UNIVERSAL GUIDE TO NETWORKING: You can't spell networking without K N O W I N G

Universal Guide to Networking with Terry Bean

It's a great and interesting process to tap into universal knowledge to find out what should be shared in these posts. I'm told this month is all about knowledge:

Knowledge of self
Knowledge of your network
Knowledge shared

I run a very large networking group in Detroit called Motor City Connect. We use a very pragmatic definition of networking here: Meet, Understand and Connect- maybe in future months the universe will ask me to focus on meet and connect. This post is all about the understand function.

When I train people I tell them you are not networking unless you are first taking the time to UNDERSTAND the needs of others AND making sure they understand your needs as well.

That is a part of knowing. Let's look closer at knowledge of self. What is it that you are trying to get from networking? More business, obviously, but what else? Maybe you're looking for a new job? Perhaps it's time to find some new vendors. Lots of people use networking to gain greater business acumen. Additionally, networking can help you find new employees, new knowledge of your community, new business partners and more.

Step 1 is to determine what you seek. Once you know what it is that you want, you will be in a better position to ASK (see previous article on knowing for what to ask) for it.

As far as knowledge of others goes; great networkers do three things exceptionally well:

They ask the right questions
They actually listen to the answers
They have a system in place to "remember" who is in their network

The first two play off each other nicely. Ask open ended questions, listen to the answer, ask clarifying questions or take a deeper dive into the appropriate topic. This is truly a skill and one that you can (and should) develop with practice. For training purposes, watch old episodes of Columbo ;-)

As far as the system goes, whether it is a rock solid memory (some people still have those) a database, rolodex or an online tool, you need one. Figure out what information is important to capture from the people you meet and capture it. Even better is to make sure that is "searchable". It's a great thing for all involved when you can effectively play "connector".

The last piece that needs to be mentioned is the sharing what you know. Whether you blog, capture your thoughts on video, do podcasts or just send out emails or status updates you need to share knowledge. In addition to further establishing yourself as an expert, it helps keep you visible to your network.

Hey, what do you know? This post basically wrote itself. Until next month,

Be Connected-

Terry Bean

Terry Bean is the founder of www.motorcityconnect.com, Detroit's fastest growing networking group. He is also the founder of www.networkedinc.com- a business development training firm that focuses on helping people make more productive use of their online and offline networking time. Terry provides training and large scale presentations on networking, social media usage and universal laws.

For more information, please visit Terry's TNNW Bio.


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UNIVERSAL GUIDE TO NETWORKING: You can't spell networking without K N O W I N G

A NOTE FROM THE CHAIRMAN: Networking with Entrepreneurs and Investors

This week I was honored to speak at the Annual Greater Susquehanna Keystone Innovation Zone Venture Plan/Business Plan Competition Kickoff Dinner at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania.

As an entrepreneur who loves to connect and work with other entrepreneurs, it was a thrill to know that one of the entrants would be recognized with a $20,000 grand prize ($15,000 second prize) to further pursue their dream.

The topic of my talk was about the relationship between networking and entrepreneurialism. The key to securing financial capital, of course, lies within proving to the right people that you have the right idea backed with the appropriate amount of evidence (intellectual capital) and the right team of individuals to help you pull it off (relationship capital) - encapsulated (effectively) in a business plan.

The announcement of the finalists will be made on February 26, 2010 at Bucknell University and the winners will be announced on April 15, 2010 at Bloomsburg University.

My thanks, once again, to Kelly O'Brien Gavin of the Greater Susquehanna Keystone Innovation Zone for inviting me. It was a blast and I wish all participants the best of luck in their dreams.

In other news, last week's premiere of Blue Tuesday was a major success. Based upon your feedback, we have decided to make every Tuesday a Blue Tuesday when we will release our critically-acclaimed Blue Things - wonderful blue rectangles, each chocked full of intelligence to make you the hit at your next business conference, networking function, golfside power meeting or Bar Mitzvah. Want new Blue Things, including Backtalk, where you get to share with us what's on your mind? Stay tuned for this coming Tuesday, November 3rd!

As always, I look forward to Networking with you,

Adam

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A NOTE FROM THE CHAIRMAN: Networking with Entrepreneurs and Investors

POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Thanks for Powerful Networks, Part 4

Power Thought with Patricia Parham, Ph.D.

Networks for a Lifetime

Flexible, adaptable, networks last a lifetime. These are sufficiently diverse to provide support at different stages of the development of your business and robust to allow your participation to ebb and flow with changing needs and energy. They are evolving with your business environment, keeping up with rapid shifts in the world. Still, they provide a firm foundation, anchored to skills, knowledge and/or values that help you stay on track. These confirm and reinforce your commitment. Keep them and be thankful for them and for all of your powerful networks.


Patricia A. Parham
Parham Enterprises
www.parhament.com


For more information, please visit Patricia's TNNW Bio.


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POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Thanks for Powerful Networks, Part 4

POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Thanks for Powerful Networks, Part 3

Power Thought with Patricia Parham, Ph.D.

Networks for a Season
Sometimes priorities shift, rendering networks obsolete. With people changing jobs and businesses evolving to offer new products, operate with different strategic alliances, and target more global audiences, traditional networks may not work well. Old fashioned co-located networks may or may not be critical to achieving newly evolving goals and business practices. It’s not enough to remain in networks because they are comfortable. Choose to be in powerful, vibrant networks that are vital to your success.



Patricia A. Parham
Parham Enterprises
www.parhament.com


For more information, please visit Patricia's TNNW Bio.

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POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Thanks for Powerful Networks, Part 3

POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Thanks for Powerful Networks, Part 2

Power Thought with Patricia Parham, Ph.D.

Networks for a Reason
Some networks serve a specific purpose, for example, in the development phase of a business or product or strategy. Development may last days, weeks, months or even years. Sometimes it’s difficult to know when to let go and move on. The key question is, am I or my business still growing as a result of this network? Have I become primarily a provider of services for whom the sole return is the joy of giving? If so, perhaps power has ebbed from this network. Re-structure, re-negotiate, or sever this relationship.


