NETWORKING WITH TODAY'S MOTHERS: Ecomoms, MainStreetMoms

Networking with Today's Mothers By Noelle Southwick

Before the internet existed mothers were building community relationships, sharing knowledge and keeping neighbors informed. The role of mothers has always included the abilities we now call networking skills.

With the use of technology mothers are expanding the number of people they support and to whom they contribute out to a worldwide audience.

There are approximately 82 million mothers in the United States. The internet is giving them a powerful tool to connect them with what they need/want and with each other.

The ability to create a group of mothers with similar beliefs/goals has created communities of mothers supporting one another in a variety of ways. I count myself in the growing number of mothers using technology to build relationships and create a new type of support system.

Ecomoms ~ http://ecomom.com

With a goal of promoting healthy living Ecomoms is a community of environmentally conscious mothers. The members of this community are authentically searching for ways to live in a balanced and sustainable way.

The Ecomoms provides many of the things mothers are looking for:

• A social network to gather and share information about the sustainability movement: a way to build relationships.

• On-line shopping for a wide variety of items to improve our environment such as organic clothing, earth friendly toys and sustainable home items: a way to take action in the day to day choices.

• An eco-media channel bringing together people, products and green news: a way to get educated and stay informed.

• A way to stay connected with and support environmental policy: a way to take action on the big picture.

This site offers real solutions for moms who want to connect, to learn to be more green and make a difference for our planet.

Main Street Moms ~ http://mainstreetmom.com

This site is a much broader site then the Ecomoms site. Their forum has over 20,000 threads. Categories for the forum include such categories as parenting, family budget, let’s talk food, spiritual grow and entertainment. The categories are more general but the site is a great resource of information.

Additionally, Main Street Moms includes articles on topics such as crafts, budgeting and health and fitness. The site even has printable lists to assist with meal planning, packing for a trip and household tasks.

The site was busy with lots of Google ads. Since Mia Cronan is a mother with five children running the site from her home, the ads support her ability to offer the free resource of helpful tips and advice to other moms.

Mothers have the ability to create huge change in our world and networks allow them to organize and support one another. If you are a mother who wants to know how to create a lifestyle that is conscious of the impact on the environment then check our Ecomom. If you want a wealth of helpful information addressing the many issues we face as mothers then check out Main Street Moms for the support of a large network of mothers.

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

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NETWORKING WITH TODAY'S MOTHERS: Ecomoms, MainStreetMoms

U.S. NEW ENGLAND: The Dream Party is a Unique Form of Networking

by Noelle Southwick

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

Meet Tara Sage Steeves

Located in Newport, Rhode Island, Tara is founder and president of Create Your Life!, LLC and The Dream Party™. She specializes in dream fulfillment. She has created a unique networking event called the Dream Party that asks you to “come as you aspire to be in 5 years”. Additionally, Tara offers Dream Day Retreats, Dream Circle group coaching, individual coaching for dream fulfillment and a book called “Are You Pregnant with a Dream?” Her book is like a self-directed workshop with exercises and inspiration to support bringing dreams into reality.

A Turning Point

When Tara opened her life coaching business she went to networking events to get the word out and to meet new people. She had success collecting business cards but felt there was something missing. She wanted to connect more deeply with people and to know what was important to them. She described networking events as “stuffy and not a lot of heart”.

One day after returning from a transformative vacation she realized something had to change. Through self-reflection she realized she wanted room to nurture and experiment with her dreams and desires. She thought about running away by traveling around the world but realized there might be another solution. Her solution and new passion was the Dream Party. Initially she wanted to create a space for herself, one that allowed her to expand her life and nurture her dreams. In so doing she created an event that has allowed hundreds to consider and grow their dreams as well.

The Annual Rhode Island Dream Party

On Friday, October 2, 2009, at the Edgewood Yacht Club in Cranston, RI the Dream Party attendants will have a chance to examine what is possible. It is an event that offers participants to come as they aspire to be in 5 years complete with costume and props if desired.

There is plenty of connection at this event. The event was created connect people more deeply by knowing each other’s passions. Since people are talking about their true desires it is easy to want to support them in reaching their dreams. People at this networking event greet each other with “what’s your dream?” Tara reports, “It’s magical.”

The Dream Team

Tara hand selects a team of experts known to produce results in order to support participants in getting on the path to their dream life. They offer assistance and design action steps to success. For example, a travel agent can support getting to a dream destination anywhere in the world. If buying a home is your dream, a realtor can offer advice and education. A business expert can encourage starting your own business. With the Dream Team, participants leave with the necessary tools to have dreams come true.

Unique to the Dream Party

Tara has come up with some imaginative ways of creating an unusual experience. For example, upon entering the event-goers cross over an enchanting Footbridge to the Future where they are welcomed to the year 2014. The “Should” & “Impossible” Shredding Station will aid in the removal of personal obstacles and old beliefs that may impede living the desired dreams. Enter the Time Machine and write a letter as if it's 5 years from now and you are already living your dreams.

