Tuesday, July 29, 2008
PC to Phone Solutions: Communication at Ease
The PC to phone solutions is steadily gaining momentum among the masses due to various positive reasons such as the cost-effective factor and hassle-free communication. This innovative means of connecting people from all over the world with the support of Internet telephony has offered a new dimension to connectivity. The VoIP phone providers are analysing the advantages of utilising this special kind of telephony in the place of conventional network connectivity. These advanced and latest networks have seriously changed the manner people communicate with one another. With the inception of this technology, people nowadays can easily chat, transfer files, view, and even enjoy the conference calling over the same network at a very affordable tariff rate which is very low as compared to the conventional means of communication.
How to guard your PC network
Hackers targeting confidential data pose the biggest problems for IT managers.
Now, computer scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) led by an Indian-origin researcher have developed a new model for helping these managers safeguard valuable information most efficiently.
The new model has explained three paths that an attacker can take to penetrate the network using FTP server, SSH server or database server, which would act as a guide for IT managers in securing their networks by assigning a probable risk of attack.
"We analyse all of the paths that system attackers could penetrate through a network and assign a risk to each component of the system. Decision makers can use our assigned probabilities to make wise decisions and investments to safeguard their network," said computer scientist Anoop Singhal.
Now, computer scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) led by an Indian-origin researcher have developed a new model for helping these managers safeguard valuable information most efficiently.
The new model has explained three paths that an attacker can take to penetrate the network using FTP server, SSH server or database server, which would act as a guide for IT managers in securing their networks by assigning a probable risk of attack.
"We analyse all of the paths that system attackers could penetrate through a network and assign a risk to each component of the system. Decision makers can use our assigned probabilities to make wise decisions and investments to safeguard their network," said computer scientist Anoop Singhal.
PC/LAN Support Specialist Korry Electronics Seattle
| PC/LAN Support Specialist |
| Job req # | Date posted | Pay rate/grade |
| 020750 | July 7, 2008 | Hourly |
Korry Electronics, a subsidiary of Esterline, is the internationally recognized leader in the design and manufacture of electro-optical display products, subsystems and discrete components for the aerospace and defense industries. We are a cutting-edge, industry pacesetter in many technologies (such as Night Vision and LED) that drive advances in critical applications for man-machine interfaces.
We currently have an opening for a PC/LAN Support Specialist.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Under general supervision, support current and future LAN-based PC users at Korry. Provide PC hardware, software configuration, network and telecommunications support and trouble-shooting. The technical environment is Windows, MS Office, MS Project, HP3000, MANMAN MRP, MS Exchange, MS Outlook, and MS SQL Server.
Specific Responsibilities include; responding to the Help Desk; answering common HP and PC software package "how-to" questions; answering phone and voice-mail questions; assisting with new software installations; help with maintaining the asset tracking database, diagnose and repair of minor pc/network/telecom problems; designing PC images and maintaining the library of images; leading PC deployment including inventory, needs analysis, deploy schedule, and supervising temporary help; managing assigned Websites and facilitating the company Web authors’ group; managing the printing infrastructure; providing back-up to the network administrator.
REQUIREMENTS:
- High School Diploma or G.E.D
- 5 years experience in PC and large Local Area Network and software package support with at least 2 years of Windows workstation configuration management
PREFERRED:
- Microsoft certifications
- Exposure to manufacturing and ERP concepts/familiarity with Lean concepts
- Familiarity with ITIL concepts
- Self starter, outstanding communicator, and dedicated to internal customer service
PEOPLE make it happen at Korry. Our success is built on a philosophy that encourages personal growth, involvement and individual commitment in a team environment. Korry offers many exciting benefits including educational support, three flexible weeks off during your first year of employment, a subsidized ride to work, and the opportunity to work with the best people in the business.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Wireless Network Security: How to Use Kismet
Kismet is a wireless network detector / sniffer which can give you a vast amount of information about wireless networks. Wireless network security flaws are well documented but often very hard for the common person to understand. I will be showing you how to use kismet with out even having to install Linux, or compile kismet.
First you need to proceed to remote-exploit.org and download and burn their Auditor CD. (IF you don’t know how to burn an ISO image, go to Google). This version of Linux doesn’t install or modify your hard drive; it will boot from the CD and use a Ram Drive (On your Memory).
Auditor is not only a great tool for testing wireless network security with kismet but it also has many other computer security tools on it as well.
Client Window
Next, to start Kismet proceed to the Linux version of the start menu, and press Auditor. Now proceed to the wireless /scanning/kismet tools/kismet.
Once you click on Kismet it will ask you for a default location to place the Kismet log files for analyzing later, just press the desktop or temp file.
Now I will show you how to use Kismet. When kismet initially opens you will see a greenish box with numbers and network names (If any are near you) clicking away don’t be overwhelmed. (Also I can’t show you how to use kismet if you don’t have the correct wireless adapter, get an ORINICO Gold Classic Card off EBAY.) The Orninco gold classic card will be automaticly detected by auditor linux.
The Kismet columns will show the wireless networks SSID (Name), Type of device (Access point, gateway) Encryption or no Encryption, an IP range and number of packets. Kismet will pick up hidden networks with SSID broadcast Disabled also, Netstumbler will not.
Now Press H, to bring up the Help Menu. This will give the nuts and bolts on how to use kismet. If you tab down to the network you are auditing and press “C”, Kismet will show you all the computers that are using that wireless access point / gateway. This Kismet screen will show you the clients MAC address, Manufacture of Wireless Adapter, IP address range and traffic.
Kismet: Help Menue
Now to get out of that screen press “Q”. Tab Down on the Main Kismet Screen to another SSID and press “I”. This Kismet window will show detailed information about the wireless network. The Kismet detail screen will show the type of network (Infrastructrure / Adhoc), signal strength, channel, encryption type, and much more.
Kismet will also give you sound alerts when new wireless networks are discovered or security alerts or suspicious clients are in range. Suspicious clients would be people like you who are using Kismet or Networkstumbler. Unlike you these could be Wardrivers looking for venerable networks to hack into.
Kismet Alert Page
You can prevent War drivers from discovering your wireless network by performing a proper site survey which will help limit signal bleed off to unneeded areas. You should write down the suspicious MAC address and keep an eye on your access logs. If the War Drivers are really stupid just look out your window and look for cars with weird antennas.HA HA HA.
Kismet is more than just a tool to discover wireless networks; it can be used in conjunction with other tools to crack WEP/WPA. Many websites will claim that WEP can be cracked in less that five minutes. This is only half the truth because it could take many hours,days,months to gather enough packets to crack. Good luck and have fun learning the more advanced applications of kismet.
Network Security - Methods For Controlling Threats
Since firewalls are so commonly used it is worth exploring them in greater depth. Corporations often set up rules for managing their Web connections using firewalls. A firewall enables a company to designate how all end users can use their network and decide what information is passed through Web servers and other servers.
There are several methods a firewall uses to control traffic that comes into and goes out of the network. One way firewalls do this is through packet filtering. During this process a firewall analyzes small packets of information against pre-designated filters. All data is sent via small packets of information through filters. Safe information is passed through and unsafe information is generally removed.
Another way firewalls mitigate traffic is through proxy service. This means the firewall retrieved information from the Web and sends it to the requesting computer. Still another method of traffic control used by firewall is stateful inspection. This technique allows the firewall to compare certain parts of the data packet to information gathered from trusted sources. Information going to the firewall from the Internet is monitored to determine whether it contains key characteristics that suggest the information is safe rather than harmful. Information designated as safe passes through freely and other information is blocked.
The methods a company selects will depend on a number of factors including personal preferences. Regardless of the method a firewall uses however a company or network administrator can customize the firewall to filter information based on a pre-established set of criteria.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
I Want You to Read This Before You Attend Your Next Client Meeting
American entreprenuers who live under time pressures tend to want to jump right into closing the sale before it's too late (whatever "too late" means -- with an infinite future in front of you, how can anything be too late?)
We spend almost every moment thinking about what we're going to do in the next moment. When we're with our children, our mind is on our business. When we're in the office with a client, our mind is daydreaming about our vacation. When we're supposedly listening to our spouse during a romantic dinner, we're thinking about what witty thing we are going to say next. We're always thinking about the next thing, the next event, the next task, or the next person we have to talk to at a networking event.
Our American business culture is so obsessed with managing time that we've forgotten what's important about time. When we are constantly multi-tasking, we think we're becoming more effective, but in reality we are making things far worse. That's because the person we're with immediately SENSES that our attention is on something other than them. When we don't focus our attention on hearing about a prospect's struggles, or successes, why should they focus on anything we say? When we don't value them, why should they value us?
