Purposeful Networking: What’s Your ONE THING?

Have you ever had a conversation like this?

THEM: [Insert your first name], thank you SO much!

YOU: Oh, it was my pleasure. I’m so happy I could help.

THEM: Seriously, I really appreciate this. If there’s ever anything I can do to help you please let me know?

YOU: um, er, oh sure, thanks, I will.

Okay… stop! Reality shift time…

How often does this dialogue occur? Probably pretty darned often – and more than you realize.

And, how often do entrepreneurs make the most of it? Rarely (which is such a shame!). The good news… you’re not alone. The bad news… this is a HUGE missed opportunity.

Now, let’s flip this around. What if the next time this dialogue unfolds you were prepared with a relevant response, a specific way that they could help you if they are able?

Wow! right?

So… what is your one thing?

What kind of “help” do you need right now? What challenges are you facing? What one thing can others do to help you?

* Can they connect you to someone in their network?
* Make an introduction? Provide a testimonial or endorsement?
* Take you as a guest to their networking group?
* Provide advice or feedback on something specific?
* Teach you how to do something?
* Recommend a resource?
* Help you spread the word about something exciting?
* What exactly can others do to help you?

The possibilities are endless!

Okay, now it’s your turn…

ACTION STEPS:

1) Think about this and set a goal to be able to answer specifically and relevantly the next time someone offers to help you… Make sure it is clear and specific.

2) Go the extra mile by sharing exactly how others can help you here by posting a comment to this blog. And, if you have a story or example of how you asked for help and got it – that would be great to showcase here too! {Oh and who knows… you may discover ways that you can help others too!}

What to do when your existing business feels like a sweater that SHRUNK?!

Several months ago it happened to me…

I realized… My business doesn’t fit me anymore! Oh-my-goodness right!? Breathe Gina, Breathe…

And, the reality was that it hadn’t fit me for quite a while but I was so busy (and determined) trying to be something I no longer was I didn’t see the forest beyond the tree. Oh my nose was pressed against it tight… until now.

So what’s a girl to do?

I mean what a waste it would be to say goodbye to an existing business. A business that I’ve invested years into and is profitable too. Right?

I’m not convinced…

I believe the bigger waste would be to continue going through the motions to maintain something I’m no longer passionate about.

Maintain… there’s something so boring and inauthentic for me in that word. I love to learn and grow and give and make a difference. To maintain is to be status quo and that is totally not me. And that’s whether it’s me doing the maintaining or my team doing it. At the end of the day – I’m not growing and thriving.

I deserve better and the people I’m meant to serve deserve better too.

I have to admit it’s kinda scary but wicked exciting at the same time!

If I say goodbye to what I’ve been doing for so long, it feels a little bit like starting from scratch. But, I have a feeling – a knowing – that the passion fueling my new direction will propel me far beyond the success I already have right now.

I’m excited for this new chapter in my life and my business.

And I’m SO grateful to be sharing the transition with YOU.

My newest site GinaBellinc.com “Your Certain Way to Fun, Fame and Fortune!” is just the beginning of this journey.

And, rather than say goodbye to our existing companies like The Networking Masters, I’m re-inventing them to better serve our network and support everyone’s next steps.

It’s going to be awesome!!

So stay tuned for all the exciting details… from the evolution of The Networking Masters to all of my amazing new programs and products – coming soon.

My Best,
Gina xo

Networking with Ease [Volume 2, Issue 7]

Networking with Ease eZine – Volume 2 Issue 7

Hello Networking Entrepreneurs!

A warm welcome to all of our new subscribers! We’re so happy to have you as part of our community.

One thing you’ll come to know for certain is that I (Gina Bell, your Publisher today) LOVE quotes! And I’ve found the perfect one to kick off this issue of Networking with Ease… it’s inspiring and thought provoking too!

“You are one connection away from being able to change your life.”
Author, Larry Bennett

So often we hear stories of chance meetings and “million dollar connections”. And it’s absolutely true that you never know WHO will open the door to your biggest, most exciting opportunities.

Connecting with others in meaningful ways certainly paves the way for life changing relationships. The question is… are you paying attention?

In this week’s issue of Networking with Ease, our feature article explores this very topic and how “conscious networking” is essential to making meaningful (even million dollar) connections. Enjoy!

Happy Networking!

Gina & Stephen Bell,
a.k.a. “The Bells”
Signature of Success Consulting, Inc.
Corporate home to:

Networking Masters International
International Non-Fiction Writers Association
JV Mavens Partner and Prosper Network
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Make Meaningful and Memorable Connections with Your *Verbal* Business Card – April 09 Training Call: NOTE – Call Date Change!

