Removing Negative Self-talk

One of the worst enemies of a business networker is THEMSELVES! Myself included, the negative self-talk has ruined an evening and forget the fact I even thought about goals to accomplish! I always knew the value of networking and I understand the principles of how to work a room. But I cannot tell you how many times I have allowed myself to bail on opportunities that have stared me in the face at an event because I allowed my social fears to get the best of me!


The funny thing is that ALL of us have been networking most of our adult lives! It is definitely not a new concept! How many weddings, showers, kids events, sporting events, reunions, birthday parties, etc. have we attended over the years? Do you realize you have been networking? Networking is simply a way to connect with others and develop relationships that will be beneficial to both parties.


The opportunities that networking brings to business settings can be maximized if you set goals for yourself. How many people would I like to meet? Who would be a good contact for me? Who would be a good source of referrals for me? How can I develop relationships with key people? Who can I help in their business? So on and so forth...


For me, knowing that everyone else has been in the negative self-talk mode at one time or another helps me deal with it. I need to reassure myself that I do have more to offer others than I think. And the same more than likely goes for my colleagues.


So get over your inhibitions, and network!

The Challenges of Diversity in the Workplace

Diversity brings on age-old challenges that should be embraced, not shunned. As groups of people from different cultures and generations continue to form our society today, we bring together a plethora of ideas, experiences, and innovation that continues to shape our world. The challenge comes when we cannot overcome the barriers we face with diversity - we are faced with fears of miscommunication and limited knowledge of our neighbors to the point of hindering relationships. How much productivity is lost because off generational and cultural diversity? How many relationships are broken because of miscommunication and/or misunderstandings? We can discover how to face the hopes and fears of diversity to create a positive work environment and effective strategic alliances. Simply, to grow our businesses we must embrace diversity. We need to work together to open up communication and get an insight to diversity that will help us focus on building healthy relationships with others.

Making Networking Efforts Work

I am currently working on a seminar to be delivered in the near future highlighting networking efforts. So many people are fearful of their efforts among other things that the opportunity to make valuable connections decreases drastically. Have you experienced any special strategies before or during a networking event that has worked for you?