Patricia A. Parham
Parham Enterprises
www.parhament.com


For more information, please visit Patricia's TNNW Bio.

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POWER THOUGHT OF THE WEEK: Thanks for Powerful Networks, Part 2

BECAUSE I CAN: The Candy Shop Revisited: A Survivor’s Guide to the Future

“If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is a compromise.”

- Robert Fritz

Jeff Schomay’s recent succinct, yet powerful article: Eliminate Clutter; Increase Response got me thinking about information overload and some comments I’ve made in the past about the old adage of being a “kid in a candy shop”. With that in mind (as well as something to do with preparing my kids for Halloween), I thought I would take a closer look at how we as a society have created the world’s largest candy shop and its implications on us “kids”.

Why?

Because I can.

The Past

The old saying of “being a kid in a candy shop” had certain implications:

1. You had a large variety of candy to choose from
2. You had limited funds, and
3. You had sufficient enough time to make a decision.

Choice here was seen as good, since back in the day we could have a Model T in any color we wanted as long as it was black. As far as funds went, the more limited one’s funds, the less choice of candy you could have; you might have had to settle for the sweet and sour sugar bombs and forego the rich, imported, gourmet chocolate with the unpronounceable name. Lastly, as a kid there always seemed to be more time – often times, too much.

The Present

In today’s day and age of the internet and social media, we have more choice than ever; so much so that our choices have grown exponentially. Therefore, not only has the variety of candy in the shop expanded, but also our choices of candy shops. Additionally, those of us who are daring, intelligent and/or aware enough are realizing more and more that there are an infinite number of choices beyond those that are just presented to us – those we dare to imagine despite others’ cries of “impossibility”.

Sure our current economic situation is not ideal, our funds still limit our choices considerably. Look, however, at how much more is available to us, especially via the internet. There is so much more that we can do for free. Try going to the post office or shipping store and see if they’re giving away free mailboxes – not going to happen. Yet online, you can get your own, if not multiple mailboxes at no cost. You can even store your stuff for free – pictures, data, etc. Your own podcasts? Free. Conference call numbers? Free. Greeting card services? Free. Get the point?

Unfortunately, while our choices increase (or in mathematical terms, approach infinity) and funds become less of an issue, time is still the most precious commodity of all. With the advent of high-speed internet and faster server technologies, sure we can get things done quicker, but it also means there is more pressure for us to do so. No longer can we afford to be holding up the candy shop owner with “ummms” or “ahhhhhs” or we risk losing our place in line or having the “candy Nazi” (for you Seinfeld fans) cut us off for a year. Those in the coaching and training professions call it “analysis paralysis”, and it can cause a lot of damage if we’re not careful.

The Future

So what happens in a world that accelerates at an increasingly-alarming rate towards the future where choice is infinite, whether or not funds exist and time grows shorter? How does one survive?

First and foremost, we must be aware. We must be aware of who we are, what we want out of life, what our mission is, what our goals are and what we will specifically need to accomplish our goals. With this level of awareness we can become decisive in a way that eliminates 99% of the choices, thereby decreasing the time it takes to make a decision.

Secondly, we must be innovative. Innovation is the result of daring to dream beyond what most people feel is possible – to look through the “cracks” of “reality” and challenge the status quo, for if we don’t others will have their way at our expense.

Lastly, we must be willing to help others. We must accept that people aren’t born aware or innovative but must be taught no matter what their age. We must be willing to aid those who struggle to “get the point” through education or through healing. In doing so, we will also educate and heal ourselves, while building powerful and effective relationships.

We must do all of these things to ensure a sustainable future no matter which candy shop we patronize and no matter their inventory.

Why?

Because we can.

Adam J. Kovitz is the Chairman & Founder of The National Networker Group of Companies, which publish The National Networker, provide member services and consulting as well as branding and social media domination.

Hire Adam to speak at your next conference by emailing info@thenationalnetworker.com.

Follow Adam on Twitter!

The Emergence of the Relationship Economy

Relationship Capital is the cornerstone of the Relationship Economy, which RNIA defines as “a measurement assigned to individual and organizational entities based on the relationship interactions between them, and the interactions they have internally.” I am proud to have contributed discussion of the Ten Laws of Relationships Capital to The Emergence of the Relationship Economy, now out as an eBook and in hardcopy. With a forward written by Doc Searls (of Cluetrain Manifesto fame), it is being considered a “must read” for anyone responsible for the strategic direction of their business. If you would like to purchase your own copy of The Emergence of the Relationship Economy, please click here.

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BECAUSE I CAN: The Candy Shop Revisited: A Survivor’s Guide to the Future

WORKING WITHIN: Networking and Productivity United for Results

Working Within with Leanne Hoagland-Smith

Since networking is all about relationships, then networking is great strategy to increase productivity in all aspects of any organization. I realized this a long time ago when working with clients. Let me explain.

A team was not performing to its level given the depth of the experiences within the team. During the numerous workshops and one on one coaching sessions, I realized that the team members truly did not know each other.

Sure, the might have knowledge specific to if they were married or single, birthday dates and the place of last employment. However, they did not truly know their fellow co-workers. This lack of knowledge was keeping people at arm’s length and creating some very negative attitudes.

Then during the next six monthly follow-up workshops I began each session requesting that each team member share something that others in the room did not know. Watching the non-verbal behaviors of the listening team members as a fellow co-worker shared his or her little piece of personal trivia was quite enlightening. As time progress, the honesty of sharing increased and as did the emotions within the room.

While all this was going on, something else was happening in between workshops. The team began to function better. Members began to ask each other when they had some free time, How can I help? Projects that used to take several weeks were now being finished in less than one week.

