posts
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #67 - Always Give A Little More Than Expected
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Always Give A Little More Than Expected
Whenever possible you should deliver something extra. Your clients, co-workers, friends and others expect you to do a good job. Doing good work is the minimum. It is your entrance fee for being in the game, but to really energize your career and achieve the highest levels of success, you need to produce something beyond expectations.
In the olden days when people used to visit bakeries (we now seem to only purchase mass produced breads and pastries at the supermarket) a customer would buy a dozen items and then find thirteen items in the box. The term "a baker's dozen" meant that when paying for twelve you would get thirteen. The baker appreciated his customers who purchased in bulk and would always toss in one extra.
I love the concept of "a baker's dozen". This saying was not born because bakers could not count, instead it is the proof that they understood the power in going the extra mile....and they did it consistently.
Successful people always look for ways to stand out from their competition. They do not get tired of discovering ways to "wow" their clients, and are invigorated when they have the chance to shine. Real leaders instinctively assist others and share 100% of themselves with everyone. They are never scared to expose their inner-self and they do this through how they serve those around them.
Do not simply provide the same level of service as everyone else, push yourself to go a little further. Surprise and delight your clients in ways they do not expect and you will always be remembered. Avoid being a commodity by your customized and calculated actions that crush the competition.
Thank you for reading the "66 Tips For Better Networking Series" on The Some Assembly Required Blog. I hope that you have enjoyed "the journey toward success" and that I have provided value.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Always Give A Little More Than Expected
Whenever possible you should deliver something extra. Your clients, co-workers, friends and others expect you to do a good job. Doing good work is the minimum. It is your entrance fee for being in the game, but to really energize your career and achieve the highest levels of success, you need to produce something beyond expectations.
In the olden days when people used to visit bakeries (we now seem to only purchase mass produced breads and pastries at the supermarket) a customer would buy a dozen items and then find thirteen items in the box. The term "a baker's dozen" meant that when paying for twelve you would get thirteen. The baker appreciated his customers who purchased in bulk and would always toss in one extra.
I love the concept of "a baker's dozen". This saying was not born because bakers could not count, instead it is the proof that they understood the power in going the extra mile....and they did it consistently.
Successful people always look for ways to stand out from their competition. They do not get tired of discovering ways to "wow" their clients, and are invigorated when they have the chance to shine. Real leaders instinctively assist others and share 100% of themselves with everyone. They are never scared to expose their inner-self and they do this through how they serve those around them.
Do not simply provide the same level of service as everyone else, push yourself to go a little further. Surprise and delight your clients in ways they do not expect and you will always be remembered. Avoid being a commodity by your customized and calculated actions that crush the competition.
Thank you for reading the "66 Tips For Better Networking Series" on The Some Assembly Required Blog. I hope that you have enjoyed "the journey toward success" and that I have provided value.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Monday, March 31, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #66 - People Do Business With People They Know and Like
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
People Do Business With People They Know and Like
It is very simple; All things being equal, people do business with people the know and like.
Sure, you can have superior quality or lower prices, but as long as your competition has very good products and services, and similar pricing....you have no real advantage when it comes to features, benefits and costs. Years ago high quality service and a great product were selling points because not every vendor delivered quality. Nowadays having a good work product and amazing customer service skills is just the cost of doing business, as customers will not tolerate the sub-standard.
However, most business professionals make themselves crazy selling their customers on the "fact" that their products and services are the "best". The problem is that every claims this credibility and it confused the buyer. It is like being in New York City and wanting a tall building. If you are standing on the sidewalk looking up all the towers look tall, and it probably does not matter if you have the "tallest", anyway. Being the "best" becomes an issue of perspective, and thus muddies the water.
Your competition also claims quality (Yes, they do claim to be superior! Just a reminder, they do not go into a meeting and say they are almost as good in your industry), and as long as they can convince the prospect of a certain level, the customer no longer cares who is "best".
Instead you must focus on the building a bond with the client that proves to them that you are the best "fit" for their needs. This does not always mean that you show them a long list of satisfied clients, but instead instill a feeling of trust in you as an individual. Buyers want to know that you care about them. They want to like you. They want you to like them back.
Because of this, you should try to make everyone you meet a friend. Do things for them like you would for your friends, neighbors and family members. When you do this, you will discover that more opportunities will come your way. Not every person you be-friend will immediately assist you in your journey toward success, but you will find that many will go out of their way to help you reach your goals.
Author, professional speaker and business consultant Christine Comaford-Lynch says that "the universe has a perfect accounting system". Think about that for a minute. It is like Karma. Everyone wants those they like to win!
Customers use their brains to gather information between two or more competitors, but they use their hearts to select the vendor who they will work with on a specific project. Remember that you need to connect with them in their soul if you want to win their business.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
People Do Business With People They Know and Like
It is very simple; All things being equal, people do business with people the know and like.
Sure, you can have superior quality or lower prices, but as long as your competition has very good products and services, and similar pricing....you have no real advantage when it comes to features, benefits and costs. Years ago high quality service and a great product were selling points because not every vendor delivered quality. Nowadays having a good work product and amazing customer service skills is just the cost of doing business, as customers will not tolerate the sub-standard.
However, most business professionals make themselves crazy selling their customers on the "fact" that their products and services are the "best". The problem is that every claims this credibility and it confused the buyer. It is like being in New York City and wanting a tall building. If you are standing on the sidewalk looking up all the towers look tall, and it probably does not matter if you have the "tallest", anyway. Being the "best" becomes an issue of perspective, and thus muddies the water.
Your competition also claims quality (Yes, they do claim to be superior! Just a reminder, they do not go into a meeting and say they are almost as good in your industry), and as long as they can convince the prospect of a certain level, the customer no longer cares who is "best".
Instead you must focus on the building a bond with the client that proves to them that you are the best "fit" for their needs. This does not always mean that you show them a long list of satisfied clients, but instead instill a feeling of trust in you as an individual. Buyers want to know that you care about them. They want to like you. They want you to like them back.
Because of this, you should try to make everyone you meet a friend. Do things for them like you would for your friends, neighbors and family members. When you do this, you will discover that more opportunities will come your way. Not every person you be-friend will immediately assist you in your journey toward success, but you will find that many will go out of their way to help you reach your goals.
Author, professional speaker and business consultant Christine Comaford-Lynch says that "the universe has a perfect accounting system". Think about that for a minute. It is like Karma. Everyone wants those they like to win!
Customers use their brains to gather information between two or more competitors, but they use their hearts to select the vendor who they will work with on a specific project. Remember that you need to connect with them in their soul if you want to win their business.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #65 - Don't Be Full Of Yourself
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
When I forget to be respectful of others and choose to see them as instantly wrong during a disagreement, then I am being short-sighted and small-minded. God, I hate it when I do that! And when I see others do this it makes me sad for them as well.
My dad taught me not to be "full of myself" and to respect others who have differing opinions. These differences are what make us powerful. When we can work together to find similarities and can work in tandem to create win-win solutions, everyone prospers. When we seek to divide and demonize other people, we all fail.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #64 - Make It So
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Make It So
Those who were fans of the Sci-Fi television show "Star Trek, The Next Generation" know that every time Captain Jean Luc Picard asked his crew to execute on a task, he uttered the words: "Make it so".
Easy, straight forward, and to the point. It showed that he was confident in the ability of those around him to accomplish the job and certain that together they would achieve. The Enterprise commander cared deeply for his co-workers, and knew instinctively that they were qualified to do their jobs.
This is how we should all operate in our careers. Regardless of your job title you should have this level of trust in those around us. When people know you believe in them they are motivated to get the job done.
Team work will always lead you to greater success. No person is an island. When we have big goals, we are more likely to reach them if we have others in our life who will work with us. Being part of a motivated and cohesive group feels like nothing else in the world.
