TNNW BULLETIN, MARCH, 2009, Week 3

Major Developments, Forward Motion, Events and Actionable Items.

March 16, 2009

Bulletin # 8

"PUTTING THE 'BULL' BACK INTO BULLETIN"

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I. LEFT JUSTIFICATION

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Greetings Friends, Colleagues, Featured Columnists, Bureau Chiefs (and their Bureau Indians), Subscribers, Members, Advertiser, Affiliates, Sponsors and Networkers.

We are delighted to announce that the Bulletin has been re-formatted to avoid centering headings, opting instead to put them on the left, where people are more likely to read and remember them. Interestingly, people also tend to prefer to see pictures and photos on the upper right-hand side of an article. This has to do with how our brains physically process and store certain types of information.

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No inference should be drawn about our politics, which are all across the board. We are all members of the International Networking Community, and our goal is to help each other to increase our financial and professional success.

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II. SPAM FILTER WARNING

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Our new Newsletter format will be featuring a greater number of illustrations, photographs, and hyperlinks, PLEASE...be certain to clear our mailing address with your spam filter so that we don't wind up in your spam box! I am constantly going through my spam box to retrieve important correspondence that people have sent to me -- but because of pictures and hyperlinks, these wind up in my spam filter. Even though I receive enough spam hourly to cater a VFW picnic, I comb through the filter to find these lost gems. Be certain that your spam filter settings allow us into your IN Box.

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III. CRUCIAL REMINDERS

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If you are have gotten a forwarded copy of this Newletter, please get your very own FREE subscription by 1) going to http://subscribetothenationalnetworker.blogspot.com/, and clicking a subscribe button, and 2) going to http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com/ and clicking on your choice of delivery by either RSS feed or dail EMAIL. You must choose one (or both) in order to get all of the news, opportunities, invitations and other communications between published weekly editions of the TNNW Newsletter.

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If you are already a Subscriber or a Member, PLEASE -- go to http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com/, and choose your delivery method immediately...RSS, EMAIL or both.

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IV. ADVERTISERS AND AFFILIATES

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Click on http://tnnw10.blogspot.com/ and have a look at what some of our advertisers and affiliates are offering. Their ads are posted here (with special terms and benefits for TNNW Subscribers), but will also be featured on every Newsletter, and on the revamped TNNW Website.

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These offerings are not to be confused with the services which we offer exclusively to our Members (see Site Index, which follows). It is worth upgrading from Subscriber to Membership just to take advantage of these amazing services...webcasts, broadcasts, podcasts, mini-interviews, press releases, publicity, text-messaging, and a host of others!

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V. ORIENTATION (SITES TO SEE!)

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TNNW now has in excess of a dozen (which is almost twelve!) blogpages and websites for you to be able to explore. Please save a copy of this BULLETIN on your heard drive, and explore each and all of our sites as soon as you have a moment. They are loaded with valuable information, newsfeeds (especially on http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com/), and service offerings to ensure your success. Don't miss out on a single one. The OMNIGADGET TOOL appears on many pages, and will help you to navigate about, in the event you get lost in the TNNW web. Here's a convenient site index tool:

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TNNW SITES: TITLES AND LINKS --

