Thursday, December 18, 2008
Happy Holidays from the team at Neen James Communications
We wish you a special time of celebrations with those you love.
Productively Increase Your Customers During the Holidays
The holiday season is often a time when we forget about growing our business while we celebrate. Decide to be different! Decide this is a great time for you to grow your business, attend more Chamber events and enjoy a profitable 2009.
Decide to make 2009 your best year yet. Choose the actions this holiday season that will make a huge impact on the success of 2009.
Host a holiday event – create an invitation list of both existing clients you would like to meet with and a list of people you would like to meet. Host a small breakfast holiday celebration in your office to showcase your products and services.
Attend a holiday networking event and take a potential client – when you receive a holiday invitation from the Chamber (or other event) that sounds like fun invite a potential client to attend with you. Pay for their ticket, host them and introduce them to others. They will enjoy the experience and allow you opportunity to share your business also.
Create a staff incentive for any new business – encourage staff to stay focused on growing the business by providing special incentives i.e. gift cards, food for the holidays, movie tickets. Consider a service from a chamber member, how about cleaning services from Harmony Clean www.harmonyclean.com
Conduct Sales training for your team – ensure every team member is at the top of their ‘sales game’ by providing a training workshop to refresh their knowledge and re-inspire them during this busy time.
Ramp up your PR efforts – talk to your PR firm to determine if you have a ‘holiday’ angle for your business. I use Furia Rubel from the chamber, and they have kept me in the news during this busy holiday season. www.furiarubel.com
Make 10 calls per day – set yourself a target of reaching out to 10 potential clients every day, don’t leave the office until you have completed your calls.
Ask for testimonials – reach out to existing customers who have been really happy with your service and ask for a testimonial on letterhead. Use these letters to support all business development activities and send as follow up from all new client appointments.
Organize lunches with strategic alliances – other Chamber members are great strategic alliances for your business. Make an appointment to share a meal and explore opportunities to cross promote other’s services. Determine if you are able to refer existing clients to each other. Check out other Chamber member’s locations for a meal www.peddlersvillage.com/lodging/golden%20plough.htm or Honey restaurant, http://www.honeyrestaurant.com/
Update your communications – update your voicemail and email signatures to wish people a ‘happy holidays’ and point them to your website so every form of contact from existing and new clients directs them to your marketing efforts.
Book a ‘tele-coffee’ with potential clients. What is a ‘tele-coffee’? It is where you both make a coffee and meet by teleconference. It is a more productive way of meeting (and avoids time wasted in travel), especially if you are trying to avoid the snow. Just like a normal meeting you set an agenda, take minutes if required and agree on the outcomes.
Follow up all leads with creative ‘happy holiday’ messages – find a creative way to be memorable with your potential clients. I write a hand written note (on the coolest stationery designed for me by Ampersand Design www.ampersanddesign.net). Check out the fun illustrated holiday cards by Pat Archilles at www.achillesportfolio.com or gift baskets from Terri Diamond www.presentasia.com
Applying these simple strategies will ensure you are able to keep focus a productive focus increasing your customers during this holiday season – enjoy the celebrations!
Neen James, MBA, is an International Productivity Expert: by looking at how they spend their time and energy – and where they focus their attention – Neen helps people rocket-charge their productivity and performance. A dynamic speaker, author and corporate trainer, Neen demonstrates how boosting your productivity can help you achieve amazing things. With her unique voice, sense of fun and common-sense, Neen delivers a powerful lesson in productivity. Subscribe to Neen’s free monthly Ezine at http://neenjames.com
Decide to make 2009 your best year yet. Choose the actions this holiday season that will make a huge impact on the success of 2009.
Host a holiday event – create an invitation list of both existing clients you would like to meet with and a list of people you would like to meet. Host a small breakfast holiday celebration in your office to showcase your products and services.
Attend a holiday networking event and take a potential client – when you receive a holiday invitation from the Chamber (or other event) that sounds like fun invite a potential client to attend with you. Pay for their ticket, host them and introduce them to others. They will enjoy the experience and allow you opportunity to share your business also.
Create a staff incentive for any new business – encourage staff to stay focused on growing the business by providing special incentives i.e. gift cards, food for the holidays, movie tickets. Consider a service from a chamber member, how about cleaning services from Harmony Clean www.harmonyclean.com
Conduct Sales training for your team – ensure every team member is at the top of their ‘sales game’ by providing a training workshop to refresh their knowledge and re-inspire them during this busy time.
Ramp up your PR efforts – talk to your PR firm to determine if you have a ‘holiday’ angle for your business. I use Furia Rubel from the chamber, and they have kept me in the news during this busy holiday season. www.furiarubel.com
Make 10 calls per day – set yourself a target of reaching out to 10 potential clients every day, don’t leave the office until you have completed your calls.
Ask for testimonials – reach out to existing customers who have been really happy with your service and ask for a testimonial on letterhead. Use these letters to support all business development activities and send as follow up from all new client appointments.