“Your Verbal Business Card” How to be so remarkable your prospects beg to know more (and tell everyone your story)
with Networking Masters International co-Founder Gina Bell
DATE/TIME: Thursday April 30th at Noon PST, 1:00 pm MTN 2:00 pm CST, 3pm EST
Tele-webcast link: http://instantTeleseminar.com/?eventid=6803967
Join us for the live call. Members enjoy access to calendar friendly recordings. (Annual Membership is FREE for a limited time… see BIGGEST GIVE details below!)

It’s inevitable so, you might as well be ready for it, the most commonly asked question at a conference or networking event (heck, even randomly in public) is “What is it that you do?”

Instead of reacting with a deer-in-the-headlights stare, or blurting out a response that generates a confused stare right back, how would you like to be able to answer confidently with a well-crafted, memorable and conversation generating response?

Say goodbye to boring, bland and salesy elevator speeches! During this energizing coaching opportunity you’ll discover how to:

* introduce yourself in a fun and interesting way

* win the attention of your audience in as little as 10 seconds (because if you don’t, you’ve lost them!)

* leverage third party evidence for maximum impact

* engage memorable conversation, invoke curiosity and leave your new contacts longing to know more!

Are you a member of Networking Masters International? Networking Insiders are in the know with access to more than 100 interviews and teleseminars in the member’s only archives. We’ve made it easier – and more affordable than ever – to be a member. See the BIG GIVE announcement below (psst! For a very limited time – membership is FREE – by invitation only! Good thing you subscribed!)

OTHER TELESEMINARS, INTERVIEWS & EVENTS:

REMINDER & LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER: Today is your absolute last chance to participate in a special one-time only call that David and Kristin Morelli – our Networking Magnetism experts – are gearing up for called “Quantum Leap Your Wealth”. The call is TONIGHT at 8:00 pm EST (www.time.gov for your zone) and there are over 5,000 folks registered for it! Are you one of them? I hope so! If not here’s the link: http://snipurl.com/40dnlastcall

April 27th – Gina Bell Interview with Kim DeYoung for Metromom Telesummit – Get the FREE preview call here: http://bit.ly/BoJ5J

April 30rd – Networking Masters International – Members Only Training Call 2:00 pm CST

May 1st – Gina Bell at Ultralist Building Jam Session! A totally F-R-E-E course that will teach you absolutely everything you need to know to build a foundation, grow your list and create raving fans. Register now at: http://snipurl.com/listjam)

May 4th – Networking Masters International – Private Member’s Only Q & A Coaching Call. 2:00 pm MTN (1:00 PST / 3:00 CST / 4:00 EST).

May 7th – FREE Teleseminar with “The Bells” – “7 Must-Know Marketing Myths: How Misconceptions Sabotage Client Attraction and Prevent You from Making a Living Doing What You Love!” – Registration link to follow

May 14th – Gina Bell at NAHBM (National Association of Home-Based Business Moms) Telesummit. It’s a Mother’s Day Party and You’re Invited! http://snipurl.com/evto7

September 9, 10, 11 – Gina & Stephen Bell at Get Your Networking Working Blueprint Workshop – TICKETS NOW ON SALE! Act fast to benefit from early bird savings and easy-on-the-budget installment options.

And… be sure to join us for Authors Unscripted Talk Show Thursdays at 3:00 pm at INFWA.com

Conscious Networking… Are You Paying Attention?
~ Gina Bell Bell, co-Founder of Networking Masters International

Today, more than ever before, it’s essential that entrepreneurs develop and really leverage their networking skills.

When the economy thrives the focus tends to be on financial capital, financial equity, physical assets, etc… it’s a lot easier to access funding through a bank or investors right.

During times of economic uncertainty… purse strings are tightened, access to financial support is limited or non-existent. All of a sudden the same assets and equity no longer have the same degree of leverage.

What entrepreneurs often don’t realize is that relationships and the social equity developed as a result has a direct reflection on financial capital.

Surrounding yourself with a network of people who really care about your success is like having an insurance policy for success – regardless of the economy. This network, your community will provide strategic introductions, referrals, information, advice and more… all of which can have a dramatic financial result.

So, have you started paying closer attention to your network yet? Do you have a follow up keep in touch plan? Are you staying visible? Are you memorable? Are you adding value and increase to the lives and businesses in your community? (this applies to your online networks too).

Action Tip: Spend some time thinking about this today and take it one step further… identify two people that you know who should meet based on mutual interest or mutual goals. Introduce them. Tell them why you think they should connect – who knows, you may have set the stage for their “million dollar connection”

Here are two more great articles to get your networking working:

• * An Interview with co-Founder Stephen Bell on “True Networking”
  
• * Media Releases… Defining Your Audience by Networking with the Media expert Susan Regier
  

Have you heard about the Ultralist Building Jam Session?