Networking to Grow the Event

Tara has been networking to get the news out about her unique event. She attends traditional networking events and shows to share her passion for dream fulfillment. She is active on Facebook and other on-line social networks. Additionally, she has created a partnership with Aspire magazine to sponsor her event. She writes articles for the monthly publication as well. Her website and Create Your Life! Newsletter also helps her to get the word out about the Dream Party.

Social networking is where Tara is focusing much of her networking energy these days. With 5 years in business now, he says her experience has taught her it’s more efficient. In addition to being an efficient use of time social networks allow a focused audience who is more interested in what she has to offer. Tara is also focusing on joint networking with other women owned businesses.

More information

Tara offers dream support through private life coaching, workshops, groups and the annual Dream Party event. To find out more or to buy her book visit http://www.createyourlifeinc.com/ or call 401-569-7017.

“Asking people ‘what’s your dream” really gets to the heart of what people want
in their life. It’s a whole new way to make connections.”

~ Tara Sage Stevens, Create Your Life! LLC

For more information, please see Noelle's TNNW Bio.

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U.S. NEW ENGLAND: The Dream Party is a Unique Form of Networking

U.S. NEW ENGLAND: Socially Responsible Networking in Vermont

by Noelle Southwick

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

Robert Dean co-owner of Juniper Hill Inn Bed and Breakfast in Windsor Vermont believes in socially responsible networking. He networks by supporting non-profit organizations and his local community.

Non-Profit Support
Robert had been involved in non-profit organizations for many years. When he started the Juniper Hill Inn with his partner Ari Nikki they continued that commitment by opening their doors to raise funds for non-profit organizations. They have raised over a half million dollars for charitable organizations in the past 3 years.

Being open to supporting non-profit organizations has led to non-profit organizations supporting the inn. Now the organizations they have helped think of Juniper Hill Inn when they need rooms or to host an event. The people they have worked with on fundraisers know them. People like to do business with those they have the opportunity to get to know.

Local Support
From our discussion I know that Robert has a genuine appreciation for Vermont and what is unique about Windsor. He supports the local economy by directing guests to visit local businesses and attractions.

The first December the inn was open Robert and Ari decorated in celebration of Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa. They charged a $10 admission and donated the proceeds to improvements for the town park across the street form the inn. The fundraiser connected the inn with the local community.

The Juniper Hill Inn supports fundraisers for the Cornish Colony Museum as well. Robert says their association with the museum lasts much longer then simply putting an ad in a newspaper or a program.

Locals Support the Inn
“Locals can do a lot for an inn,” says Robert. Members of the community use the inn when they have guests or want an easy getaway. Robert recognizes they would not get as much business from the local community if they were not involved in the local community.

Results from Socially Responsible Networking
Robert acknowledges that it could be difficult to get statistics for socially responsible networking efforts. Results are not always immediate or measurable. However, being involved in charitable organizations and the local economy means the Juniper Hill Inn name gets associated with good things and the good work Robert and Ari are doing. Based on results, it works. Robert Dean and his partner were awarded the Innkeeper of the Year award for 2008 from the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and the Vermont Hospitality Council after being in business for only 3 year.

Networking Tip

“Think inside the box and outside the box. It takes both these days.” ~ Robert Dean co-owner of Juniper Hill Inn in Vermont.

Contact Information
Juniper Hill Inn
153 Pembroke Road · Windsor VT 05089
802-674-5273 · Toll Free: 800-359-2541
Innkeeper@JuniperHillInn.com
http://www.juniperhillinn.com/

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U.S. NEW ENGLAND: Socially Responsible Networking in Vermont

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., NEW ENGLAND: Practical Networking Advice from Janet Powers of Diva Toolbox

by Noelle Southwick

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

Janet Powers worked in the corporate world until about 2 years ago. Although she thought she had a large network of contacts she soon realized she needed more. Most of her contacts were internal to the large company for which she had been working. In order to be in business for herself she needed to grow her network.

It has been only a few months since Diva Toolbox was launched in July of 2008. Out of millions of sites in the United States Janet’s site ranks in the top 47,000 of favorite sites. That puts her in the top 0.6% and her rank is improving each day. She has increased unique users by over 2000%. In the process of growing the Diva Toolbox Janet has learned some things about growing a network.

Choose 3 networks
You could love blogging and spend all your time reading and writing blogs. Networking events can be the same way. You could attend so many networking events that you have little time for much else.

Initially Janet says she spent too much time running herself ragged trying to do lots of networking. Now she recognizes that being involved in too many groups can mean you seem almost desperate. She advises being really good at doing a few things.

Three groups is a manageable number of groups in which to be involved. They can be on-line groups, in-person groups or both.

Decide what you need from a networking group. Is it clients, referrals, business support, ideas or connections that you want? Once you know what you desire it will be easier to locate groups to support you. Next do some investigating, and then try some out.

You want there to be lots of people you like in your networking groups. People do business with those they like.