President Roosevelt was quoted as saying: No one cares how much you know until they know how much you care. This is just as true internally when networking as externally.

Productivity is the direct result of how we feel about doing something. When we are engaged for whatever the reason, our productivity will increase. Having a team support is critical to sustaining productivity especially during stressful times.

Now more than ever it is important to invest the time to learn about your fellow co-worker and be authentic with your intentions. You may find a kindred spirit and someone who will help you out when your desk is overflowing with ASAP to gotta, gotta, gotta have this right now!

For more information, please visit Leanne's TNNW Bio.

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WORKING WITHIN: Networking and Productivity United for Results

LASTING IMPRESSSIONS: "There Is NO Money In The Arts"

Lasting Impressions with Sian Lindemann

The Art of “The Dance” ~
OR… HOW To Network In The Dance World ~

If you are an artist, I can be assured that you have heard this statement once or twice in your professional career, “There is NO money in the arts”…and I assume, that you have believed it. I am a participant in the promotion of the arts, that for over 30 years, I have heard this statement more often than I care to admit, AND I’ve heard more excuses justifying failure in the arts, being attributed to this statement, as well.

WHO TOLD YOU THIS ???

I’m on a mission, like no other, for the second, third, fourth, fifth … Well actually, I’ve lost track of the number of times that I have made money in the arts and creative industries…with business, projects, activities, and I dare say, shameless “self promotion” in the arts world.

An FYI for all artists ~ IF you don’t TOOT your own horn, I’m terribly sorry to inform you that there will be no one lining up to do so for you…until you master this task…Shameless “self – promotion.”

Stepping Down From My Soap Box

First of all, I want to apologize, for my anger, angst and frustration with artists AND with business people who lack basic creativity in the launch and activities of their companies. I would actually tell you to re-evaluate your business aspirations. Even my mother, an entrepreneur all of her life, admitted on her death bed, that she never really enjoyed DRIVING the business….she more preferred being support to an impassioned driver…

IS THIS YOU?

NEXT ~ If you are certain that you wish to find fame, fortune, glory and recognition in your particular field, then I am going to shout from the mountain top, so that you can hear me… WAKE UP !!!

You may think me unkind, uncaring, and ill equipped to share this fact with you ~ ITS YOUR FAULT…that you are not successful ~

OK…I’m finished… and I am laughing OUT LOUD…

The winds of change are upon us ~ (We’re having one of those famous “desert storms” as I am writing this article…The wind is blowing up dust and it is WILD, outside.)

So perhaps the wind and its effect have impassioned my writing today…and I’m going to share a story with you that is both poignant and powerful…and is about one little girl, named Chandra Krown, with whom I had the pleasure to work, now many years ago.

Chandra is a dancer.

I met Chandra in Vancouver, BC on one of my many “adventures,” having just moved to Vancouver, and having immersed myself into the creative community in that city, several things occurred for me there.

1) I loved Vancouver and wanted to find a way to stay
2) I loved Vancouver and decided I would stay
3) I love artists, as you already know, and happened upon Chandra and a group of other local artists, each actively pursuing a variety of careers, in music, in art, in dance, in drumming, and lastly, my favorite, in “design.”

I had the pleasure, also, of hiring the quirkiest “personal coach” who proceeded to illuminate for me ~ that “EVERTHING” is possible. One need only say YES and to “TAKE ACTION” ~ which I then did, on my own behalf “as the artist.”

But… meeting Chandra was a challenge I was willing to consider. First of all she is an extremely talented dancer, who for the moment, had a plethora of bad behaviors that were rather self defeating. I won’t go into detail about the nature of her “habits” as she has requested that I not share them with the public. However, it was clear that she must overcome these issues were she to succeed in her particular industry ~ DANCE…

So what I did do, is move in with her, and position myself to be available to her to assist her to overcome these issues….which I did.

Needless to say ~ it took a little time, some money, some devotion on my part to see her through to the other side. What did occur. When she was ready, I accompanied her to her first professional audition. The rest is history ~

She blew the ROOF off the room, and has subsequently gone on to become an internationally known dancer, aerialist, gymnast and many, many other talents.

AND she was able to remove herself from what is like our US Welfare system of Canadian Social Services…and become self-sufficient.

Last I witnessed, she was aerial dancing off the side of a high rise building in downtown Vancouver, BC, and has subsequently moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where she continues to exhibit her aerial ballets.

The point of the story is that “There IS money in the Arts” ~ How successful you become is a choice ~ YOUR choice….Remember, a group of Canadian based street performers who subsequently created and have become “Cirque de Soleil” all started in the same venue ~ Performing on the street.

I would then have to inquire ~ “ Do you think Cirque de Soleil is a financially viable entity ?” ~ With temporary and permanent shows now performing all over the world, we agree that YES is the only answer. The difference is HOW much more success has “Cirque” had over Chandra Krown and her troupe. It’s only a matter of commitment and personal aspirations….much like that which I described about my Mother. My Mom, always kept her businesses succeeding at a certain level and income, for perhaps, her whole life she did not know how to be a great support person, versus the need to be an independent “driver” of her companies.

This is the key factor ~ Can you work well with others? Can you listen to others and let go of control? Can you admit that others might have a better plan for you than you can have for yourself ? These are questions I ask myself on a daily basis.

And although I continue to “assist” other artists with advice and directional aid, at this time, I too, am taking the reins back on my own creative career…

…AND, it is all about Dance ~ I don’t have to be a great dancer to succeed. I DO have to be a great coordinator and director of the project…and at this time I am participating in the latter. Yes, I will continue to study dance, but I’m sure that few wish to see a middle –aged woman, who is obviously rusty and a little unfit ~ ( due to my current and massive immersion into social media and having been “sitting” in front of the computer for 2 years) dancing around on stage, unless of course I am going to play the character of the clown…

It is essential, however, to hold firm to the fact that “Cirque” is the business model that I aspire to… I need only cultivate and attract the best performance artists for my upcoming project…aptly titled “INCREIBLE”

Increible "Trailer" ~








So in light of the fact that we wish for the highest and best success with this project, I have to plan it out, which has been done, and will, thus, implement incrementally….and I’m happy to share with you that we are moving forward.