I recently experienced a day at work where everyone on the team seemed to be doing the work of three people. It was fun and together we accomplished all sorts of things. Everyone pitched in focused on the execution of several projects. It is on days like this when everyone realizes the importance of working with others who are the best at what they do.... working with the "A-Team" makes all the difference. I am fortunate, as I work for a company that is the premier organization in our field, and I see this level of excellence on a regular basis. The team knows how to "make it so" internally and for our clients. This makes work both fun and fulfilling.
Sure, sometimes we get busy and there are a million things that can pop up to keep us from getting the job done... but we cannot let those distractions get us off track. Jean Luc Picard and his crew never let little things like the threat of assimilation by the Borg slow them down. You and your team need to just buckle down and engage at warp speed.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Make It So
Those who were fans of the Sci-Fi television show "Star Trek, The Next Generation" know that every time Captain Jean Luc Picard asked his crew to execute on a task, he uttered the words: "Make it so".
Easy, straight forward, and to the point. It showed that he was confident in the ability of those around him to accomplish the job and certain that together they would achieve. The Enterprise commander cared deeply for his co-workers, and knew instinctively that they were qualified to do their jobs.
This is how we should all operate in our careers. Regardless of your job title you should have this level of trust in those around us. When people know you believe in them they are motivated to get the job done.
Team work will always lead you to greater success. No person is an island. When we have big goals, we are more likely to reach them if we have others in our life who will work with us. Being part of a motivated and cohesive group feels like nothing else in the world.
I recently experienced a day at work where everyone on the team seemed to be doing the work of three people. It was fun and together we accomplished all sorts of things. Everyone pitched in focused on the execution of several projects. It is on days like this when everyone realizes the importance of working with others who are the best at what they do.... working with the "A-Team" makes all the difference. I am fortunate, as I work for a company that is the premier organization in our field, and I see this level of excellence on a regular basis. The team knows how to "make it so" internally and for our clients. This makes work both fun and fulfilling.
Sure, sometimes we get busy and there are a million things that can pop up to keep us from getting the job done... but we cannot let those distractions get us off track. Jean Luc Picard and his crew never let little things like the threat of assimilation by the Borg slow them down. You and your team need to just buckle down and engage at warp speed.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Monday, March 17, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #63 - Go All The Way
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Go All The Way
Whatever you do, don't just do it half way. Pour your heart into the task at hand and let your soul shine brightly in the work you do. Do not let your mind paralyze you into just doing part of the job. Real success requires you to go all in.
Too often people only do the minimum in their career. They put in enough effort to get through the day, but are not fully engaged in being spectacular. For many reasons they hold back.
Sometimes it is being lazy, but more often I find people are scared. They over-think every situation and are concerned as much with how their actions will be perceived by the greater community. They fear that if they show their true ambition that some may criticize or that if they select the wrong path that failure would loom and embarrass them.
I have a close friend who is writing a book. He has the desire to inspire others and an amazing personal story of success. I read the draft of his first chapter and found that he was holding back on the "low points" in his life. He mentioned some of his personal despair, but failed to open up his heart and share the real traumas he overcame. The whole chapter came out flat, and he knew it, but he was uncomfortable to share the whole story.
I challenged him to open up and expose himself fully. To sprinkle the pages with only part of his story would never trigger a reaction in the future readers of his book. Once you decide to put yourself out there, going part way will not produce the desired results.
He went back to the drawing board and let his heart flow completely as he wrote about his journey. His words seemed to leap off the page and connected. When reading the new version of the chapter I nearly had tears in my eyes. It was inspiring and I wanted to know more. Those who will eventually read his future New York Times Bestseller will trust his advice once they read about how he got to achieve his own levels of success, and the troubles he encountered along his own journey.
Regardless of what you do to earn a living, unwrap yourself from your self-spun cocoon of protection. Like a butterfly entering the world, put yourself out in the sun one hundred percent. Does this make you vulnerable? Yep. But a butterfly cannot expose it's whole beauty and potential to the world, nor could it ever fly, if it stayed inside the cocoon.
Life is full of risks, but worse that the fears you harbor of taking the wrong action would be looking back and discovering you never achieved your potential. To reach your personal highs you must first find a way to push out of your shell and do more. You must give it your all and go all the way.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Go All The Way
Whatever you do, don't just do it half way. Pour your heart into the task at hand and let your soul shine brightly in the work you do. Do not let your mind paralyze you into just doing part of the job. Real success requires you to go all in.
Too often people only do the minimum in their career. They put in enough effort to get through the day, but are not fully engaged in being spectacular. For many reasons they hold back.
Sometimes it is being lazy, but more often I find people are scared. They over-think every situation and are concerned as much with how their actions will be perceived by the greater community. They fear that if they show their true ambition that some may criticize or that if they select the wrong path that failure would loom and embarrass them.
I have a close friend who is writing a book. He has the desire to inspire others and an amazing personal story of success. I read the draft of his first chapter and found that he was holding back on the "low points" in his life. He mentioned some of his personal despair, but failed to open up his heart and share the real traumas he overcame. The whole chapter came out flat, and he knew it, but he was uncomfortable to share the whole story.
I challenged him to open up and expose himself fully. To sprinkle the pages with only part of his story would never trigger a reaction in the future readers of his book. Once you decide to put yourself out there, going part way will not produce the desired results.
He went back to the drawing board and let his heart flow completely as he wrote about his journey. His words seemed to leap off the page and connected. When reading the new version of the chapter I nearly had tears in my eyes. It was inspiring and I wanted to know more. Those who will eventually read his future New York Times Bestseller will trust his advice once they read about how he got to achieve his own levels of success, and the troubles he encountered along his own journey.
Regardless of what you do to earn a living, unwrap yourself from your self-spun cocoon of protection. Like a butterfly entering the world, put yourself out in the sun one hundred percent. Does this make you vulnerable? Yep. But a butterfly cannot expose it's whole beauty and potential to the world, nor could it ever fly, if it stayed inside the cocoon.
Life is full of risks, but worse that the fears you harbor of taking the wrong action would be looking back and discovering you never achieved your potential. To reach your personal highs you must first find a way to push out of your shell and do more. You must give it your all and go all the way.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Thursday, March 13, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #62 - Own Your Mistakes
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Own Your Mistakes
Nobody is perfect. There I said it. I make mistakes and so do you. While nobody sets out to disappoint a client, co-worker, friend, or boss, sometimes there are situations when we come up short. So much time is spent trying to cover-up, avoid and justify stumbles that it causes us to lose track of what is really important - - doing better next time!
In order to grow your career you have to take some risks. By taking chances, the odds are that sometimes you will fail. I have never looked at the occasional failure as a bad thing. In fact, if you look at every experience as a lesson, then it is possible to make lemonade out of lemons when you do not succeed. Lemons are bitter, but dang, lemonade tastes good!
A person I know recently let me down. I knew it, and he knew it. He called and said he was sorry and asked how he could make everything "right". Dang, classy and cool. That shows guts and character.
Admitting and facing negative happenings caused by your own doing can be difficult and embarrassing. Nobody likes to publically admit a mess up, which is why so many people try to sidestep, deny and spin situations that fall into this category once the truth becomes known.
Politicians and Hollywood celebrities often get in bigger trouble from the cover-up than they would have from their initial mistakes. It is better to just own your mistakes and ask for forgiveness.
People are by nature forgiving to those who take responsibility for their actions. To error is human and to forgive is divine.... as long as you are forthcoming. Those who lie, deny and evade are never again viewed the same way.
My experiences have been that most mistakes we make are minor, and become a big deal only because we make them a big deal. I suggest when we have a hickup to own the mistake, apologize and go on with our life. The trick is not to make the same mistake twice! I try to learn everyday, and where I fail is fertile ground to plant the best seeds for growth.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Own Your Mistakes
Nobody is perfect. There I said it. I make mistakes and so do you. While nobody sets out to disappoint a client, co-worker, friend, or boss, sometimes there are situations when we come up short. So much time is spent trying to cover-up, avoid and justify stumbles that it causes us to lose track of what is really important - - doing better next time!