*INDEX/ SITEMAP http://tnnwindex.blogspot.com/
*ARTICLES, RSS FEEDS AND RELATIONSHIP CAPITAL TOOLKIT http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com/
*PRESS RELEASE, PUBLICITY AND PR SERVICES http://tnnw1.blogspot.com/
*TNNW MINI-INTERVIEWS SERVICE http://tnnw8.blogspot.com/
*ADVERTISEMENT AND ANNOUNCEMENT SERVICES http://tnnw9.blogspot.com/
*WEBINAR AND BROADCAST SERVICES http://tnnw3.blogspot.com/
*MEET OUR ADVERTISERS AND AFFILIATES http://tnnw10.blogspot.com/
*INTERNATIONAL AGENT/ DISTRIBUTOR SERVICES http://tnnw7.blogspot.com/
*MEMBERSHIP PAGE/ MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS http://tnnw2.blogspot.com/
*CUSTOM TEXT-MESSAGING SERVICES http://tnnw4.blogspot.com/
*CALENDAR OF EVENTS http://tnnw5.blogspot.com/
*TNNW IN THE NEWS! http://tnnw6.blogspot.com/
*TNNW SURVEYS http://thenationalnetworkersurveys.blogspot.com/
*WEBSITE http://www.thenationalnetworker.com
*WEBSITE/ INTERNAL BLOG http://thenationalnetworker.blogspot.com/
*THE TNNW OMNIGADGET http://thetnnwomnigadget.blogspot.com/
*LINK TO THE NATIONAL NETWORKER http://linktothenationalnetworker.blogspot.com/
*SUBSCRIBE TO THE NATIONAL NETWORKER http://subscribetothenationalnetworker.blogspot.com/

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Now go out and visit! Make yourself at home.

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VI. EXPANDING SUBSCRIBERSHIP - IT'S IN EVERYONE'S INTEREST

A copy of some recent correspondence follows. The part that seems to grab everyone's attention is the one that refers to "If you put a link to TNNW on your site, we'll put a link to your site on ours." That gets savvy ecommerce folks very excited. Here it is:

TNNW INVITATION TO MONETIZATION
This letter was sent to groups with collective membership in excess of 300,000.

THE NATIONAL NETWORKER WANTS TO WORK WITH YOU TO MONETIZE YOUR NETWORKING EFFORTS AND INVESTMENT.

Dear Colleagues:

We are aggressively in the process of building our Subscribership to 100,000 by the end of 2009. Please help us accelerate this process -- we'll make it worth your while!

1. Become a Subscriber, if you aren't one already. Free signup: http://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Emailermailer%2Ecom%2Fx%3Foid%3D22760i&urlhash=k6Z8&_t=disc_detail_link . If you have a blog, a website, a newsletter or an opt-in subscriber list -- then:

2. Place our subscription button on your website: Choose a button from http://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2FSubscribetoTheNationalNetworker%2Eblogspot%2Ecom&urlhash=RDY7&_t=disc_detail_link . We'll link back to you.

3. Place our button, blidget, OMNIGADGET, RSS feed or other link on your website, blog and on your newsletters. Choose them from http://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2FTheNationalNetworkerWeblog%2Eblogspot%2Ecom&urlhash=L11S&_t=disc_detail_link . We'll link back to you.

4. Comment on our articles, and place a backlink to your blog or website. Build some traffic on us!

The greater our readership, the greater the benefits to every individual reader! As always, thank you.

Faithfully,

Douglas Castle

DOUGLAS CASTLE ( http://www.linkedin.com/redirect?url=http%3A%2F%2FaboutDouglasCastle%2Eblogspot%2Ecom&urlhash=FDZS&_t=disc_detail_link )

p.s. We are always in search of new writers with fresh ideas, too.

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VII. THE AGE OF THE ENTREPRENEUR/ NETWORKER

Networkers -- this is your time! This is our time! Read what follows, if you haven't already read it!

THE NEW AGE OF THE ENTREPRENEUR/ NETWORKER
Monday, March 09, 2009, 3:12:07 PM douglas.castle@yahoo.com (DOUGLAS CASTLE)
THE NEW AGE OF THE ENTREPRENEUR/ NETWORKER. Originally published by Douglas Castle in THE GLOBAL FUTURIST (3/09/09)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dear Friends:

There is no avoiding the cloud that hangs over us. We are in a deepening global economic recession -- a condition that touches all of us financially and emotionally. It forces us to change our plans, to conserve limited resources, to become increasingly introspective...to feel the twinge of our own smallness in the confines of a giant universe, and to re-examine our values and our very mortality. We become more internalized, less robotic and more frantic, if paralysis doesn't seize us first.

