U.S. NEW ENGLAND: Diva Toolbox tries Social Networking

by Noelle Southwick

U.S. New England Bureau Chief
(Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)

After speaking with Janet Powers from the Diva Toolbox for my article last month I wanted to hear what she has to say about the social networking sites.

Janet jokingly says her most effective form of promotion has been the “my two feet and my big mouth” method. Like most people who are growing businesses, Janet has been out at networking events making personal introductions to grow the Diva Toolbox. Now she admits that she had undervalued the impact of social networking. She has been extremely impressed with how effective it has been in spreading her message and growing her contributors to the Diva Toolbox, particularly in the New England area.

Janet spent about one month contributing regularly to Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. In only one month Janet has increased by three times the contributions to the Diva Toolbox. She is convinced that if you have products and services you want to share with a local market then social networking is the way to go.

“It’s free and very effective. You can’t beat that mathematical equation.” says Janet.

How to integrate social networking into everyday life?

With everyone having such overbooked schedules it is understandable that one might feel it’s too much to keep up with contributions to social networking too. You don’t need to be online 24/7 simply check in on your social networks when you check your emails.

The Diva Toolbox’s media expert Cindy Morrison (on twitter at http://twitter.com/CindyWMorrison) shared that the tool she uses to keep up is Ping.fm (http://ping.fm). It is a free tool that allows you to contribute to multiple social networking sites at the same time.

This removes any argument about not having enough time.

Don’t know what to say?

Janet is very practical with her advice on what to share on the social networks. She suggests you share the answers to the questions frequently asked by your clients.

Whatever you explain over and over again is what you explain on the social networking sites. Educate people on your business and you become their local expert. People do business with experts and they refer business to them too. Janet advises to just be you and answer the questions people have.

Think of a short conversation you might have with someone in the grocery. “Is that a good tomato sauce you’re buying?” “How do you like your child’s soccer team?” It really is that simple.

Power in simplicity

Social networking is asking someone who is using a product what he or she thinks of it. With social networking sometimes you’re asking and sometimes, as in Janet’s example, you are the one with spaghetti sauce in your carriage.

Through these interactions people get to know each other & then they will tend to ask more specific questions.

Janet offers the suggestion to schedule 15 minutes a couple of times a day as your social networking time. I am sure it will pay off for you too.

“What I am sure of is that social networking isn’t just for the kids anymore.” Janet insists that it is an effective tool for businesses to reach clients, vendors and partners.

Find more information

There are many articles written about networking and about connecting through the social networks posted on the Diva Toolbox. You can also listen to tips about social networking with media expert Cindy Morrison.

Janet is optimistic that The National Networker readers have great advice to share with people. She welcomes you to contribute to Diva Toolbox.

Janet Powers Founder and President

Diva Toolbox www.divatoolbox.com Information on Articles: articles@divatoolbox.com 600 West Cummings Park, Suite 1225 Woburn, MA 01801 (781) 995-2342

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U.S. NEW ENGLAND: Diva Toolbox tries Social Networking

U.S. ALASKA: Glaciers & Networking

By Stefanie Gorder, CTP, DS

Alaska Bureau Chief

Glaciers & Networking
An awesome and cool fit

Glaciers cover 10% of the world’s land mass and 75% of our freshwater comes from glaciers. Most would agree that glaciers are magnificent rain or shine. They can be deep blue in color from compressed snow and ice and full of mystery. Constant change and motion define both networking and glaciers. They can be altered by changing climates and the movement and shapes adjust over long periods of time. While networking in Alaska is not as slow moving as many glaciers, it can be conducted in a unique glacial setting. The question to ponder is if the venue is filled with memory creating opportunities, is the business conducted of more or less value to the participants?

One of Alaska’s finest networkers lives in the agricultural and historical region known as Alaska’s Matanuska-Susitna Valley (http://www.alaskavisit.com/). As the Marketing Manager at their Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tammy Bruce’s role is to convince tour operators and consumers alike to include her destination in future travel plans. To convince Premier Alaska Tours (http://www.premieralaskatours.com/) to bring more visitors to her region, Tammy hosted me on a whirlwind day trip (product development is under my realm of responsibilities). One of the activities which she believed would be of interest to small groups was glacier trekking. Being born and raised in Alaska does not make me an adventurer as I admit the great outdoors and I do not see eye to eye. Upon arrival at the Matanuska Glacier, Tammy handed me a helmet and ski poles and my immediate reaction was to run. However, with crampons and a professional guide provided by Mica Guides (http://www.micaguides.com/) on hand to reassure me, we went trekking on this spectacular moving piece of ice. With crisp blue water pooling in small crevasses creating unique formations, the adventure was nothing short of fantastic!

