Block Out Time for Networking

(From the book 29% Solution by Dr Ivan Misner & Michelle Donovan)

Tip 2 - Block Out Time to Network

There are four steps to changing a behavior: want it, learnt it, try it, and live it. For most of us, advertising won't produce enough new business to keep us going indefinitely. Networking, if done strategically and exceptionally well, has the potential to generate all of your new business by word of mouth. It is ultimately about generating referrals over time for your company. The time & energy you spend on networking are part of your sales & marketing program. Set aside the time necessary to be successful.


"To some will come a time when change itself is beauty, if not heaven." - Poet, Edwin Arlington Robinson

Your action for today is to think of something you've been meaning to change and take a step toward doing so.

Set Networking Goals

This time of year see's many people making New Years resolution for themselves - You know - Spend more time with their family, Lose a few pounds or just simply to Work less and I was no different. My New Years resolution this year - 'To have FUN & To work smarter - not harder'. For me that means not trying to reinvent the wheel, especially when I am fortunate to have so many fantastic people and resources in my life.

So whilst "That Referral Guy" will put together the newsletter, all the tips have come from the book 29% Solution by Dr Ivan Misner & Michelle Donovan

Tip 1 - Set Networking Goals

Each goal you create should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timed with a deadline.

S - Clearly defined with parameters
M - have some quantifiable way to measure progress
A - within reach
R - so you will be motivated to accomplish it
T - so you won't lose your focus and your desire.

"Being considerate of others will take you further in life than a college degree." - Author, Marian Wright Edelman

Your action for today is to focus on driving your vehicle in a very considerate manner.

Be Creative with your PROMOTIONS

If your in small business don't fall prey to the rapid discounting that the big businesses did last year. You can offer seasonal promotions that set your brand apart in a sustainable way, while supporting other local businesses and charitable organisations. For example, last year a men's clothing store in New York - Rothman's, offered its own version of "cash for clunkers" to get the attention of its readers. The promotion invited customers to turn in their old suits, which would be donated to charity, and the customer would get $100 toward a new suit. A similar concept can be used for many other businesses.

If you've got or have heard of another great promotion I would love for you to share it my blog.

For details on how you can attend the biggest NETWORKING EVENT EVER click the event.
Sydney event - Tuesday 10th November ONLY 15 days to go
N'cstle/Cent. Coast event - Thursday 12th November ONLY 17 days to go

"I would rather fail in an attempt to do something new and uncharted than safely succeed in a repeat of something I have done." - Writer, A.E. Hotchner

Your action for today is to do something new. For instance you can order a new dish at a restaurant you frequently visit, get a new style haircut or try a new approach with someone at work.

Negative Feedback - Do you REACT or Listen & Process

Last week I received the worst negative feedback I have not only ever received but ever read. Can I say this - anyone can unsubscribe from my newsletter any time they wish - choice is wonderful and I am OK with your decisions.

My reaction to the email made me wonder - How do we or should we process feedback. My first reaction caused me upset and I was going to react with a response that I am positive I would have regretted later but then I thought about it. This person did me a huge favor, you see many people don't see my vision the way I do "To passionately inspire people to get 100% of their business thru BNI" and I am OK with that. What I realised was that someone elses negative feedback shouldn't take away my focus on the goals that are important to me. I will take onboard the feedback and give it the time it desrves, but I am choosing not to REACT to the whim's of others, just to listen, process and stay on target. How are you goals going? Are you on target or do you let other people throw you curve balls and REACT away from your prize?

I am currently organising an event (see below) that applies all the BNI principle into one FANTASTIC event where participating attendee's can create business on the spot. I hope to see you there as this event is open to everyone looking for extra business.

For details on how you can attend the biggest NETWORKING EVENT EVER click the event.
Sydney event - Tuesday 10th November ONLY 31 days to go
N'cstle/Cent. Coast event - Thursday 12th November ONLY 33 days to go

"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education."Writer, Mark Twain

Your action for today is to try something new and see what you learn from it.

Act like a HOST vs being a VISITOR

Have you ever noticed how people who organised or run events know everyone attending. Thats because they make it their responsibility too.

Your task this week is to change your responsibility by changing your thinking and adopting a host mentality at the next networking event you attend. Turn up early and meet the people in charge. People who run events love it when people offer to help, so learn the layout and flow of the event. Find out who is expected to attend. Make it your purpose to help others with introductions, even set yourself a goal of introducing at least three people to someone they don't know. The law of reciprocity will kick in, and in the long run you will reap the benefits.


For details on how you can attend the biggest NETWORKING EVENT EVER click the event.
Sydney Big Breakfast - Tuesday 10th November
Newcastle/Central Coast Big Breakfast - Thursday 12th November

"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education." Writer, Mark Twain

Your action for today is to try something new and see what you learn from it.