Only you can stop yourself from obsessing about how little time you have. It is just part of our human nature to ALWAYS have far more to do than we have time available. Focus instead on making every prospect and client moment count. When you are in a room full of over a hundred small business owners, treat every moment together as though no one else in the room is more important - even if that moment is for just the blink of an eye. You may not even need to say many words, and yet you'll communicate to clients how special they are. In many Asian cultures, for example, people recognize and practice the concepts of "face" and harmony in ways Westerners do not. Beign direct and "getting all the issues out on the table" can be a good thing (according to the Western view), but the Asian approach of setting some conflicts and business agendas aside for the sake of maintaining a harmonious client meeting or respectful communication is equally legitimate. With everything you do in your business, you will become far more effective.
Now, here is one simple tip that is so profound, that it will immediately connect you at a DEEPER level with your clients. Whenever you are with another person, whether for a second or for several minutes, look into their eyes and focus on remembering everything about their eyes - the color, the shape, the length of their eyelashes. Look at every little red line in the whites of their eyes, see their shape and size. Stay focused on their eyes until you're sure you can recount every detail.
What will happen when you do this? Individuals will sense that your attention is nowhere else but on them. This will make them feel special. They will feel drawn to you, and soak up the undivided attention. You will see that the other person is actually listening to everything you're saying. Eliciting a desired win-win response will become easier and easier. And, once you experience that, you won't want to go back to looking at another person in the old way again. Each time you encounter another person, you will see their WORTH, and they will see yours. I guarantee that this will attract more paying clients, just the same way it has attracted all the local and global clients I need, so that I work less and make more money.
We spend almost every moment thinking about what we're going to do in the next moment. When we're with our children, our mind is on our business. When we're in the office with a client, our mind is daydreaming about our vacation. When we're supposedly listening to our spouse during a romantic dinner, we're thinking about what witty thing we are going to say next. We're always thinking about the next thing, the next event, the next task, or the next person we have to talk to at a networking event.
Our American business culture is so obsessed with managing time that we've forgotten what's important about time. When we are constantly multi-tasking, we think we're becoming more effective, but in reality we are making things far worse. That's because the person we're with immediately SENSES that our attention is on something other than them. When we don't focus our attention on hearing about a prospect's struggles, or successes, why should they focus on anything we say? When we don't value them, why should they value us?
Only you can stop yourself from obsessing about how little time you have. It is just part of our human nature to ALWAYS have far more to do than we have time available. Focus instead on making every prospect and client moment count. When you are in a room full of over a hundred small business owners, treat every moment together as though no one else in the room is more important - even if that moment is for just the blink of an eye. You may not even need to say many words, and yet you'll communicate to clients how special they are. In many Asian cultures, for example, people recognize and practice the concepts of "face" and harmony in ways Westerners do not. Beign direct and "getting all the issues out on the table" can be a good thing (according to the Western view), but the Asian approach of setting some conflicts and business agendas aside for the sake of maintaining a harmonious client meeting or respectful communication is equally legitimate. With everything you do in your business, you will become far more effective.
Now, here is one simple tip that is so profound, that it will immediately connect you at a DEEPER level with your clients. Whenever you are with another person, whether for a second or for several minutes, look into their eyes and focus on remembering everything about their eyes - the color, the shape, the length of their eyelashes. Look at every little red line in the whites of their eyes, see their shape and size. Stay focused on their eyes until you're sure you can recount every detail.
What will happen when you do this? Individuals will sense that your attention is nowhere else but on them. This will make them feel special. They will feel drawn to you, and soak up the undivided attention. You will see that the other person is actually listening to everything you're saying. Eliciting a desired win-win response will become easier and easier. And, once you experience that, you won't want to go back to looking at another person in the old way again. Each time you encounter another person, you will see their WORTH, and they will see yours. I guarantee that this will attract more paying clients, just the same way it has attracted all the local and global clients I need, so that I work less and make more money.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Five Key Networking Tips for Inventors
While the swift cut-and-parry of creation is the heart of an inventor's life, there is another important component - networking. Let's face it; no matter how great your invention may be, you can always benefit from talented professionals in your field that might be willing to lend a hand.
Maybe it's that database programmer you've been scouring the earth for, or that distributor you need to get your product on store shelves, or a patent attorney to make sure your intellectual property is protected. Whatever the case may be, there are steps you can take to put yourself in the path of networking success.
In this article, we will examine five of the most helpful. By applying these tips to your day-to-day efforts, you will increase your odds of meeting the people you need to move your invention forward.
1) Have a clean, approachable website.
The benefit of having a simple website to send people to cannot be stressed enough. Let's say you are at a party or industry conference. Suddenly, you meet a new colleague and the two of you get to talking about your respective projects and goals.
As the conversation comes to a close, the colleague asks you, "So, how can I stay abreast of what you're up to, how can we keep in touch?" If you are networking-savvy inventor, you will reply, "Oh, no problem! My website is www.JohnDokes.com, it has all my contact information and what I'm working on. Check up on me there from time to time!"
This is extremely simple to do. Your website does not have to be flashy or fancy; a clean, black text on white background HTML layout will do just fine. As mentioned, your website should include your name, profession, hobbies, and areas of expertise, achievements, and maybe a periodical blurb about what things of importance you are working on at the time.
2) Print business cards and carry them at all times.
But what happens when you meet someone on the fly? There isn't always time to scribble down web URLs or phone numbers, and lack of preparedness could kill an otherwise great networking contact. Fortunately, this does not have to befall you. The solution is a timeless standby of professionals everywhere: business cards! Simply visit your local Kinkos and print up 200 standard business cards with your name, e-mail address, mobile phone, and anything else you deem relevant. Then, make a point of carrying 5-10 of them in your wallet with you at all times. With business cards in tow, you will be able to capitalize on networking opportunities wherever you happen to be - on vacation, at restaurants or coffee shops, even in the grocery store. You truly never know when you will meet someone important.
3) Consider a separate phone line or wireless phone for professional purposes.
While not an absolute necessity, you need to consider how a potential contact or partner might perceive you. If they call your house line and hear lots of family commotion in the background, it might send the message that you are ill-prepared to take on a serious venture of any kind. Whether this is reasonable to infer or not, perception is reality for many people. Therefore, it might make sense to get a separate landline or wireless phone for your professional needs. You would then print this number on your website and business cards instead of your house phone. A wireless phone is best because you can carry it with you and never miss an important call. In addition to upholding your professionalism, doing this also helps you delineate between different areas of your life.
4) Follow leads wherever they may appear.
Anyone who has been in business for long knows that leads and opportunities can crop up almost anywhere, at any time. It is not uncommon for new business partners to meet on vacation, over dinner and drinks, or while playing golf at a country club. Therefore, you should keep this in the back of your mind and be ready to pounce on new opportunities as they arise. If you are out on the green with someone and you get to talking about your professions, there is no shame in "testing the waters" and seeing if he is interested in new projects. Do not assume that just because you aren't in a business setting, you cannot pursue business leads. Truly successful inventors are creative and resourceful.
5) Use the direct approach whenever possible and appropriate.
Many people take a passive approach to life. Instead of acting to bring about some outcome, they simply hope it comes to be through osmosis. When it comes to networking, this attitude is a death sentence. If you want to meet the best people and bring them into the fold, you need to proactively seek them out. Let's say you are in desperate need of a graphic designer, for instance. Throw up an ad on Rent-A-Coder that says you're looking for one! Better yet, ask around your circle of friends and contacts to see if they know anyone with the skills you need. This is how networking happens. Of course, you should seek to establish some kind of relationship with a person before you just mine them for contacts. You wouldn't want to bombard someone you just met. But by all means: once you are on good terms with someone, feel free to ask them who they know.
Apply these tips to your inventing and you will soon find that networking is not so difficult and it can make the difference between a successful invention and a failed one.
Maybe it's that database programmer you've been scouring the earth for, or that distributor you need to get your product on store shelves, or a patent attorney to make sure your intellectual property is protected. Whatever the case may be, there are steps you can take to put yourself in the path of networking success.
In this article, we will examine five of the most helpful. By applying these tips to your day-to-day efforts, you will increase your odds of meeting the people you need to move your invention forward.
1) Have a clean, approachable website.
The benefit of having a simple website to send people to cannot be stressed enough. Let's say you are at a party or industry conference. Suddenly, you meet a new colleague and the two of you get to talking about your respective projects and goals.
As the conversation comes to a close, the colleague asks you, "So, how can I stay abreast of what you're up to, how can we keep in touch?" If you are networking-savvy inventor, you will reply, "Oh, no problem! My website is www.JohnDokes.com, it has all my contact information and what I'm working on. Check up on me there from time to time!"
