Networking -beyond the exchange of business cards

Excellent and timely article on networking by Roy Shepherd on Training Zone (http://www.trainingzone.co.uk/cgi-bin/item.cgi?id=196010).

A note of caution –it’s the quality of the interaction rather than the quantity of business cards that determine the effectiveness of networking.

On occasion two or three meaningful conversations can lead to one firm opportunity rather than a collection of six or sixteen business cards.

Some networkers suggest that when you meet someone, you should give them two of your business cards, rather than one, as they may then give your card to another of their contacts. There is a danger with the two card offer, as it can result in both your business cards being discarded, as the recipient has no interest in your business and decides against passing on your card. If, however, you are asked to give additional cards, as I was recently, this is definitely worth doing, as there is a high likelihood of your card being passed on, NOT binned. My recent request for additional cards came from a consultant I met a few months ago and we are both members of a business network. No bookings as yet from giving additional cards, but I would not be surprised with enquiries from this referral.

Continue to shake more hands, exchange more cards and -yes, improve the quality of our discussions when networking!

Veronica
Website: www.executive-solutions.co.uk

Understand your Finance, Accounts & Budgets -14 May 2009 (www.Eventbrite.com)
NB. Businesses in London (5 – 249 staff) eligible for up to £1,000 training grant

What do you think are best strategies for business success in a recession? Share your views at: http://polls.linkedin.com/p/25526/lquxe
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www.executive-solutions.co.uk
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How to resolve your Financial and Accounting puzzles in 2009 -for owners and managers of small businesses

After a busy start to business in 2009, I am collaborating with a finance expert to develop a new course on understanding finance, accounting and budgeting for small business owners.

This course is our response to concerns shared by some business owners as they position their business to survive and prepare for growth during the global economic downturn. These owners feel that they need to increase their understanding instead of continuing their over reliance on their book keepers and accountants to tell them what's happening in their business. A few felt they were fortunate to have accountants who provided them with business advice on planned expansions, however, these owners feel they need to become more informed and feel comfortable asking meaningful, well-informed questions about financial information on their business.

Please email me with those financial and accounting terms that confuse you and you would like to know more about. Email: vb@executive-solutions.co.uk, with Finance and Accounting puzzles in the subject line.

Have an enjoyable week!
Veronica

PS. For businesses based in London, ensure you benefit from the Train to Gain grant for leadership and management training.

Tired of receiving poor customer service, inside and/or outside your organisation? Then, contact us for the solutions.
Speaking with Confidence (more than 80 useful tips in 30 pages)

Confident Communication and Professional Image Building, London -27 January 2009

NB. Businesses in London with 5 – 250 employees eligible to receive £1,000 training grant


Executive Solutions (Training) Ltd, London, UK
www.executive-solutions.co.uk
www.tipsbookletsinternational.com