"Questions to Ask At A Meeting That Includes a Meal", by Maria Masala

I know that you, my readers will not believe this, but I'm an introvert. And I know that it's not easy being an introvert and a successful business owner, too.

Being known locally, even if you have a virtual business, is something every business owner must do to build credibility and a stellar reputation. Even the Internet Guru's attend networking meetings and speak to groups as a way to market their online business.
Attending a meeting of an organization or association may mean three types of networking opportunities - pretty overwhelming and nerve racking for an introvert who is not prepared.

There might be networking time before the meeting and usually that's the time to get to know about someone's business.

Then there is sit down time; where most likely "someone" will be in charge of making sure that everyone does a roundtable introduction (your elevator speech in 2 minutes maximum) as your cards are passed around the table.

The socializing part with people who are sitting next to you.

Below questions you can ask, as you sit at a table specifically to eat and wait to hear a speaker. These questions are more personal than the questions we'd ask in a situation that is more about networking. So often we forget to ask more personal questions of people. And we loose the opportunity to connect with them on a deeper, more personal level - a level that's not about "the sale." Now of course a few of the questions below are more business-like; however, if you'd like a listing of questions to ask during the networking part of a meeting, questions that will help you pre-qualify who you're speaking with, then visit The Top 10 Questions To Ask At A Networking Meeting
1. Where do you live? How long have you lived there?
2. Tell me about yourself.
3. How did you find out about this meeting?
4. What did you do before you started your business?
5. What other meetings or groups do you attend during the month? Has attending them helped your business?
6. What sort of things do you do in your personal time?
7. Where do you volunteer?
8. What's the most important thing you've achieved in your life?
9. What goals are you reaching for personally?
10. Do I have your permission to send you a complimentary copy of my online newsletter? (If they freely give your their business card)
11. Would you like to meet for a cup of coffee?

If you suggest a meeting then it's your responsibility to pay for the coffee or meal you suggested. You both may decide differently at the event; but you've taken the lead and that's proper business etiquette.

Enjoy this article? It's part of the of "Stop Turning Clients Off" program on June 13. Learn more now, by clicking here

©2006 A former Wall Street trader, Maria Marsala is a nationally known author, strategist, trainer and owner of Elevating Your Business. Maria helps with financial, technology and other independent service-related businesses companies accelerate profits and improve productivity -- faster. Learn more now at http://www.CoachMaria.com
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"Questions to Ask At A Meeting That Includes a Meal", by Maria Masala

Networking During the Holidays

As we are getting geared up for the holidays, most people will find themselves at various parties and open houses. What a great time to network without seemingly looking for business. I always take this opportunity to find out more about other people and how they are doing. You will be surprised at what you will discover.

At the end of every year, you can ask questions about how the other person's business did over the past year and what they plan on doing differently in the next year. I always try to find a way to connect them with someone that can help them achieve their goals. I like to be the person they turn to for introductions. Of course, I want to stay in their mind as the person who is helpful and knowledgeable about business. And I also want to make sure they enjoy the party or event.

So eat, drink, be merry and connect others during the holiday season.
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Networking During the Holidays

"a return to love", by marianne williamson

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.

Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.

It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.

We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant,gorgeous, talented, fabulous?

Actually, who are you not to be?

You are a child of God.

Your playing small does not serve the world.

There is nothing enlightened about shrinking

so that other people won't feel insecure around you.

We are all meant to shine, as children do.

We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.

It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone.

And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously

give other people permission to do the same.

As we are liberated from our own fear,

our presence automatically liberates others.

a return to love - by marianne williamson

The Women's Leadership Exchange®
135 E 55 St., 7th Floor, New York, NY 10022
Phone: (212) 209-1567
Sent this out as a Thanksgiving Greeting. I thought I'd pass it along. (wdk)

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"a return to love", by marianne williamson

TNNW Week of 11/26/2006

(Click on links for complete articles)

New Articles on The National NetWorker...

"The Power of Questions When NetWorking," by PAUL MORRIS, Mid-Atlantic Bureau Chief

Recently I accepted a new position, Executive Director with our local Chamber of Commerce. And no I haven’t updated my Bio to include this. I did reach out to our own, CEO, Editor-in-Chief and “King of Business NetWorking,” Adam Kovitz for a name of someone that is familiar with the daily operation of a Chamber. Adam referred me to 21 year veteran in his own backyard, Clark Shuster. Adam it turns out is very active in that organization, the Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce, also known as the LBCCC you may visit them at: www.lbccc.org/calendar.

"Texas Tornados," by PETER BIADASZ, Southern Plains Bureau Chief

Does the name of your networking group adequately describe its personality? In Fort Worth, Texas, the names of networking groups associated with the local chamber are as descriptive as they are active. Where else can you be comfortable within a “Texas Tornado” or be honored to be a part of “The Big List”? Under the coordination of Diana Dugan, Membership Program Manager for the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, local networking groups have grown in both effectiveness and personality. “A good group is a good group” proclaims Ms. Dugan, and she is proud that in the past 12 months the groups have passed more than $10,000,000.00 worth of business. Talk about a positive effect on the local economy.

"Colorado CFP Shares His NetWorking Strategy," by MICHAEL GARRY, Financial Services Editor

This month I took the opportunity to speak with John Ryan, CFP®, whose firm, Ryan Insurance Strategy Consultants of Greenwood Village, Colorado www.ryan-insurance.net provides Life, Disability, and Long Term Care Insurance advice to CPAs, Attorneys, Financial Advisors and HR Managers. I first learned of John, and what he does about a year ago when I purchased disability insurance through a group policy with the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA).

"Take a Walk," by SIAN LINDERMANN, Arts & Entertaintment Editor

Henry David Thoreau wrote “I think that I cannot preserve my health and spirits, unless I spend four hours a day at least….sauntering through the woods, and over the hills and fields, absolutely free from all earthly engagements.”

In our very busy lives, there is little or no time for reflection, let alone time for relaxation, enough to allow a influx of new ideas, concepts or solutions to the problem at hand….HOW do I get my art or creative talents to market?

"An All-Star NetWorker," by SCOTT MANTHORNE, Sports Editor

If you are someone who is looking for an exceptional individual to network with, then Bob Neal certainly should be considered. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, he continues to develop his rolodex in both the sports and business worlds.

"Jettnetting: Be a Great Listener," by HESHIE SEGAL, Contributing Writer

There are times when you specifically remember a great conversation. Most often, it is relatively balanced amongst the participants. Some authentically curious questions are posed, perhaps a few of them even off the wall, and there are some nitty-gritty answers with that occasional surprising revelation. Yes, this is a conversation to remember.

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TNNW Week of 11/26/2006