Along our full day journey, we discussed the great and numerous glacial opportunities available throughout Alaska. Would combining a day cruise with gray whales and puffin sightings with the wonders of a river raft bobbling amongst ice bergs go hand in hand with a glacial trek? Upon visual inspection, only ten percent of an iceberg shows above water meaning the main mass of these giant pieces of ice lie below the water’s surface.

Tammy’s strength is in not the selfish promotion of her own destination but realizing that selling all of Alaska will allow her destination to benefit. Therefore, ten percent of her day was spent convincing me that this region would tie in with existing tour product and the rest of the day she left to me to discover the beauty of this vast area as it unfolded around every corner. Now, Premier Alaska Tours features the Matanuska Susitna Valley in numerous tour programs (and much more than 10 percent).

Various types of glaciers, various networking opportunities

Group networking at its finest happened when Alaska played host to the Travel Alliance Partners, LLC annual TAP Dance conference. One of the main networking events was aboard the 26 Glacier Cruise (http://www.26glaciers.com/), a phenomenal cruise through the calm, protected waters of Prince William Sound. Guests come face to face with towering masses of ice, migratory whales and scenery that take the breath away! Imagine conducting business over beverages filled with ice thousands of years old and where the thundering sound of calving glaciers, make conversation come to a standstill.

Creating a venue where businesses can benefit through idea building intermingled with the “fun factor” is how TAP conducts their day to day operations. It goes without saying that an organization that works in cooperation with others will be successful and TAP is on the right course. The goal is to cross promote tour products to gain higher revenues through sharing client bases & product. With having hosted their prestigious conference, Alaska has gained valuable exposure and is reaping the rewards of greater in-bound group tour business.

TAP (Travel Alliance Partners, LLC) is a partner-owned organization of 34 premier tour operators in the United States and Canada. The company continues to stride forward according to its business philosophy of networking by establishing partnerships based in respect, reciprocity and reward (http://www.travelalliancepartners.com/).

Bobbling amongst icebergs or people …

Networking in the travel industry doesn’t always need to be with travel professionals. Consumers can offer a unique look into product awareness, especially in a destination where one saves for a lifetime to visit. One summer I was provided tickets aboard the world famous Alaska Railroad (http://www.akrr.com/) to experience a backcountry wilderness rail excursion combined with a scenic float trip on Spencer Lake. I was just slightly nervous when the conductor announced it was time to disembark the rail when all I could see was remote wilderness out the window. I was about to enter bear and moose habitat however this time, I was well prepared since I had read the brochure in advance! With our adventure guide we boarded a rubber raft and were led on a gentle float trip. I was mesmerized by the raft bobbling in Spencer Lake completely surrounded by stunning vistas and enormous icebergs. It was completely different than the glacial trek or large boat experience. I enjoyed myself as much as my raft mates, who were mostly visitors checking Alaska off their bucket list. This networking opportunity allowed me to listen to the visitor perception of the experience and bring immediate new product to Premier’s tour operation. The venue can strengthen networking opportunities immensely whether it is in or out of the comfort zone.

While competition exists in Alaska, the low population counts mean that everyone in all industries must play together nicely or risk being an outcast. If this concept was embraced around the world, imagine how truly rewarding life would be. While glacial networking might be unique to the great state of Alaska, the concept can be adapted to other environments with success.

For more information on group glacier treks, day cruises & adventures, contact any of the quality service providers noted in this article.

Next month: meet an Alaska legend, four time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser.
___________________________________________________

Stefanie Gorder, ctp, ds

marketingCents
Email: Stefanie@marketing-Cents.com
Twitter: @StefanieGorder

Premier Alaska Tours, Inc.
Email: Stefanie@tourAlaska.net
Twitter: @PremierAlaska
Web: www.PremierAlaskaTours.com

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U.S. ALASKA: Glaciers & Networking

U.S. SOUTHEAST: Networking the 400 Corridor From Buckhead to Dahlonega

By Larry Block

U.S. Southeast Bureau Chief
(The Carolinas, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Florida)

Business 400 provides the Highway 400 Community with networking and business opportunities. They view the 400 corridor as a single economic engine that operates in Forsyth, Dawson, Lumpkin and Fulton counties. Business 400 functions as a business to business and a business to consumer network. They will encourage participants to function as a business to community network.