It’s a totally F-R-E-E course that will teach you absolutely everything you need to know about growing your list of loyal, raving fans.

Only the top online business and personal development/ motivational experts are allowed to teach during this course and Gina Bell, co-Founder of Networking Masters International is among the expert team!

Register now at: http://snipurl.com/listjam

Yes, you read it right… You can be one of a limited group of entrepreneurs who claim FREE annual membership for one full year. Your only investment – a small shipping and handling fee of just $9.95 (less than you’d spend on an average take-out lunch!).

Hurry! When word gets out about this Big Give, the memberships will go fast!

.
.
.
.
Here is a brief description of what you’ll receive when you join… Membership Benefits include:

* Networking Mastery 3-CD set. Enjoy a new CD in your mailbox every 3-4 months
* Live Monthly Teleseminars (includes downloadable audio recordings)
* Live Monthly Q & A/coaching calls (includes downloadable audio recordings)
* Immediate access to an ever-growing educational audio archive worth thousands of dollars (currently more than 100 recordings on file!)
* Member Discount: Get Clients Now! Group Mastermind at www.getmoreandbetterclientsnow.com
* Member Discount: 3-day Live Get Your Networking Working Blueprint Workshop. Watch the event trailer now at www.getyournetworkingworking.com
* and a whole lot more!

Full description and details at: http://www.thenetworkingmasters.com/benefits

Payment Methods: MasterCard, Visa. Membership fee CDN dollars.

Membership Renewal: Credit card payments automatically renew in 12 Months. Regular annual membership fee is $239.40 per year renewed at easy-on-the-budget monthly installments of just $19.95 per month. You will receive a membership renewal reminder via e-mail 10 days before the renewal. It’s very important that you register with a valid and monitored email address. Also, please add info[at]thenetworkingmasters.com to your safe senders list.

Networking Masters International is a division of Signature of Success Consulting, Inc.

Networking with Ease: Focus on GIVING [Volume 2 Issue 4 - March 13, 2009]

Networking with Ease eZine – Volume 2 Issue 4

Hello Networking Entrepreneurs!

A warm welcome to our newest members this week: Amy Miyamoto, Maureen McMeekin, Katherine Reschke, Tracy Jones, Lisa Hudson, Deena Douglas and Kimberly Englot! We’re thrilled to welcome you to our family of Networking Insiders!

We are SO excited! We are finally ready to launch the biggest, coolest, most exciting program in our entire careers! The best part of it is that it will really benefit hard working, motivated business owners and entrepreneurs like you!

When you consider the economy I’m sure you’ll agree that there’s never been a better time than right now to really get your networking working for you in new and powerful ways. Imagine… effortlessly attracting more (and better) clients, income and opportunities within your own relevant, responsive, loyal and caring network (economy). Exciting isn’t it!

Keep on reading because this issue is devoted to exactly that… with a surprise gift that will blow you away (in a good way he he).

Happy Networking!

Gina & Stephen Bell,
a.k.a. “The Bells”
Signature of Success Consulting, Inc.
Corporate home to:
Networking Masters International
International Non-Fiction Writers Association
JV Mavens Partner and Prosper Network

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GET YOUR NETWORKING WORKING TRAINING EVENT – MARCH 09:

“Follow Up Keep In Touch”
with Networking Masters International co-Founder Stephen Bell
DATE/TIME: Friday March 27th at 2:00 pm CST
Tele-webcast link: http://instantTeleseminar.com/?eventid=6575655
Join us for the live call. Members enjoy access to calendar friendly recordings.

On this call you’ll discover a simple, proven follow up keep in touch system that will increase your visibility, referrals and customer loyalty. Stand out from the crowd and get your networking working by staying in touch and building relationships with prospects and customers.

There really is a fortune in your follow up!

Are you a member of Networking Masters International? Networking Insiders are in the know with access to more than 100 interviews and teleseminars in the member’s only archives. We’ve made it easier – and more affordable than ever – to be a member. See the BIG GIVE announcement below (psst! For a very limited time – membership is FREE – by invitation only! Good thing you subscribed!)