The key piece here is that this project is one that I could not grow easily in the “organic” ways I have launched and grown every other business in which I have been immersed.

This project requires capital ~ that, which has now been committed, after being laughed out of nearly every capital presentation I have given…NOT because it’s a bad idea, but because the external belief is that “THERE IS NO MONEY IN THE ARTS” ~

It’s not true ~ It”s never been true ~And it is only true for those who believe that the statement holds “water.” To those people, I say adieu ~ for their beliefs are letting themselves be “stuck.”

Interesting that an amazing group of people are gathering around this project, “INCREIBLE” which is a “Cirque” – style, World Class Entertainment Event which features The Passions of Flamenco Dance and The Poetry of Peruvian Paso Horses ~ like Cirque de Soleil’s “Cavalia ~ which, by the way, is one of their more successful traveling shows.

So on the flip side ~

I will continue to support the “plight” of artists, for I do understand the challenges that they face ~ However, I am removing myself from consulting with the arts community ~ “Be IT now" is the mantra I am adopting, once again, for over 30 years it has served me well, and will continue to do so.

Cheers to YOUR continued success and most of all, CHEERS to my own ~ for without the “gift” of mastering the ART of Networking, I would never, ever have been able to commit to this project, which is my primary focus and IS my passion.

And it is for which I made the move ~ and placed myself back in Arizona, whereby in this environ reside all the dancers, trainers, horses and people that make “Increible” a reality….and PS…”There IS money in the arts” ~ If you never give up, never stop asking for help, never stop sharing that which is your passion, there is light at the end of the tunnel. For here I am…Welcome !


Stay Tuned
Sincere Regards
Sian Lindemann
November 2009 ~
www.siandesign.com

For more information, please visit Sian's TNNW Bio.


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LASTING IMPRESSSIONS: "There Is NO Money In The Arts"

SNAPSHOT: Voyage Aboard Titanic

SnapShot by Stefanie Gorder and featuring Gina Palmeri

SnapShot is a monthly column offering a collection of travel & networking concepts to destinations and activities worldwide.

Expose yourself to travel!

In October, I spent three weeks networking and traveling in Pennsylvania and Branson. While in Pennsylvania, I was hosted by the Palmeri family. Jim is a long time industry colleague and provided a unique training opportunity which allowed me to also become a member of their family. For three weeks I mixed with Jim and Carol (who have been married for 25 years) and their youngest daughter Gina (who is 16 ½). It was Gina’s spunky style and graceful speech that provide me with hours of entertainment. When we discussed an upcoming business trip to Branson, she lit up at the memory of her visit to the Titanic Museum. I promised that if she wrote an article on this incredible attraction, I would submit it for publication as long as she received extra credit in her English class.

Please welcome the newest travel writer for marketingCents, Miss Gina Palmeri in her first publication release (both writers shown in above photo). Sit back and enjoy the tour through the Titanic Museum as told through Gina’s youthful charm and eloquent style. Welcome Aboard!

First Class Birthday Voyage aboard Titanic
By Gina Palmeri

To really understand the story of Titanic, I wanted to experience it. After doing some research, I found the only place that could let me do that was the Titanic Museum in Branson, Missouri. My parents were kind enough to take me there for my fifteen birthday because I was dying to see it, being the Titanic fanatic that I am. When we arrived I was surprised to see how many people went to see the attraction, probably curious about the huge ocean liner in the middle of Missouri. This was no ordinary museum, but a real replica of Titanic on the inside and out, the largest museum attraction in the world. No wonder people were flocking to see it.

Photo by Palmeri Family: Gina celebrating her birthday in style
As I first boarded the ship, I felt as though I traveled back in time to 1912. I was greeted by a cabin stewardess who immediately gave me a Happy Birthday sash, tiara, and button for the “princess birthday package”. She then told me a full summary of the passenger whose boarding pass I was issued while walking in. Each boarding pass had the name of a person aboard the ship and a short description of their life. The goal was to follow their story throughout the museum and ultimately see whether or not they survived. I was the famous actress, Dorothy Winifred Brown Gibson for the day and I was certainly treated like a movie star. Every time ship re-enactors saw me, they would go out of their way to give me extra attention. An extra special part was when the band played me a special birthday song on the grand staircase. Talk about first class.
Photo by Titanic, World's Largest Museum Attraction: Stylish First Class Cabin
Walking through I saw an ice berg “straight ahead” that was icy cold to experience the temperature of the frigid Atlantic Ocean on that doomed April night. After that there were dozens of artifacts, each with an in-depth description telling exactly what it was. It was amazing to see the artifacts they scavenged, such as plates, jewelry, and even papers, which were still in one piece. I definitely recommend the audio tour that gave even more information for every room. The grand staircase was awe-inspiring and looked exactly like I have seen in books and movies. Once I found out they hold weddings there, I was sold!

As I walked up the grand staircase, I felt a chill with each step. It is amazing to think that they could build such an exact replica from old pictures and its condition at the bottom of the ocean. Every aspect of the models, especially the state rooms, looked as though they were made back in the early 1900s, from the furniture to the woodwork.

A gust of cool air came over me as I strolled out onto the deck to look up at the perfect stars in the imitation night sky. Adjacent was the bridge where I “steered” the ship with the gigantic steering wheel. There was also the wireless room where I practiced my “SOS” in Morse code. That could come in handy one day; you never know!
Photo by Titanic, World's Largest Museum Attraction: Interactive Gallery
The museum was really kid friendly with hands on activities. For example, a water tank, where kids could put their hands in and feel how cold the ocean actually was that night. There were slanting board decks they could climb on and a fake boiler with coal they could shovel in. For me, being 15 at the time, it was a great mix because I could appreciate these things as well as the artifacts and the more scientific aspects of it. I think teenagers would get the most out of the experience because they enjoy both the kid friendly and scholarly features of the museum.

