Linked Local Network

Welcome back! This week I will continue to discuss how to create your 2014 relationship-building plan. It’s only Jan. 3. You still have time! More tips: • Determine your target markets. Spend time on the demographics. Who, what, when, why, where, how do they buy? • Answer the question, “Where are you most likely to find your target market?” In Breakthrough Networking: Building Relationships That Last , I list 13 organizations, groups and events your target markets are likely to frequent. Zero in on the few that are relevant to you. You don’t have time to try a dozen different groups, much less pay dues and activity fees. • Define where to find the organizations/events that are frequented by those who can introduce you to your target market. Be creative. Check the web for local chapters of national organizations. Peruse print and online calendars of events. Make a list of whom you already know by such categories as business; educational. professi...

As a speaker, I have the opportunity to sit through a lot of other people’s presentations. Most are enjoyable and valuable. There are those “others” – the ones where I keep thinking, “There has to be some “how” coming along with all this theory and why.” The presentation ends without it and leaves me wondering, “Is the presenter so desperate for business that s/he could not give even a few tips?” It’s a controversial topic. How much do you give the audience so they still want more and will hire you? Some say that if you give too much “away,” they won’t need you. They pretty much stick to only why … and self-promotion. Case in point: During the Q&A following a presentation on SEO, I asked the presenter for some “how to” tips because there had been none. Zero. His answer was animated. He grabbed his business card, ran over to me and said, “You have to hire me for that informatio...

With a last name like Bjorseth (B-or-seth), you might correctly guess that it has been mispronounced a few times! In fact, only people from areas with a strong Norwegian influence get it correct by just looking at it or hearing it. Frequent attempts include Bah-jor-seth, Bah-jor-sett, Jor-seth, Jor-sett and, then, those that leave even me guessing. As someone who has walked in those shoes, here’s my advice: • Make the other person’s comfort level first and foremost. If asked how to pronounce it, I will do so usually only once. If the person still mispronounces it, I smile and move on. I don’t correct anyone who introduces me at speaking or training engagements unless asked for help by the introducer. • Be sure to say your name slowly and clearly when you meet someone whether it is the first time, second or third. Keep in mind the person may not remember having met you and certainly not how to pronounce an unusual name. • Say your name whenever new ...