You want to find a group where you feel good. Since you are going to be putting your effort into these groups it is important to choose ones that fit for you. If you can find your niche and like the people there it will be better for you and for your business.

Currently, Janet’s three networks are the Diva Toolbox, the eWomen Network and she is deciding between a major regional Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Women Business Owners.

“Everyone wants to be part of a community.”

Define your audience
Is your ideal client an everyday person or a businessperson? Is it an individual or a business owner? Decide who your ideal client is and then you can discover where your audience is. Put yourself in places that you are most likely to find your ideal client.

As an example, the Chamber of Commerce or a BNI group would be a good place to try if your business is as a web designer or you are looking for business-to-business contacts.

Janet’s audience includes women in business, in the home or outside the home, with multi faceted lives.

Refer business to others
Think of referrals as part of your business not something you do because you are asked. Too often people are afraid to refer but partnering is important. If you are confident in what you do then it’s easy to send people who are not a good fit for you to someone else.

Janet advises having a network of people in which you feel confident and to which you can refer business. If a contact is not a fit for you, you can refer them to someone in your network. Then you have two happy people, the contact and the other businessperson. It builds the relationships you have if you refer business to someone. Also the contact trusts that you are there to serve their needs. She says referring business to others will come back to you in abundance.

“ We need other people around us.”

Diva Toolbox
Diva Toolbox was born as a way for women to help each other. It is a community built on practical advice. There is a wide variety of topics covered like business and family. The articles allow women to contribute information to the community and at the bottom they can promote their business for free. Janet says it’s your neighbor. It’s an opportunity to share information in a casual way like you would with a friend over your kitchen table. Janet feels if you have some experience then you probably know something that can help others. The Diva Toolbox community shares information in a way that’s practical for anyone.

Contact information:
Janet Powers, President of Diva Toolbox, LLC
www.divatoolbox.com
Janet@divatoolbox.com

Janet welcomes all The National Networker readers to share their advice and expertise on the Diva Toolbox.

“Networking is nothing more than the neighborhood you grew up in but now it’s the people you do business with.” ~ Janet Powers, President Diva Toolbox

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U.S., NEW ENGLAND: Practical Networking Advice from Janet Powers of Diva Toolbox

U.S., NEW ENGLAND: IAAP Provides a Network for the Administrative Niche

Noelle Southwick

New England Bureau Chief

Today's office professional does much more than keyboarding and filing. Over 4.2 million people are employed as administrative assistants and secretaries and that number is growing.

The International Association of Administrative Professionals is a not-for-profit association with approximately 40,000 members. The mission of IAAP is to enhance the success of career-minded administrative professionals through education, community building and leadership development.

Why is networking important to an administrative assistant?
I asked Gail Freeman, President of the Greater Boston Chapter of IAAP this question. She told me that very often administrators work alone. With IAAP they have a team to turn to for advice and training. It is vital for a multitude of reasons to reach out to others for support.

The network reaches from the local people who attend chapter meetings, to the on-line blog contributors, to members around the world. Having that kind of support makes members feel more empowered in their jobs and in their lives.

Monthly chapter meetings
There are 600 chapters worldwide and 23 are here in New England. The newest chapter opened recently in the Framingham, MA area.

Local chapters host monthly meetings as an opportunity to connect with others. During the meeting there is time devoted to an open forum when attendants can ask questions to the group as a whole. Additionally attendants get to learn from relevant speakers.

Boston Chapter
Gail said she prides herself on finding speakers who will contribute to the group without being paid. She joked that that takes some networking in itself but that she is not shy about asking for what she wants. Being willing to ask is an important skill when it comes to growing an organization.

Gail pointed out that all the local chapters have valuable things to offer. She also said that the Boston chapter offers an opportunity to network with administrators who work at some of the larger and more well known corporations. This chapter attracts high profile administrators and senior level assistants with a unique view of the business world. For those looking to make connections at Boston businesses this is the chapter to join.

Support
The majority of administrative assistants do not get the career support they need from their employer. Attending regular meetings offers members the support they desire and often leads to friendships as well.

Gail told me that it is “support and encouragement that builds a network.” She wants to be sure members feel they belong.

When seeking ideas for a specific project, members can call on the support of peers for advice and direction to available resources. Having a strong support network can make an administrator a more valuable employee. Especially in difficult economic times any way to be more valuable to employers is important.

Education, around the year and around the clock
IAAP hosts an annual event in April. It is educational but it is also a celebration of the work administrative assistants do. It is a prime opportunity to connect with those who will support and empower.

Quarterly, day-long workshops cover topics in depth. For example March offers a workshop on Blending the Generations in the Workplace.

Some of the chapter meeting topics have included: identity theft, discrimination, tools for office organization, and negotiation skills.

I found an impressive list of upcoming webinars available on the IAAP website. An online library of articles to help build skills and answer questions can be accessed anytime.

The IAAP Community
Members are working in Fortune 500 Companies and thousands of mid and small sized businesses. This is an impressive list of places to have connections.

