Building Better Bridges: Networking for Personal ProductivityWritten by Kathleen J. Wheelihan
Mistakenly, networking is sometimes viewed or approached as selling, aggressive, simply passing out business cards, or used solely for personal gain. However, true spirit of networking involves getting to know people and developing relationships, giving without obligation, and exchanging business cards when there is a reason to stay in touch, such as a mutual interest or information or resources to be shared.Why emphasis on networking? In case you aren’t already convinced through your own experiences or that of other people you know, following statistics underscore importance of effective networking: * A referral generates 80 percent more results than a cold call; * Approximately 70 percent of all jobs are found through networking; and * Most people you meet have at least 250 contacts. And while these facts are reason enough to focus on improving one’s networking skills, there are other benefits of networking too. Among them, networking can enrich your life, providing new experiences and knowledge. One of best ways to get started is to consider what you have to offer to people in your network, such as special skills, information, experience, or knowledge, followed by asking yourself what you might need help with. Networking begins with listening and sharing—people helping each other to achieve their respective goals. Little things as simple as clipping an interesting article, sharing a useful website link, or answering a question in your area of expertise are all ways to add value to people in your network. These things show people you care, help build relationships, and establish rapport and trust so that when you need help it will be there for you.
| | Get Rid Of The ClutterWritten by Phyllis Sisenwine
You really can have a successful business and a great life. Often we get caught up in growing our business or climbing corporate ladder that we put our personal lives on hold. Rather than filling up your calendar with work, organizations, commitments, and activities that don’t bring you joy, think about putting on your calendar activities that you really want to do first. Make having a great life your top priority. SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE Think about your vision for what you want your life to look like and focus on creating your ideal life. Focus on today, not past or future. If you’re too much at once, you need to un-clutter your life. ELIMINATE TOLERATIONS Tolerations are petty annoyances you put up with in your life. They drain you of energy. They may make you feel tired and stifle your creativity. The car that needs an oil change; dentist appointment you’ve been meaning to make. Make a list of everything you’re tolerating. By writing them down and planning to eliminate them, you are taking first step to having life you really want. Select five tolerations you have been putting up with and take action on first one as soon as possible – it will make a difference! RAISE YOUR STANDARDS Do you have an “ideal client?” List his seven qualities then focus on working with clients who reach those standards. Clients who are not ideal are taking up your time and energy that otherwise could be spent with people who bring you joy. Raise your standards and work with people who appreciate you and services you provide. SET BOUNDARIES Boundaries are like a moat around your castle. The imaginary lines you establish around yourself protect your soul, heart and mind from unhealthy or damaging behavior of others. A boundary simply defines what people can and can’t do to you. Once you know what your boundaries are, then focus on what to do when someone crosses them. Use this simple four-step communication model: inform, request, demand and, if still no result, then leave. When you protect yourself with healthy boundaries, you gain respect, grow emotionally and you will attract people who have a similar respect for themselves.
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