Organize lunches with strategic alliances – other Chamber members are great strategic alliances for your business. Make an appointment to share a meal and explore opportunities to cross promote other’s services. Determine if you are able to refer existing clients to each other. Check out other Chamber member’s locations for a meal www.peddlersvillage.com/lodging/golden%20plough.htm or Honey restaurant, http://www.honeyrestaurant.com/
Update your communications – update your voicemail and email signatures to wish people a ‘happy holidays’ and point them to your website so every form of contact from existing and new clients directs them to your marketing efforts.
Book a ‘tele-coffee’ with potential clients. What is a ‘tele-coffee’? It is where you both make a coffee and meet by teleconference. It is a more productive way of meeting (and avoids time wasted in travel), especially if you are trying to avoid the snow. Just like a normal meeting you set an agenda, take minutes if required and agree on the outcomes.
Follow up all leads with creative ‘happy holiday’ messages – find a creative way to be memorable with your potential clients. I write a hand written note (on the coolest stationery designed for me by Ampersand Design www.ampersanddesign.net). Check out the fun illustrated holiday cards by Pat Archilles at www.achillesportfolio.com or gift baskets from Terri Diamond www.presentasia.com
Applying these simple strategies will ensure you are able to keep focus a productive focus increasing your customers during this holiday season – enjoy the celebrations!
Neen James, MBA, is an International Productivity Expert: by looking at how they spend their time and energy – and where they focus their attention – Neen helps people rocket-charge their productivity and performance. A dynamic speaker, author and corporate trainer, Neen demonstrates how boosting your productivity can help you achieve amazing things. With her unique voice, sense of fun and common-sense, Neen delivers a powerful lesson in productivity. Subscribe to Neen’s free monthly Ezine at http://neenjames.com
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Best Networking Leaders in the World - Neen was named!
G'Day
Recently Networlding published a list of the World's Leading Networkers and I was privledged to be named one of them in company including the famous Robyn Henderson, Iven Misner and Scott Allen - pretty cool company!
You might like to check out this website for so many valuable resources:
http://www.networldingblog.com/?p=143
Enjoy Networking in stilettos!
Recently Networlding published a list of the World's Leading Networkers and I was privledged to be named one of them in company including the famous Robyn Henderson, Iven Misner and Scott Allen - pretty cool company!
You might like to check out this website for so many valuable resources:
http://www.networldingblog.com/?p=143
Enjoy Networking in stilettos!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Networking Tip for the holiday season
If you want to be a proactive, productive networker this holiday season.. keep networking! While your invitations for events mount up and you are busy planning for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas don't forget this is one of the best times to be networking.
Choose 2 strategic events you would like to attend this holiday season and make the most of those events. Invite a colleague to join you, meet up with a girlfriend so you get to see them and expand your network at the same time, choose a fun activity you will enjoy and consider taking a client so you can connect with them as well.
This holiday season, don't stop networking, choose 2 events and be more productive. It will ensure your 2009 connections are being created now!
Choose 2 strategic events you would like to attend this holiday season and make the most of those events. Invite a colleague to join you, meet up with a girlfriend so you get to see them and expand your network at the same time, choose a fun activity you will enjoy and consider taking a client so you can connect with them as well.
This holiday season, don't stop networking, choose 2 events and be more productive. It will ensure your 2009 connections are being created now!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Networking in Stilettos: Shoes and Champagne
Two of my fave things, shoes and champagne.
Several times a year my local shoe boutique opens especially for me and I invite friends, colleagues, neighbours and clients to join me at 'If the Shoe Fits' in Doylestown, PA. I provide lots of champagne to drink and sushi (and chocolate of course) to eat and we try on shoes.
Simple concept really but highly productive, loads of fun and a great way to build your network. I always invite women who will benefit from knowing other women and expanding their network. I get to see many friendly faces while making the most of one event. It is simple, bring lots of people to you instead of you going to them.
These events are invitation only and have gained quite a following.
What can you do that is fun, representative of your personality and helps you build your network with other women?
Until next time.. I am enjoying my new aquatalia suede boots and pokerdot black pumps... now maybe I can wear them in Vegas this weekend?
Several times a year my local shoe boutique opens especially for me and I invite friends, colleagues, neighbours and clients to join me at 'If the Shoe Fits' in Doylestown, PA. I provide lots of champagne to drink and sushi (and chocolate of course) to eat and we try on shoes.
Simple concept really but highly productive, loads of fun and a great way to build your network. I always invite women who will benefit from knowing other women and expanding their network. I get to see many friendly faces while making the most of one event. It is simple, bring lots of people to you instead of you going to them.
These events are invitation only and have gained quite a following.
What can you do that is fun, representative of your personality and helps you build your network with other women?
Until next time.. I am enjoying my new aquatalia suede boots and pokerdot black pumps... now maybe I can wear them in Vegas this weekend?
