Archived Advice from Andrea

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Developing Your 30-Second Infomerical:

When you meet new people, it is important to quickly and clearly let them know who you are and what you are. You need to do this in a way that is concise, enthusiastic, and memorable. I call your introduction your “infomercial.” You can develop a 30-second infomercial about yourself that keeps people interested using the following S.T.R.A.T.E.G.Y.:

Strategy Acronymn:

S - Make your infomercial Short and Succinct.

T - Think of it in advance.

R - Remember the Results you want to achieve.

A - Be Articulate in your message.

T - Time is of the essence—30 seconds is optimal.

E - Speak with Enthusiasm and Energy.

G - Set a Goal to attain.

Y - Focus on the “You” (the other person).

If you carefully plan how you introduce yourself, you will start interesting, dynamic conversations. Always make the person you are speaking with curious and interested. Tell them something that will stay in their mind when they think of you. The bottom line is to introduce yourself in a way that will make people want to know you better. Developing those relationships is the heart of networking.

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Networking Outside the Box

We don’t just network at networking events, networking is a way of life.

Do it all the time. And don’t think you don’t have time to network because you don’t have time to be with the people in your life already or to do the things you like to do. Almost everybody you come in contact with in your life – prospect, client, or friend -- either is themselves, or knows someone, from whom you can learn something that will benefit your business, profession, personal life or even your hobbies and interests.

Customers or clients

Suppliers

Neighbors

Like-minded people

People you meet by chance

Personal friends

Family

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Networking at Non-networking Events

Non-stop networkers find places and times to network outside of scheduled meetings and business events. Whether in an elevator, at a sporting event or waiting in line, networkers are always looking for ways to connect with others. This kind of networking is a great way to meet contacts that could become good friends or associates.   
 
However, networking inappropriately can be destructive to possible relationships. It is important to be considerate both of the person who you are talking to and to those around you.  Here are a few ways to avoid embarrassment for yourself and your potential contact. 
 
1. Recognize where you are and what you are there for 

2. Be prepared to graciously suggest that you talk about business at a more appropriate time and place. You could say, “Perhaps this is not a good time to discuss business, so may I give you a call on (date) and we could discuss this further, (consider some options), (I could help you out)?”  

3. Ask permission before exchanging business cards, and do so discreetly 

4. Remember that some establishments, such as private clubs, simply do not allow the conducting of business. Be aware of this and follow the prescribed behavior 
 
Successful networkers care about the person they are speaking with as well as those around them. Showing respect is one of the best ways to make and keep contacts. Network whenever and wherever you can, just do so with discretion, so that you will avoid embarrassment and build a strong, reliable network. 

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Remembering the Past and Growing Forward into the Future

The New Year is always a great time to reflect on the previous year’s goals, values and relationships and see how the coming year can be even better. As I do this, I always remember the person who taught me everything I needed to know about networking, my father.

In going through his things after his death, my mother and I came across this list of life lessons that he had written down. If you had known him, you would recognize that he lived these everyday.

Here is his list:

• Listen with your inner ear. Hear what is said with the heart, rather than what is said with words.
• Listen to the concerns of others
• Know when it is important to just listen.
• Communication is hard work.
• Hone your skills.
• State your thoughts clearly and briefly.
• Remember to smile, not scowl.
• Above all, be reasonable and understanding.
• Be interesting and interested.
• Be friendly and enthusiastic.
• Have a sense of humor.
• Be human.
• Laugh and grin.

I hope my sharing these words of wisdom will be helpful as you think about how you might continue to grow the important relationships in your life.

Wishing you much growth and the best of success in 2008!

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Possess Personal Power

Step into 2008 by putting your best foot forward, and start the New Year out with a new attitude. Possess Personal Power and uplift your ability to network with confidence. Powerful people empower others and encourage them to express themselves openly.  You will communicate a sense of personal power by developing these following traits:
 
Authority:  Authority is inner confidence and a trust in your skills and abilities.  An “I can do that” attitude radiates outward as you politely assert your knowledge to establish who you are while, at the same time, helping others.

Assertiveness:  Assertive behavior is active, direct, and honest. An assertive person wins by influencing, listening, and negotiating so that other people enjoy communicating.

Accessibility:  Accessibility increases your visibility and provides you with a valuable circle of people with whom you can give and receive support and information 

Image: Image is an opportunity to communicate professionally. Stand tall, walk proudly and with humility. When you meet others, make direct eye contact and keep your handshake firm and friendly. Clearly state who you are and what you do. Always remember that you have value as a person 
 
Building confidence takes time and patience. It comes from experience, making mistakes, doing something over and over again until you get it right and being proactive. Confidence is a key ingredient in projecting personal power and will lead to powerful business connections.

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