The web community is designed to integrate every level of IAAP into a robust online network. A calendar of events, discussion forums, industry trends and even technical support advice is available to online visitors.

The IAAP global network is useful in contacting members to get local information when executives are going to other cities and/or countries. Administrators can communicate with a worldwide network of peers through their website.

Leadership Development
The organization presents office professionals industry-recognized certification and up-to-date training to help keep a competitive edge.

Through their publications, members stay informed and up-to-date on the latest in office trends, products and information. IAAP supports secretaries in keeping pace with the need for changing skills.

Exposure to professionals outside their own company helps administrators expand interpersonal skills and improves their comfort level. The training and support builds confidence and teamwork abilities. Improved self-worth and competence empowers administrators to tackle bigger challenges.

Networking tips
Gail gave me some simple networking tips. She said, “talk to people.” She added it is important to learn people’s names and to introduce yourself effectively. You don’t grow if you don’t spread the word about what you do.

Gail said she uses many networking techniques to support the growth of IAAP. She invites people to be on their email list to learn about coming events. She invites people to attend chapter meetings, workshops and events. IAAP has joined the area Chamber of Commerce and Gail attends chamber events to promote the organization. Attending tradeshows to make contact with both administrative assistants and employers as an additional way to get the word out. IAAP also have the support of staffing firms and recruiters who tell candidates about their network.

If you want to have a successful career as an administrative professional IAAP may be the network for you.

Contact information:
Gail Freeman, President
Gail.freeman@bbh.com
www.greaterbostoniaao.org
www.iaap-hq.org
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U.S., NEW ENGLAND: The Maine Women's Network - Connecting Professional Skills with Personal Relationships

By Noelle Southwick

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

The Maine Women's Network is a nonprofit organization and a statewide resource. The Network has a vision of connecting Maine Women from Kittery to Fort Kent.

Although their mission is professional growth, what sets the Maine’s Women’s Network apart for many of its members is the personal relationships they create through the organization. Many members of the organization build friendships and go out socially with people they have met at events.

Local chapters
The Maine Women's Network have three independently operated chapters: Androscoggin, Midcoast, and Greater Portland. Each chapter is responsible for its own programming, public relations and local projects. The chapters form a networked system through sharing resources, ideas, and working together to develop and promote State-wide initiatives and events.

Each chapter runs its own series of monthly events. For example, the Androscoggin chapter is currently offering a series of talks from the most influential women in their area. The Greater Portland chapter has put a focus on business education. The series includes such topics as learning to read financial statements and improving organizational skills.

Annual event
All three chapters come together to host an annual event. In September, the Maine Women’s Network hosts the "Celebration of Amazing Women."

Jennifer Hogan is coordinator for the annual event. In addition, Jennifer Hogan is Chair for the Androscoggin Chapter, a Board Member of the Maine Women’s Network and Marketing and Training Coordinator for Community Credit Union.

Although still somewhat in the planning stages Jen gave us a preview. You can expect plenty of open networking. There will be a statement about the successes and future goals of the organization. A keynote speaker will discuss re-creating yourself for success in this challenging economy. Additionally, the coming event will offer afternoon break-out sessions. Based on member surveys, how to use social networking sites to build business, and networking at large events will be some topics offered.

The Maine Women’s Network is looking for ways to support their members to get through this challenging economic time with education overall and networking skills.

15-second elevator speech
At the monthly events there is open networking and participants are given time to introduce themselves to the group.

Jen tells me one of the key points they stress is to create a short 15-second elevator speech. It is important to be able to convey something about what you offer to others in a concise manner. Often times people say too much.

Jen says that if you are able to describe your business quickly and clearly you are more likely to be remembered. She suggests that you will notice more interest if rather than talking about yourself you offer a few seconds on what you can do to help others.

Going through the process of constructing a 15-second elevator speech has the benefit of creating clarity. From talking with members, Jen knows that clarity makes people more approachable. Members are getting more contacts and having greater business success by being clear about what they offer. Jen has noticed, being able to openly articulated their message has actually made members happier.

Relationships take time
Jen says some people believe networking is all about selling your business. It may be about building your business but it’s certainly not about insisting someone do business with you. Networking is about building relationships, taking the time to get to know someone.

Jen points out that someone puts their own reputation on the line when they refer you to an associate. That associate will always relate the experience they have with the person who introduced them to you. A person wants to get to know you before they trust that you will represent them well.

Jen stresses that it takes time to build a network and the relationships needed for a successful business. She says you may get business at a networking event. However, it is more likely you will meet people with whom you will later do business if you make additional contact with them. It takes more than one meeting to build a relationship.

An interesting member benefit
In addition to monthly networking opportunities, business education, and developing professional and personal relationships members of Maine Women's Network have access to an interesting resource. Members may use to an online membership directory and receive member-to-member discounts on products and services. Additionally, members can participate in the program by making discount offers to increase their own business.