The bulk of the world's non-agricultural workforce is dependent upon either conventional private sector (corporate, institutional or professional) employment, or government work. During the course of the last ten years, an increasing percentage of the G-8 workforce has been absorbed into the conventional or governmental works. This is not surprising, as healthcare and other costs continue to rise, retirement becomes an increasingly expensive proposition and the economies associated with larger employers make it possible for them to cover the needs of these individuals far more economically than through individual arrangements. Employee benefits constitute an increasing percentage of employee compensation, as well as motivation. It is increasingly the perception of the masses that entrepreneurship is too fraught with uncertainty, long hours, and very hard work to be a sensible calling. As commoners, we flock to the time-honored protection of the "conventional career path."

The conventional career path, by definition, creates apathy in the crucial areas of entrepreneurial skills and disciplines. As I write these words, an indolent, dependent, uncultivated layer of "middle management" and labor is being displaced as their former protectors scramble for the protections afforded them by bankruptcy or government aid (I think that this is a swell euphemism for other terms such as "bailout," "welfare," "subsidy," or "bridge loan," which last term has actually come to mean a unilateral capital infusion without requirement of guarantees, collateral, constraints on application of proceeds, accountability, a plan for repayment, or an incentive for change in the status quo.").

When I recently discussed the notions of "companies that are too big to fail," and "the government's systematic and expected rewarding of poor corporate conduct with 'free' money," with a friend, she explained to me (in a kind, but slightly condescending manner), "but Douglas, we have no options!" I disagree.

I believe that as long as we are alive we have options. The very perception of "no options" is either paralytic, or is apt to cause very poor, short-term decision making.

A world of displaced, emotionally devastated and fiscally insolvent "worker bees" have been let down by a system that had to fail. They do not know how to promote, to build, to innovate, to re-invent themselves, to run businesses and to network beyond their cronies at the office. These brothers and sisters are in deep trouble -- and no one can just bail them out. They must be re-tooled to be entrepreneurial, networking vital people.

As entrepreneurs and networkers, as globalists and futurists, we must help them to find new ways to survive...to restore their finances, to develop a sense of purpose and a successful attitude, and to rediscover and activate their skills.This is now the AGE OF THE ENTREPRENEUR/NETWORKER. We need to re-dedicate ourselves to be more entrepreneurial, more imaginative, more innovative and more efficient networkers and socializers than ever before.

Now is our time. And if we are kind, we are ethically obligated to help create hopes and opportunities for those less fortunate persons who fell under the thrall of the conventional career path. I am recommending (strongly), that we, each of us, forward this article to everyone whom we know.

Now is the time to spread the word, build membership, circle our wagons, and to come out fighting! As stated previously: THE FUTURE WILL NOT MAKE US -- WE WILL MAKE THE FUTURE.

Respectfully, and with best regards to all,

Douglas Castle

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TNNW BULLETIN, MARCH, 2009, Week 3

NETWORK MARKETING SECRETS: On Target Recruiting

Network Marketing Secrets with Candy Webb

Recruiting – love it or not, you’ve got to do it!

In other columns, I’ve often talked about the dis-similarities between network marketing companies, and the truth is – there are big differences! Differences of course, in product line, in compensation, in qualifications, in training provided, support given, on an on. But one of the basic tenants on network marketing is this: The best recruiter wins! I know we sometimes would like to think otherwise, because recruiting is definitely the heavy lifting of industry, but there is simply no other way to build and expand your organization. Today, with so many chat rooms, blogs, Twitter-type sites, websites, etc. many networkers through out a very big net by virtue of the internet. And it does work if that’s your area of expertise and if that is what you enjoy – enjoy being the operative word. But, what about those old-style networkers, the belly to belly types. Do they still exist? Oh yes, oh my, they not only exist, they prosper, and frequently they are the number one earner in the company.

Observing the Pros

There are many facets to being good at the art of recruiting and it most probably starts with your basic personality. Can the right personality traits be learned? Yes! It’s like anything we learn to do well, some will come to the game with better skills than another. But, it can be learned. I think the most valuable training here is simply one of observation.