This is extremely simple to do. Your website does not have to be flashy or fancy; a clean, black text on white background HTML layout will do just fine. As mentioned, your website should include your name, profession, hobbies, and areas of expertise, achievements, and maybe a periodical blurb about what things of importance you are working on at the time.
2) Print business cards and carry them at all times.
But what happens when you meet someone on the fly? There isn't always time to scribble down web URLs or phone numbers, and lack of preparedness could kill an otherwise great networking contact. Fortunately, this does not have to befall you. The solution is a timeless standby of professionals everywhere: business cards! Simply visit your local Kinkos and print up 200 standard business cards with your name, e-mail address, mobile phone, and anything else you deem relevant. Then, make a point of carrying 5-10 of them in your wallet with you at all times. With business cards in tow, you will be able to capitalize on networking opportunities wherever you happen to be - on vacation, at restaurants or coffee shops, even in the grocery store. You truly never know when you will meet someone important.
3) Consider a separate phone line or wireless phone for professional purposes.
While not an absolute necessity, you need to consider how a potential contact or partner might perceive you. If they call your house line and hear lots of family commotion in the background, it might send the message that you are ill-prepared to take on a serious venture of any kind. Whether this is reasonable to infer or not, perception is reality for many people. Therefore, it might make sense to get a separate landline or wireless phone for your professional needs. You would then print this number on your website and business cards instead of your house phone. A wireless phone is best because you can carry it with you and never miss an important call. In addition to upholding your professionalism, doing this also helps you delineate between different areas of your life.
4) Follow leads wherever they may appear.
Anyone who has been in business for long knows that leads and opportunities can crop up almost anywhere, at any time. It is not uncommon for new business partners to meet on vacation, over dinner and drinks, or while playing golf at a country club. Therefore, you should keep this in the back of your mind and be ready to pounce on new opportunities as they arise. If you are out on the green with someone and you get to talking about your professions, there is no shame in "testing the waters" and seeing if he is interested in new projects. Do not assume that just because you aren't in a business setting, you cannot pursue business leads. Truly successful inventors are creative and resourceful.
5) Use the direct approach whenever possible and appropriate.
Many people take a passive approach to life. Instead of acting to bring about some outcome, they simply hope it comes to be through osmosis. When it comes to networking, this attitude is a death sentence. If you want to meet the best people and bring them into the fold, you need to proactively seek them out. Let's say you are in desperate need of a graphic designer, for instance. Throw up an ad on Rent-A-Coder that says you're looking for one! Better yet, ask around your circle of friends and contacts to see if they know anyone with the skills you need. This is how networking happens. Of course, you should seek to establish some kind of relationship with a person before you just mine them for contacts. You wouldn't want to bombard someone you just met. But by all means: once you are on good terms with someone, feel free to ask them who they know.
Apply these tips to your inventing and you will soon find that networking is not so difficult and it can make the difference between a successful invention and a failed one.
Soft Goods Networking
Soft goods are those items that help with the convenience of everyday life. There are different categories of soft goods out of which some are medical soft goods including lab coats, braces etc. Soft goods networking is amongst the very difficult tasks to carry out.
One mandatory thing is for the sender and the receiver to both have a friendly environment to accommodate the transactions without causing trouble. For stable soft goods networking, the computer on which the environment is saved needs to be reliable. For the networking to be fast and efficient, the Internet should be the mode of soft goods networking.
There are certain systems in which the purchase may be made after a trial use, limited to a certain period. This is more reliable, as it lets the buyer feel safer and less at risk of being duped. The goods may be replaced or returned if defective or unusable. There is a long list of things that are available and online sites carry different images and product details to help you make an informed decision.
At walk in shops, there are usually products that are out of stock or not available due to various reasons. In case you like something and it is out of stock you may be able to look it up on the Internet, access its different versions online, and buy the option you like. The network gives a vast choice of soft goods to choose from and reasonable prices to go with it. Soft goods networking also provides its customers with a door delivery service.
One mandatory thing is for the sender and the receiver to both have a friendly environment to accommodate the transactions without causing trouble. For stable soft goods networking, the computer on which the environment is saved needs to be reliable. For the networking to be fast and efficient, the Internet should be the mode of soft goods networking.
There are certain systems in which the purchase may be made after a trial use, limited to a certain period. This is more reliable, as it lets the buyer feel safer and less at risk of being duped. The goods may be replaced or returned if defective or unusable. There is a long list of things that are available and online sites carry different images and product details to help you make an informed decision.
At walk in shops, there are usually products that are out of stock or not available due to various reasons. In case you like something and it is out of stock you may be able to look it up on the Internet, access its different versions online, and buy the option you like. The network gives a vast choice of soft goods to choose from and reasonable prices to go with it. Soft goods networking also provides its customers with a door delivery service.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Broadband - Going Underground, Broadband Through Sewers
You know what it's like, another day, another commute to work, another set of roadworks somewhere along the way. Chances are they're probably working on the telecoms cables beneath the surface.
However, the idea of running a fibre-optic network beneath the surface could soon come into practice.
Fibre-optic cables transmit data using light pulses down glass or plastic fibres - which are not prone to outside interference, and could therefore help deliver ultra-fast broadband across the UK.
Such cabling networks are already being implemented in Japan, but also in some cities - such as Paris - making use of vast sewer systems in order to deliver high-speed broadband connections through fibre-optic cabling to homes and businesses.
With a sewer network of over 360,000 miles existing in the UK, the idea of threading cables through underground pipes in order to help deliver high-speed broadband services may sound far-fetched, but it could soon become a reality.
A networking firm in Wales are currently in talks with several councils about the possibility of laying fibre-optic cables - which could potentially lead to faster broadband services becoming available, whilst eliminating the need to spend time and money digging up the roads.
Universities in Aberdeen, Bournemouth and Bath have been used to trial such methods of cabling on a small scale. However the firm have been negotiating with councils and water boards to try and strike a deal which could see fibre-optic cabling being laid over wider areas.
Cables would lie up to five metres below the surface, and as fibre optic cabling is believed to be less prone to erosion and rust, it could prove to be the next phase in delivering ultra-fast broadband connections across the UK.
However, the idea of running a fibre-optic network beneath the surface could soon come into practice.
Fibre-optic cables transmit data using light pulses down glass or plastic fibres - which are not prone to outside interference, and could therefore help deliver ultra-fast broadband across the UK.
Such cabling networks are already being implemented in Japan, but also in some cities - such as Paris - making use of vast sewer systems in order to deliver high-speed broadband connections through fibre-optic cabling to homes and businesses.
With a sewer network of over 360,000 miles existing in the UK, the idea of threading cables through underground pipes in order to help deliver high-speed broadband services may sound far-fetched, but it could soon become a reality.
A networking firm in Wales are currently in talks with several councils about the possibility of laying fibre-optic cables - which could potentially lead to faster broadband services becoming available, whilst eliminating the need to spend time and money digging up the roads.
Universities in Aberdeen, Bournemouth and Bath have been used to trial such methods of cabling on a small scale. However the firm have been negotiating with councils and water boards to try and strike a deal which could see fibre-optic cabling being laid over wider areas.
Cables would lie up to five metres below the surface, and as fibre optic cabling is believed to be less prone to erosion and rust, it could prove to be the next phase in delivering ultra-fast broadband connections across the UK.
Broadband Internet - For a High Speed Connection
In this infotainment arena, technology is playing a vital role in changing yesterday's world into the latest high-tech world. High speed internet has made world come closer, as it offers hassle-free communication with the benefit of cost effectiveness. In the technical world, high speed internet is referred to as broadband internet. This allows users to access information at a higher speed compared to the dial-up access over the modem.
The broadband internet or broadband access is getting popular among users to operate information on the desktop or laptop computer. The broadband technology handles the user's operations with a speed ranging from 64kbits to 1.0Mbits. The high-speed connection offers seamless connectivity with excellent results.
The users have access to information on the internet at a faster speed. This has been made possible with a built-in high-speed modem. The users can avail the broadband internet connection in form of DSL, cable or satellite. DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line; it allows users to transmit a high volume of data, voice, images and videos quickly.
Broadband technology has been applied to the realm of communications also - with very positive results. With broadband internet, it has become very easy to chat and connect with near and dear ones at significantly lower rates. Moreover, the speed is 10 times faster compared to the dial-up connection that allows users to access information in a fraction of seconds. The high-speed connection does not get disconnected during peak hours also.