Their goal is to positively impact the Highway 400 community and the way these various entities interact. Encompassing Buckhead, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Alpharetta, Cumming, Dawsonville and Dahlonega Georgia, the short term goal of BUSINESS 400, simply put, is to build more relationships and do more business. Their monthly networking events are held at The Metropolitan Club, normally on the first Tuesday of each month, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. There are also several other events in addition to the monthly meeting. There is a $10 door charge for each meeting, which covers admission, and a chance to win one of many great door prizes. Approximately 30-35 Display Tables are made available to members who would like to showcase their business on a rotating, first-come, first-serve basis. These exciting events are designed to expand your business market presence along and throughout the 400 corridor. It is not just who you know but more importantly who knows you!

In addition to the networking events Business 400 is proud of their involvement with local charities and non-profits. Giving back to our communities is a central theme.

There are also many opportunities for members to learn valuable skills to help them succeed in business. Our consultants often hold training events for the benefit of the membership. Outside experts and members alike may all share their expertise to help everyone grow their business and networking skills.

There is no limit to the membership level of Business 400, in fact their goal is to achieve a membership of over 4000. The monthly venue will hold up to 600 members and guests. Each meeting has a monthly cost on only ten dollars.


Ron and Marie Dinsmore are the owners of Business 400, Inc. and also make up the Dinsmore Team, a RE/MAX real estate team serving the North Georgia area.
Paul Romanick is a Sales and Marketing Consultant for Business 400, Inc. and has played a major role in the creation and implementation of this new exciting Business Association. He is also the creator of the CitruSolution Carpet Cleaning Process.

Ron, Marie and Paul have developed a networking group that is extremely well organized and the attendees are TRUE NETWORKERS (interested in not just receiving leads, but also giving leads). Members and guests alike will be amazed not just at the amount of leads, but the quality leads and truly interested parties in doing business within the community. It is an extremely well orchestrated event and I look forward to attending many more in the very near future.

For more information on Business 400 check out their website at www.business400.com or better yet, attend one of their monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of each month.


Larry Block is a text messaging expert, president of Mobile Marketing Technologies, Inc. he provides text message advertising and marketing services nationwide. Need an advertising solution that actually works and gets directly to your target market – visit www.hippocketads.com, Larry can be reached at larry@RuTxting.com

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U.S. SOUTHEAST: Networking the 400 Corridor From Buckhead to Dahlonega

THE HANDSHAKE CLUB

The Handshake Club with J.D. Gershbein

In my initial posting in last month's blog, I introduced TNNW readers to Will Banter of Banter Media. Will is the amicable, over-extended, over-caffeinated and eminently accessible Networker Extraordinaire. He is the linchpin of The Handshake Club, my cartoon universe of Social Media types, entrepreneurs, business owners, corporate misfits and displaced transitional folk. We can identify with these people. They have flaws and idiosyncrasies. They are bogged down in minutiae. They are pressed for time. Yet they confidently make their way through the world—frequently achieving by accident—and are fully aware that we are now in the "relationship economy."

The members of The Handshake Club need a place to meet that is conducive for business. The Runny Yolk, or simply, "The Yolk," is that place. It is where the hot coffee flows, the food fills the tummy and the Wi-Fi is free. Walk in at any time during the day and you will see people engaged in the Fine Art of Networking with their eyes glued to their laptops and scribbling on legal pads. This is Will's domain. They know him here. This is where he first sits down with Brandy Share of the Cliché Marketing Group:

J.D. Gershbein is the President of Owlish Communications, an Internet Marketing firm based in the Chicago, Illinois suburb of Vernon Hills. When he’s not helping his clients shine on LinkedIn, J.D. creates business cartoons and comic strips that brand businesses and make them memorable. He is also the creator of The Handshake Club. Follow Will Banter, Brandy Share and the other wacky inhabitants of The Handshake Club as they network their way into your heart and psyche.


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THE HANDSHAKE CLUB

U.S. SOUTHWEST: Manhattan Beach Offers More Than Just the Beach

By Kathleen Ronald

Southwest Bureau Chief

(Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California)

This month I am excited to highlight the Beach Cities Professionals Manhattan Beach Chapter of Business Network International (BNI). I had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Joy Kennelly, who has been a member of this chapter for almost six months. Joy, a PR talent extraordinaire, volunteers as the Chapter Mentor of the Beach Cities Professionals Manhattan Beach (MB) BNI Chapter. Joy is one of two Chapter Mentors, along with Ms. Mindy Oumi, a compounding pharmacist at TLC Pharmacy in Hermosa Beach, CA.