In order to grow your career you have to take some risks. By taking chances, the odds are that sometimes you will fail. I have never looked at the occasional failure as a bad thing. In fact, if you look at every experience as a lesson, then it is possible to make lemonade out of lemons when you do not succeed. Lemons are bitter, but dang, lemonade tastes good!
A person I know recently let me down. I knew it, and he knew it. He called and said he was sorry and asked how he could make everything "right". Dang, classy and cool. That shows guts and character.
Admitting and facing negative happenings caused by your own doing can be difficult and embarrassing. Nobody likes to publically admit a mess up, which is why so many people try to sidestep, deny and spin situations that fall into this category once the truth becomes known.
Politicians and Hollywood celebrities often get in bigger trouble from the cover-up than they would have from their initial mistakes. It is better to just own your mistakes and ask for forgiveness.
People are by nature forgiving to those who take responsibility for their actions. To error is human and to forgive is divine.... as long as you are forthcoming. Those who lie, deny and evade are never again viewed the same way.
My experiences have been that most mistakes we make are minor, and become a big deal only because we make them a big deal. I suggest when we have a hickup to own the mistake, apologize and go on with our life. The trick is not to make the same mistake twice! I try to learn everyday, and where I fail is fertile ground to plant the best seeds for growth.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #61 - Make Contacts At Conferences
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Make Contacts At Conventions, Seminars and Conferences
One of the main reasons cited for attendance at industry conferences is the "networking opportunities", however few people actually do a good job of taking advantage of making meaningful connections with others who are present at these types of events.
In order to meet people at a conference who could become part of your network, you must take the initiative. Creating enough of a relationship to build upon will not happen by accident. You have very little time to connect with people in a way that will allow you to follow up once the gathering is over and you all return home.
Here are five tips:
1. Be friendly. Other people also want to meet cool people at conferences, but they may not be very outgoing. Because of this, people from similar industries and interests can sit next to each other in breakout session and never have a conversation. If you want to meet people, say "hello". You will be amazed at how easy it is to start a discussion with others once you say something to them.
2. Attend the breakout sessions that interest you most. Often when you attend a multi-day conference you will have choices of topics to attend throughout the event. Select the ones that interest you the most and then remember that the others in the room had picked this session because they have something in common with you.
3. Take advantage of the breaks, lunches and happy hours to network. Too often people go into a bubble during breaks to check their email and voicemail. They either run to their room or are off on the side tapping on the blackberry. These social times are the most important tools you have to talk with others. It is at these breaks that you can chat with others and make plans to join them for other sessions or other activities.
4. Never eat by yourself or with co-workers. Eating a meal alone or with someone from your office is opportunity lost. Whether it is a scheduled group meal or "dine on your own", if you are not sharing your meal with other conference attendees you are missing out on ways to make real connections. Humans are social creatures dining together is an easy way to create bonds. Seek out others whom you would like to know better and join them for a meal.
5. Follow up is the key. After you have met a bunch of people at a conference, seminar or convention and return home is when the real important part of networking begins. Just meeting someone does not make them part of your network, it makes them someone you have met. Real friendships are cultivated over time, and therefore you must make the effort to keep the relationship with your new friends alive. Do this by sending them a follow up note or email letting them know how much you appreciated meeting them and them look for ways to continue to contact them from time to time (not too often, don't be a stalker).
Not everyone you meet at a conference will become a life-long friend, but some people can develop into very important connections. You never know until you try.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Make Contacts At Conventions, Seminars and Conferences
One of the main reasons cited for attendance at industry conferences is the "networking opportunities", however few people actually do a good job of taking advantage of making meaningful connections with others who are present at these types of events.
In order to meet people at a conference who could become part of your network, you must take the initiative. Creating enough of a relationship to build upon will not happen by accident. You have very little time to connect with people in a way that will allow you to follow up once the gathering is over and you all return home.
Here are five tips:
1. Be friendly. Other people also want to meet cool people at conferences, but they may not be very outgoing. Because of this, people from similar industries and interests can sit next to each other in breakout session and never have a conversation. If you want to meet people, say "hello". You will be amazed at how easy it is to start a discussion with others once you say something to them.
2. Attend the breakout sessions that interest you most. Often when you attend a multi-day conference you will have choices of topics to attend throughout the event. Select the ones that interest you the most and then remember that the others in the room had picked this session because they have something in common with you.
3. Take advantage of the breaks, lunches and happy hours to network. Too often people go into a bubble during breaks to check their email and voicemail. They either run to their room or are off on the side tapping on the blackberry. These social times are the most important tools you have to talk with others. It is at these breaks that you can chat with others and make plans to join them for other sessions or other activities.
4. Never eat by yourself or with co-workers. Eating a meal alone or with someone from your office is opportunity lost. Whether it is a scheduled group meal or "dine on your own", if you are not sharing your meal with other conference attendees you are missing out on ways to make real connections. Humans are social creatures dining together is an easy way to create bonds. Seek out others whom you would like to know better and join them for a meal.
5. Follow up is the key. After you have met a bunch of people at a conference, seminar or convention and return home is when the real important part of networking begins. Just meeting someone does not make them part of your network, it makes them someone you have met. Real friendships are cultivated over time, and therefore you must make the effort to keep the relationship with your new friends alive. Do this by sending them a follow up note or email letting them know how much you appreciated meeting them and them look for ways to continue to contact them from time to time (not too often, don't be a stalker).
Not everyone you meet at a conference will become a life-long friend, but some people can develop into very important connections. You never know until you try.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Sunday, March 02, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #60 - Unlock Your Inner Entrepreneur
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Unlock Your Inner Entrepreneur
Regardless of if you work at a major corporation, or for yourself, you ARE an entrepreneur and the architect of your own future. You need not have a desire to build your own business empire to capitalize on the "inner entrepreneur" and catapult your career to new heights.
Dictionary.com defines an entrepreneur as "a person who organizes and manages any enterprise, esp. a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk." No matter what your role, you do organize and manage yourself. You are responsible for having personal initiative, as nobody will do this for you. Never forget this part.
The key to the definition is "with considerable initiative and risk". We should all take risks with our careers, regardless of if we own the business where we work. To just wake up and go through the motions is a boring way to go through life. Additionally, there is risk to our careers regardless of who owns the company. There is no guarantee that your job will be there tomorrow. Companies change direction all the time, so you need to accept that risk is just part of waking up each day.
Risk in itself is not a bad. Taking risks is what allows people and companies to grow and expand their horizons. When we stop taking risks (or at least "calculated" risks) is when the fun part stops and the blahhhh begins. Who wants to be blahhhh? Not me.
Take a few minutes to examine yourself and your career. Are you entrepreneurial? Do you take on the ownership of projects within your company? When you have ownership, you are the one who will get the praise for the achievements, but also the criticism for the failures. Being prepared for this is important, as nobody wins every time.
I was once asked if someone can learn to be entrepreneurial, or if it is hard-wired into our DNA. I think that the answer is "both". I know some folks who are naturals at this stuff, but others who have had to search for and train their inner entrepreneurial spirit. I have also known people who took risks early in their careers, but stifled those trends once they had created a comfortable life-style. The fear of brave moves paralyzed their growth. Your inner entrepreneur is there, but fragile. It needs to be nurtured and cultivated in order to thrive.
The best way to help your inner entrepreneur to reach its potential is to expose yourself to others who live the entrepreneur life. I am a big fan of business owners participating in peer groups such as The Alternative Board (TAB) , Vistage, Entrepreneur's Organization (EO), and/or the Young President's Organization (YPO). These formal exchanges between executives leads to them to stretching their limits. By sharing with peers they can clearly see ways to create greater successes than they could alone.