The broadband connection does not hinder the operation of telephone lines. Unlike a dial-up connection over the modem, broadband provides access to receive or make calls on the telephone line, even when the internet is in use. In the early ages of the broadband, it was very expensive and now with the passage of time, it is in the reach of even average users.
The broadband internet or broadband access is getting popular among users to operate information on the desktop or laptop computer. The broadband technology handles the user's operations with a speed ranging from 64kbits to 1.0Mbits. The high-speed connection offers seamless connectivity with excellent results.
The users have access to information on the internet at a faster speed. This has been made possible with a built-in high-speed modem. The users can avail the broadband internet connection in form of DSL, cable or satellite. DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line; it allows users to transmit a high volume of data, voice, images and videos quickly.
Broadband technology has been applied to the realm of communications also - with very positive results. With broadband internet, it has become very easy to chat and connect with near and dear ones at significantly lower rates. Moreover, the speed is 10 times faster compared to the dial-up connection that allows users to access information in a fraction of seconds. The high-speed connection does not get disconnected during peak hours also.
The broadband connection does not hinder the operation of telephone lines. Unlike a dial-up connection over the modem, broadband provides access to receive or make calls on the telephone line, even when the internet is in use. In the early ages of the broadband, it was very expensive and now with the passage of time, it is in the reach of even average users.
Monday, February 18, 2008
How To Get Consistent Referrals
How many times have we heard the saying "Hope is not a plan," and thought "Yikes! I should probably take a look at my marketing calendar." Many of us get caught up in day to day operations and completely forget to plan. It's only when referrals are low or non-existent that we begin to think about marketing.
When was the last time you communicated with your referring clients? Generally you should be in touch with your clients monthly to bi-monthly, minimally-- depending on your field. If you can't remember the last time you contacted your clients, you may benefit from using a referral marketing calendar. Depending on your preferences, your marketing calendar could be electronic or a hard copy paper calendar.
It can be difficult, stressful, and sometimes completely ineffective to plan and execute marketing activities on a whim. Schedule time each week to review, update, and develop your referral marketing calendar. After you've entered activities on your calendar, print out the current month and hang it near your desk. It is helpful to have something tangible to remind you and help keep you on track. Be sure to also document the following:
1. Money invested.
2. Time invested.
3. Results derived.
4. Repeat activity or reject activity (based on results/return on investment).
Keep special occasions in mind when planning your activities, such as holidays, special client anniversaries, and events related to your particular business.
When was the last time you communicated with your referring clients? Generally you should be in touch with your clients monthly to bi-monthly, minimally-- depending on your field. If you can't remember the last time you contacted your clients, you may benefit from using a referral marketing calendar. Depending on your preferences, your marketing calendar could be electronic or a hard copy paper calendar.
It can be difficult, stressful, and sometimes completely ineffective to plan and execute marketing activities on a whim. Schedule time each week to review, update, and develop your referral marketing calendar. After you've entered activities on your calendar, print out the current month and hang it near your desk. It is helpful to have something tangible to remind you and help keep you on track. Be sure to also document the following:
1. Money invested.
2. Time invested.
3. Results derived.
4. Repeat activity or reject activity (based on results/return on investment).
Keep special occasions in mind when planning your activities, such as holidays, special client anniversaries, and events related to your particular business.
Networking - 10 Ways to Survive and Thrive at Networking Events
Are you attending a networking event? It can be intimidating if you don't know what to say and do.
Here are 10 tips to help you survive and thrive at networking events:
1. Arrive as early as you can. You'll avoid the angst of walking into a room full of strangers. Even better, you'll avoid having to look for a seat while everyone stares at you, or has to move over to make room for you at the table.
2. When you meet someone new, stand up and shake their hand. Maintain good eye contact.
3. Prepare a few questions to get the conversation started. It might be about the event or venue, or how often they have attended in the past.
4. Bring lots of business cards, and have them available. You'll avoid having to rummage through your bag or pockets trying to locate them.
5. Exchange business cards at the start of the meeting. You can place the cards you receive in front of you, in the order that people are sitting around the table.
6. Be prepared to introduce yourself and your services. Plan your introduction so you aren't caught like a deer in the headlights.
7. Prepare any materials you will present, including notes from the last meeting.
8. Be curious about the other people at the meeting, and be a good listener. You'll pick up interesting ways to connect afterwards.
9. Look for ways to help others. You may not need the product or service of someone in the group, but you may know someone who does. Go out of your way to help them. You never know when they will do the same for you.
10. Follow up afterwards. Nothing happens without follow up. Arrange to meet for lunch or coffee, or at one of your offices.
Here are 10 tips to help you survive and thrive at networking events:
1. Arrive as early as you can. You'll avoid the angst of walking into a room full of strangers. Even better, you'll avoid having to look for a seat while everyone stares at you, or has to move over to make room for you at the table.
2. When you meet someone new, stand up and shake their hand. Maintain good eye contact.
3. Prepare a few questions to get the conversation started. It might be about the event or venue, or how often they have attended in the past.
4. Bring lots of business cards, and have them available. You'll avoid having to rummage through your bag or pockets trying to locate them.
5. Exchange business cards at the start of the meeting. You can place the cards you receive in front of you, in the order that people are sitting around the table.
6. Be prepared to introduce yourself and your services. Plan your introduction so you aren't caught like a deer in the headlights.
7. Prepare any materials you will present, including notes from the last meeting.
8. Be curious about the other people at the meeting, and be a good listener. You'll pick up interesting ways to connect afterwards.
9. Look for ways to help others. You may not need the product or service of someone in the group, but you may know someone who does. Go out of your way to help them. You never know when they will do the same for you.
10. Follow up afterwards. Nothing happens without follow up. Arrange to meet for lunch or coffee, or at one of your offices.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Whine Tasting - Top 5 Excuses for Networking
Networking is such an incredible tool for everyone, regardless of your profession, industry or trade. When used properly and effectively, networking can yield incredible results that can last a lifetime. So why are we not networking more and developing our communication skills, creativity, resources etc.? Listed below are the main excuses for why most people choose not to network. This article is designed to encourage the reader to dispel common myths associated with networking and become an Elite Networking Champion!
Excuse #1: I do not need to Network.
This is the most common excuse that could be far from the truth. There is no one definition of networking. Many people view networking as getting a job, internship or maneuvering through a career transition. On the contrary, networking can be whatever you need for it to be according to your professional or social endeavors. It should be viewed as a lifestyle and not a moment event. Networking should be a continuous part of your social and professional development. Also, networking should not be restricted to simply business functions, events, meetings, interviews, etc. Networking can occur anywhere, anytime and with anyone.
Excuse #2: I do not like to Network.
Once again, you must define what is considered networking and outline the benefits of networking. Networking offers you a chance to develop connections with people and build relationships for success. You can gain resources, knowledge, services, products, etc. that can help you advance in your career or academics. Networking allows you to make strategic partnerships that can save you precious time and money. It is also a skill that can improve your communication with others and enhance your professional approach in business matters.
Excuse #3: I am not good at Networking.
The more times you practice and utilize networking, the better you become. In order to become good at networking, you must be consistent. One of the best ways to achieve that goal is to join a chamber of commerce or professional organization. There will already be a structure or model in place to facilitate effective networking activities. Prepare for each networking event and create a list of goals that you would like to achieve from networking. At networking events, make it a point to build pre-mature relationships with your business counterparts and follow up in a timely manner.
Excuse #4: Networking does not work for me.
Many people try networking a few times, are not satisfied with the results and ultimately quit. We believe that networking is for everybody. If you tried networking and did not achieve much success, change your approach towards networking. Find a different organization to attend events. Ask friends and colleagues about various networking opportunities. Join associations or clubs that you are passionate about because networking does not have to be strictly business.
Excuse #5: I do not like Networking/attending events alone.
When you are starting out, you might have to attend events alone and network by yourself. But eventually, you will meet new people, join groups and have a network of your own. Do not be discouraged or become an introvert when attending functions. Do your best to actively meet and connect with people.
Excuse #1: I do not need to Network.
This is the most common excuse that could be far from the truth. There is no one definition of networking. Many people view networking as getting a job, internship or maneuvering through a career transition. On the contrary, networking can be whatever you need for it to be according to your professional or social endeavors. It should be viewed as a lifestyle and not a moment event. Networking should be a continuous part of your social and professional development. Also, networking should not be restricted to simply business functions, events, meetings, interviews, etc. Networking can occur anywhere, anytime and with anyone.
Excuse #2: I do not like to Network.
Once again, you must define what is considered networking and outline the benefits of networking. Networking offers you a chance to develop connections with people and build relationships for success. You can gain resources, knowledge, services, products, etc. that can help you advance in your career or academics. Networking allows you to make strategic partnerships that can save you precious time and money. It is also a skill that can improve your communication with others and enhance your professional approach in business matters.