Joy told me about the rich history of Business Network International, which was founded by one of our very own contributing writers for The National Networker, Ivan Misner, PhD. Ivan is well-known for his business networking success, as well as his New York Times bestseller, Truth or Delusion? Busting Networking’s Biggest Myths. While I had heard of BNI when I lived in the Bay Area, I was never able to make it out to an event. After speaking to Joy, I was thrilled to finally understand the true value that BNI offers to the business community as one of the leading Business Networking organizations renowned throughout the world.

When she first joined the Beach Cities Professionals MB BNI Chapter, it was considered a ‘startup group,’ because it had less than 20 members. It has since flourished, and is one of the more successful BNI locations in the South Bay area. While all chapters vary in the time of day of their meetings, Beach Cities Professionals holds their meetings in the morning.

Now, Joy was not a morning person when she joined; however, she really needed a networking organization that was focused on referrals as its main charter. As a result, she felt it was worth changing her day, in order to attend the 7:00 am weekly meetings.

Based on what Joy shared with me, I am convinced that BNI is the #1 organization when it comes to providing referrals as a business focus. As Joy went on enlightening me about the group’s dynamics, I continued to become more and more impressed by the level of mandatory trainings that is required of each new member.

Joy stressed that this component really sets them apart from other groups. The training sessions cover many topics, focusing on teaching people effective ways to be an awesome networker, as well as how to leverage their philosophies to gain skills and not only take full advantage of the BNI way, but to be a highly valuable contributing referral giving member. BNI’s motto is Givers Gain.

So what does a standard BMI meeting entail?

• A time of Open Networking
  
• The President opens the meeting with a welcome to visitors and induction of any new members. Then the member presentations begin.
  
• Each person has 30 seconds to introduce themselves and explain who they are and what a good referral is for them. If you are a guest, when it’s your turn, you only say your name and company, as the referral process is a benefit for members only.
• Two members are highlighted each month with a special presentation to introduce the group to their services in greater detail.
• They have 10 minutes in front of the group to highlight the following points:
• Introduce their business
• What sets them apart?
• What is a good referral?
• They also bring a gift to share in a drawing at the end of the meeting.

If you are just visiting, and want to become a member, they have a process of acceptance with the group. After attending a meeting, if you’re interested in joining you will have a private meeting with the Visitor Host who will answer any questions you might have. Then you will fill out an application; then the membership committee will review it, and then the core members are asked for their input as to whether they would be a good fit for the group.

They also have a limit of one person in each business sector- ie. one realtor, one financial advisor, one insurance salesperson, etc. While it may seem extreme, the care with which they treat applications is representative of the care with which they handle their members, and the highly selective process ensures an exclusive group of unbeatable referrals! In addition, it provides other business opportunities because the community knows these members have passed stringent membership requirements to participate.

Once accepted, the new member is formally inducted into the group with a welcome ceremony for each new member. After the induction, Joy and Mindy’s role as Mentors kick in. They meet with each member to train them and answer any questions. A nice touch, in my opinion, is that they cover all of the BNI policies and procedures- a huge benefit that really supports new members to fully thrive in the group. New members are also given a card caddy to hold all the members’ cards. Each member is encouraged to carry 5 cards for each member in the group. This way they are always able to refer folks when they’re out and about in the community.

Now that’s what I call integrated referral strategies!

The cost of membership is $300.00 a year, along with a one-time-only fee of $150.00. There is a weekly room fee at this chapter’s meetings which is paid quarterly. Joy’s chapter simply chose to serve coffee in lieu of breakfast, and focus on the agenda and business networking. Be sure to inquire with the BNI chapter in your area to see how they run their meetings, as most are designed for the morning, with some meeting over lunch.

After we covered the highlights of the BNI way, my first question was, "so what do you do if you have issues with someone in your group that covers a certain sector, and you are unable to give any referrals to them?" Joy assured me that while this does happen, members are both welcomed and encouraged to visit other chapters in order to find people you might feel better synergy with; BNI members ought to be comfortable both personally and professionally with the people they refer.

Another rule you should be aware of is that you are allowed to only miss 3 meetings per quarter; however, you can send someone to fill in for you if need be to allow you to maintain your membership requirements and avoid an absence. I totally support this expectation as I really feel you only get the most out of any group when you attend on a consistent basis. If you are a traveling speaker, a sales person who is on the road a lot, or someone who is otherwise not available for the required attendance, this may not be the style of networking group for you.

As Joy shared, “this is NOT a social club; it is for serious business folks who want to become savvy networkers and powerful referral sources.” The whole model is to support education and referrals! Amazing!

