People underestimate how easy it is to network, no matter what field they are in. Along those lines, they also underestimate importance of networking, even when business is YOU. I will give you 7 easy ways to make your networking more beneficial to person to whom it counts most…….YOU.

I.How can you help others? You might not realize this, but with every individual you speak to, you have an opportunity to network. But let’s face it; mostly everyone is concerned with themselves. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our own needs that we forget that our product needs to benefit people that are really important to us: our customers. So, why not help them? Listen to what people are saying to you. Get to know them. Try to think of different ways that they might benefit from your expertise. People love to help those they know and trust. By helping others, you are ultimately helping yourself and your business.

I started my monthly newsletter a year and a half ago, just to keep everyone updated on my upcoming gigs. Since then, it has also branched out to focus on free self-promotion ideas and free self-actualizing hints (to see an example, go to http://www.Ja-Nae.com). But also during this time, I began freely promoting others. By doing so, it keeps me in forefront of people’s minds when they’re promoting things: looking for a singer, actor, writer, or speaker. So, everyone wins.

II.Tools of Trade Tools are imperative for any trade….. particularly when you are networking. Take business card for example. The business card is an easy way to concisely distribute your information. Make sure card says everything it can about you and what you do…in as few words as possible. State what you do, who you are, and how you can be contacted. Put your logo on card. This ensures people to associate your name with your brand.

I’ve gone through various types of business cards. The one I have now has generated a lot of buzz about me. Why? It has my picture on it. There is a face to go with name. Every time I hand a card to someone, they compliment me on what a great card it is. The person then shows their friend. They make brand association and they also help generate more exposure for me…..Just by handing out ONE business card!!!!

III.Walk Walk: The Importance of Image We are judged all time. We are judged by our appearance, what we say, and most importantly, what we do. Since that is case, it would be beneficial for you to think about how you want people to perceive you. Look at your clothes, how you converse with others, and what you do on a daily basis. YOUR business OPPORTUNITIES are everywhere, so everything you do affects your image.

I’ve done many experiments with this concept. I love to wear black yoga pants and a white tee-shirt. It’s my favorite outfit to wear because I find it incredibly comfortable. But I’ve also found that when you’re talking business with someone, they are less likely to take you seriously in that type of garb. So, what did I do? I started to wear things that were considered “business casual.” Now, a pair of jeans and a polo top has replaced my everyday wear. Not only do I receive more positive responses from people, I also feel better about myself. Try experiment yourself. See what type of responses you get.

Why Small Business Must Turn to PR

If small business had no important outside audiences, it wouldn’t exist.

But since they do have external “publics,” it’s doubly unfortunate when those same small business owners seem unconcerned about very outside folks whose behaviors can place a choke-hold on their business!

And worse, are so casual about public relations, best way to move those behaviors in their direction.

Is that you? What’s problem? Can you think of any other way to marshall those groups of people you need so badly if your business is to succeed?

Face it. You must turn to public relations if you are really serious about getting those important outside people to support what you are trying to do.

And best part is, there’s no mystery about how to do it!

Start today by listing your important outside audiences in priority order. No doubt, customers and prospects will place #1 and #2. But think carefully about your local and trade media as well as community residents and leaders, suppliers and like. The test for adding an external audience to your worry list is this: if left unattended, could its perceptions and behaviors hurt your business?

Since there is no other affordable way to find out how each of your target audiences perceive your business, products, services and operations, you must take time to do it yourself along with your colleagues. Interact with members of that key target audience and probe their perceptions with plenty of questions. Watch for misconceptions, inaccuracies and rumors that need to be corrected. Stay alert to negativity of any kind.