One of the neatest rooms in the museum was the gallery. Here there were tons of photographs taken of Titanic two miles below the sea. They showed the decay of the ship from 1985 from when it was discovered in comparison to more recent dives. With the use of underwater robots, scientists were able to photograph the most interior parts of the ship and find even more priceless artifacts. It was extremely interesting to see the affects of salt water on the ship and how it decayed in 97 years. Sadly, it is decreasing fairly rapidly and may be gone in a matter of years. This was shown through a model of the ship underwater, which was used in the blockbuster movie Titanic, and then donated to the museum by director and producer James Cameron.

Photo by Titanic, World's Largest Museum Attraction: Memorial Wall
At the end of the tour we entered the ghostly silence of the memorial room. It was here where we found out if “we” survived or perished. Thousands of names lined the walls in honor of those who experienced the disaster. In the middle of the room was the life jacket of Madeleine Astor, the only jacket that can be traced back to a specific person. Luckily for me I survived, but seeing the names of the deceased was a reality shock of how serious this tragedy actually was. The emotion that came along with the end was immense because I had created a connection with the passengers throughout the visit. I had relived their experience and that gave me so much more respect for Titanic than I ever had before.

When I first heard that Titanic had a museum in Branson, Missouri I was a little confused. I would have thought they would have built one on the coast, or even Ireland where the ship was built, not in the middle of America. However, after I visited Branson, I had a new perceptive. I had no idea the town was so lively and exciting and had so many attractions! You would think a huge Titanic museum would stand out in a town like this, but that was the point. It is unique and so attracts curious travelers. Don’t go to Branson just to see Titanic because you would be missing out. There are fifty theaters and as they say, “Someone you love is always playing in Branson.” It is ideal for a family vacation with amusement parks, museums and shows. There was always something to do and was easily one of the best vacations I ever had.

Titanic Museum in Branson is more than just educational information about a shipwreck; it is an experience. Once I stepped into the museum it was really like I was stepping into Titanic, ready to take to sea. Instead of reading boring facts about the ship, there are numerous interactive activities that can be enjoyed by anyone of all ages. This attraction is also not made for just Titanic lovers like me, but anyone with a desire to know the real story of Titanic, not just the one portrayed on the big screen. This story goes much deeper than many realize, about 2 miles below sea level to be exact. It is important that the stories of those affected by the Titanic disaster stay alive for they are the only connections we have left. Sadly, the last survivor of Titanic passed away recently. However the stories of those who survived live on and will never be forgotten. They best way to learn about Titanic is to relive it, and the best place to do that is in the Titanic Museum in Branson, Missouri.


Contact Information:
The Titanic Museum Branson
Branson, MO & Pigeon Forge, TN

Ticket Information: 800-381-7670 or 417-334-9500

Email: info@titanicbranson.com

Web: www.titanicbranson.com

Thanks to Kristy Merritt, Vice President Sales & Marketing the Titanic Museum Branson for the assistance provided to complete this article.

Also, a big SHOUT out to Miss Gina Palmeri .... I am proud of you! Your dedication and research for the article was impressive. Congrats on a job well done! xo Stef
_______________________________________
Submission: November 2009

Stefanie Gorder, ctp, ds
marketingCents, llc.
Email: Stefanie@marketing-Cents.com
Twitter: @StefanieGorder

SnapShot is a monthly column offering a collection of travel & networking concepts to destinations and activities worldwide. Expose yourself to travel!

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SNAPSHOT: Voyage Aboard Titanic

REAL ESTATE...AND OTHER THINGS OF VALUE: Land Down Under Stays Above

Real Estate...and Other Things of Value

with Yossi Feigenson

I recently returned from a trip to Australia. Yes, lucky me; I got to fly for 22 hours. Australia is quite a place. There is lots of beauty there and the people are wonderful. Once you can overcome what I call “the two psychological barriers”, namely that you are a full day of traveling away from the western world, and almost a full day or time zone away, you can actually begin to enjoy it; that is, assuming you can ever overcome the third obstacle- jetlag. One of my children caught on to something. Every time I called home we were naturally on the opposite end of the day/night spectrum. They would be getting ready for school and I would be getting ready for bed. So I would say to him; have a great day at school, and he would reply; have a good night. He got a real kick out of saying that. For an eight year old it was quite intuitive. But, that is not what my article is about.

As an American businessman, (at least in my own mind), something else caught my attention. The economic environment and the overall mood wasn’t quite the same as we were experiencing here. It didn’t take me very long to figure out why. As many of the people were so proud to tell me, Australia had actually averted a recession. The fact that a country, about which they say, ‘when America sneezes Australia catches a cold’ was able to withstand the economic malaise was a remarkable feat.

Every armchair economist I spoke to gave me his reason and interpretation of the events that lead to the non-event. I felt like an investigative journalist picking up pieces of a story. Some said it was strong Government intervention; another said that vigorous regulation and oversight in the banking sector helped. The credit market, while it did tighten up and have some under performing assets, never got involved in the unbelievably stupid loan practices that some others across big oceans did. Psychologically, the Government reassured folks that the loans would be backed and secured, so that slowed the real estate crash. Another factor was that the Government actually helped the PEOPLE, not just HUGE corporations; they gave money to each individual to help stimulate and boost spending.

If you follow my writing, you will recognize this as the time when I ask: what really happened? What were the real underlying factors? And the more important question; what can we learn and possibly do different? I know I’m just one voice, but it would be nice if we can learn something.

The Dutch Tulip mania and consequent bubble is an almost exact precursor for what has happened here. This is from a blog entry By Robert Hardaway, Professor of Law at the University of Denver.

