Generate More Business by Offering Value-added Advice 02/24/11

It’s no secret that we all want to do business with people whom we know and trust. So, how do you build rapport and create trust with new contacts at networking events? By offering value-added advice–solid, helpful information provided out of a genuine concern for another person. Let’s say you’re a real estate agent talking with someone at a networking event who, although not ready to buy a home today, is heading in that direction. You could say something like this: Well, I know you̵...

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The New India 02/21/11

I’ve been in India for the past several days conducting seminars on business networking and, I have to say, I’ve been very impressed by the business community here. The businesspeople I’ve met are passionate about learning and they are hungry for information and knowledge. I have found the audiences here to be extraordinarily respectful and almost sponge-like in their interest in absorbing new ideas. Although it is still a developing nation, it is obvious that the infrastructure of India is growin...

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Calling All Business People!–Help Define the Current State of the Global Business Economy 02/17/11

Last month I announced that my company recently created a “business index” to consistently gauge the ever-changing economic state of business based on quarterly global survey results of retailers, service companies, and manufacturing companies all around the world. The statistics gathered from the survey results are intended to keep small business owners, entrepreneurs, and companies, as well as the media and the general public, educated and informed as to the changing state of the global business economy...

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50 Best Blogs for Young Entrepreneurs 01/03/11

I am excited to announce that this blog was listed as #26 in the list of “50 Best Blogs for Young Entrepreneurs”! Here’s what they said: “Networking Entrepreneur: Even if you think you’re a pro at networking, check this blog for new tips and strategies as your business grows. Recommended Posts: Make No Assumptions and Clueless When It Comes To Conversing? Four Tips” The list, published by OEDb (Online Education Database), was created as a resource for young entrepreneurs who are lo...

Think You Don't Need a Network?–Think Again . . . 09/23/10

As a small-business professional or entrepreneur, how do you: Get advice and help when problems arise Gather the information you need for making important business decisions Identify your markets and locate potential clients? Unfortunately, most people get help in times of need from individuals or businesses they don’t know well. Instead of anticipating and planning for needs and emergencies, they are forced to react to every situation. They search the internet or ask friends and associates to help solve probl...

'Mastering the World of Selling' 08/30/10

When one of your business relationships passes you a referral, don’t assume that the prospect is ready to hear a presentation on your product or service. When an associate passes you a referral, say thanks . . . then start digging for more information. You will want to determine whether what you offer is a fit for what the prospect needs. Taking the time to do this upfront saves a lot of time and energy–for both you and the prospect. Exactly what does the prospect do? What products or services does ...

Become a Customer to Become a High Priority 06/17/10

One of the friendliest and most natural ways to make contact with a referral source is to buy her products or services, whether in large or small dollar amounts. It’s important to note that the purchase doesn’t necessarily have to be from her primary line of business–perhaps a ticket to a fundraiser, a used car, a computer, even a box of Girl Scout cookies from her daughter. By purchasing something from your network member/referral source, you become one of her customers. As a customer, you are...