Observation of those who are at the top of their game is unequaled in terms of being able to adopt those characteristics and skills to your own personality. This observation is usually easy to come by as most companies promote leadership events, training events, etc. that give ample opportunity to watch the best in action. You can read the words, of course, from a great network marketing book like “My First Year in Network Marketing”, by Mark and Rene Reid. Or, an oldie but a classic – “Being the Best You Can Be in MLM”. You can listen to great CDs (I’ve put out a few as have many other leaders in the industry), but none of this is equal to actually observing. Reading gives you the words, but seeing and listening gives you the music!

Be Yourself

One other key point as you are watching these leaders, remember that most of them are originals. You can pick up great ideas, great traits, but you absolutely must be an original. You have to let your authentic self come through in all contacts you make. And in fact, your authentic self needs to be on display every day in everything you do – you can never know who is observing you. It might be that perfect new partner you’ve been seeking in the most unexpected place – the line at the bank, the grocery store, a seminar – they’re watching and observing you!

Of course, we have our most positive spit and polish on, and all shined up when we are “actively” recruiting. That’s a different thing. Active recruiting (which is a skill you need to develop early on) is actually just being a good networker. These are the skills and tips that you pick up from reading TheNationalNetworker! My own targeted recruiting over the years (and remember, I am currently in my third million dollar networking enterprise) has encompassed all the usual endeavors with Chamber of Commerce and leads groups being among the top ways of producing good candidates for my business.

Picking a Venue

Of the two, I much prefer Chamber activities to the organized, structured lead groups. The lead groups are normally quite restrictive with rules and regulations that restrain your interaction and also there are normally small memberships. So, I’ll concentrate my remarks on Chambers of Commerce. You may live in a small community where the choice of chamber is limited. Or, you may be in a metropolitan area where the choice is broad – some of them ethnically based, some type of business based, but my favorite type of chamber is the group that has a predominance of small businesses. I find these people far more entrepreneurial and open to opportunities than the employees of a large company with a more bureaucratic bent.

Once you have picked a chamber, the next step is to get involved. Enter the chamber not only with a view to what you can achieve for your business, but most importantly – how you can serve the group and the community. Be an Ambassador, join committees that interest you. Don’t expect to just attend a once a month mixer and produce large groups of leads. Like any worthwhile interaction, you need to build relationships. People need to see you on a regular basis – that’s how trust is established. They need to see you not just promoting yourself, but helping at the luncheon, signing people in, working a community benefit program. And guess what? The more you get involved, the more you will enjoy it – it’s a win-win.

Less is Better

When I go to a mixer in hopes of connecting with some people of like interests who might be interested in either my products or my business, I am very careful not to just “gather cards”. If there are 150 people at the mixer, it’s quite possible I will come home with no more than 10 cards, but here is the key. I will have spent at least 5 minutes talking with each of those folks, finding out who they are, what they are looking for and the most important: I will ask each of them “How can I help you; what types of referrals are you looking for?” Remember, an attitude of service. The point of all this – limiting the number of conversations, asking how you can serve that person – is so that you are “memorable” to that person. When you call them the next week or so to meet for a cup of coffee, they will be anxious to continue their conversation with you.

Is it Working?

One of the things that most people don’t do is actually evaluate the productivity of their networking efforts. By this, I mean give the association an ample period of time to work for you but then be aware if nothing is happening. I see some people at chamber events who are literally fixtures, but I suspect because of how they handle themselves, that they are actually not getting anything out of it. Of course, they may simply enjoy the social interaction and the community service which is a good goal. But don’t feel married to a certain organization. Perhaps you have chosen the wrong chamber. Shop around, o to other mixers just to assess what types of people are in another organization. You may find a better match for you and your business.

What Can A Conductor Teach You About Leadership Strategies ?