“In 1624, frenzied speculators in Holland pushed up the price of tulip bulbs from the equivalent of a nickel apiece to 3,000 guilders (about $100,000) for a single bulb.

People forgot what a tulip bulb was actually for. All they cared about was that even if you bought a bulb for the ridiculous price of 3,000 guilders, you might be able to sell it the following week for 3,100 guilders.

When fears arose that savvy investors might figure out that the bulbs were really only worth a nickel, fearful government officials induced lenders to make it easier for investors to borrow more and more money to buy the ever higher priced bulbs and thereby keep the bubble going in order to avoid financial collapse.”

This should all sound eerily familiar. In the past ten years what we had can’t even laughably be referred to as a market. We had frenzy and chaos.

As a real estate broker I often found myself in the enviable position of trying to sell properties that made absolutely no financial sense, on any level. I would perform an analysis on the property, run all the numbers and then sheepishly present them to buyers. Truthfully, I hated it. There were people out there, however, that simply would buy anything, as long as they felt they could pass it along to another, without too much difficulty.

An owner of a good amount of commercial and industrial property in Melbourne shared with me that flipping (an almost outdated term from the "boom") is highly discouraged by way of transfer taxes due on any flip. In the US, people were having simultaneous closings of one property.

There was a level of drunkenness, irresponsibility and recklessness, combined with lack of regulation, oversight and risk management that brought us down. It’s important for us to acknowledge this if we want to avoid this meltdown again.

For once it would do us all a bit of good to take a cue from our brethren in the Land Down Under. It is not so much policy and implementation, but more common sense and intuition for what is right and what is wrong.

For more information, please visit Yossi's TNNW Bio.

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REAL ESTATE...AND OTHER THINGS OF VALUE: Land Down Under Stays Above

BLUE THING #10: Backtalk: Comments from our Readers

Here are some of your comments on our recent TNNW articles:

Christine M. West, Go West!!!
Remember to be Humble

"I read Christine's article and it is well written from the heart. I am glad she offered all the GREAT pointers! "
- Margo Ruarch

"Humility seems to have a connotation of weakness today which I do not agree with. Conversely I think it is the greatest display of strength possible. "I have the power to do this, I choose not to and do the opposite and ethical thing because I can and feel obligated to. "It works wonders in relationships, and meeting new people. "I can say from experience strategic advantage has been gained from humility better than any other approach could possibly produce. "The simple, don't bother with what I want, what do you need? With sincerity. "It makes a lot of friends. And sometimes it rubs off on others as well, which is the best result. IMHO. "
- Mike Lee

"Thank you for writing this post. I feel that this is something that many people overlook. When one boasts, one sets him or herself up for another to "call the bluff". Also the individual raises the bar for him or herself before even taking the chance to get a sense of the playing field. I know that promotion and selling often entail strategically positioning an opportunity where the benefit can sometimes appear to be an exaggeration. However, I have seen first hand the power of three simple words: I don't know. The people that can say this and then follow up with questions that demonstrate a desire to learn seem to earn respect from the person that posed the original question. Humility also enables us to hold our cards closer to the vest and make a strategic evaluation regarding when to reveal a certain position. I feel that sometimes, and I have been a victim of this myself, people get very enthusiastic and in their desire to maintain a positive mental attitude oversell or over-hype what they are doing. A vision is a powerful thing, but a person that exercises humility allows others to step inside and experience the vision versus watching from afar. This is something that we have been working to instill as we define our culture at Blackstar. My apologies for the long dissertation, but in all sincerity, thank you for your contribution."
- Karl G. Schlegel III, http://www.blackstargroupllc.com/, mailto:karl@blackstargroupllc.com


Beth Barany, Get Published Now

Getting Published is Easy: 8 Things You Need to Know to Get Published

"If you publish with the top tier publishers like Wiley and the likes they put you through the proposal which includes the establishment of readership and who they are and why would they be interested in what you write. You also have to differentiate your work from others in the same subject that is already published and identify as much competing works and provide differentiation as well. When they are satisfied that there could be readership and your work is different enough from what is already published, then they submit your proposal to 3 experts in the subject for critique and if they concur that your work would interest enough readers then and only then you are issued a contract. I would suggest those starting out to go with one of these top tier publishers to get yourself established before branching out else where. I have published 2 volumes with Wiley and working on the third. It is satisfying to hear from your readers that they appreciate what you wrote and it is indeed a a worthwhile investment to have purchased your book."
- BP Wong

"Beth Barany pointed out some really good items. One thing that is sort of mentioned, but not expanded on, is the "lots of readers." If you intend to be published by any publishing house or even to make money being published on the web, you need to have platform that attracts a lot of readers.
"Publishing companies expect to you already have an audience before they take a chance on you. Many believe that the audience comes second. In reality, it comes first. So, a writer who wants to get a book deal needs to take the time to establish readership. This readership must include repeat readers. What we sometimes forgot in this digital age is that building a following still takes time. It takes less today than ten years ago, but you're still talking about a large time investment. So, you have to allow for time to write as well as to build a following."
- Yvette Scheiber

"Ok, so what if you do have something to say, and you do what to publish?
What are the steps/process."
- Robert Palmer


Douglas, Castle
Don't Conceptualize - Quantify and Comfort
"You would think that this would be intuitive to a trained sales professional, if not, shame on them! It's always great to get a reminder. Often I find that marketers present a lot of product features and benefits, never ask for the order, never share why this benefits the client, and don't relay that they are seeking a partnership vs. a transaction. The difference in strategic selling and transactional selling."
- Bronwyn Morgan

"I quite agree with the conclusion. Presenting facts and creating justification on both the intellectual and business platform, particularly in these difficult times are critical when dealing with clients and audiences. "
- William Downey

"I'm familiar with Douglas Castle's article. Many of my TED friends have been commenting on it. Most all of us have read it. You may be comforted to know that as a CEO, I take personal responsibility for the message.

"It's about the facts. Not the fear.