Monday, September 15, 2008
Productivity: Why do women have 12+ pairs of black shoes?
I recently read a query from a journalist asking this very question and it made me laugh. I thought you might enjoy my response to him:
To understand this question you must first realize that shoes mean many things to women. Here is what I believe based on my research (and personal experience):
Shoes will always make you feel good when you aren’t feeling fabulous. (Don't you agree ladies!)Shoes always fit (regardless of what your weight is).
Shoes are like trophies collected by women and remind us of certain events and celebrations.
Shoes will make (or break) an outfit.
Shoes represent how a woman is feeling i.e. stilettos are strong and powerful, Mary Jane are comfortable and practical while still stylish, ballet flats are ‘run around’ type shoes that are always in style, sneakers are energetic, flip flops feel casual.
Shoes have a real purpose (while still looking fabulous, women choose their shoes depending on their day, meetings, presentations, running around)
Now 12 pairs of black shoes…. I have many, many more than 12 pairs (and I suspect my clients and readers do too). That is because we need the ‘right shoe’ for every occasion, some of those occasions include:
1. Black pump – every day wear to the office.
2. Black stiletto – goes with everything especially at night.
3. Black Mary Jane – has a heel but more comfortable and can be worn all day.
4. Black ballet flat – as mentioned above, practical and great for errands.
5. Black sneakers – not as hideous as white sneakers, practical and still kind of good looking.
6. Black kitten heel – a little heel without too much height.
7. Black pump with pattern – shows a bit of personality and great for many occasions.
8. Black pump with detail (hardware, bows, zippers etc) – same answer to question 7.
9. Black stain pump – evening shoe
10. Black diamante pump – see answer to 9.
11. Black flip flops – casual, great for the beach or spa.
12. Black boot – goes with everything.
13. Black heeled boot – see 12 and add a little height
…. You get the idea, so we do need all 12+ pairs, because each shoe makes us feel fabulous, meets a certain requirement and helps us change our outfits (the same clothes can look completely different with a different shoe).
Now ladies, which black shoes are you going to wear to your next networking event?
To understand this question you must first realize that shoes mean many things to women. Here is what I believe based on my research (and personal experience):
Shoes will always make you feel good when you aren’t feeling fabulous. (Don't you agree ladies!)Shoes always fit (regardless of what your weight is).
Shoes are like trophies collected by women and remind us of certain events and celebrations.
Shoes will make (or break) an outfit.
Shoes represent how a woman is feeling i.e. stilettos are strong and powerful, Mary Jane are comfortable and practical while still stylish, ballet flats are ‘run around’ type shoes that are always in style, sneakers are energetic, flip flops feel casual.
Shoes have a real purpose (while still looking fabulous, women choose their shoes depending on their day, meetings, presentations, running around)
Now 12 pairs of black shoes…. I have many, many more than 12 pairs (and I suspect my clients and readers do too). That is because we need the ‘right shoe’ for every occasion, some of those occasions include:
1. Black pump – every day wear to the office.
2. Black stiletto – goes with everything especially at night.
3. Black Mary Jane – has a heel but more comfortable and can be worn all day.
4. Black ballet flat – as mentioned above, practical and great for errands.
5. Black sneakers – not as hideous as white sneakers, practical and still kind of good looking.
6. Black kitten heel – a little heel without too much height.
7. Black pump with pattern – shows a bit of personality and great for many occasions.
8. Black pump with detail (hardware, bows, zippers etc) – same answer to question 7.
9. Black stain pump – evening shoe
10. Black diamante pump – see answer to 9.
11. Black flip flops – casual, great for the beach or spa.
12. Black boot – goes with everything.
13. Black heeled boot – see 12 and add a little height
…. You get the idea, so we do need all 12+ pairs, because each shoe makes us feel fabulous, meets a certain requirement and helps us change our outfits (the same clothes can look completely different with a different shoe).
Now ladies, which black shoes are you going to wear to your next networking event?
Friday, September 5, 2008
Productivity: How to find a great mentor
The right mentor relationships will help you accelerate your career, increase your self-development and improve your relationships. Investing time in finding a suitable mentor will help you save time also. Try these strategies.
Decide to focus where you need help– examine your life and determine if you want help with your career or your health or your relationships. When you know the area you want to focus on you can then begin searching for a suitable mentor.
Investigate top performers in your industry – if you want to find a career mentor, find out who are the experts in the field of expertise you want to develop. Then seek them out.
Find out where your role models hang out – check out networks, industry events and conferences to watch out for potential mentors. Spend time watching the people in the room and make note of anyone who stands out and has the ‘presence’ you are looking for.
Investigate official mentoring programs – many organisations now have internal mentoring programs you can become a part of. If your company doesn’t have one, can you start one? If you are interested in a mentoring program with Neen check out her ‘Stiletto Mentoring Program’ at http://www.neenjames.com/
Select the mentor – when you find the person you believe would be suitable, spend some time watching them in action. Ask to go attend a presentation with them or ask if you can spend a “day in the life of” them and watch what they do.
