Showing posts with label Small Business. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Small Business. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Power of Networking

Recently, I attended a networking event and I have to say that I very much enjoyed myself. I've only attended a couple of these networking events in the past few months and just now realized how important they are. Being somewhat of an introvert, I find myself much more comfortable at home or meeting people one-on-one. Hob-nobbing with the locals has not been my strongest skill. But why should extroverts have all the fun?

Small business owners need to understand and harness the power of networking. Actually, I like to think of it as more netweaving. Yes, you are trying to increase your sales. But, it is important to build a relationship first. Your clients need to know that you can be trusted. I'd suggest going around to a few different types of organizations in your area to see what best fits you. Instead of the usual chamber of commerce, how about small & home business networks, neighborhood clubs, women or minority focused networks, and trade specific networks. If you live in a mid-sized to large city there may be more than one of these in your city.

For networking tips check out this book: Why Should Extroverts Make All The Money?: Networking Made Easy for the Introvert, by Frederica Balzano.

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Small Business Summit

Microsoft's Small Business Center is hosting a Small Business Summit this week from March 19-23. Each day a new topic will be discussed via live podcast from 9 a.m. through 1 p.m. Pacific Time. If you are like most other small business owners you probably won't be able to view the live podcasts. However, don't despair! Microsoft has all the podcasts available for you to view on-demand 72 hours after the live broadcast.

Some of the past broadcasts included, Small Biz Success Stories, The Art of Innovation, 4 Ways to Avoid a Lawsuit, Building Customer Trust, Buzz Marketing and Finding New Customers.

If you would like to attend of the live broadcasts or are interested in viewing them later please click on this link: Microsoft Small Business Center
Enter your zip code and you will be taken to a list of all the broadcasts.