"See for yourself at http://www.linkedin.com/e/plh/http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thinkbam.com%2Fthinking.html/sSHK/"
- Kevin Burton, CEO, Burton Asset Management, Inc.



Adam J. Kovitz, Because I Can
A World Without Money, Part 2

"As a Start Trek fan, I think it would be great in theory, but doubt humanity is anywhere ready for that!"
- David Bloch

"Wonderful. Courageous question. Intriguing challenge. Questions such as these are in my humble opinion, the ones that will open the way for humanity to find a way into the future. Thank you for your question and the commentary. Very valuable.

"May I humbly offer a perspective?

"Would it be possible for a world to be one where every human lives out her/his purpose by contributing to the betterment of all in it? Would it be possible that when one lives out her/his purpose that one does it to give and not to take? Yes, it is possible just as it is possible for a country to be without an army or police. Imagine it; a world where every human lives out their purpose to bring society to a higher level, contributing what they have with joy and unconditional giving. The farmer produces food and gives it the people who distribute it to those who need it. The industrialist produces goods and gives it to those who need it. The doctor treats people lovingly and joyfully giving her/his services unconditionally. The office worker comes in to work joyfully, knowing she/he is part of a wonderful enterprise bringing happiness and fulfillment to society... Hmmmmmm

"Yes, there will even be beggars who will fulfill an important purpose where the giving needs to be completely unconditional...

"For this to happen, humanity will need to lift its collective consciousness to a much higher level. It is only if Fear Consciousness is in check that such a way of being would be able to survive.

"Today's world is one of Fear Consciousness. It is fear that gives capitalism its impetus. It is fear that is driving society with its laws, civil structures, militaries and governments. It is fear that is creationg the monstrosity that we call civilisation.

"Isn't our way of being today eating us up? Isn't the average human being in urbanised, industrial society exhausted, unerecognised, uncared for and only living to survive. Aren't our children withou purpose in life, most lost in a trance that helps them escape the morbid senselessness of their lives? We give our all to be entertained so we can, at least for a short while, escape the misery of our existence. Observe this around you. Ask questions from people that plumb the depths of their being. At the very least it will encourage people to think about their lives.

"Humanity needs to find the collective courage to confront its fear. Without that, we as a species are doomed to a sure, slow and miserable extinction.

"However, the hope for humanity are those like Rick. The leaders who have the courage to question the status quo, to look at other ways of being, doing and having. We must be grateful as a species for those of our members who are Great Leaders for they will be the arrowhead toward a more fulfilling, richer and joyous existence.

"I trust this perspective helps open up new paradigms of thought.

"Thank you, Humbly yours, Sonny Navaratnam, http://www.great-leadership.com/ http://www.awakenwisdom.com/ "

"Michael Moore has no idea what he's talking about. Capitalism has not failed, for heaven's sake. It is by far the most effective and efficient means of distributing resources in any society. It can be rough and brutal at times, but since you're posting this to LinkedIn I'll assume you're sitting somewhere where you benefit from electricity.

"How exactly does Mr. Moore (or you, for that matter) propose to solve the challenge of, say...electrical power generation? Currently, we need elaborate and sophisticated electrical transmission lines, buildings and equipment to generate and distribute electricity. Do you propose "swapping services" with all of the employees of your local electrical company? What if they don't need your services? How much social media consulting do you plan to do to keep your lights on? Food in your (electrical) fridge? Clean clothes from your (electrical) washing machine?

"Are the line workers going to go through their detailed, highly technical training in order to trade social media services with you? How do you propose they get their food, clothes, gas, etc? "The fact that we live in a highly sophisticated society, brought about solely by the power of the capitalistic free market...allows both you and me to make a living offering services that in anything other than the highly developed First World would be considered ludicrous.

"People in the Second and Third world spend far more of their time and effort just providing the very basics for their families. Highly sophisticated societies (capitalistic, by the way) are able to afford the incredible degree of specialization provided by the efficiency of the free market.

"Money is just paper. It's a medium of exchange. It only has value because you and I agree that it has a common value. We agree that a certain piece of paper with George Washington's picture on it can be exchanged for certain items. It's far more convenient to carry a wallet of pieces of paper (or a piece of plastic that in essence represents those pieces of paper) than a truck load of pigs, bushels of corn, bolts of fabric, or any other commodity.

"Is Micheal Moore taking all of his movie profits (past, present or future) in pigs, sheep or anything else? Is he letting people in for free? Why is he seeking publicity from the very system he purports to denounce? "Seems to me capitalism is working *just* fine for 'ole Michael ~ Michael Moore has no idea what he's talking about. Capitalism has not failed, for heaven's sake. It is by far the most effective and efficient means of distributing resources in any society. It can be rough and brutal at times, but since you're posting this to LinkedIn I'll assume you're sitting somewhere where you benefit from electricity.

"How exactly does Mr. Moore (or you, for that matter) propose to solve the challenge of, say...electrical power generation? Currently, we need elaborate and sophisticated electrical transmission lines, buildings and equipment to generate and distribute electricity. Do you propose "swapping services" with all of the employees of your local electrical company? What if they don't need your services? How much social media consulting do you plan to do to keep your lights on? Food in your (electrical) fridge? Clean clothes from your (electrical) washing machine?

"Are the line workers going to go through their detailed, highly technical training in order to trade social media services with you? How do you propose they get their food, clothes, gas, etc? "The fact that we live in a highly sophisticated society, brought about solely by the power of the capitalistic free market...allows both you and me to make a living offering services that in anything other than the highly developed First World would be considered ludicrous.

"People in the Second and Third world spend far more of their time and effort just providing the very basics for their families. Highly sophisticated societies (capitalistic, by the way) are able to afford the incredible degree of specialization provided by the efficiency of the free market.