Ask others opinion of your selected mentor – when you have chosen someone, ask around to find out what you can about their achievements, beliefs, values and way of operating. This will give you insight into them before you approach them about mentoring you.
Approach the selected mentor – phone them or make an appointment to see them. Advise them why you want to meet and schedule time. This is an important step in the process so you can show them you respect their time and you are committed to doing the right thing.
Have an agenda – when you meet with your prospective mentor, have an outline of what you would like to discuss. Your agenda should include why you want them to mentor you, how long it is for and what you hope to gain during that time. If they agree to mentor you, you can then work out how you can also support them.
Set up an agreement – if you both decide to proceed, set up an agreement with guidelines for timeframe, contact boundaries and a full honesty policy.
Fulfil your mentee commitments – always turn up to meetings prepared, always complete any assignments or tasks given to you from your mentor and always look for opportunities to support your mentor.
A good mentor can change your life and increase your productivity, help you achieve your goals faster and accelerate your potential – find a great mentor today!
Decide to focus where you need help– examine your life and determine if you want help with your career or your health or your relationships. When you know the area you want to focus on you can then begin searching for a suitable mentor.
Investigate top performers in your industry – if you want to find a career mentor, find out who are the experts in the field of expertise you want to develop. Then seek them out.
Find out where your role models hang out – check out networks, industry events and conferences to watch out for potential mentors. Spend time watching the people in the room and make note of anyone who stands out and has the ‘presence’ you are looking for.
Investigate official mentoring programs – many organisations now have internal mentoring programs you can become a part of. If your company doesn’t have one, can you start one? If you are interested in a mentoring program with Neen check out her ‘Stiletto Mentoring Program’ at http://www.neenjames.com/
Select the mentor – when you find the person you believe would be suitable, spend some time watching them in action. Ask to go attend a presentation with them or ask if you can spend a “day in the life of” them and watch what they do.
Ask others opinion of your selected mentor – when you have chosen someone, ask around to find out what you can about their achievements, beliefs, values and way of operating. This will give you insight into them before you approach them about mentoring you.
Approach the selected mentor – phone them or make an appointment to see them. Advise them why you want to meet and schedule time. This is an important step in the process so you can show them you respect their time and you are committed to doing the right thing.
Have an agenda – when you meet with your prospective mentor, have an outline of what you would like to discuss. Your agenda should include why you want them to mentor you, how long it is for and what you hope to gain during that time. If they agree to mentor you, you can then work out how you can also support them.
Set up an agreement – if you both decide to proceed, set up an agreement with guidelines for timeframe, contact boundaries and a full honesty policy.
Fulfil your mentee commitments – always turn up to meetings prepared, always complete any assignments or tasks given to you from your mentor and always look for opportunities to support your mentor.
A good mentor can change your life and increase your productivity, help you achieve your goals faster and accelerate your potential – find a great mentor today!
Productivity: How to find a great mentor
The right mentor relationships will help you accelerate your career, increase your self-development and improve your relationships. Investing time in finding a suitable mentor will help you save time also. Try these strategies.
Decide to focus where you need help– examine your life and determine if you want help with your career or your health or your relationships. When you know the area you want to focus on you can then begin searching for a suitable mentor.
Investigate top performers in your industry – if you want to find a career mentor, find out who are the experts in the field of expertise you want to develop. Then seek them out.
Find out where your role models hang out – check out networks, industry events and conferences to watch out for potential mentors. Spend time watching the people in the room and make note of anyone who stands out and has the ‘presence’ you are looking for.
Investigate official mentoring programs – many organisations now have internal mentoring programs you can become a part of. If your company doesn’t have one, can you start one? If you are interested in a mentoring program with Neen check out her ‘Stiletto Mentoring Program’ at www.neenjames.com
Select the mentor – when you find the person you believe would be suitable, spend some time watching them in action. Ask to go attend a presentation with them or ask if you can spend a “day in the life of” them and watch what they do.
Ask others opinion of your selected mentor – when you have chosen someone, ask around to find out what you can about their achievements, beliefs, values and way of operating. This will give you insight into them before you approach them about mentoring you.
Approach the selected mentor – phone them or make an appointment to see them. Advise them why you want to meet and schedule time. This is an important step in the process so you can show them you respect their time and you are committed to dong the right thing.
Have an agenda – when you meet with your prospective mentor, have an outline of what you would like to discuss. Your agenda should include why you want them to mentor you, how long it is for and what you hope to gain during that time. If they agree to mentor you, you can then work out how you can also support them.
Set up an agreement – if you both decide to proceed, set up an agreement with guidelines for timeframe, contact boundaries and a full honesty policy.
Fulfil your mentee commitments – always turn up to meetings prepared, always complete any assignments or tasks given to you from your mentor and always look for opportunities to support your mentor.
