Southern Plains Bureau Chief
(Missouri, Arkensas, Louisiana, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico)
In March of this year I reported to you about a great monthly networking function in Colorado Springs, Colorado called BUZZ WITH THE B’S, hosted by the local Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Business Network International (BNI). I am happy to report that in July I was not only able to attend this great function, but was also the featured speaker, presenting my Networking 101 speech. A fun and informative time was had by all.
To remember all of the background information on the BBB and BNI I refer you to the March article. For current insights read on.
BUZZ WITH THE B’S is held the Second Friday of every month from 7:15 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. The meeting is in a great setting, a golf clubhouse, with large windows overlooking a golf course with the mountains in the background. I will admit that while I am partial to the ocean, but this is a beautiful setting. I arrived early to set-up my books and other speaking items and found everyone very friendly and helpful. I point this out, because amazingly, there are venues I speak at in which the people are not friendly and helpful. This always puzzles me, especially in networking settings.
Diane Stevens, Director of the BBB Foundation, not only made me feel right at home, but clearly demonstrated that she runs a very well organized event. No detail was overlooked. I cannot thank her, her staff, and the meeting attendees for their hospitality and professionalism. What a great group of people.
Networking began at 7:30 am as everyone ate a buffet style hot breakfast. You could tell by the volume level of conversation that there were some great networking connections being made or strengthened. Diane then introduced a group member who gave a very good 15 minute presentation to highlight their business. Then Diane introduced me as Southern Plains Bureau Chief from The National Networker/Author/Speaker, and I presented my Networking 101 speech, complete with trumpet. The audience was very attentive and receptive. They took a lot of notes, always a good sign, and asked some great questions.
Then we had some real fun as everyone gave their 30 second commercials. During my presentation I have a section on how to give your most effective 30 second commercial, also known as a elevator speech. Well, it was obvious that some people not only took good notes, but re-wrote their commercial on the spot. I witnessed some very entertaining and informative commercials. This is obviously not a shy group. Even the first timers presented like experienced networkers. Lots of laughing too!
Many times I gauge the success of a network meeting by how many people either stay and network after the meeting is dismissed or by how many people make networking appointments with each other after the meeting. At the conclusion of BUZZ WITH THE B’S networking continued for over 30 minutes.In talking recently with Diane she noted to me that in subsequent meetings the quality of both the 30 second commercials and networking have increased. Additionally, the group is getting bigger. Outgrowing their current location is a problem many networking groups would like to have.
I will be speaking to BUZZ WITH THE B’S again in May of 2009. Maybe I will see you there.
For additional information on how you can participate in this as well as other networking activities of the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado feel free to visit www.bbbsc.org. No matter where you live, visit your local BBB to learn is how it is promoting networking in your community.
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