Contact information
Since 2002 the database for the Maine Women’s Network has grown to over 1300 and continues to grow. Members and non-members as well as women and men are welcome to participate in all events offered by the Maine Women’s Network and to make discount offers to their members. For additional information on membership and events see their website.

www.mainewomensnetwork.com
e-mail: info@mainewomensnetwork.com

Chapters:
AndroscogginJen Hogan, Chair androscoggin@mainewomensnetwork.com
MidcoastKim Palermo, Chair midcoast@mainewomensnetwork.com
Greater PortlandMarie Hogue, Co-Chair greaterportland@mainewomensnetwork.com

“Don’t give up on networking because you don’t get business out of
one networking event.”
~ Jennifer Hogan, Maine Women’s Network

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U.S., NEW ENGLAND: The Friends of Mel Foundation Call it “Word of Mouth”

By Noelle Southwick

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

I met Pauline Aligherie, President of the Friends of Mel Foundation, at the Massachusetts Women’s Conference in Boston. The Friends of Mel Foundation sells colorful bracelets to raise money to fund creative and promising projects that impact cancer patient care. The foundation began as a way to honor a dear friend, Mel Simmons, who died of breast cancer in 2005.

Pauline told me they originally wanted to raise $5 thousand and have raised $5 million. When I asked her how they have grown so quickly she told me “word of mouth”. I thought, “We call that networking now” and decided to learn more.

Although Pauline is not sure how they did it, there were definitely some factors that have played into the success of the Friends of Mel Foundation.

Relationships

From my discussion with Ms. Aligherie, I realized Mel was a natural networker. She made lots of friends easily.

If you read Mel’s story, you will learn that Mel was a woman who people wanted to contribute to because of her authentic desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

A large network

As flight attendants Pauline and her colleagues were in contact with thousands of people who could contribute in various ways to the growth of the organization. The company they worked for, Delta Airlines also supported the cause.

Partnering with a large company like Delta Airlines and the flight attendants who had the ability and desire to make a difference was key in the initial fundraising of the group.

Open for guidance

Pauline’s inexperience in business could be one of her greatest strengths. From the beginning Pauline was open to learn from others.

It was at the direction of the staff at Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Clinic that the foundation was formed. After making donations of almost $300k, on July 28, 2006 the Friends of Mel Foundation was established as a legal non-profit organization.

Partnering with other organizations that were raising funds for cancer research and education, Pauline learned from their experience.

Pauline is open to divine guidance as well. She says, “I really and truly believe my friend Mel is still pulling the strings.”

Hired help to support growth

Again, Pauline wanted to have the support of people that had the knowledge she did not have. She looked for a media company that specialized in working with non-profits.

In May 2007 the Friends of Mel Foundation hired Teak Media Communications to do media outreach and increase the number of donations made to the organization. Pauline learned that media coverage is important to create a larger audience to hear their message.

Uses her experience

Although Pauline did not have much business experience, she did have people experience. As a flight attendant with almost 40 years experience she was comfortable talking with people and finding out how to serve them. Also, as an On Board Leader she knew how to empower the people who are part of her crew. Regular meetings with the volunteers involved everyone in the decisions regarding direction of the company.

Over the past 3 years Pauline has personally distributed the bracelets to local retailers and organizations. The personal contact allowed her to develop relationships and learn first hand what people who supported the Foundation wanted.

Pauline listens to the stories and the needs people have. Cancer is stressful and being able to ease that stress she recognized as a service the organization can provide. The inner needs of patients are an important part of treatment for cancer patients and their caretakers.

New growth

It started as a desire to raise money to donate to the staff that supported a friend though a difficult time. However, it turned into an organization that has helped tens of thousands of cancer patients and caretakers. Pauline now has 2 support staff and 30-40 regular volunteers and the growth of the organization continues.

Pauline is open to opportunities to grow the Foundation and increase donations. Her ever-expanding network of support includes people who help raise funds and those to whom they have made contributions.

Pauline plans to add a blog, testimonials, and additional links to advocacy information to the website. She wants the site to be a place of community, education and support.

You can help too

The Friends of Mel Foundation gives people a strong cause for action and a simple way to contribute. Cancer is a disease that is so prevalent that it affects almost everyone in some way. Buying a bracelet is an easy way to show support. As Pauline says you can “still make a difference on a limited budget.”

You can purchase bracelets from the Friends of Mel Foundation website for a donation of $15 or more. www.friendsofmel.org

The Friends of Mel Foundation is always looking for support for their cause. If you would like to join their volunteer e-mail list, send your name to info@friendsofmel.org. They promise that you will have fun and meet some amazing friends.

Friends of Mel Foundation
20 Pond Park Road, Suite 107, Hingham, MA 02043 781-740-2511

“Good goes around. That’s our movement.”

Pauline Aligherie, President of the Friends of Mel Foundation

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U.S., NEW ENGLAND: The Friends of Mel Foundation Call it “Word of Mouth”

New England's Sassy Ladies

By Noelle Southwick

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

If you are planning to start a business or already own a small business, be on the lookout for the new book, The Sassy Ladies Tool-kit for Start-up Businesses, to be published in January.