If you are not a business owner you can still create peer groups that will inspire you to excel. Look for ways to be more comfortable with your career initiatives and to take risks. Supportive friends who believe in your abilities will help you to see your own potential. Being isolated or surrounded by the same group for too long will not give you fresh perspectives.
You have the keys, now unlock your inner entrepreneur and soar to new heights.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
****Have you read my books, "Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships" and "The ABC's of Networking"? You can purchase them right now at Amazon.com. Also, look for my new releases in 2008: "Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Women", "Some Assembly Required - OnLine" and "Batteries Not Included: 66 Tips To Energize Your Career".
Unlock Your Inner Entrepreneur
Regardless of if you work at a major corporation, or for yourself, you ARE an entrepreneur and the architect of your own future. You need not have a desire to build your own business empire to capitalize on the "inner entrepreneur" and catapult your career to new heights.
Dictionary.com defines an entrepreneur as "a person who organizes and manages any enterprise, esp. a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk." No matter what your role, you do organize and manage yourself. You are responsible for having personal initiative, as nobody will do this for you. Never forget this part.
The key to the definition is "with considerable initiative and risk". We should all take risks with our careers, regardless of if we own the business where we work. To just wake up and go through the motions is a boring way to go through life. Additionally, there is risk to our careers regardless of who owns the company. There is no guarantee that your job will be there tomorrow. Companies change direction all the time, so you need to accept that risk is just part of waking up each day.
Risk in itself is not a bad. Taking risks is what allows people and companies to grow and expand their horizons. When we stop taking risks (or at least "calculated" risks) is when the fun part stops and the blahhhh begins. Who wants to be blahhhh? Not me.
Take a few minutes to examine yourself and your career. Are you entrepreneurial? Do you take on the ownership of projects within your company? When you have ownership, you are the one who will get the praise for the achievements, but also the criticism for the failures. Being prepared for this is important, as nobody wins every time.
I was once asked if someone can learn to be entrepreneurial, or if it is hard-wired into our DNA. I think that the answer is "both". I know some folks who are naturals at this stuff, but others who have had to search for and train their inner entrepreneurial spirit. I have also known people who took risks early in their careers, but stifled those trends once they had created a comfortable life-style. The fear of brave moves paralyzed their growth. Your inner entrepreneur is there, but fragile. It needs to be nurtured and cultivated in order to thrive.
The best way to help your inner entrepreneur to reach its potential is to expose yourself to others who live the entrepreneur life. I am a big fan of business owners participating in peer groups such as The Alternative Board (TAB) , Vistage, Entrepreneur's Organization (EO), and/or the Young President's Organization (YPO). These formal exchanges between executives leads to them to stretching their limits. By sharing with peers they can clearly see ways to create greater successes than they could alone.
If you are not a business owner you can still create peer groups that will inspire you to excel. Look for ways to be more comfortable with your career initiatives and to take risks. Supportive friends who believe in your abilities will help you to see your own potential. Being isolated or surrounded by the same group for too long will not give you fresh perspectives.
You have the keys, now unlock your inner entrepreneur and soar to new heights.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
****Have you read my books, "Some Assembly Required: How to Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships" and "The ABC's of Networking"? You can purchase them right now at Amazon.com. Also, look for my new releases in 2008: "Some Assembly Required: A Networking Guide for Women", "Some Assembly Required - OnLine" and "Batteries Not Included: 66 Tips To Energize Your Career".
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #59 - High Expectations
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
High Expectations
The universe has a funny way of delivering to you what you expect. If you think people will treat you poorly, they will. If you imagine that you will succeed, opportunities that lead toward success will materialize.
"The Law of Attraction" has become the term used by many to describe this phenomenon. Most associate The Law of Attraction with the saying, "like attracts like": that a person's thoughts (conscious and unconscious), emotions, beliefs and actions attract corresponding positive or negative experiences. I believe that if you have high expectations for yourself and others, that all will perform at a higher level. Mystical law or simple math I am not sure.
The phrase is closely associated with "New Age" beliefs and practices, and has gained widespread notoriety in the recently popular book and film "The Secret".
The Law of Attraction has been criticized for the misuse of the scientific term "law". I am not suggesting that if you think about a BMW one will magically appear in your driveway, but there does seem to be a correlation between positive thoughts and positive actions.
When you interact with other people in the business community, what do you expect? Do you instantly like most people and expect them to become your friend? Or are you guarded and wonder how they will try to take advantage of you? Your thoughts about how you judge others will impact the relationship that you will build with them.
If you have high expectations for your employees, co-workers, bosses, clients, and others....and let them know that you expect greatness from them, you will find they will usually rise to meet those goals. People want to excel and impress those around them, and will try hard (consciously or subconsciously) to live up to your impressions of their abilities.
The same is true for yourself. Do you expect to achieve more in life than you have before? I do. I know in my heart that I will sell more books and give more professional speeches year over year, and that my message will impact others. I also know that I am going to help my employer reach new heights. I have high expectations of what I will deliver to the world over the long run. You should too.
I love the expression: "If you think you can or think you can't....You are right". That says it all. Believe in yourself and set high expectations.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
High Expectations
The universe has a funny way of delivering to you what you expect. If you think people will treat you poorly, they will. If you imagine that you will succeed, opportunities that lead toward success will materialize.
"The Law of Attraction" has become the term used by many to describe this phenomenon. Most associate The Law of Attraction with the saying, "like attracts like": that a person's thoughts (conscious and unconscious), emotions, beliefs and actions attract corresponding positive or negative experiences. I believe that if you have high expectations for yourself and others, that all will perform at a higher level. Mystical law or simple math I am not sure.
The phrase is closely associated with "New Age" beliefs and practices, and has gained widespread notoriety in the recently popular book and film "The Secret".
The Law of Attraction has been criticized for the misuse of the scientific term "law". I am not suggesting that if you think about a BMW one will magically appear in your driveway, but there does seem to be a correlation between positive thoughts and positive actions.
When you interact with other people in the business community, what do you expect? Do you instantly like most people and expect them to become your friend? Or are you guarded and wonder how they will try to take advantage of you? Your thoughts about how you judge others will impact the relationship that you will build with them.
If you have high expectations for your employees, co-workers, bosses, clients, and others....and let them know that you expect greatness from them, you will find they will usually rise to meet those goals. People want to excel and impress those around them, and will try hard (consciously or subconsciously) to live up to your impressions of their abilities.
The same is true for yourself. Do you expect to achieve more in life than you have before? I do. I know in my heart that I will sell more books and give more professional speeches year over year, and that my message will impact others. I also know that I am going to help my employer reach new heights. I have high expectations of what I will deliver to the world over the long run. You should too.
I love the expression: "If you think you can or think you can't....You are right". That says it all. Believe in yourself and set high expectations.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Sunday, February 24, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #58 - Do Not Network Behind A Wall
Successful business professionals often run the risk of creating an artificial wall around themselves and only interacting with those on the same side of the barrier.
What happens to many is that they get busy and find themselves only building connections with people in the same industry, company or geographic region. They do not mean to isolate themselves from the outside world, but they wake up to discover that while they may know a lot of people, there is no depth to their network.
To ensure that you have diversity in your network you need to seek out making real connections with people who have a variety of backgrounds and interests. Do not limit your efforts to those whose careers and interests are the same as your own. While you do not want to exclude those like you (in fact, most of your friends and close colleagues will have similarities), you must make sure that you are looking beyond the norm.
When you have the opportunity to make connections with people in other cities, states and countries, you should work especially hard to make, keep and grow these business relationships. Real friendships take work to cultivate and blossom. This used to be difficult with those who were not nearby, but with all the new advances in interpersonal communications, it is now just as easy to make connections around the globe as it is around the corner.
You should also make friends with folks in industries that are unrelated to your own. Too many people only see themselves as "teachers", "lawyers", "software sales professionals, "java programmers", "marketers", etc... The truth is that most of the skills you use in your daily career would translate easily into other jobs. Because of this, your future opportunities are endless if you have the right contacts.