Training, as I mentioned, is a large component of the foundation of this organization. New members are required to take a series of classes within the first 60 days to complete the first training. One of the 3-hour training sessions is dedicated to the ever-popular 60-second elevator pitch, while others are focused on “How to Give Quality Referrals ” and more. I wish more groups would incorporate these types of standards, as I feel that training is so needed and missing from most groups I’ve covered for TNN.

BNI also has many benefits over the web. Within the chapter you are allowed to feature yourself online with your business logo, name, contact information, website and key words.

So if YOU are looking for a group that is all about good referrals, weekly meetings, and education ~ this is the group for you.

If you like what you’ve read, give BNI a try. If you live in the Manhattan Beach area and would like to visit, you can contact Mindy Oumi at tlcpharmacy@verizon.net, or go to www.socalbni.com to find a chapter near you.

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U.S. SOUTHWEST: Manhattan Beach Offers More Than Just the Beach

ESPECIALLY FOR WOMEN: The Passionate MavHERick(TM)

Especially for Women with Ann Barczay Sloan

Ann's article is brought to you by The Joy of Connecting

The Passionate MavHERick(TM):

Introducing Liz Pabon
CEO and Branding Maven
www.LizPabon.com

by
Ann Barczay Sloan
Featured Columnist, The National Networker

“Your brand is the heart of your business, and

you are the heart of your brand.”

Getting clear on what lives behind your packaging

is the first step in changing the rest of your life and

the lives of those you’re intended to touch.

How Liz Pabon and I first connected

Liz was enthusiastically recommended to me as interview subject by none other than Christine Kloser (formerly Founder of N.E.W. Entrepreneurs in Los Angeles), and now Founder / CEO of The Freedom Formula.

By now it seems funny how many times Christine’s name has shown up in this “Women’s Networking” column of mine: amazing to see how the N.E.W. dinner meetings I attended in Santa Monica around 2004 have resulted in such pivotal contacts and contacts of contacts. Again, the power of networking in full play!

Who is Liz Pabon and what is she all about?

“How She Does It”, Liz’s colorfully sophisticated e-newsletter, sums her up as follows:

As the CEO and Branding Maven for Liz P. Communications, Liz is committed to inspiring and motivating female entrepreneurs to design profitable businesses ─ fueled by spirit, smarts and strategy ─ that bring the female essence to the global leadership table.

It's Liz' belief that women are poised to create a massive shift in how business is conducted on a global level. A bona fide MavHERick(TM), Liz challenges conventional thinking and motivates women to use their natural talents and abilities (their best) to rock the business landscape by developing and introducing brands that transform the status quo.

The Branding Maven’s achievements

Because of her unique perspective on branding – one that extends beyond outer packaging ─ Liz became known as “The Branding Maven.” Her innovative and forward thinking approach to branding has won her acclaim. In 2007, her home study tool kit, Your ULTIMATE Brand by Design was presented with the prestigious Apex Excellence in Education and Training award – the course is now in its third printing.

And in 2008, her recently published book, The MavHERick™ Mind was recognized as a National Indie Award finalist and continues to inspire and empower women in business across the globe.

Exploring Liz’s web site

In the striking Home page illustration on www.LizPabon.com , Liz’s image is displayed on the screen of a hot-pink laptop computer parked on a bold zebra-striped couch. The hot pink headline calls out to the visitor:

“Discover how She does it!”

Some of the menu selections on this site are unexpected. Let’s take a look at a few details:

Home
The Home page displays Liz’ forthright declaration

Liz Pabon – Your Best is Yet to Come

The Rules of Success Have Changed...
Have You?

As an entrepreneurial woman, you've been playing with a dated rulebook. A rulebook

of principles that don't serve you as the spirited, sassy and savvy woman you are.

A rulebook you've been "sold" on as the only way, the right way to create success.

I'm here to tell you there is another way...
· A way to honor your creativity, vibrancy and authenticity.
· A way to do good in the world and make money with no guilt, fear or shame.
· A way to re-write the rulebook you've been living by and create success on your terms!

Services
"You've Got to Breakthrough to Breakout!", states the headline on this page.

International Branding and Marketing Expert, Liz Pabon, Reveals Irresistible Success

Secrets That Have Transformed Women from Invisible to Invincible...

Liz’s services listed here (defined in greater detail on the page) are:

Group Coaching
Business Consulting
Hands-on Coaching
Other Services: Tell Your Brand Story...
(through the power of movies)

Rants & Raves
Liz’s blog and Article Archives are found here.