Excuse #3: I am not good at Networking.
The more times you practice and utilize networking, the better you become. In order to become good at networking, you must be consistent. One of the best ways to achieve that goal is to join a chamber of commerce or professional organization. There will already be a structure or model in place to facilitate effective networking activities. Prepare for each networking event and create a list of goals that you would like to achieve from networking. At networking events, make it a point to build pre-mature relationships with your business counterparts and follow up in a timely manner.
Excuse #4: Networking does not work for me.
Many people try networking a few times, are not satisfied with the results and ultimately quit. We believe that networking is for everybody. If you tried networking and did not achieve much success, change your approach towards networking. Find a different organization to attend events. Ask friends and colleagues about various networking opportunities. Join associations or clubs that you are passionate about because networking does not have to be strictly business.
Excuse #5: I do not like Networking/attending events alone.
When you are starting out, you might have to attend events alone and network by yourself. But eventually, you will meet new people, join groups and have a network of your own. Do not be discouraged or become an introvert when attending functions. Do your best to actively meet and connect with people.
Nine Networking Tips for Success
When you enter the networking mixer do you feel like you have a two-foot perimeter of open space surrounding you? Everyone seems to be comfortably settled into clusters as they socialize unaware of your presence. You try to make eye contact but you don't recognize anyone. You search for the bar. Even though you're not thirsty, having something in your hand might make you appear to be festive and casual.
Walking determinedly across the room makes you look powerful, you hope. Time stands still. You make idle chat with the bar tender, waiting to be rescued from this miserable time warp. Even though you were hoping to make business contacts, you're not sure about the approach. Let's face it, you can't just walk up to a stranger and say, "Hey by the way I'm with A-1 Plumbing, do you have any clogged drains?" You decide to leave after 30 minute networking is too uncomfortable. Oh well, at least you showed up. Maybe it'll be better next time.
Whether you are just out of college, in career transition or building a successful business, networking is a necessity to form lasting business relationships that lead to referrals. Here are some tips to make your networking pay off.
Do your research
Before you go to a networking function, decide whom you want to meet in advance and why you want to meet them. Go to your Business Journal's Book of Lists or the membership roster to learn more about the attendees and members. If the people you want to meet have a website, visit it and when you meet them, you now have something to comment on. People are flattered when you are interested enough to find out about them before actually meeting them.
Act like a host
By calling new members of your organization before the mixer and inviting them to meet you there, you accomplish several things: You help them become acclimated into the club, you have someone to introduce around and you make a new business acquaintance that will be grateful for your leadership.
Play matchmaker
Become a resource person by thinking ahead of how you can help others get leads and referrals. Make a mental note of how to get these contacts together. Go one step further by making a few phone calls before the meeting so you can facilitate the introductions.
Take your business cards
I have been to so many functions where someone could have had my business or a good lead, but they didn't have a card. The excuses range from running out to being in a career transition-all the more reason to have at least a generic model. If you are in transition or a graduating college student, chances are you are looking for a position. Have a plain card with your name, phone number and e-mail. If you want to be creative you might also include a favorite quote. It will serve as a conversation piece or an icebreaker.
Get their card
Novices at networking regularly fail to ask others for their card. A rule of thumb: if they ask for your card it means they are interested. Return the request immediately by asking for theirs and jot down any information on the back of the card that might jog your memory later. It's actually more important to get their card because that puts you in a position of control if you decide you need to contact them in the future.
Focus on the relationship
Even though it's important to exchange business cards, the purpose of networking isn't a competition to collect business cards, nor is it to conduct business. The focus should be on meeting new people and establishing new business and professional relationships.
Polish your communication skills
Be in the present moment by using good eye contact and smiling. It's rude to stare, but it's also impolite to have darting eyes suggesting that there is someone more interesting across the room. Listen and ask questions more than you speak. No one wants to be around a know-it-all or a bore. Read body language. Recognize that if someone is rubbing their neck, yawning or has darting eyes, they are probably bored or simply lack good communication skills. Make a gracious exit.
Let others join in
There is nothing more miserable than to be standing outside a circle of people who are so engrossed in conversation that you feel ignored. Become observant to those who seem lost and invite them into the conversation by saying, "join us...we were just talking about..." Then at an appropriate time introduce yourself to them and introduce them to the group.
Walking determinedly across the room makes you look powerful, you hope. Time stands still. You make idle chat with the bar tender, waiting to be rescued from this miserable time warp. Even though you were hoping to make business contacts, you're not sure about the approach. Let's face it, you can't just walk up to a stranger and say, "Hey by the way I'm with A-1 Plumbing, do you have any clogged drains?" You decide to leave after 30 minute networking is too uncomfortable. Oh well, at least you showed up. Maybe it'll be better next time.
Whether you are just out of college, in career transition or building a successful business, networking is a necessity to form lasting business relationships that lead to referrals. Here are some tips to make your networking pay off.
Do your research
Before you go to a networking function, decide whom you want to meet in advance and why you want to meet them. Go to your Business Journal's Book of Lists or the membership roster to learn more about the attendees and members. If the people you want to meet have a website, visit it and when you meet them, you now have something to comment on. People are flattered when you are interested enough to find out about them before actually meeting them.
Act like a host
By calling new members of your organization before the mixer and inviting them to meet you there, you accomplish several things: You help them become acclimated into the club, you have someone to introduce around and you make a new business acquaintance that will be grateful for your leadership.
Play matchmaker
Become a resource person by thinking ahead of how you can help others get leads and referrals. Make a mental note of how to get these contacts together. Go one step further by making a few phone calls before the meeting so you can facilitate the introductions.
Take your business cards
I have been to so many functions where someone could have had my business or a good lead, but they didn't have a card. The excuses range from running out to being in a career transition-all the more reason to have at least a generic model. If you are in transition or a graduating college student, chances are you are looking for a position. Have a plain card with your name, phone number and e-mail. If you want to be creative you might also include a favorite quote. It will serve as a conversation piece or an icebreaker.
Get their card
Novices at networking regularly fail to ask others for their card. A rule of thumb: if they ask for your card it means they are interested. Return the request immediately by asking for theirs and jot down any information on the back of the card that might jog your memory later. It's actually more important to get their card because that puts you in a position of control if you decide you need to contact them in the future.
Focus on the relationship
Even though it's important to exchange business cards, the purpose of networking isn't a competition to collect business cards, nor is it to conduct business. The focus should be on meeting new people and establishing new business and professional relationships.
Polish your communication skills
Be in the present moment by using good eye contact and smiling. It's rude to stare, but it's also impolite to have darting eyes suggesting that there is someone more interesting across the room. Listen and ask questions more than you speak. No one wants to be around a know-it-all or a bore. Read body language. Recognize that if someone is rubbing their neck, yawning or has darting eyes, they are probably bored or simply lack good communication skills. Make a gracious exit.
Let others join in
There is nothing more miserable than to be standing outside a circle of people who are so engrossed in conversation that you feel ignored. Become observant to those who seem lost and invite them into the conversation by saying, "join us...we were just talking about..." Then at an appropriate time introduce yourself to them and introduce them to the group.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Whine Tasting - Top 5 Excuses for Networking
Networking is such an incredible tool for everyone, regardless of your profession, industry or trade. When used properly and effectively, networking can yield incredible results that can last a lifetime. So why are we not networking more and developing our communication skills, creativity, resources etc.? Listed below are the main excuses for why most people choose not to network. This article is designed to encourage the reader to dispel common myths associated with networking and become an Elite Networking Champion!
Excuse #1: I do not need to Network.
This is the most common excuse that could be far from the truth. There is no one definition of networking. Many people view networking as getting a job, internship or maneuvering through a career transition. On the contrary, networking can be whatever you need for it to be according to your professional or social endeavors. It should be viewed as a lifestyle and not a moment event. Networking should be a continuous part of your social and professional development. Also, networking should not be restricted to simply business functions, events, meetings, interviews, etc. Networking can occur anywhere, anytime and with anyone.
Excuse #2: I do not like to Network.
Once again, you must define what is considered networking and outline the benefits of networking. Networking offers you a chance to develop connections with people and build relationships for success. You can gain resources, knowledge, services, products, etc. that can help you advance in your career or academics. Networking allows you to make strategic partnerships that can save you precious time and money. It is also a skill that can improve your communication with others and enhance your professional approach in business matters.
Excuse #3: I am not good at Networking.