Tear down that wall. Expand your territories. Welcome others into your world.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
What happens to many is that they get busy and find themselves only building connections with people in the same industry, company or geographic region. They do not mean to isolate themselves from the outside world, but they wake up to discover that while they may know a lot of people, there is no depth to their network.
To ensure that you have diversity in your network you need to seek out making real connections with people who have a variety of backgrounds and interests. Do not limit your efforts to those whose careers and interests are the same as your own. While you do not want to exclude those like you (in fact, most of your friends and close colleagues will have similarities), you must make sure that you are looking beyond the norm.
When you have the opportunity to make connections with people in other cities, states and countries, you should work especially hard to make, keep and grow these business relationships. Real friendships take work to cultivate and blossom. This used to be difficult with those who were not nearby, but with all the new advances in interpersonal communications, it is now just as easy to make connections around the globe as it is around the corner.
You should also make friends with folks in industries that are unrelated to your own. Too many people only see themselves as "teachers", "lawyers", "software sales professionals, "java programmers", "marketers", etc... The truth is that most of the skills you use in your daily career would translate easily into other jobs. Because of this, your future opportunities are endless if you have the right contacts.
Tear down that wall. Expand your territories. Welcome others into your world.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Monday, February 18, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #57 - Keep It Short
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Keep It Short
Be brief when writing or speaking. You will make a bigger impact on other people when you keep your thoughts and ideas concise. This shows them that you are confident in your convictions and that you respect their time. It will also give them the opportunity to join in the conversation.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Keep It Short
Be brief when writing or speaking. You will make a bigger impact on other people when you keep your thoughts and ideas concise. This shows them that you are confident in your convictions and that you respect their time. It will also give them the opportunity to join in the conversation.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
66 Tips To Better Networking - #56 -Manufacture Your Luck
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
I know I am a fortunate guy. Some of my good fortune comes from hard work and strategery (I love that fake word, thank you Will Ferrell) while other things just fall into my lap.
To be on that game show one had to go through an extensive series of interviews and try-outs. I called the number, drove to Los Angeles (I lived in San Diego at the time) and took a battery of tests. Additionally, I had great word association skills - which were either God-given or taught in the Arcadia Unified School District. When someone said "grapes, bananas, the Brady family", I instantly knew they were talking about "things that come in a bunch". Without the skills and the action of getting my butt to the audition, there could have been no luck.
You never know who can bring something amazing into your world. All opportunities come from people, which means that if you embrace others, you win. But it must be a mutually beneficial relationship or the other people will not go out of their way to help you. Helping others allows you achieve more.
I think we make our own luck. Most people never think about this concept and just go through life without trying to influence their destiny. If you want more luck, try the following three steps and see what happens:
2. Let people know what you want. If you keep your goals and dreams secret then nobody can help you. Like the Hanna Montana tickets, they did not drop from the sky, I had told about forty people that I wanted to take my kids to the show. Only one came through, but that was all I needed.
Have A Great Day.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #55 - Connect The Dots
You never know when you might make a connection with another person. You could be of vital assistance to them (and part of networking is helping others, not just hoping they can help you!), or they could impact your future. This is why you should always discover something about those whom you encounter. One never knows when the stars will line up.
I always look for something in common with people I meet. Sure, you can't have a connection with everyone, but when you do find a link, it makes the conversation more exciting.
I recently met someone whose brother was a former student of my father-in-law (my f-i-l was a high school teacher at a private school in California for 35 years). My f-i-l was thrilled to reconnect with this former student, but he was curious how I had connected the dots. I laughed, as this is what I do, I ask questions of people and look for common ground. One never knows what you will discover when you go looking for commonalities.
Even at the Superbowl I was networking. The guy sitting next to me was a huge Giants fan, and since we were both routing for the underdog, we had a connection. From we were able to strike up a very interesting conversation. Bill is a die-hard fan who was raised in New Jersey, whose wife encouraged him to take advantage of a last minute chance to see his team play in Phoenix. Even though money was tight and she would be home alone with their new baby girl, she wanted him to have this once in a lifetime experience. I learned a lot about this guy just by asking questions. It was fun to talk to him, but I did not know if there would any way I could ever help him or vice versa.
This guy was impressive, ambitious and interesting. It turns out he is trying to launch a new career in an industry where one of my friends is an expert and national thought leader. Naturally I offered to introduce him to my friend as he would benefit from knowing this person. Wammo....an important part of networking .....finding a way to be a resource for others even if there is nothing in it for you.
It turns out that my camera was broken at the Superbowl, and because I had established a dialog with Bill during the game, he was willing to take a few photos for me and will be emailing them to me this weekend (he already sent me an email letting me know the photos are on their way when he has the time to download them off his camera). Had I not spoken to him I would not have any photos other than some off my phone.
Will knowing that someone's brother was taught French by my father-in-law (an re-connecting them) or that a guy I met at a game is ambitiously pursuing new opportunities make any difference in my life? Maybe, maybe not...but by being able to connect the dots sets up a chance to build a relationship that could be mutually beneficial is what networking is all about. One day it could be one of these people who drop an opportunity in my lap that changes my world. If not, I loose nothing, but the possibilities are limitless.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
I always look for something in common with people I meet. Sure, you can't have a connection with everyone, but when you do find a link, it makes the conversation more exciting.
I recently met someone whose brother was a former student of my father-in-law (my f-i-l was a high school teacher at a private school in California for 35 years). My f-i-l was thrilled to reconnect with this former student, but he was curious how I had connected the dots. I laughed, as this is what I do, I ask questions of people and look for common ground. One never knows what you will discover when you go looking for commonalities.
Even at the Superbowl I was networking. The guy sitting next to me was a huge Giants fan, and since we were both routing for the underdog, we had a connection. From we were able to strike up a very interesting conversation. Bill is a die-hard fan who was raised in New Jersey, whose wife encouraged him to take advantage of a last minute chance to see his team play in Phoenix. Even though money was tight and she would be home alone with their new baby girl, she wanted him to have this once in a lifetime experience. I learned a lot about this guy just by asking questions. It was fun to talk to him, but I did not know if there would any way I could ever help him or vice versa.
This guy was impressive, ambitious and interesting. It turns out he is trying to launch a new career in an industry where one of my friends is an expert and national thought leader. Naturally I offered to introduce him to my friend as he would benefit from knowing this person. Wammo....an important part of networking .....finding a way to be a resource for others even if there is nothing in it for you.
It turns out that my camera was broken at the Superbowl, and because I had established a dialog with Bill during the game, he was willing to take a few photos for me and will be emailing them to me this weekend (he already sent me an email letting me know the photos are on their way when he has the time to download them off his camera). Had I not spoken to him I would not have any photos other than some off my phone.
Will knowing that someone's brother was taught French by my father-in-law (an re-connecting them) or that a guy I met at a game is ambitiously pursuing new opportunities make any difference in my life? Maybe, maybe not...but by being able to connect the dots sets up a chance to build a relationship that could be mutually beneficial is what networking is all about. One day it could be one of these people who drop an opportunity in my lap that changes my world. If not, I loose nothing, but the possibilities are limitless.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Thursday, January 31, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #54 - Reconnect
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Reconnect With Old Friends and Business Associates
Our transient busy society makes it easy to lose touch with people. Former co-workers, college pals, old friends and others can come and go in and out of your life. While this is normal, it is not always necessary. People are the most important asset to discovering your potential, and therefore a person lost is opportunity lost. A mutually respectful friendship can bring both parties more success.
The good news is that it is easier than ever to reconnect with people who have passed through your life. The pervasiveness of the internet over the last decade has put most people within reach within just a few key strokes. While not everyone can be found through a simple search, many others can be located with ease. (If a person has no online precence on sites like LinkedIn or Facebook it can make it more difficult. Also, a friend named John Smith might be hard to find locate because of the sheer number of people with the same name).