Freebies
Free content available to LizPabon.com visitors:

-- Two inspiring movies
-- A collection of useful articles

Get to Know Liz
Liz freely shares her philosophy here. To begin:

My Message is My Life...
You see, who I am is what I do.
…When you are clear on your life's purpose and create your business as a channel

to express that purpose, then how you live your life is what you do. In other words,

the message of your business is the message of your life's purpose. Therefore, your

message is your life.

See, it's all about connecting with your True Essence. Without that connection,

you struggle in your business and will often feel disconnected or disillusioned between

what you do and where you're at on the rung of success.

When I connected with my True Essence my entire life changed.
And that's what I teach women to create...

A business that expresses your life's purpose, identifying and then embracing, the

unique gifts you possess to help you live that purpose. This is why your life and your

business become one but not in the dated, "bring your work home with you" kind

of way. It is instead an effortless, authentic way of living, being and contributing.

Media Page
Liz Pabon Bio ─ Excerpts
… Liz helps female entrepreneurs design profitable businesses - fueled by spirit, smarts

and strategy - by integrating inner and outer branding strategies.

It’s Liz’ belief that women are poised to create a massive shift in how business is conducted

on a global level. A bona fide MavHERick™, Liz challenges conventional thinking and

motivates women to use their natural talents and abilities (their best) to rock the business

landscape by developing and introducing brands that transform the status quo.

A former Media Executive, Liz established her background in marketing communication

as a VP of Sales & Marketing at some of the world’s leading multi-media publishers.

Having a passion for entrepreneurship, Liz P. Communications was born.

Become a Partner
Liz describes her “Power Partner Program” here: an Affiliate program for her information products. Her invitation states:

I have a growing product line - some award winning - and can't possibly create the

kind of wild-fire impact I want on my own...and that's where you come in. I'm reviewing

applications for a few hand-selected power partners to help me reach more women.

It’s time to move on now to the interview with the MavHERick(TM), herself.

Wow, Liz ─ now that I’ve seen aspects of your site, I’m left with even more questions. In your own words right now, how would you briefly describe what you do?

“I’m in the business of helping entrepreneurial-minded women connect powerfully with their true essence. And once connected to the essence of their uniqueness, we build their transformational lifestyle brand as an expression of that essence. A brand whose sole purpose is to transform the lives of others...”

What makes you, your company, unique? In other words, what is the so-called Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of your product or service?

“What makes my service unique is that it is not based on models, blueprints or formulas. It is based upon a strong connection to the inner workings of the human spirit. Great brands are emotional and tug at our hearts. The only way to create that kind of connection with any market is to find passion within yourself as the business owner and breathe that passion into your business.”

What is the primary goal, the mission of what you do?

“The primary intention behind what I do is to fulfill my divine purpose and do so through my business... It is how I express that which is in my own heart (to help others express what is in theirs) and that which gets my creative juices flowing.”

How did you get started with all this?

“Actually, I’ve been doing this work my whole life. After 20+ years in Corporate America, I began my entrepreneurial journey 5 years ago and in a 360 degree fashion, reconnected with the work I best love to do and have always done... empowering women by connecting them to who they truly are – their best and greatest self. Their business and their brand are merely a form of outer expression of their divine purpose and greatness.”

Which of your projects are you currently most excited and passionate about?

“Truth is, Ann, I don’t involve myself in any project(s) that I’m not completely passionate about...it’s just not worth it if there’s no passion behind it.”

How much of your work is focused specifically toward women?

“100% of my work is focused on women. Occasionally a daring man comes into my lair but women are the market I focus all of my efforts on. We have a wonderful opportunity to contribute our innate skills to the global leadership table and have held back for far too long by playing with the ‘old boys’ rule book. Today is a time when women’s natural abilities and the lens from which we view the world are badly needed.”

What are some of the ways and places you promote your enterprise?

“I promote my business predominantly online; ezine, blog, social networking, article publishing, online radio interviews and other online collaborations.”

Whom and / or what does your network currently include, Liz? How far does your network extend?

“My network is made up of thousands of women (and a few fantastic men) from around the world who wish to inspire others and be inspired.”

What has been the best about building a network so far: Positive experiences? Benefits, expected and unexpected?

“For me, it is having an audience (a platform) from which to voice my point of view, my philosophy and give others a different perspective to consider. It’s also an added benefit to have this network shower me with praises for the work I’m so passionate about.”

Such a big smile when you say this!
“Big happy smile –yes!”

What challenges (if any) have you found in your networking experiences? Unexpected events? Any benefits emerging from challenges in the long run?