The more times you practice and utilize networking, the better you become. In order to become good at networking, you must be consistent. One of the best ways to achieve that goal is to join a chamber of commerce or professional organization. There will already be a structure or model in place to facilitate effective networking activities. Prepare for each networking event and create a list of goals that you would like to achieve from networking. At networking events, make it a point to build pre-mature relationships with your business counterparts and follow up in a timely manner.
Excuse #4: Networking does not work for me.
Many people try networking a few times, are not satisfied with the results and ultimately quit. We believe that networking is for everybody. If you tried networking and did not achieve much success, change your approach towards networking. Find a different organization to attend events. Ask friends and colleagues about various networking opportunities. Join associations or clubs that you are passionate about because networking does not have to be strictly business.
Excuse #5: I do not like Networking/attending events alone.
When you are starting out, you might have to attend events alone and network by yourself. But eventually, you will meet new people, join groups and have a network of your own. Do not be discouraged or become an introvert when attending functions. Do your best to actively meet and connect with people.
Excuse #1: I do not need to Network.
This is the most common excuse that could be far from the truth. There is no one definition of networking. Many people view networking as getting a job, internship or maneuvering through a career transition. On the contrary, networking can be whatever you need for it to be according to your professional or social endeavors. It should be viewed as a lifestyle and not a moment event. Networking should be a continuous part of your social and professional development. Also, networking should not be restricted to simply business functions, events, meetings, interviews, etc. Networking can occur anywhere, anytime and with anyone.
Excuse #2: I do not like to Network.
Once again, you must define what is considered networking and outline the benefits of networking. Networking offers you a chance to develop connections with people and build relationships for success. You can gain resources, knowledge, services, products, etc. that can help you advance in your career or academics. Networking allows you to make strategic partnerships that can save you precious time and money. It is also a skill that can improve your communication with others and enhance your professional approach in business matters.
Excuse #3: I am not good at Networking.
The more times you practice and utilize networking, the better you become. In order to become good at networking, you must be consistent. One of the best ways to achieve that goal is to join a chamber of commerce or professional organization. There will already be a structure or model in place to facilitate effective networking activities. Prepare for each networking event and create a list of goals that you would like to achieve from networking. At networking events, make it a point to build pre-mature relationships with your business counterparts and follow up in a timely manner.
Excuse #4: Networking does not work for me.
Many people try networking a few times, are not satisfied with the results and ultimately quit. We believe that networking is for everybody. If you tried networking and did not achieve much success, change your approach towards networking. Find a different organization to attend events. Ask friends and colleagues about various networking opportunities. Join associations or clubs that you are passionate about because networking does not have to be strictly business.
Excuse #5: I do not like Networking/attending events alone.
When you are starting out, you might have to attend events alone and network by yourself. But eventually, you will meet new people, join groups and have a network of your own. Do not be discouraged or become an introvert when attending functions. Do your best to actively meet and connect with people.
Nine Networking Tips for Success
When you enter the networking mixer do you feel like you have a two-foot perimeter of open space surrounding you? Everyone seems to be comfortably settled into clusters as they socialize unaware of your presence. You try to make eye contact but you don't recognize anyone. You search for the bar. Even though you're not thirsty, having something in your hand might make you appear to be festive and casual.
Walking determinedly across the room makes you look powerful, you hope. Time stands still. You make idle chat with the bar tender, waiting to be rescued from this miserable time warp. Even though you were hoping to make business contacts, you're not sure about the approach. Let's face it, you can't just walk up to a stranger and say, "Hey by the way I'm with A-1 Plumbing, do you have any clogged drains?" You decide to leave after 30 minute networking is too uncomfortable. Oh well, at least you showed up. Maybe it'll be better next time.
Whether you are just out of college, in career transition or building a successful business, networking is a necessity to form lasting business relationships that lead to referrals. Here are some tips to make your networking pay off.
Do your research
Before you go to a networking function, decide whom you want to meet in advance and why you want to meet them. Go to your Business Journal's Book of Lists or the membership roster to learn more about the attendees and members. If the people you want to meet have a website, visit it and when you meet them, you now have something to comment on. People are flattered when you are interested enough to find out about them before actually meeting them.
Act like a host
By calling new members of your organization before the mixer and inviting them to meet you there, you accomplish several things: You help them become acclimated into the club, you have someone to introduce around and you make a new business acquaintance that will be grateful for your leadership.
Play matchmaker
Become a resource person by thinking ahead of how you can help others get leads and referrals. Make a mental note of how to get these contacts together. Go one step further by making a few phone calls before the meeting so you can facilitate the introductions.
Take your business cards
I have been to so many functions where someone could have had my business or a good lead, but they didn't have a card. The excuses range from running out to being in a career transition-all the more reason to have at least a generic model. If you are in transition or a graduating college student, chances are you are looking for a position. Have a plain card with your name, phone number and e-mail. If you want to be creative you might also include a favorite quote. It will serve as a conversation piece or an icebreaker.
Get their card
Novices at networking regularly fail to ask others for their card. A rule of thumb: if they ask for your card it means they are interested. Return the request immediately by asking for theirs and jot down any information on the back of the card that might jog your memory later. It's actually more important to get their card because that puts you in a position of control if you decide you need to contact them in the future.
Focus on the relationship
Even though it's important to exchange business cards, the purpose of networking isn't a competition to collect business cards, nor is it to conduct business. The focus should be on meeting new people and establishing new business and professional relationships.
Polish your communication skills
Be in the present moment by using good eye contact and smiling. It's rude to stare, but it's also impolite to have darting eyes suggesting that there is someone more interesting across the room. Listen and ask questions more than you speak. No one wants to be around a know-it-all or a bore. Read body language. Recognize that if someone is rubbing their neck, yawning or has darting eyes, they are probably bored or simply lack good communication skills. Make a gracious exit.
Let others join in
There is nothing more miserable than to be standing outside a circle of people who are so engrossed in conversation that you feel ignored. Become observant to those who seem lost and invite them into the conversation by saying, "join us...we were just talking about..." Then at an appropriate time introduce yourself to them and introduce them to the group.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Golf and Business Equals Success
Social schmoozing has long been recognised as an effective method of building business relationships and wooing new clients. Martini lunches and cigars were the tools used a generation ago. These days golf is considered the most important schmoozing skill, so much so that many executives attain their positions based on golf prowess alone. In fact, not playing golf can have a negative impact on business careers. Many non-golfers are finding that they hit professional stagnation due to golfing colleagues being promoted above them.
Women, determined to break into the old-boys' business network, are also taking advantage of 18-hole business practices. More and more women are signing up for classes and joining clubs to try and redress the male dominated networking imbalances of the past. Specialists in the golf and business market advise women to go as far as advertising their interest in the sport by hanging golf pictures in their offices. Bringing a putter and some golf balls to work is also an acknowledged signal of golfing interest.
Bill Storer, an expert on mixing golf and business, recommends that in order to increase your chances of success, you classify clients in one of four personality categories:
· Realtors - team players who value relationships
· Socialisers - emotional people who love an audience
· Thinkers - organised and detailed
· Directors - decisive, goal orientated, and stylish
Once you've identified your client's personality type, you can adapt your tactics to suit them.
A key factor in the golf schmooze is to learn proper golf etiquette. Don't talk when someone is about to hit a shot, don't step in the line of a putt, and always treat the course with respect. This means that you replace divots and rake bunkers when you're out of them. Your behaviour after a bad shot, or several bad shots, is also vital. Losing your temper and throwing your clubs around doesn't leave your client with a particularly favourable view of your character. Disregarding these protocols creates the impression of arrogance and inconsideration. At best, the client will lose all respect for you. At the worst, you could cost your company a prized contract.
It's considered poor form to leap straight into business talk and try work down to the nitty gritty of a deal. Some clients don't mind talking business on the course, while others prefer to keep it strictly social. Bill recommends waiting until the fifth hole to talk shop, and refraining from further talk after the fifteenth. This gives you and your client enough time to settle into your games and to concentrate on your closing approach. It's important to remember that the purpose is to improve your relationship with the client. To achieve this you should make every effort to get to know your client better on a personal level. Finalising business is a secondary concern.
Finally, the big question: do you play to win, or play to let your client win? That could depend on your client's temperament, and on how important winning at all costs is to his or her. Generally you should aim to play your best game. If it's obvious that you're losing on purpose, you risk embarrassing and insulting your client. There is, however, no sense in embarrassing them the other way with a sound drubbing either.
Women, determined to break into the old-boys' business network, are also taking advantage of 18-hole business practices. More and more women are signing up for classes and joining clubs to try and redress the male dominated networking imbalances of the past. Specialists in the golf and business market advise women to go as far as advertising their interest in the sport by hanging golf pictures in their offices. Bringing a putter and some golf balls to work is also an acknowledged signal of golfing interest.