OTHER TELESEMINARS, INTERVIEWS & EVENTS:

March 17th – Gina & Stephen Bell at Entrepreneurs Unplugged Telesummit http://snipurl.com/bbryz

March 25th – Gina Bell at JV Mavens Mastermind Q & A Coaching Call

March 27th – Networking Masters International – Member Training Event 2:00 pm CST

March 31st – Networking Masters International – Private Member Q & A Coaching Call 2:00 pm CST (dial-in details will be emailed to Networking Insider members privately)

April 1st - Gina Bell at Femalepreneurs.com Business Success Coaching Club

April 4th - Gina & Stephen Bell at BNI Saskatchewan 3rd Annual Charity Awards Gala

April 15th – Gina Bell at AWE – International Association of Web Entrepreneurs Member Training Event

September 9, 10, 11 – Gina & Stephen Bell at Get Your Networking Working Blueprint Workshop – TICKETS NOW ON SALE! Act fast to benefit from early bird savings and easy-on-the-budget installment options.

And… be sure to join us for Authors Unscripted Talk Show Thursdays at 3:00 pm at INFWA.com

Check our the newest articles & interviews on the blog:

• * Get Your Networking Working Interview with Josh Hinds of BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com
• * Get Your Networking Working With Confident Conversations

Join us every Thursday at INFWA.com for Authors Unscripted Talk Show.

The focus is entrepreneurial authors, their books and beyond. Enjoy topics that will boost your business and life too!

Yes, you read it right… You can be one of a limited group of entrepreneurs who claim FREE annual membership for one full year. Your only investment – a small shipping and handling fee of just $9.95 (less than you’d spend on an average take-out lunch!).

Hurry! When word gets out about this Big Give, the memberships will go fast!

.
.
.
.
Here is a brief description of what you’ll receive when you join… Membership Benefits include:

* Networking Mastery 3-CD set. Enjoy a new CD in your mailbox every 3-4 months
* Live Monthly Teleseminars (includes downloadable audio recordings)
* Live Monthly Q & A/coaching calls (includes downloadable audio recordings)
* Immediate access to an ever-growing educational audio archive worth thousands of dollars (currently more than 100 recordings on file!)
* Member Discount: Get Clients Now! Group Mastermind at www.getmoreandbetterclientsnow.com
* Member Discount: 3-day Live Get Your Networking Working Blueprint Workshop. Watch the event trailer now at www.getyournetworkingworking.com
* and a whole lot more!

Full description and details at: http://www.thenetworkingmasters.com/benefits

Payment Methods: MasterCard, Visa. Membership fee CDN dollars.

Membership Renewal: Credit card payments automatically renew in 12 Months. Regular annual membership fee is $187/yr. You will receive a membership renewal reminder via e-mail 10 days before the renewal. It’s very important that you register with a valid and monitored email address. Also, please add info[at]thenetworkingmasters.com to your safe senders list.

Networking Masters International is a division of Signature of Success Consulting, Inc.

Media Releases…Defining Your Audience

Having a story printed about you and your business is the best form of FREE advertising there is. Why you ask? Because it’s believable.

A news story in a local or national publication can give more details about your business in a way that allows your expertise to shine. People skim through the advertisement sections but are more apt to read informative articles.

Think about the last time you opened your newspaper and saw a story about a local business. Perhaps you read about a trendy new restaurant or martini bar that piqued your interest. Or maybe a neighbourhood book store was bringing in a famous author to promote her new book. Did the story grab your attention? Were you enticed to take action and check it out? Chances are if this topic was of interest to you, it did. And that brings us to finding the right market for your story.

Sending a media release to every editor of every newspaper and magazine will get you no where quickly. You will soon make a name for yourself – and not a good one at that. You already know (or you should know) how to find your ideal customer – your target market. It’s the same process to find your ideal publicity vehicle.

The first step in figuring out who to send your well-written media release to is to look at your own target market.

• What newspapers and magazines do they read?
• What television shows are they watching?
• What radio stations are they listening to?

Next, research the editors, journalists, freelance writers, and producers inside those publications and programs that work on stories relating to your industry. But always keep in mind that it is their job to publish their newspaper or magazine or to air their television or radio program. They entice people to subscribe, watch or listen, and encourage advertisers to pay money for ads. Their job is not to promote you.

Editors have their audience’s interests top of mind. To be effective, consider the journalist’s perspective. An editor will be reading your media release to see if it is of interest to his or her defined audience.

It does take time to create a targeted media list but the effort is worth it. Names are usually posted on Web sites and newspaper mastheads. It may take an enquiring phone call to see the best source for your story. As you grow your list of targeted contacts, you are developing a reference guide not just for sending your media releases, but also for article writing that can help to boost your business exposure.

Keep in mind that publicity is not about you – it’s about giving editors what they need to create a strong story. In other words, you’re making their job easier by giving them exactly what they need to create a compelling piece…and getting free publicity for your business as a bonus.

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