“Actually, the greatest challenge I’ve encountered in my networking (social or offline) experiences are people who don’t understand networking is not a selling opportunity. It is instead a relationship building opportunity where both parties benefit and support one another.”

Any remedy for this?

“Any time I find myself faced with someone in ‘pitch mode’ I simply choose to recognize their excitement and focus as passion versus the pitch itself (which is frankly, a big turn off).”

That’s a wonderfully wise perspective!
Now ─ bottom line – what do you feel is really working well for you and your company?

“In the world of branding and marketing there is always talk of the ever-important “hook” – the offer or promise that reels an audience in.”

And your particular hook is -- ?

“What works well for my business is not a traditional hook but my passion. I teach my clients that the days of searching high and low and creatively drumming up a hook to entice an excite your market are slowly fading away. Today, the new “hook” is your passion. And I have lots of that...”

I can certainly see that! I laugh.
Besides networking, how else are you promoting your company? What do you view as the primary vehicle and what makes it more important than the others?

“Relationship marketing is what has always worked best for me and is also the method that women respond best to. I rely greatly on my weekly ezine (electronic newsletter) to help me build relationships with women across the globe.”

“How She Does It”?’ Clever name for an ezine!

“Yes! This works best for me because it is cost efficient, allows me to be timely and provides a regular means of contact with my audience. From this ezine, they get to know me, like me and trust me as not only an expert in my field but as a gal’s gal.”

What’s the achievement, the accomplishment you’re most proud of at this time?

“I’m most proud of every client I’ve ever had who has said ‘yes’ to stepping into their bigger shoes, playing a bigger game in life and helping others do the same. There is no greater joy I get than being their witness.”

I’m inspired just by the way you say that, Liz!
Now ─ what are your plans and goals for the future, especially regarding networking activities?

“I’m taking even greater advantage of social networking and having lots of fun with it. This year, I created a lifestyle fan page on Facebook and customized it to include sections that I’ve titled “On Liz’ Newsstand” and “Luxe Life.” I not only share a short book review about what’s currently on my newsstand but I also share information about the products and other indulgences that make me feel luxurious.”

Sounds like a terrific idea!

“This is a wonderful form of networking because it’s a two-way relationship building tool that gives people insight into what I love, offers us a chance to engage with one another and it’s just plain fun!”

In conclusion, anything else you would like to emphasize for our readers? Perhaps words of encouragement, inspiration?

“Here’s what I strongly believe: Networking is less about what you can get and more about what you can give others. It’s about trust and likeability and that can be achieved when you are operating from a place of 100% authenticity. Focus on authenticity and being of service to others and watch your networking results change...”

Thank you, Liz! I really appreciate your perspective and your passion with which you infuse your work ─ and also your play!


------------------------------------------------
Contact Information:

Liz Pabon
(www.lizpabon.com)
800.631.1367

Key Words:

Liz Pabon, MavHERick, brand, Branding Maven, affiliate, Power Partner Program, Ann Barczay Sloan, TNNW, TheNationalNetworker, women, networking, social networking, relationship marketing, Facebook

---------------------------------------
Ann Barczay Sloan, M.A.
Author & Editor / Creative Writing Coach
www.GeniusUnbound.com
www.linkedin.com/in/AnnBarczaySloan
Featured Columnist,
www.TheNationalNetworker.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Author of the forthcoming book,
"How to Use the Pieces of a Broken Heart:
Recipes for Rebirth"
http://annbarczaysloan.blogspot.com





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ESPECIALLY FOR WOMEN: The Passionate MavHERick(TM)

POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Choosing Your Most Powerful Networks, Part 4

Power Thought of the Week with Patricia Parham, Ph.D.

Complementarity

Sometimes your most powerful networks are not necessarily the most comfortable. You may be providing a service that addresses omissions of another provider. For example, a colleague may tell a company the steps involved in implementing a quality improvement process and you may help them get cooperation from the people who must do the work. Not a comfortable union, but a profitable one for both parties. Seek out complementary partnerships.

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POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Choosing Your Most Powerful Networks, Part 4

NETWORKING YOUR WEBSITE: Press Releases to Start the Buzz

Networking Your Website with Rita Wilhelm

Do you have a product or service that you want to promote? Would you like to get some buzz from bloggers and have your information posted on other websites and social networks?

A great way to get social buzz started is to send out an online press release. Your online press release should announce something interesting about your business. If you use a service such as PRWeb, your press release will be distributed all over the internet.