The Sassy Ladies are Wendy Hanson, Business Coach, Miriam Perry, Professional Writer, and Michelle Girasole, Webmarketing Guru. They are all from Rhode Island and network throughout New England and over the web.

Each had their own business and in 2005, decided to get together to write a book to help women who are getting started in business. The idea of the book morphed into a website and also the Sassy Ladies’ Club.

I spoke with Wendy Hanson this month and asked her a few questions.

What is the primary goal of the Sassy Ladies?

Our primary goal is to help women entrepreneurs, whether they are starting out or are already in business, to get the information they need to be more successful. We especially focus on solopreneurs and women with very small businesses who often don’t have much time to do research but want to connect with different ideas and people.

What are the ways that you use networking to promote your business?

The Sassy Ladies was really born out of networking because the three founders met at networking events and women oriented educational programs. Networking has helped us tremendously to get the word out. The Sassy Ladies develop ideas for products, create interviews and podcasts to share information of women entrepreneurs – networking has been our lifeblood.

As our vision for The Sassy Ladies is global, we are now looking at social networking and utilizing the web as a way to network with people across the country and around the world. Whether networking in-person or on-line, we have met some of our best contacts through networking.

Can you give me tangible results from your networking methods?

Online networking – Kirsten Lewis, who founded www.LadyAdvisor.com found us through “networking on the web” because she loved the name The Sassy Ladies. We have now become a contributor to her website and have networked her with many other women professional who support Kirsten’s vision.

At Leading Women, a networking group for women leaders in the State of Rhode Island, we have met many women who have become part of The Sassy Ladies Coaching Groups and subscribers to our newsletter.

What achievements you are most proud of at this time?

We’re most proud of the book The Sassy Ladies Toolkit for Start-Up Businesses being released in January. Getting the book through the publishing process has been a huge task. Also, having almost 1,000 women who have subscribed to The Sassy Ladies newsletter and the positive energy that we have been able to share with women to help them move their businesses ahead.

How has networking supported the growth of your business?

When The Sassy Ladies, either together or separately, go to networking events, we will often be recognized now. People will come up and say, “aren’t you one of The Sassy Ladies?” It’s only through networking that this recognition has developed.

What are your plans for the future especially regarding networking activities?

I (Wendy Hanson) am a Business Coach, and also a professional speaker. Some of the places where I have spoken in the past include the eWomen Network, South Shore Women’s Business Network, Downtown Women’s Club, the Bryant University Annual Women’s Summit and others. I will continue to attend networking activities and speaking engagements. Now I will be providing our book for sale at these events.

Additionally, we have begun partnering with women’s business centers around the country. We created a relationship with the Women’s Business Center of Maine to develop a series of online workshops around the topic of financial literacy for women. The first presentation Pricing for What You are Worth aired on November 19^th.

Any tips you would like to offer to our readers?

The Sassy Ladies believe that you have to network with vision and intention. If you just go to an event, it will only be entertainment and you will not be able to meet your needs or the needs of anyone else.

You need to network very consciously. If you focus on what you want you are more likely to get it. You will begin to see opportunities you did not see before because your brain will find them for you.

We actually have an entire chapter in our book on networking. It covers evaluating which events to attend, how to prepare before you go to an event, what to do at the event and what to do when you get home from a networking event. The networking chapter is also an eGuide and can be purchased separately so if anyone would like more information, checklists and a guided visualization on how to prepare for a networking event, we can provide that.

Contact information for the Sassy Ladies:

The Sassy Ladies website http://www.thesassyladies.com where you can check out their library of podcasts, read their blog, sign up for the enewsletter and connect with the Sassy Ladies community.

You can connect with the Sassy Ladies’ Clubs through LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=58361 and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=14579614287.

“It’s wonderful that networking has been able to expand so that across the country seems not so far away.” ~ Wendy Hanson, The Sassy Ladies

________________________________________________________

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New England's Sassy Ladies

The New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce

By Noelle Southwick

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

Tara Crawford Roth and her friend Sandy Currie had an idea to have a meeting of holistic practitioners since they did not find people who thought the way they did about their businesses. That idea is what led to the New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce, now with 3 locations in Fall River, MA, Providence, RI and on Cape Cod, MA.

They are a growing non-profit organization. Their mission is two-fold. First is to create a
community in order to network with a diverse group of holistic practitioners and secondly to teach business skills.

The Founder

When I spoke with Tara Crawford Roth I understood her passion is for holistic practitioners to succeed. “We all need their services,” she added. Tara grew up in a family of holistic practitioners. She recognized that many of the people she met in that community lacked the business skills needed to create a thriving business. Now Tara offers her skills as a business coach to those who are following a similar path.