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Making Money – Having Fun

Relax! Learning to network effectively is not natural for most of us but it can be learned. And the best part of this journey is that it can be extremely enjoyable as well as profitable. Learn to express a genuine interest in the people in your group (feel this sincerely) and offer your unique talents to the organization in any way you can. Think about the people in this organization as potential friends, perhaps life long acquaintances who you will nurture and enjoy for years to come. When you get dressed up to go to the events, make sure that your attire fits in with the majority of the people there. If you are over-dressed in a very casual, perhaps rural chamber, you won’t be comfortable. But, even more important – don’t be underdressed. This is a professional, business group and you are trying to put your best foot forward. And speaking of appendages, take a good look at your hands. I’m serious. You will be shaking hands, handing out cards, receiving cards and all of this will draw notice to your hands. Being clean and neat is the key – no bizarre, multi-colored manicures with fancy designs and for you guys, make sure nails are trimmed, no dirty nails even if you routinely do dirty work.

I get excited about going to these events. I go with an air of expectancy. I rarely attend a chamber event that I don’t meet some interesting great person. I normally get there early and stay late to extend my networking time. If you have any questions about how to get the most out of your networking activities, please email me – this is a topic where I not only have extensive experience, but I love to share tips that work!

Your Network Marketing Coach,

Candy Webb

webb@quiknet.com

916 408-3637

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Posted to THE NATIONAL NETWORKER. To subscribe for your free newsletter, go to www.TheNationalNetworker.com. For the complete National Networker Relationship Capital Toolkit and a free, continuous RSS feed (available either by traditional RSS or by direct email), go to: http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com. You are also invited to click our buttons:


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NETWORK MARKETING SECRETS: On Target Recruiting

ASIA PACIFIC: A Lesson in Networking: Sunday School

by Victor Cattermole

Asia Pacific Bureau Chief

I recently gained a new staff member, student and protégé with my son moving up to join me from New Zealand a few weeks ago. While well educated by his university like so many students he lacks the knowledge that only experience can bring. As such I have been doing my best to educate him and provide him with experiences to help develop his business knowledge.

Recently we moved on to the importance of the business network. Aside from referring him to a certain website I wanted to find a working and real example of a good network so he could experience it first hand. Fortunately being in Hong Kong there are many varied and interesting examples of networking in action, from the high rise office towers to the city markets and streets.

My chosen example came from a walk through central with my son last Sunday. It was somewhat unexpected but I think shows what good network connections can provide for any person.

Like many Asian cities Hong Kong works 6 days a week, with most companies closing Sunday. Sunday therefore becomes a day of relaxation and family. Another key thing happens on a Sunday, the service staffs of the households, around 300,000 people, have their day off. As such areas in Hong Kong become inundated with hundreds of thousands of people, chatting, playing cards, catching up and generally enjoying their day off.

This gathering encompasses so much more then just a catch up, it is a true network in action. Wandering along beside these groups of women and watching them interact my son was able to see what this relatively poor, but very large, network can provide. Almost anything a relaxing worker could want is catered for from within the group. It is not uncommon to see groupings of women cooking for those around them, a haircut being given while others wait their turn, clothes and jewelry being sold and exchanged and even a small bar of sorts, with wine being drunk and cards being played.

And through all this the network takes place with no major vehicle, no website or union, just friends meeting, relaxing and providing for each other. It is a bare and simple network yet it is effective in that it provides for the needs of its members. As a networker we can sometimes lose sight of how effective a simple network can be, even if it is just a bare verbal connection. In the age of global communication technology it can be beneficial to look at our simpler connections and the great benefits they can provide.

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Posted to THE NATIONAL NETWORKER. To subscribe for your free newsletter, go to www.TheNationalNetworker.com. For the complete National Networker Relationship Capital Toolkit and a free, continuous RSS feed (available either by traditional RSS or by direct email), go to: http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com. You are also invited to click our buttons:


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ASIA PACIFIC: A Lesson in Networking: Sunday School