A good mentor can change your life and increase your productivity, help you achieve your goals faster and accelerate your potential – find a great mentor today!
Decide to focus where you need help– examine your life and determine if you want help with your career or your health or your relationships. When you know the area you want to focus on you can then begin searching for a suitable mentor.
Investigate top performers in your industry – if you want to find a career mentor, find out who are the experts in the field of expertise you want to develop. Then seek them out.
Find out where your role models hang out – check out networks, industry events and conferences to watch out for potential mentors. Spend time watching the people in the room and make note of anyone who stands out and has the ‘presence’ you are looking for.
Investigate official mentoring programs – many organisations now have internal mentoring programs you can become a part of. If your company doesn’t have one, can you start one? If you are interested in a mentoring program with Neen check out her ‘Stiletto Mentoring Program’ at www.neenjames.com
Select the mentor – when you find the person you believe would be suitable, spend some time watching them in action. Ask to go attend a presentation with them or ask if you can spend a “day in the life of” them and watch what they do.
Ask others opinion of your selected mentor – when you have chosen someone, ask around to find out what you can about their achievements, beliefs, values and way of operating. This will give you insight into them before you approach them about mentoring you.
Approach the selected mentor – phone them or make an appointment to see them. Advise them why you want to meet and schedule time. This is an important step in the process so you can show them you respect their time and you are committed to dong the right thing.
Have an agenda – when you meet with your prospective mentor, have an outline of what you would like to discuss. Your agenda should include why you want them to mentor you, how long it is for and what you hope to gain during that time. If they agree to mentor you, you can then work out how you can also support them.
Set up an agreement – if you both decide to proceed, set up an agreement with guidelines for timeframe, contact boundaries and a full honesty policy.
Fulfil your mentee commitments – always turn up to meetings prepared, always complete any assignments or tasks given to you from your mentor and always look for opportunities to support your mentor.
A good mentor can change your life and increase your productivity, help you achieve your goals faster and accelerate your potential – find a great mentor today!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Networking in Stilettos: Employ Kristel Closets
G'day Ladies,
If you haven't already heard of Megan Kristel from Kristel Closets - where have you been! This young, energetic and highly talented chickadee is working with corproate and entrepreneurial women around the US to help them increase their effectiveness, boost their productivity and increase their confidence. How you ask?
Megan will come into your environment, clean out your closet and help you create a productive wardrobe for every occassion, including those networking events. Check her out and subscribe to her ezine while you are there - she is fabulous: http://www.kristelclosets.com/
If you haven't already heard of Megan Kristel from Kristel Closets - where have you been! This young, energetic and highly talented chickadee is working with corproate and entrepreneurial women around the US to help them increase their effectiveness, boost their productivity and increase their confidence. How you ask?
Megan will come into your environment, clean out your closet and help you create a productive wardrobe for every occassion, including those networking events. Check her out and subscribe to her ezine while you are there - she is fabulous: http://www.kristelclosets.com/
Networking in Stilettos: Meeting and Greeting
When you have decided to attend an event or join a network, another important skill is knowing how to engage people when you first meet them. Meeting new people and making conversation can be daunting, but with a few simple techniques you’ll become more and more comfortable with each new event.
Appear confident. There’s an element of ‘fake it ‘till you make it’ here. Smile when you first meet someone and look him or her in the eye. Even if you don’t feel it, your smile and eye contact will show the other person you are friendly and confident.
Be aware of your body language. Be aware of good posture; stand straight with your shoulders back. Don’t fidget with pens or your clothing – keep your hands by your side if you are someone who constantly fidgets. A smile, combined with good posture will boost your confidence.
Introduce yourself first. Rather than stand alone, be brave. Walk up to an individual, or a group, extend your hand and say, “Hi my name is Neen James, nice to meet you”. Everyone will respond positively to your confidence and appreciate you making the first move. It will be a trigger for others to do the same.
Shake hands. This is an important skill; if you don’t know how to shake hands properly, learn. Some women, particularly those who haven’t been required to do it in business, can lack confidence with their handshake. It’s important. Cultivate a firm handshake – not too hard, but just right. Look the person in the eye when you shake their hand and say their name out loud: “Hi Robyn, it’s nice to meet you”. If you are unsure about shaking hands with someone, always extend your hand first. It is rude to not shake the hand of someone who offers theirs to you.
Learn how to pronounce their name. When you encounter someone with a difficult to pronounce name, ask him or her to repeat it, spell it and say it again – and allow him or her to correct your pronunciation so you get it right. People will appreciate you taking the time to learn how to say their name properly.
Use a person’s name several times when you first meet. This will help you to remember their name, it’s a very personal way to communicate – and, people love the sound of their own name!
Learn conversational skills. The ability to make conversation is what scares so many people about new social interactions, here a few questions you can ask anyone you meet for the first time:
§ What do you do?
§ Where do you work?
§ Where do you live?