She says that there is a limiting belief out there in the holistic community that making money is not spiritual. However, people cannot offer their valuable services if they cannot earn a living at it. Tara works with a variety of business owners to shift their limiting beliefs and allow prosperity to flow.

Currently, Tara is working on a book, due out early next year. It is titled, Minding a Business, Creating Profits that Match Your Passion. The book is a success manual for holistic practitioners covering what is needed to create abundance in business. It covers everything including financing, marketing, what blogging can do for your business and much more.

The Chamber

Currently each of the 3 NEHCC locations offers monthly meetings. The speakers at each meeting cover a variety of topics focused on building a successful holistic business and there is an opportunity to speed network. At every meeting participants are coached on how to give an effective “elevator speech”, a brief description of what they do. Those in the holistic community are often not skilled at self-promotion and need support finding ways to speak clearly about what they offer. That support is offered at the meetings.

Some topics covered at recent meeting include: The Highest Level of Success as a Holistic Business with Dr. Mark Mincolla, Tapping Your Passion to Fuel Your Business with Laura Turlington and Luca DiMatteo, Catapult Your Holistic Business- Write a Book with Lisa Tener
and Marketing on a Shoestring with Lisa Almeida. You can get a schedule of upcoming events on their website or emailed to you through their newsletter.

In addition to becoming part of a growing community of support membership in The New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce offers many benefits. Some of the benefits include admission discounts on all events, a classified listing on their searchable website with links to
members’ sites, and an opportunity to be in their speakers network. Additionally they offer an expo twice a year for their members to showcase their services and products.

Tara’s Networking Tips

I asked Tara for some networking tips. She gave me these suggestions:

• Go to events where your ideal client is most
  likely to be there.


• When you introduce yourself start with what you
  do, then your name.


• Be authentic. It is the most
  important way to drive appropriate people to you.


• Always bring business cards with you, especially
  to networking events.

The Future of the Chamber

Tara has a vision to have locations throughout New England. The New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce is looking for local support to further expand and to see that vision become a reality. If you think you might have what it takes to create a local chapter for the holistic community in your area, contact Tara through the New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce website:

www.neholisticchamber.org.

The New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce offers an opportunity to grow a successful business with the support of other business owners & also a place to find business support from like-minded individuals.
________________________________________________________

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The New England Holistic Chamber of Commerce

Networking Naturally with Belinda Fuchs

By Noelle Southwick

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

When I asked her what she does, Belinda Fuchs of OwnYourMoney.com told me “I change lives and save marriages through empowering people with their money. I help people make more money, save more money and stress less about their money.”

She says, “What is neat about me is I bring a CPA with 15 years in finance and combine the practical with the inspirational.”

I would not initially have expected a CPA to refer to herself as “neat” but that is Belinda. She spreads her positive energy wherever she goes. “A lot of what I look to do through any interaction with me is to allow people a space to have fun and to feel special. I think people take their lives too seriously.” says Belinda.

It is certainly working for her. Since launching her business in December 2007 Belinda has had a whirlwind of successes. Some of her accomplishments include hosting her own cable television program, articles published in magazines including Pink & Yahoo Finance, many radio interviews, increasing her revenue 10 times over last year, and her group coaching program is half filled pre-launch.

Networking is natural for Belinda. She accredits it to being clear that the service she offers is one that people want and need.

Belinda’s advice on networking is that it is an essential skill everyone should develop. It is so important that she covers the topic in every program she offers.

It may seem obvious to cover it in an entrepreneurial class but the singles & couples classes cover networking as well. Belinda points out that many times people in jobs don’t realize until they are out of jobs that they should have been working on building their network.

I love Belinda’s energy and her enthusiasm; she has a lot of fun in her new career. She believes, “It’s not necessary to be so serious to be successful.”

Belinda recognizes that “Money can often be scary even paralyzing for people.” She believes in lightening it up, “I make taking responsibility for your money as fun, sexy and cool as irresponsibility has always been.”

Networking can be the same way for people, scary and even paralyzing. Belinda’s advice, “reframing networking makes it fun.”

A great tip to illustrate the point is what she calls hosting the party. When you go to an event pretend that it is your event.

Your approach is totally different if it’s your party instead of being there to sell something. To skeptics, Belinda says, “Just try it. You may find you are friendlier, smile more naturally versus feeling forced and “sales-y”. It actually becomes fun & you can show genuine caring for the people you meet.”

It is clear to me that Belinda is passionate about her work. She has a great sense of value in what she does and who she is and it’s reflected in how she interacts with people.

A few great points we discussed regarding her amazing success in networking:

Eternal Value. I know in my gut that I am valuable. I value myself & I trust that others will see my value. But I do not need it. Often people are searching for validation from others. I am not a victim to what people think of me. I call it Eternal Value.

Genuine Caring. I don’t just go through the motion of asking questions. I am asking because I genuinely want to know how to serve them.

Follow Up. If I go to an event I often come home with over 100 business cards. I call them or email them to stay connected. I organize my business cards. I think it’s important.