I recently made contact with a friend from childhood. We only exchanged a few emails and are not now best-friends again, but I really enjoyed finding this guy and learning about his life twenty five years later. He is happily married with four kids and is the founder of a successful business (and the winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Award in his area). As a kid I remember him as being interested in technology and was very smart, so I am thrilled to see his success.
As little kids we were buddies. Many of my fondest memories were running around on our street with him and other kids that populated the block. We were both strong willed and had some fights...in fact I remember our parents not letting us play together for a few days. A good strategy, as when the ban was lifted we were fast friends again.
Over time we drifted apart. We went to different elementary schools and I moved to a different house. I am not sure what happened, but as kids do, we went different directions. I have always regretted that because he really was an important friend. I think it was my fault on some level, as I was not always good at letting my friends know how I felt, and in some cases let childhood ego mess things up.
So I searched for him on Facebook. Bang, there he was. I sent him a connection request and then we traded some emails. I hope that his business travels will bring him to Austin (not uncommon for technology executives) and that he will look me up. Additionally, the next time I am speaking in the Silicon Valley I will reach out to see if he is free for coffee. I was happy to have talked with him (via email) and hope he was equally as touched.
Making such a connection with an old friend or business associate is no guarantee that you will re-establish a friendship, but if you do not try, I can promise no such relationship will appear. In most cases your old friends are glad to hear from you and happy to have you back in their life. While you will not always develop a mutually beneficial connection, why not try?
Think of three people whom you have lost touch with and go right now and search for them on the internet. Send them a note just to say "hello". If you find them, come back here and leave a comment about how it made you feel.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Reconnect With Old Friends and Business Associates
Our transient busy society makes it easy to lose touch with people. Former co-workers, college pals, old friends and others can come and go in and out of your life. While this is normal, it is not always necessary. People are the most important asset to discovering your potential, and therefore a person lost is opportunity lost. A mutually respectful friendship can bring both parties more success.
The good news is that it is easier than ever to reconnect with people who have passed through your life. The pervasiveness of the internet over the last decade has put most people within reach within just a few key strokes. While not everyone can be found through a simple search, many others can be located with ease. (If a person has no online precence on sites like LinkedIn or Facebook it can make it more difficult. Also, a friend named John Smith might be hard to find locate because of the sheer number of people with the same name).
I recently made contact with a friend from childhood. We only exchanged a few emails and are not now best-friends again, but I really enjoyed finding this guy and learning about his life twenty five years later. He is happily married with four kids and is the founder of a successful business (and the winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Award in his area). As a kid I remember him as being interested in technology and was very smart, so I am thrilled to see his success.
As little kids we were buddies. Many of my fondest memories were running around on our street with him and other kids that populated the block. We were both strong willed and had some fights...in fact I remember our parents not letting us play together for a few days. A good strategy, as when the ban was lifted we were fast friends again.
Over time we drifted apart. We went to different elementary schools and I moved to a different house. I am not sure what happened, but as kids do, we went different directions. I have always regretted that because he really was an important friend. I think it was my fault on some level, as I was not always good at letting my friends know how I felt, and in some cases let childhood ego mess things up.
So I searched for him on Facebook. Bang, there he was. I sent him a connection request and then we traded some emails. I hope that his business travels will bring him to Austin (not uncommon for technology executives) and that he will look me up. Additionally, the next time I am speaking in the Silicon Valley I will reach out to see if he is free for coffee. I was happy to have talked with him (via email) and hope he was equally as touched.
Making such a connection with an old friend or business associate is no guarantee that you will re-establish a friendship, but if you do not try, I can promise no such relationship will appear. In most cases your old friends are glad to hear from you and happy to have you back in their life. While you will not always develop a mutually beneficial connection, why not try?
Think of three people whom you have lost touch with and go right now and search for them on the internet. Send them a note just to say "hello". If you find them, come back here and leave a comment about how it made you feel.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #53 - Keep Your On-line Profiles Up To Date
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Keep Your On-line Profiles Up To Date
Many people who support the whole concept of networking are still slow to embrace the social on-line networking tools that have become so popular. One would have to be living under a rock to not have heard about LinkedIn, MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, etc.... However, while those who are active users of these tools may not realize this (and be shocked to hear it), most people are not actively on board with using these popular sites.
The most common questions I get from people when I speak about networking are questions about how to use on-line social networking as part of a business strategy. Often these questions come from very seasoned networkers who have spent years creating and cultivating strong relationships with others. However, they have not yet adopted an internet strategy.
While I am not suggesting that everyone should or would become active users of these online tools, I do believe everyone should have an up to date on-line presence. It is free and takes very little time to create accounts on one or more of the social networking sights.
(Note, people often ask why it is called "social networking" when I am telling them that these are business tools. The term was adopted years ago to distinguish the difference between computer networking, ie: what you IT Manager does with your computers at work, and networking between humans where you build a mutually beneficial relationship that can lead to opportunities).
The reason to have a profile on LinkedIn, MySpace, Facebook, etc... is not only so you can utilize these sites for your networking, but also so that you can be found by others. At the bare minimum you should have an account on LinkedIn. This sight is focused on business professionals and is heavily used by recruiters and others who might seek you out to provide you with opportunities. If you do not have a profile, you will be passed over.
Some will say "but I am not looking for a job, so why do I care if a recruiter can find me?" Gosh, do you mean you would never want to hear about a job in your town or industry that you would be qualified that might pay you 25% more than you earn now? Good for you! But most people would want to hear about exciting opportunities, even if they have no plans of moving. That makes the decision YOUR CHOICE! Additionally, many other business professionals use LinkedIn to research vendors and others with whom they do business. No profile and your prospect might feel they know more about your competitor. Alas, people do business with people they know and like.....you have to give them the chance to get to know you using the tools of their choice. I recently had a person tell me he always researches the history of people on LinkedIn before doing business with them. When folks do not have a profile it does not disqualify them, but he looks at them as out of touch.
Once you have created a profile, go back from time to time and make sure it is up to date. If you have changed jobs, be sure to have your contact information current.
Another good idea is to search for your co-workers, friends and competitors and see how they describe themselves on their profiles. This will give you ideas about what to say and how to position yourself via this on-line venue.
You will also need to establish a linking strategy. Some folks go hog-wild and try to collect digital links to everyone they can. Others only accept links to people they actually know in person. It is your choice, but I suggest that you only link to those whom you know. Too many links to strangers can weaken the credibility of your network on the site.
Whatever you do, do not fall into the camp that is unaware of the on-line social networking communities and who actively avoid being involved. The future is here, and believe it or not, the internet is not a fad. You need to be present.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Keep Your On-line Profiles Up To Date
Many people who support the whole concept of networking are still slow to embrace the social on-line networking tools that have become so popular. One would have to be living under a rock to not have heard about LinkedIn, MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, etc.... However, while those who are active users of these tools may not realize this (and be shocked to hear it), most people are not actively on board with using these popular sites.
The most common questions I get from people when I speak about networking are questions about how to use on-line social networking as part of a business strategy. Often these questions come from very seasoned networkers who have spent years creating and cultivating strong relationships with others. However, they have not yet adopted an internet strategy.
While I am not suggesting that everyone should or would become active users of these online tools, I do believe everyone should have an up to date on-line presence. It is free and takes very little time to create accounts on one or more of the social networking sights.
(Note, people often ask why it is called "social networking" when I am telling them that these are business tools. The term was adopted years ago to distinguish the difference between computer networking, ie: what you IT Manager does with your computers at work, and networking between humans where you build a mutually beneficial relationship that can lead to opportunities).
The reason to have a profile on LinkedIn, MySpace, Facebook, etc... is not only so you can utilize these sites for your networking, but also so that you can be found by others. At the bare minimum you should have an account on LinkedIn. This sight is focused on business professionals and is heavily used by recruiters and others who might seek you out to provide you with opportunities. If you do not have a profile, you will be passed over.