§ Does it take you long to get from home to the office?
§ What inspires you?
§ What do you like read?
§ What has been your most valuable business lesson?
Ask people what they like to do in their spare time. This is a great question and most people become energised when you ask them about their life outside of work. Watch their eyes sparkle as they tell you about the activities they most enjoy. Take the time to discover that people are far more interesting than their work.
If you meet someone with an accent, ask where he or she is from. Find out something interesting about their country by asking:
§ Where are you from?
§ How often do you go to visit?
§ What do you miss most about that place?
§ Who is someone famous from there?
§ What food is that country famous for?
If you are at an industry or charity event, ask how they heard about the event. It’s a great icebreaker and allows you both to share stories of how you came to be at the event and what you hope to achieve by attending.
Listen intently. Give the person you are speaking with your full attention. Use active listening techniques such as nodding, smiling and leaning towards them while they speak. Ask questions about the topics you are discussing. People will appreciate your attention. It is very rude to look beyond the person you are speaking with or to look around the room for someone more interesting.
Effective networking can help you to maximise your productivity. You can master networking by choosing how you invest your time and energy. Choose your networks wisely, be prepared with business cards, follow up after every event, be engaging when you meet people…and have fun!
Rather than stand alone, be brave. Walk up to an individual, or a group, extend your hand and say, “Hi my name is Neen James, nice to meet you”. Everyone will respond positively to your confidence and appreciate you making the first move. It will be a trigger for others to do the same.
Appear confident. There’s an element of ‘fake it ‘till you make it’ here. Smile when you first meet someone and look him or her in the eye. Even if you don’t feel it, your smile and eye contact will show the other person you are friendly and confident.
Be aware of your body language. Be aware of good posture; stand straight with your shoulders back. Don’t fidget with pens or your clothing – keep your hands by your side if you are someone who constantly fidgets. A smile, combined with good posture will boost your confidence.
Introduce yourself first. Rather than stand alone, be brave. Walk up to an individual, or a group, extend your hand and say, “Hi my name is Neen James, nice to meet you”. Everyone will respond positively to your confidence and appreciate you making the first move. It will be a trigger for others to do the same.
Shake hands. This is an important skill; if you don’t know how to shake hands properly, learn. Some women, particularly those who haven’t been required to do it in business, can lack confidence with their handshake. It’s important. Cultivate a firm handshake – not too hard, but just right. Look the person in the eye when you shake their hand and say their name out loud: “Hi Robyn, it’s nice to meet you”. If you are unsure about shaking hands with someone, always extend your hand first. It is rude to not shake the hand of someone who offers theirs to you.
Learn how to pronounce their name. When you encounter someone with a difficult to pronounce name, ask him or her to repeat it, spell it and say it again – and allow him or her to correct your pronunciation so you get it right. People will appreciate you taking the time to learn how to say their name properly.
Use a person’s name several times when you first meet. This will help you to remember their name, it’s a very personal way to communicate – and, people love the sound of their own name!
Learn conversational skills. The ability to make conversation is what scares so many people about new social interactions, here a few questions you can ask anyone you meet for the first time:
§ What do you do?
§ Where do you work?
§ Where do you live?
§ Does it take you long to get from home to the office?
§ What inspires you?
§ What do you like read?
§ What has been your most valuable business lesson?
Ask people what they like to do in their spare time. This is a great question and most people become energised when you ask them about their life outside of work. Watch their eyes sparkle as they tell you about the activities they most enjoy. Take the time to discover that people are far more interesting than their work.
If you meet someone with an accent, ask where he or she is from. Find out something interesting about their country by asking:
§ Where are you from?
§ How often do you go to visit?
§ What do you miss most about that place?
§ Who is someone famous from there?
§ What food is that country famous for?
If you are at an industry or charity event, ask how they heard about the event. It’s a great icebreaker and allows you both to share stories of how you came to be at the event and what you hope to achieve by attending.
Listen intently. Give the person you are speaking with your full attention. Use active listening techniques such as nodding, smiling and leaning towards them while they speak. Ask questions about the topics you are discussing. People will appreciate your attention. It is very rude to look beyond the person you are speaking with or to look around the room for someone more interesting.
Effective networking can help you to maximise your productivity. You can master networking by choosing how you invest your time and energy. Choose your networks wisely, be prepared with business cards, follow up after every event, be engaging when you meet people…and have fun!
Rather than stand alone, be brave. Walk up to an individual, or a group, extend your hand and say, “Hi my name is Neen James, nice to meet you”. Everyone will respond positively to your confidence and appreciate you making the first move. It will be a trigger for others to do the same.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
You must try Footpetals!
G'Day Ladies
Whether you are standing around at a networking event or attending a meeting, those stilettos can sometimes hurt your feet. I have found the best addition to my shoe wardrobe is Foot Petals. Tina, the inventor of these lovely creations, is a fabulous lady, so accomplished and believed in her dream.