Bill Storer, an expert on mixing golf and business, recommends that in order to increase your chances of success, you classify clients in one of four personality categories:
· Realtors - team players who value relationships
· Socialisers - emotional people who love an audience
· Thinkers - organised and detailed
· Directors - decisive, goal orientated, and stylish
Once you've identified your client's personality type, you can adapt your tactics to suit them.
A key factor in the golf schmooze is to learn proper golf etiquette. Don't talk when someone is about to hit a shot, don't step in the line of a putt, and always treat the course with respect. This means that you replace divots and rake bunkers when you're out of them. Your behaviour after a bad shot, or several bad shots, is also vital. Losing your temper and throwing your clubs around doesn't leave your client with a particularly favourable view of your character. Disregarding these protocols creates the impression of arrogance and inconsideration. At best, the client will lose all respect for you. At the worst, you could cost your company a prized contract.
It's considered poor form to leap straight into business talk and try work down to the nitty gritty of a deal. Some clients don't mind talking business on the course, while others prefer to keep it strictly social. Bill recommends waiting until the fifth hole to talk shop, and refraining from further talk after the fifteenth. This gives you and your client enough time to settle into your games and to concentrate on your closing approach. It's important to remember that the purpose is to improve your relationship with the client. To achieve this you should make every effort to get to know your client better on a personal level. Finalising business is a secondary concern.
Finally, the big question: do you play to win, or play to let your client win? That could depend on your client's temperament, and on how important winning at all costs is to his or her. Generally you should aim to play your best game. If it's obvious that you're losing on purpose, you risk embarrassing and insulting your client. There is, however, no sense in embarrassing them the other way with a sound drubbing either.
What I Hate About Networking
OK, I admit it. I hate networking.
OK OK, I don't really hate networking, but there are some aspects of networking I really do hate. Why do you care? Because if you understand WHY I hate these things YOU will make more money. Let me explain:
I was thinking about this in my car the other day. Networking is like hunting for birds in the bushes with a Gatling gun. You can't really see if any birds are actually in the bush but you shoot anyway. Every once in a while a bird drops dead out of a bush and you think "Success! This really works!" Except the gun fired 100 rounds and the bird was sick...
Networking's alot like that. You spend 80 percent of your time networking and every once in a while you get a referral. Success! This really works! Except you've spent dozens of hours to find a client that wants a $1000 job. Sound familiar?
When most people decide to go into business, they are brilliant at "the thing" that they do. They may take business classes and hear things like - "you must spend time marketing your business" and that networking is important. So they join a group with a vague idea of what they're supposed to be doing and what they'll get out of it. Meanwhile, they can't identify who they REALLY want as a client (their true target market), and they go in with the hope of thousands of dollars in referrals and quickly become very disappointed.
See, most people are networking in the dark. Well, let me flip on the light switch!!
Networking groups are great and they're really important to your business IF and only if you understand how deep networking really is.
Take out a penny and study it. Right now. Study the penny for two minutes. Go ahead. I'll be here when you get back.
So what did you notice?
The penny is more complex than that thing you left on the sidewalk because it wasn't worth picking up... Networking is like that too.
The thing that drives me crazy about networking groups is that some of them offer pretty good education on how to work their system. The problem is most people think that's it. "Oh I see, it's a penny. Well, that's all I need to know...so where are my referrals? This system doesn't work!"
By their very nature, networking groups focus on referrals and results and when people don't see the results they want, the "system" doesn't work. It IS the system's fault (despite what the group will tell you) to the extent that nobody told them how to work it as it applies to their business and it's overall vision.
If you're out there in a networking group or going to a chamber and you don't know exactly what you're looking for (and it isn't "as many referrals as you can get") STOP!!
If you don't know where you're going that's exactly where you'll end up. And if you're just out there giving referrals to get referrals and you have no idea who your dream client is, then all you're going to get is the kinds of referrals and clients you DON'T want.
Do yourself a huge favor and decide what kinds of customers you really want. Which of your clients make your life easy? What company specifically do you want to do business with?
The big lie about networking, infomercials and introductions is this: If you have a great infomercial that makes people want more information that is all you need to do.
That's a lie. If you have a great infomercial and you don't know what kinds of clients make you money and which once don't, a great infomercial won't help you.
Don't be like so many of my students who discover that, although they get a ton of referrals, they are people who drive them crazy and don't generate enough revenue to begin to cover the time they take out of the day.
Remember, you are the average of the five people and or groups you spend the most time with. You can apply this to your clients as well. Take a look at the clients you have right now today. With whom are you spending the most time? Are they making you rich or are they making you poor? Figure out who is generating the most revenue for you and ask for clients like THEM the next time you're out networking.
OK OK, I don't really hate networking, but there are some aspects of networking I really do hate. Why do you care? Because if you understand WHY I hate these things YOU will make more money. Let me explain:
I was thinking about this in my car the other day. Networking is like hunting for birds in the bushes with a Gatling gun. You can't really see if any birds are actually in the bush but you shoot anyway. Every once in a while a bird drops dead out of a bush and you think "Success! This really works!" Except the gun fired 100 rounds and the bird was sick...
Networking's alot like that. You spend 80 percent of your time networking and every once in a while you get a referral. Success! This really works! Except you've spent dozens of hours to find a client that wants a $1000 job. Sound familiar?
When most people decide to go into business, they are brilliant at "the thing" that they do. They may take business classes and hear things like - "you must spend time marketing your business" and that networking is important. So they join a group with a vague idea of what they're supposed to be doing and what they'll get out of it. Meanwhile, they can't identify who they REALLY want as a client (their true target market), and they go in with the hope of thousands of dollars in referrals and quickly become very disappointed.
See, most people are networking in the dark. Well, let me flip on the light switch!!
Networking groups are great and they're really important to your business IF and only if you understand how deep networking really is.
Take out a penny and study it. Right now. Study the penny for two minutes. Go ahead. I'll be here when you get back.
So what did you notice?
The penny is more complex than that thing you left on the sidewalk because it wasn't worth picking up... Networking is like that too.
The thing that drives me crazy about networking groups is that some of them offer pretty good education on how to work their system. The problem is most people think that's it. "Oh I see, it's a penny. Well, that's all I need to know...so where are my referrals? This system doesn't work!"
By their very nature, networking groups focus on referrals and results and when people don't see the results they want, the "system" doesn't work. It IS the system's fault (despite what the group will tell you) to the extent that nobody told them how to work it as it applies to their business and it's overall vision.
If you're out there in a networking group or going to a chamber and you don't know exactly what you're looking for (and it isn't "as many referrals as you can get") STOP!!
If you don't know where you're going that's exactly where you'll end up. And if you're just out there giving referrals to get referrals and you have no idea who your dream client is, then all you're going to get is the kinds of referrals and clients you DON'T want.
Do yourself a huge favor and decide what kinds of customers you really want. Which of your clients make your life easy? What company specifically do you want to do business with?
The big lie about networking, infomercials and introductions is this: If you have a great infomercial that makes people want more information that is all you need to do.
That's a lie. If you have a great infomercial and you don't know what kinds of clients make you money and which once don't, a great infomercial won't help you.
Don't be like so many of my students who discover that, although they get a ton of referrals, they are people who drive them crazy and don't generate enough revenue to begin to cover the time they take out of the day.
Remember, you are the average of the five people and or groups you spend the most time with. You can apply this to your clients as well. Take a look at the clients you have right now today. With whom are you spending the most time? Are they making you rich or are they making you poor? Figure out who is generating the most revenue for you and ask for clients like THEM the next time you're out networking.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Golf and Business Equals Success
Social schmoozing has long been recognised as an effective method of building business relationships and wooing new clients. Martini lunches and cigars were the tools used a generation ago. These days golf is considered the most important schmoozing skill, so much so that many executives attain their positions based on golf prowess alone. In fact, not playing golf can have a negative impact on business careers. Many non-golfers are finding that they hit professional stagnation due to golfing colleagues being promoted above them.
Women, determined to break into the old-boys' business network, are also taking advantage of 18-hole business practices. More and more women are signing up for classes and joining clubs to try and redress the male dominated networking imbalances of the past. Specialists in the golf and business market advise women to go as far as advertising their interest in the sport by hanging golf pictures in their offices. Bringing a putter and some golf balls to work is also an acknowledged signal of golfing interest.
Bill Storer, an expert on mixing golf and business, recommends that in order to increase your chances of success, you classify clients in one of four personality categories:
· Realtors - team players who value relationships
· Socialisers - emotional people who love an audience
· Thinkers - organised and detailed
· Directors - decisive, goal orientated, and stylish
Once you've identified your client's personality type, you can adapt your tactics to suit them.