Make Notes. When I meet someone I make notes about when and where I met the person, what we talked about and any interesting facts. It helps me remember the person and the person feels remembered, it’s very powerful.

Don’t filter people. I talk to everyone, see how they are doing. My newest clients are from Canada, Texas, Nevada and Delaware and I live in Boston. I didn’t assume they did not need me.

Deliver Value. I send out tips and strategies to my list regularly.

Doubt Sabotages. I have a core belief that this is what I am meant to do in the world and I am grateful for the ability to do it. I know deep in my heart there is success here, no doubt.

Something that sets Belinda apart is what she calls being a Super Connector. She is always connecting people with the resources they need. She has a huge network and she is always looking for ways to make connects.

I felt like I finally understood some of the networking advice I have been hearing for years. It is so simple and fun for Belinda because she is clear about who she is and values her services. Looking for ways to be in service to more and more people is what she does. Interactions with this master networker make people feel special. Growing her business means continually to looking for ways to spread her insights.

Building value and self worth is at the core of Belinda’s business, OwnYourMoney.com. She says that internal value and self worth are communicated all the time and has you making your decisions if you realize it or not. If you have a strong self worth you can make clear smart moves in life. She highlights how it’s a choice and people can choose to own their money and thus own their life.

Belinda Fuchs offers seminars, group coaching, private coaching, and keynote speeches. You can sign up for Own Your Money email tips, or learn about Own Your Money Clubs which begin in October through Belinda’s website www.OwnYourMoney.com, email info@ownyourmoney.com or by phone at 617-268-0600.

“I want people to be their best whole selves in the world.”

–Belinda Fuchs, President OwnYourMoney.com

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Networking Naturally with Belinda Fuchs

New England 2-1-1 Call Centers have now Expanded to include New Hampshire

By Noelle Southwick
New England Bureau Chief
(Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)

I visited Hampton Beach this summer and learned that Hampton Beach, NH received acknowledgment as one of the cleanest beaches, with highest water quality in the United States. Hampton Beach, NH was one of only 3 beaches given 5-star ratings in the 2008 National Resources Defense Council report.

I also learned about a great networking resource now available in New Hampshire. It is the Dial 2-1-1 NH Call Center. 2-1-1 offers person-to-person assistance to find services and support groups that are available in New Hampshire. The New Hampshire Call Center accessed by dialing 2-1-1 is a connection to thousands of resources. Its mission is to strengthen the way people access help & engage in civil life.

When I called the 2-1-1 NH Call Center I found their Referral Specialist to be very helpful & thoughtful about what services could support me in finding networks.

As a businesses owner the referral specialist offered me the numbers for Small Business Development Center 603-358-2602 and the Small Business Administration 603-225-1400. She asked for my location to be able to offer specific support groups and community services in my local area. The Call Center can help a business owner locate local Chamber of Commerce, business consulting organizations, business assistance centers, community economic development centers, local licensing requirements and much more.

If you are looking to network into career organizations they can help with that as well. Employment resources, career development, career counseling and education organizations are all part of the resources in the 2-1-1 database. They can also help direct employers who are looking to fill jobs to needed resources.

If you are new to New Hampshire the NH Call Center can offer support in finding local child care, parenting groups, library resources, community health centers and other resources a newcomer may need. The Call Center can also offer organizations that can assist individuals and family who need financial support.

The 2-1-1 Call Center is part of a national initiative. United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta launched the first 2-1-1 call Center in 1997, and the service is now available in 41 states. Each of the New England states has a 2-1-1 Call Center that is available statewide.

The NH service was officially launched in June 2008. Currently they handle just under 600 calls a month however, those numbers are expected to double by winter as more residents become aware of the service. Currently Maine, which has been available for 3 years, handles about 3600 calls a month & Heather Aicholtz, Director 2-1-1 NH Call Center, expects their monthly number to soon be in that range as well.

Ms Aicholtz also pointed out that the Call Center can direct people who are interested in giving back. The Call Center can offer a variety of volunteer opportunities if an individual or a business is looking for ways to contribute to their local community.

Ms Aicholtz reminds people 2-1-1 is a free and confidential service. She says they will help you find anything you are looking for, “Give us a call.”.

When I asked Heather Aicholtz if she had anything else to add about networking she said “we wouldn’t even be here if it wasn’t for the networking ability of the United Way and their relationship with the Public Service Company of New Hampshire. They are providing us support with the space to operate, technology and IT support.” She added that it was a collaborative effort that brought 2-1-1 together.

I did find it easier to locate the resources related to networking by calling the toll free number rather than searching on-line. The people I spoke with at the call center have all been extremely personable & caring.

If you are looking for resources in New Hampshire contact 2-1-1 NH toll-free by dialing 2-1-1 in state or 1-866-444-4211 from out of state. Access their resources on-line at http://www.211nh.org/ or the national site for access to the service in any of the New England states at http://www.211.org/.

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New England 2-1-1 Call Centers have now Expanded to include New Hampshire