When I interviewed her she told me networking was essential to her success. Check out the great range at: http://www.footpetals.com/cgi-bin/footpetals/index.html
Stay comfy!
Whether you are standing around at a networking event or attending a meeting, those stilettos can sometimes hurt your feet. I have found the best addition to my shoe wardrobe is Foot Petals. Tina, the inventor of these lovely creations, is a fabulous lady, so accomplished and believed in her dream.
When I interviewed her she told me networking was essential to her success. Check out the great range at: http://www.footpetals.com/cgi-bin/footpetals/index.html
Stay comfy!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Networking in Stilettos: Sex and the City
Last Friday night I invited 15 girlfriends (and one fabulous guy friend) to a cocktail party at my house complete with cosmos and delicious food and we laughed, chatted and made new connections.
My girlfriends were all dressed up and had their most fabulous shoes on (that was my only requirement for them attending my party - divine shoes a must!). We then headed off to see one of the best chick flicks - Sex and the City! It did not disappoint. It was fabulous, the shoes were delicious and the bags divine.
Many of the girls reached out to me afterwards telling me how fun it was, how neat it was to meet new people and what a great time they had.
Building your network is easy. Find something you love to do, invite others to join you and voila - you are networking! Each woman made a new friend that night, all I had to do was put on my best Manolos and serve Cosmos - what are you doing to build your network? I would love to hear your ideas.
My girlfriends were all dressed up and had their most fabulous shoes on (that was my only requirement for them attending my party - divine shoes a must!). We then headed off to see one of the best chick flicks - Sex and the City! It did not disappoint. It was fabulous, the shoes were delicious and the bags divine.
Many of the girls reached out to me afterwards telling me how fun it was, how neat it was to meet new people and what a great time they had.
Building your network is easy. Find something you love to do, invite others to join you and voila - you are networking! Each woman made a new friend that night, all I had to do was put on my best Manolos and serve Cosmos - what are you doing to build your network? I would love to hear your ideas.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Check out Shoe Guru - Meghan Cleary's contest!
G'Day fellow shoe lovers,
As you know I am a huge lover of all shoes but one of the women who is an absolute guru in this area is Miss Meghan. She has a divine contest right now that you simply must check out:http://missmeghan.com/archives/stc-shoe-therapy-contest/
Each week she gives you a chance to win a pair of designer shoes and a comfort pack from 'Dr Scholls for Her'.
All this excitement leading up to the launch of Sex and the City on May 30th - you simply must check out this site.Enjoy your networking in stilettos ladies!
As you know I am a huge lover of all shoes but one of the women who is an absolute guru in this area is Miss Meghan. She has a divine contest right now that you simply must check out:http://missmeghan.com/archives/stc-shoe-therapy-contest/
Each week she gives you a chance to win a pair of designer shoes and a comfort pack from 'Dr Scholls for Her'.
All this excitement leading up to the launch of Sex and the City on May 30th - you simply must check out this site.Enjoy your networking in stilettos ladies!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Internal Networking in StilettosTM
Although there are any number of different women's networking groups and events you can attend, some of the best networking will occur within your organization. To build your reputation internally and understand “who’s who in the zoo” it is worth investing time to get to know the people around you. Try these suggestions to boost your internal networking skills.
Arrange a Lunchtime self-development session. Determine a topic your colleagues would be interested in, simply invite someone into your organization to give a brief presentation allowing time for questions and answers. You don’t need to pay this person; they may be an internal expert you invite. Choose someone who is an expert in their topic area. When organizing the meeting, set up the agenda so that there is time when people arrive to meet each other, allow 20 minutes for the presentation, 10 minutes for questions and a few minutes at the end to continue chatting to co-workers.
Organize a lunchtime sports team. This is a great way to build teamwork internally and also get to know people from other areas within the organization. Put up a notice or send an email asking for interested parties and then form a team i.e. basketball, football, tennis team are all fun and easy to organize. Find a park or gym close to the office you can use and set a regular time and day each week to meet. This is a great way to also get fresh air and exercise while networking. You might even like to get everyone to contribute some funds and organize team t-shirts to wear, your organization may even have some you can use!
Hold a quarterly breakfast forum and invite the CEO. Make an appointment with your CEO’s Executive Assistant and advise them you would like to invite the CEO to a quarterly breakfast where they can meet the team and also answer questions they might have. Once you get approval from the EA, book the next quarter’s date and find a suitable venue. Each person pays for their own breakfast so it doesn’t cost the company any money. Make arrangements with a café close to the office or in-house catering if you have it, and start at 7.30 and finish by 8.45. This allows people to meet, ask the CEO questions and get involved in discussions.
Seek or start a mentor program. Identify people you would like to learn from within the organization and approach them about being mentored for 6 months. If your organization already has a mentoring program, sign up and get involved.