Some will say "but I am not looking for a job, so why do I care if a recruiter can find me?" Gosh, do you mean you would never want to hear about a job in your town or industry that you would be qualified that might pay you 25% more than you earn now? Good for you! But most people would want to hear about exciting opportunities, even if they have no plans of moving. That makes the decision YOUR CHOICE! Additionally, many other business professionals use LinkedIn to research vendors and others with whom they do business. No profile and your prospect might feel they know more about your competitor. Alas, people do business with people they know and like.....you have to give them the chance to get to know you using the tools of their choice. I recently had a person tell me he always researches the history of people on LinkedIn before doing business with them. When folks do not have a profile it does not disqualify them, but he looks at them as out of touch.
Once you have created a profile, go back from time to time and make sure it is up to date. If you have changed jobs, be sure to have your contact information current.
Another good idea is to search for your co-workers, friends and competitors and see how they describe themselves on their profiles. This will give you ideas about what to say and how to position yourself via this on-line venue.
You will also need to establish a linking strategy. Some folks go hog-wild and try to collect digital links to everyone they can. Others only accept links to people they actually know in person. It is your choice, but I suggest that you only link to those whom you know. Too many links to strangers can weaken the credibility of your network on the site.
Whatever you do, do not fall into the camp that is unaware of the on-line social networking communities and who actively avoid being involved. The future is here, and believe it or not, the internet is not a fad. You need to be present.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Sunday, January 20, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #52 - Get People Talking
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Get People Talking About You
How would you feel if you heard that another person in your business community was praising you and your product / service? My guess is that you would be thrilled. The proof is in that Word-Of-Mouth is the very effective.
According to the Bazaarvoice website, consumers trust friends above experts when making buying decisions (65% trust friends, 27% trust experts, 8% trust celebrities) and that 86.9% of respondents said they trust a friend's recommendation over that of a critic,.... while 83.8% said they would trust users of a product over a critic.
Thus, the praise of others is extremely valuable to your future success.
But how can you get others singing your praises from the highest mountain tops? You cannot just call them and ask them to do this, even if you know they feel warm and fuzzy about you and your company. While most sales training teaches you to ask your clients for referrals, not everyone is comfortable receiving such a request out of the blue. Additionally, some people are just not cut out to be evangelists. They like you and want to see you succeed, but they are not the type of person who can tell their friends about you. That is okay, they can still be good friends, just don't expect too much from them.
What you need to do is to identify the individuals in your network who can and will talk positively about you and your product / service and then do two things:
1. Educate them about your business and the value you bring to others. Make sure that they understand the benefit that you get from their endorsement, and help them know what to say. More importantly, lead by example and be an evangelist for them. If you want them to talk about you, you had better be waving their flag too.
2. You have to give them something new and spectacular to talk about. If they have known about you for years, and even been active in supporting you with referrals, you still need to give them fresh things to talk about. It is easy for a company to become yesterday's news or even a commodity.
Getting others to talk about you and promote your efforts is never easy. Business professionals are very busy trying to meet their own projections and quotas. They have bosses who are myopic about their own bottom line, and no matter how much they like you, you are not their priority. However, if they are impressed with your cutting edge and ever changing offerings, and they know you are helping them succeed, you will see them looking for ways to help you.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Get People Talking About You
How would you feel if you heard that another person in your business community was praising you and your product / service? My guess is that you would be thrilled. The proof is in that Word-Of-Mouth is the very effective.
According to the Bazaarvoice website, consumers trust friends above experts when making buying decisions (65% trust friends, 27% trust experts, 8% trust celebrities) and that 86.9% of respondents said they trust a friend's recommendation over that of a critic,.... while 83.8% said they would trust users of a product over a critic.
Thus, the praise of others is extremely valuable to your future success.
But how can you get others singing your praises from the highest mountain tops? You cannot just call them and ask them to do this, even if you know they feel warm and fuzzy about you and your company. While most sales training teaches you to ask your clients for referrals, not everyone is comfortable receiving such a request out of the blue. Additionally, some people are just not cut out to be evangelists. They like you and want to see you succeed, but they are not the type of person who can tell their friends about you. That is okay, they can still be good friends, just don't expect too much from them.
What you need to do is to identify the individuals in your network who can and will talk positively about you and your product / service and then do two things:
1. Educate them about your business and the value you bring to others. Make sure that they understand the benefit that you get from their endorsement, and help them know what to say. More importantly, lead by example and be an evangelist for them. If you want them to talk about you, you had better be waving their flag too.
2. You have to give them something new and spectacular to talk about. If they have known about you for years, and even been active in supporting you with referrals, you still need to give them fresh things to talk about. It is easy for a company to become yesterday's news or even a commodity.
Getting others to talk about you and promote your efforts is never easy. Business professionals are very busy trying to meet their own projections and quotas. They have bosses who are myopic about their own bottom line, and no matter how much they like you, you are not their priority. However, if they are impressed with your cutting edge and ever changing offerings, and they know you are helping them succeed, you will see them looking for ways to help you.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Friday, January 11, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #51
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Be A Catalyst For Good
What qualities do you admire in people whom you meet? What is it about a person that causes you to want to add them to your network of professional contacts? Do you even know? Some folks seem to want to add anyone and everyone to their network, but that is not the best use of the precious resource of time. You cannot be friends with everyone.
Busy schedules force us all to keep people out of our lives. Sad but true. Time restraints limit the amount of attention we can give to those around us, and many feel there is simply no room for anyone else. I sometimes counsel people who want to be more proactive with building a network but do not feel they can handle more friends. They are full up already and know that to cultivate a real relationships takes commitment, both in time and emotion. These folks are scared that they do not have the bandwidth to admit anyone else into their world.
Imagine for a moment that you could only add one more person into your network. Think about what qualities that person would need to possess to earn that sole spot. My guess is they would need to be spectacular....captivating....generous....unique....self-less....and well connected. This would need to be a human being that made you feel good when you were near them. Your one person would have to have the ability to fill many holes in your life all at once.
Now look at yourself. What if others could only add one person? Are you the type who helps others to achieve their goals? Are you a catalyst for good in their world? Do you possess the qualities that you long for in other people? Are you the light that shines on them?
If you want to attract amazing people into your universe you need to be the person whom can be beneficial to them. You must be amazing. Networking is about establishing mutually beneficial relationships. Too many people look to meet people who can help them without really looking for ways to be of assistance to those around them. That is the flaw in the system of networking.
A friend recently told me that networking is "give and take". I think it is more like give, give, give and take. If you accept that giving more is part of the deal, then you will find success with your networking efforts.
Go out today and do something good to benefit one person in your network. Be the catalyst that improves their world without any thought of what you will get in return.
Have A Great Day.
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
Be A Catalyst For Good
What qualities do you admire in people whom you meet? What is it about a person that causes you to want to add them to your network of professional contacts? Do you even know? Some folks seem to want to add anyone and everyone to their network, but that is not the best use of the precious resource of time. You cannot be friends with everyone.
Busy schedules force us all to keep people out of our lives. Sad but true. Time restraints limit the amount of attention we can give to those around us, and many feel there is simply no room for anyone else. I sometimes counsel people who want to be more proactive with building a network but do not feel they can handle more friends. They are full up already and know that to cultivate a real relationships takes commitment, both in time and emotion. These folks are scared that they do not have the bandwidth to admit anyone else into their world.
Imagine for a moment that you could only add one more person into your network. Think about what qualities that person would need to possess to earn that sole spot. My guess is they would need to be spectacular....captivating....generous....unique....self-less....and well connected. This would need to be a human being that made you feel good when you were near them. Your one person would have to have the ability to fill many holes in your life all at once.
Now look at yourself. What if others could only add one person? Are you the type who helps others to achieve their goals? Are you a catalyst for good in their world? Do you possess the qualities that you long for in other people? Are you the light that shines on them?