"Money is just paper. It's a medium of exchange. It only has value because you and I agree that it has a common value. We agree that a certain piece of paper with George Washington's picture on it can be exchanged for certain items. It's far more convenient to carry a wallet of pieces of paper (or a piece of plastic that in essence represents those pieces of paper) than a truck load of pigs, bushels of corn, bolts of fabric, or any other commodity.

"Is Micheal Moore taking all of his movie profits (past, present or future) in pigs, sheep or anything else? Is he letting people in for free? Why is he seeking publicity from the very system he purports to denounce?

"Seems to me capitalism is working *just* fine for 'ole Michael ~ "
- Jane Neumiller-Bustad

"Sounds good to me. Now, if only the bank that holds the mortgage on my home will sign on."
- Mark Solomon

"Whoa...what that guy wrote is so far from the answer it is somewhat painful. Money causes a lot of woe, but he is basically suggesting communism in its purest form and I can't even begin to describe or envision the corruption that would take place in such a system...you think what we have now is bad? Just wait...from each according to their ability, to each according to their need (Karl Marx) - the calling card of someone who wants to control you. "You could fully expect every capable person to run from this system and leave everyone else squabbling over scarce resources because there would be no tangible incentive to produce...anything. "Bartering, fantastic. that is exchange in value between free individuals. that in of itself is a capitalistic economy, the exercise merely substitutes a tangible good for the representation of such (money). Has corporate greed seen a new low? Certainly. But he is essentially suggesting that everyone work hard and the government will take care of you. That is a system absolutely doomed for failure. "But, as a thought experiment, interesting enough. "
- Eric Williams

"This idea is so full of impossibilities it's not worth considering even if we can. Moore is just another capitalist that got rich saying people shouldn't get rich. "
- Allan Elder, Instructor at University of California, Irvine and Owner, No Limits Leadership, Inc.

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BLUE THING #10: Backtalk: Comments from our Readers

BLUE THING #9: This Week's Top Buzzed Items and Terms

Click on: http://TheNationalNewspickerPage.blogspot.com




Better grab this gadget before November 1st for mounting on your blog, website, newsletter, homepage, social media profile, twitterfeed and your bathroom mirror (use duct tape, as it withstands the humidity). Why? You need news. We have it all. And...after November 1st, you will no longer be able to grab this gadget; you'll have to go directly to the page. It's not funny. Do it. Don't just blow us off as idiosyncratic, uncultivated clowns - this PICKER is POWERFUL. 20 minutes each day to be the smartest person in any meeting (or at least seem like it).

Click and pick:

THE NATIONAL NEWSPICKER PAGE - The wearin' o' the green. 'taint just blarney, old son.
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BLUE THING #9: This Week's Top Buzzed Items and Terms

BLUE THING #8: Great Websites and Blogs to Explore

'AVE A LOOK AT THESE INTERESTING WEBSITES 'N BLOGS, BLOKES!

http://www.sudftw.com/paintcam.htm
http://www.bulbstorm.com/?src=1&igintoo
http://www.makeuseof.com/
http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1764160
http://www.bobdylan.com/
http://www.webapplist.com/
http://people.howstuffworks.com/15-palindromes.htm
http://www.pbs.org/remotelyconnected/2009/10/herb_and_dorothy.html
http://www.theonion.com/content/news_briefs/study_majority_of_calm
http://www.kokogiak.com/megapenny/six.asp
http://TheInternationalistPage.blogspot.com
http://braintenance.blogspot.com/

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BLUE THING #8: Great Websites and Blogs to Explore

BLUE THING #5: Featured Company of the Week

Coming Soon!

You can submit your company (or another company which you have the courage to admit is superior to yours) for TNNW’s consideration by email to info@TheNationalNetworker.com. Sadly, we are not permitted to accept graft or gifts, so we’ll need to hear about the actual merit of your suggested Company.

If your company is genuinely special, and you have an exciting yarn to spin (or tale to tell), just write to us at info@TheNationalNetworker.com , being sure to include "FEATURED COMPANY OF THE WEEK" in the Subject line. Give us a very quick synopsis, and your communications coordinates.

If you pique our interest (we permit piquing), we will speak with you, interview you, prepare a news realease about your organization, puvlish it and distribute it to a prospective readership of millions. Literally. If your company is something truly special, this is the equivalent of winning a $1,000 - $10,000 (equivalent value) free publicity ticket.

If your company is different, special, innovative or interesting -- send your quick synopsis to us, and we'll let the world know about you. That's our business!

Well...don't just sit there....DO IT!

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BLUE THING #5: Featured Company of the Week

BLUE THING #7: Most Memorable Quote of the Week

Brought to you by The National Networker and QuoteActions.

"Both optimists and pessimists contribute to our society. The optimist invents the airplane and the pessimist, the parachute."

- Author, Gil Stern

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BLUE THING #7: Most Memorable Quote of the Week

BLUE THING #6: Featured Deal of the Week

Coming Soon!

You can submit your company’s or organization's greatest corporate coupe or conquest for TNNW’s consideration by writing to info@TheNationalNetworker.com. Put "FEATURED DEAL OF THE WEEK" in the subject line, with a brief story and your communications coordinates.

Again, sadly we are not permitted to accept graft or gifts, so the deal which you present to us should be genuinely worthy of a NEWS RELEASE. This is fabulous business news promotion, if your transaction is truly worthy, and truly interesting anatomically (reason, interesting structure, interesting process, interesting result, or anticipated result). Our readers are fascinated with Mergers, Acquisitions, Co-Ventures, Co-Branding, Capitalization and Investment and Strategic Partnerships. Size is (contrary to what you've heard) NOT important...in terms of dollar amount, that is...

We'll speak with you (an interview), create a news release, publish it, and circulate it to a prospective audience in the millions. No kidding. But that deal had better be real, and it had better be good.

Again: Write to info@TheNationalNetworker.com, and be certain that you put the words "FEATURED DEAL OF THE WEEK" in the Subject line of your email.

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BLUE THING #6: Featured Deal of the Week