Get involved in a charity. Select a deserving charity and organize events within the company to raise money for them. Your company may already have a chosen charity, if so; invite someone from the organization to update your colleagues on suggestions of how you can help. This can be a fun way to help others and also help you get to know those you work with.
Hold a ‘brown bag’ seminar at lunchtime. Invite everyone to bring their own lunch; you can invite a speaker to provide information to the team. The topics might be relevant to them for outside life i.e. health, fitness, family or some way to add value to the people you work with. The topics can come from your colleagues – ask them for suggestions. You can hold these on a monthly basis and allow time within the agenda to meet at least two other people from other departments. Advertise it on the notice boards, email and in the bathrooms (you would be surprised how many people read information in the bathrooms).
Organize cross-function team events. Get to know other women within the business by hosting a morning tea and asking the other women to explain what they do within the business and the challenges they face, and then you do the same. This is a great way to find about others and also share what you are working on.
Start a book club. Find a few women who are interested in similar books to you, set yourself a book to read every two months. If it is a local author, invite them to join you at one of your meetings to explain more about the book and why it was written. Most authors love to meet their readers. When you get together, chat about what you learned from the book, what your opinions are on the writing style and what you liked most about the book.
Get in a project team. Seek opportunities to work on projects within your team and with other departments. Ensure you have your manager’s permission to be involved. This is a great way to network and learn from others.
Write for the company newsletter. Offer to provide articles or updates for the internal newsletter. This is a great way to work with the marketing team (who are often volunteers looking for content for the newsletter).
Provide your business card to co-workers. When you meet someone from another department always offer your card. This will give them your contact information if they want to contact you again.
Make the most of getting to know those you work with, take time to learn what they do and how you can work together to achieve your goals.
Arrange a Lunchtime self-development session. Determine a topic your colleagues would be interested in, simply invite someone into your organization to give a brief presentation allowing time for questions and answers. You don’t need to pay this person; they may be an internal expert you invite. Choose someone who is an expert in their topic area. When organizing the meeting, set up the agenda so that there is time when people arrive to meet each other, allow 20 minutes for the presentation, 10 minutes for questions and a few minutes at the end to continue chatting to co-workers.
Organize a lunchtime sports team. This is a great way to build teamwork internally and also get to know people from other areas within the organization. Put up a notice or send an email asking for interested parties and then form a team i.e. basketball, football, tennis team are all fun and easy to organize. Find a park or gym close to the office you can use and set a regular time and day each week to meet. This is a great way to also get fresh air and exercise while networking. You might even like to get everyone to contribute some funds and organize team t-shirts to wear, your organization may even have some you can use!
Hold a quarterly breakfast forum and invite the CEO. Make an appointment with your CEO’s Executive Assistant and advise them you would like to invite the CEO to a quarterly breakfast where they can meet the team and also answer questions they might have. Once you get approval from the EA, book the next quarter’s date and find a suitable venue. Each person pays for their own breakfast so it doesn’t cost the company any money. Make arrangements with a café close to the office or in-house catering if you have it, and start at 7.30 and finish by 8.45. This allows people to meet, ask the CEO questions and get involved in discussions.
Seek or start a mentor program. Identify people you would like to learn from within the organization and approach them about being mentored for 6 months. If your organization already has a mentoring program, sign up and get involved.
Get involved in a charity. Select a deserving charity and organize events within the company to raise money for them. Your company may already have a chosen charity, if so; invite someone from the organization to update your colleagues on suggestions of how you can help. This can be a fun way to help others and also help you get to know those you work with.
Hold a ‘brown bag’ seminar at lunchtime. Invite everyone to bring their own lunch; you can invite a speaker to provide information to the team. The topics might be relevant to them for outside life i.e. health, fitness, family or some way to add value to the people you work with. The topics can come from your colleagues – ask them for suggestions. You can hold these on a monthly basis and allow time within the agenda to meet at least two other people from other departments. Advertise it on the notice boards, email and in the bathrooms (you would be surprised how many people read information in the bathrooms).
Organize cross-function team events. Get to know other women within the business by hosting a morning tea and asking the other women to explain what they do within the business and the challenges they face, and then you do the same. This is a great way to find about others and also share what you are working on.
Start a book club. Find a few women who are interested in similar books to you, set yourself a book to read every two months. If it is a local author, invite them to join you at one of your meetings to explain more about the book and why it was written. Most authors love to meet their readers. When you get together, chat about what you learned from the book, what your opinions are on the writing style and what you liked most about the book.
Get in a project team. Seek opportunities to work on projects within your team and with other departments. Ensure you have your manager’s permission to be involved. This is a great way to network and learn from others.
Write for the company newsletter. Offer to provide articles or updates for the internal newsletter. This is a great way to work with the marketing team (who are often volunteers looking for content for the newsletter).
Provide your business card to co-workers. When you meet someone from another department always offer your card. This will give them your contact information if they want to contact you again.
Make the most of getting to know those you work with, take time to learn what they do and how you can work together to achieve your goals.
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