If you want to attract amazing people into your universe you need to be the person whom can be beneficial to them. You must be amazing. Networking is about establishing mutually beneficial relationships. Too many people look to meet people who can help them without really looking for ways to be of assistance to those around them. That is the flaw in the system of networking.
A friend recently told me that networking is "give and take". I think it is more like give, give, give and take. If you accept that giving more is part of the deal, then you will find success with your networking efforts.
Go out today and do something good to benefit one person in your network. Be the catalyst that improves their world without any thought of what you will get in return.
Have A Great Day.
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
66 Tips For Better Networking - #50
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Recharge Your Batteries
Living in our rush - rush culture can be crazy. To succeed in our jobs we must put in long hours and then we come home to other important responsibilities. Everyone I know has more things scheduled into their calendars than our parents generation, and therefore we are constantly in a hurry to get from one place to another.
The list of things I try to accomplish on a daily basis is daunting. Juggling work and family could easily take up more than 24 hours. There always seems to be more things I could do in a day than there are hours. This constant buzzing about can be exciting, but it can also take its toll. Many folks I know do not get enough sleep, rarely eat the right foods and do not get exercise. They just go go go.
Sound familiar?
I know that when I get into the groove of this constant activity I love the high that comes from accomplishing. It can be a self-satisfying kick in the pants to notice your personal mastery of the calendar items. To achieve is a badge of honor. Then the perpetual motion of additional scheduling takes over and you get into the loop of crazy busy. There seems to be no end to this roller coaster. Like George Jetson you just want to scream, "Jane, STOP THIS CRAZY THING"
If you are like me, you can get cranky to those around y0u, and insensitive to their needs when you are over scheduled. When I can't find time to get to the gym, I feel below capacity. Lack of proper nutrition and not enough sleep coupled with a constant barrage of emails and other stimuli means that there is never any down time to recharge the mental batteries.
There used to be downtime built into people's schedules. Before cell phones, laptops and blackberries we were forced to rest our mind during parts of the day, now we can be plugged in to the collective world all the time.
I suggest that you regularly carve out a little time away all of your responsibilities. What you do will vary depending on what you enjoy doing, but you need to get away from it all. This means by yourself. No blackberry, no cell phone. Nothing. Just relax and allow your mind to think for 90 consecutive minutes. Not 60 minutes, 90 minutes!
Rent a kayak, go for a hike, get a massage, or go to a park and sit by a fountain. Whatever your choice, just do something without the input of media or other people. This is not a time to read a book or listen to your ipod.
This might seem impossible to someone who cannot find any time in their current schedule. A waste of precious time? I think more of an investment in your future. If you cannot get away from it all, then you cannot preform at your peak. You will eventually hit a mental wall and become less effective if all you do is pop from on activity to another. Why do you think the bible talks about the Sabbath? From the beginning of time having some down time was important. Those who lived 2000 years ago did not have the same type of hectic lives (they had their own levels of stress), but they were still encouraged to take a day off.
Relax. Enjoy. Think. Plan. Hope. Dream. Let your thoughts soar.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Recharge Your Batteries
Living in our rush - rush culture can be crazy. To succeed in our jobs we must put in long hours and then we come home to other important responsibilities. Everyone I know has more things scheduled into their calendars than our parents generation, and therefore we are constantly in a hurry to get from one place to another.
The list of things I try to accomplish on a daily basis is daunting. Juggling work and family could easily take up more than 24 hours. There always seems to be more things I could do in a day than there are hours. This constant buzzing about can be exciting, but it can also take its toll. Many folks I know do not get enough sleep, rarely eat the right foods and do not get exercise. They just go go go.
Sound familiar?
I know that when I get into the groove of this constant activity I love the high that comes from accomplishing. It can be a self-satisfying kick in the pants to notice your personal mastery of the calendar items. To achieve is a badge of honor. Then the perpetual motion of additional scheduling takes over and you get into the loop of crazy busy. There seems to be no end to this roller coaster. Like George Jetson you just want to scream, "Jane, STOP THIS CRAZY THING"
If you are like me, you can get cranky to those around y0u, and insensitive to their needs when you are over scheduled. When I can't find time to get to the gym, I feel below capacity. Lack of proper nutrition and not enough sleep coupled with a constant barrage of emails and other stimuli means that there is never any down time to recharge the mental batteries.
There used to be downtime built into people's schedules. Before cell phones, laptops and blackberries we were forced to rest our mind during parts of the day, now we can be plugged in to the collective world all the time.
I suggest that you regularly carve out a little time away all of your responsibilities. What you do will vary depending on what you enjoy doing, but you need to get away from it all. This means by yourself. No blackberry, no cell phone. Nothing. Just relax and allow your mind to think for 90 consecutive minutes. Not 60 minutes, 90 minutes!
Rent a kayak, go for a hike, get a massage, or go to a park and sit by a fountain. Whatever your choice, just do something without the input of media or other people. This is not a time to read a book or listen to your ipod.
This might seem impossible to someone who cannot find any time in their current schedule. A waste of precious time? I think more of an investment in your future. If you cannot get away from it all, then you cannot preform at your peak. You will eventually hit a mental wall and become less effective if all you do is pop from on activity to another. Why do you think the bible talks about the Sabbath? From the beginning of time having some down time was important. Those who lived 2000 years ago did not have the same type of hectic lives (they had their own levels of stress), but they were still encouraged to take a day off.
Relax. Enjoy. Think. Plan. Hope. Dream. Let your thoughts soar.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Sunday, November 25, 2007
66 Tips For Better Networking - #49
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Look For The Good In Others
Finding the faults in others seems to be a national pastime. Everyday I see people who too quickly look for ways to chop the reputation of others, rather than building up what is good in humanity. Mistakenly they think bringing another down it will raise them up. It does not work that way. When we focus on the negatives, we just bring everyone (including ourselves) down.
This is relevant in politics. Republican supporters go crazy tearing down the democrat candidates, working hard to make them look evil. Meanwhile, the democrats characterize the republicans as the devil. Both sides spend so much time pointing out the faults of the others that nobody ends up looking good. This week there was an editorial in the Austin American Statesman (from the Nov 22nd New York Times) by Gail Collins titled "Everything We Don't Want". When you get past the partisan slant of her editorial (I could care less if she was on the left or right), what you are left with is a horrible piece of editorial writing that is just there to belittle those she does not like. There is nothing constructive in these fifteen paragraphs...it just focuses in what is bad. There are no facts, just sloppy negativity disguised as stylish writing. Making the other political party look wrong will not cause anyone to flock to her view point. It might make those who agree with her smile, but it really does not help anyone. Yet with politics, this is the norm.
It does not work this way for the rest of us. If you want people to admire you (and your point of view) you need to give them tangible examples of the positive rather than observations of how someone else terrible. People want to rally around the goodness, not run in fear from the icky things in life. As a person I want to be inspired, not brow beaten.
This is important to remember when you are building your business career and reputation. Look around at how many conversations you have where someone who is not present is the topic of conversation. Now look at the slant of these discussions....are you praising others? Praising is a great way to expand your personal brand. Nobody is ever scared of what you say about them behind their back when they witness your positive outlook. Find the good in others and people will see the good in you.
However, if you are often engaged in gossip and back-stabbing then your reputation will be just that. You need to be aware that how you speak of others will directly reflect upon how your are perceived.
The best thing to do is to look for the good in people. Even people you do not like. Everyone has something about them that you can admire (yes, serial killers and other criminals are not what I am talking about). Look around your office and start identifying two good things in all those with whom you work. What is it about these people that makes them good. You need not run and share all these qualities, but you could....as who wouldn't want to hear why you see them as special.
If all those who follow politics were required to find two good things about those they oppose politically, the world would be a better place. I would find it interesting if Ms. Collins re-wrote her editorial looking for good things rather than being a negative nelly. I am pretty sure that would never happen, as it is not her style...but maybe it should be your style to find the good in others.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
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