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Because bloggers and webmasters are hungry for content, they search the web for good information. One of the ways they do this is by setting up Google Alerts and RSS feeds for certain keywords. If you have a good keyword match, they will see your press release and possibly start a discussion about you on their blog. Or, some webmasters may just take an RSS feed from reputable sources such as Yahoo News and automatically post your press release onto their websites.

You will want to make sure your press release is well optimized before you send it out. I highly recommend that you take PRWeb’s free webinar. You can find available dates and times here.

Once your press release has been circulated on the internet, you can start networking on those sites and be part of the conversation.

EDITOR'S NOTE: One other great way to generate buzz for yourself through PR is by using The National Networker's PR Service, part of TNNW's premium suite of services to help you leverage our extensive network for your benefit. For more information on how to generate buzz for your business NOW click here.

_____________________________________________________________

Rita Wilhelm is founder and president of SnapMonkey Inc, which is a company that provides both online marketing consulting to businesses, as well as easy-to-use web-based technologies to help businesses effectively promote themselves on the web.

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NETWORKING YOUR WEBSITE: Press Releases to Start the Buzz

JETNETTING: The First Impression Factor, Part XI: Facial Expression I

JetNetting with Heshie Segal

As you saw in the last article in the First Impression Series, eye contact plays a major role in connecting with people. Upcoming articles in the series will include additional facets of non-verbal communication including gestures, body language and posture. Since eye contact and facial expressions are so closely linked, it is perfectly logical that this article focuses on what impact they have on the First Impression Factor.

A few key points for eye contact review: We know that eye contact creates a connection and influences every action that follows. It governs back and forth conversations, reveals interest and interaction, intimacy, coldness, intimidation. Lack of eye contact is a signal of disinterest, boredom and rudenesss.

Facial expressions are a significant form of sending and receiving wordless messages. They are known to convey the real meaning behind the message, often expressing what words cannot. You can invariably determine someone’s emotional state by simply watching the movements of their facial muscles. Their mental and physiological states are mirrored by these expressions. When you are meeting, or even seeing someone for the first time, you can get a glimpse into their attitude by watching their countenance. Three aspects need to be considered:

1) To have a really accurate reading, consider facial expressions as simply an aspect within a cluster of other body language signs, gestures and posture. When they are all congruent, you are most likely getting an accurate reading. Point: Since facial expressions are triggered by emotion, they are hard to conceal…..it takes a very good actor to mask them with any degree of consistecy.

2) Keep in mind that at any given moment the person, just for that particular point in time, may be experiencing one of many emotions that might even be unrelated to the present circumstance; instead, potentially created by a flash-back of a previous emotional moment. All of this must be considered, so avoid jumping to conclusions too quickly.

3) While you are “reading” someone (assessing who they are and, even subconsciously, choosing how to associate with them), they will also be “reading” you. So, when you are mindful of your own facial expressions, you are consciously affecting the first impression you are creating. Caution: there are times when emotion takes over so strongly that your facial expressions will give you away, no matter what you do. Go ahead, don’t take my word for it. Give it a test. Smile when you are in excruciating pain, or when you can’t find your car keys and are going to be late for a crucial meeting; frown when you are overcome with joy; and/or be neutral when you look at something that truly disgusts you. I am sure you get the picture.

Take a situation where you run into an old friend. You say, "Hi, what’s up?" In most cases, you are likely to accompany this with a handshake, a hug or some other type of gesture. A change in facial expressions will most definitely occur from the moment you meet and greet until the time you part. The facial expression observed is often not one you are consciously controlling. Maybe it's that your facial expression reflects your negative mood of a few moments ago and you have a scowl on your face. This may give the other person the wrong impression and turn them off before anything has even been started. Clearly, this is where self-awareness and self-mastery come into play.

Let’s reflect on some examples: When you:

Subtly smile and narrow your eyes, you signal approval.

Close your eyes halfway, you will be perceived as suspicious.

Frown, you signal disapproval or even boredom.

Drop your jaw or raise your eyebrows, you are saying, "I don't believe it or perhaps “I’m amazed."

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Regardless of culture, the seven internationally recognized states of emotion seen through facial expressions are anger, contempt, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness and surprise. The degree of intensity displayed may differ due to cultural, or even individual, differences. In the latter case, personality, attitude and temperament play a role. When you are intent on creating your own persona, it is helpful to understand and monitor the expressions you reveal, and comprehend what you observe in others.

In the next installment, we will deal with these seven emotions in greater detail. You will learn to recognize them, understand them and turn them to your advantage.

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JETNETTING: The First Impression Factor, Part XI: Facial Expression I