A key factor in the golf schmooze is to learn proper golf etiquette. Don't talk when someone is about to hit a shot, don't step in the line of a putt, and always treat the course with respect. This means that you replace divots and rake bunkers when you're out of them. Your behaviour after a bad shot, or several bad shots, is also vital. Losing your temper and throwing your clubs around doesn't leave your client with a particularly favourable view of your character. Disregarding these protocols creates the impression of arrogance and inconsideration. At best, the client will lose all respect for you. At the worst, you could cost your company a prized contract.
It's considered poor form to leap straight into business talk and try work down to the nitty gritty of a deal. Some clients don't mind talking business on the course, while others prefer to keep it strictly social. Bill recommends waiting until the fifth hole to talk shop, and refraining from further talk after the fifteenth. This gives you and your client enough time to settle into your games and to concentrate on your closing approach. It's important to remember that the purpose is to improve your relationship with the client. To achieve this you should make every effort to get to know your client better on a personal level. Finalising business is a secondary concern.
Finally, the big question: do you play to win, or play to let your client win? That could depend on your client's temperament, and on how important winning at all costs is to his or her. Generally you should aim to play your best game. If it's obvious that you're losing on purpose, you risk embarrassing and insulting your client. There is, however, no sense in embarrassing them the other way with a sound drubbing either.
Women, determined to break into the old-boys' business network, are also taking advantage of 18-hole business practices. More and more women are signing up for classes and joining clubs to try and redress the male dominated networking imbalances of the past. Specialists in the golf and business market advise women to go as far as advertising their interest in the sport by hanging golf pictures in their offices. Bringing a putter and some golf balls to work is also an acknowledged signal of golfing interest.
Bill Storer, an expert on mixing golf and business, recommends that in order to increase your chances of success, you classify clients in one of four personality categories:
· Realtors - team players who value relationships
· Socialisers - emotional people who love an audience
· Thinkers - organised and detailed
· Directors - decisive, goal orientated, and stylish
Once you've identified your client's personality type, you can adapt your tactics to suit them.
A key factor in the golf schmooze is to learn proper golf etiquette. Don't talk when someone is about to hit a shot, don't step in the line of a putt, and always treat the course with respect. This means that you replace divots and rake bunkers when you're out of them. Your behaviour after a bad shot, or several bad shots, is also vital. Losing your temper and throwing your clubs around doesn't leave your client with a particularly favourable view of your character. Disregarding these protocols creates the impression of arrogance and inconsideration. At best, the client will lose all respect for you. At the worst, you could cost your company a prized contract.
It's considered poor form to leap straight into business talk and try work down to the nitty gritty of a deal. Some clients don't mind talking business on the course, while others prefer to keep it strictly social. Bill recommends waiting until the fifth hole to talk shop, and refraining from further talk after the fifteenth. This gives you and your client enough time to settle into your games and to concentrate on your closing approach. It's important to remember that the purpose is to improve your relationship with the client. To achieve this you should make every effort to get to know your client better on a personal level. Finalising business is a secondary concern.
Finally, the big question: do you play to win, or play to let your client win? That could depend on your client's temperament, and on how important winning at all costs is to his or her. Generally you should aim to play your best game. If it's obvious that you're losing on purpose, you risk embarrassing and insulting your client. There is, however, no sense in embarrassing them the other way with a sound drubbing either.
What I Hate About Networking
I was thinking about this in my car the other day. Networking is like hunting for birds in the bushes with a Gatling gun. You can't really see if any birds are actually in the bush but you shoot anyway. Every once in a while a bird drops dead out of a bush and you think "Success! This really works!" Except the gun fired 100 rounds and the bird was sick...
Networking's alot like that. You spend 80 percent of your time networking and every once in a while you get a referral. Success! This really works! Except you've spent dozens of hours to find a client that wants a $1000 job. Sound familiar?
When most people decide to go into business, they are brilliant at "the thing" that they do. They may take business classes and hear things like - "you must spend time marketing your business" and that networking is important. So they join a group with a vague idea of what they're supposed to be doing and what they'll get out of it. Meanwhile, they can't identify who they REALLY want as a client (their true target market), and they go in with the hope of thousands of dollars in referrals and quickly become very disappointed.
See, most people are networking in the dark. Well, let me flip on the light switch!!
Networking groups are great and they're really important to your business IF and only if you understand how deep networking really is.
Take out a penny and study it. Right now. Study the penny for two minutes. Go ahead. I'll be here when you get back.
So what did you notice?
The penny is more complex than that thing you left on the sidewalk because it wasn't worth picking up... Networking is like that too.
The thing that drives me crazy about networking groups is that some of them offer pretty good education on how to work their system. The problem is most people think that's it. "Oh I see, it's a penny. Well, that's all I need to know...so where are my referrals? This system doesn't work!"
By their very nature, networking groups focus on referrals and results and when people don't see the results they want, the "system" doesn't work. It IS the system's fault (despite what the group will tell you) to the extent that nobody told them how to work it as it applies to their business and it's overall vision.
If you're out there in a networking group or going to a chamber and you don't know exactly what you're looking for (and it isn't "as many referrals as you can get") STOP!!
If you don't know where you're going that's exactly where you'll end up. And if you're just out there giving referrals to get referrals and you have no idea who your dream client is, then all you're going to get is the kinds of referrals and clients you DON'T want.
Do yourself a huge favor and decide what kinds of customers you really want. Which of your clients make your life easy? What company specifically do you want to do business with?
The big lie about networking, infomercials and introductions is this: If you have a great infomercial that makes people want more information that is all you need to do.
That's a lie. If you have a great infomercial and you don't know what kinds of clients make you money and which once don't, a great infomercial won't help you.
Don't be like so many of my students who discover that, although they get a ton of referrals, they are people who drive them crazy and don't generate enough revenue to begin to cover the time they take out of the day.
Remember, you are the average of the five people and or groups you spend the most time with. You can apply this to your clients as well. Take a look at the clients you have right now today. With whom are you spending the most time? Are they making you rich or are they making you poor? Figure out who is generating the most revenue for you and ask for clients like THEM the next time you're out networking.
Networking's alot like that. You spend 80 percent of your time networking and every once in a while you get a referral. Success! This really works! Except you've spent dozens of hours to find a client that wants a $1000 job. Sound familiar?
When most people decide to go into business, they are brilliant at "the thing" that they do. They may take business classes and hear things like - "you must spend time marketing your business" and that networking is important. So they join a group with a vague idea of what they're supposed to be doing and what they'll get out of it. Meanwhile, they can't identify who they REALLY want as a client (their true target market), and they go in with the hope of thousands of dollars in referrals and quickly become very disappointed.
See, most people are networking in the dark. Well, let me flip on the light switch!!
Networking groups are great and they're really important to your business IF and only if you understand how deep networking really is.
Take out a penny and study it. Right now. Study the penny for two minutes. Go ahead. I'll be here when you get back.
So what did you notice?
The penny is more complex than that thing you left on the sidewalk because it wasn't worth picking up... Networking is like that too.
The thing that drives me crazy about networking groups is that some of them offer pretty good education on how to work their system. The problem is most people think that's it. "Oh I see, it's a penny. Well, that's all I need to know...so where are my referrals? This system doesn't work!"
By their very nature, networking groups focus on referrals and results and when people don't see the results they want, the "system" doesn't work. It IS the system's fault (despite what the group will tell you) to the extent that nobody told them how to work it as it applies to their business and it's overall vision.
If you're out there in a networking group or going to a chamber and you don't know exactly what you're looking for (and it isn't "as many referrals as you can get") STOP!!
If you don't know where you're going that's exactly where you'll end up. And if you're just out there giving referrals to get referrals and you have no idea who your dream client is, then all you're going to get is the kinds of referrals and clients you DON'T want.
Do yourself a huge favor and decide what kinds of customers you really want. Which of your clients make your life easy? What company specifically do you want to do business with?
The big lie about networking, infomercials and introductions is this: If you have a great infomercial that makes people want more information that is all you need to do.
That's a lie. If you have a great infomercial and you don't know what kinds of clients make you money and which once don't, a great infomercial won't help you.
Don't be like so many of my students who discover that, although they get a ton of referrals, they are people who drive them crazy and don't generate enough revenue to begin to cover the time they take out of the day.
Remember, you are the average of the five people and or groups you spend the most time with. You can apply this to your clients as well. Take a look at the clients you have right now today. With whom are you spending the most time? Are they making you rich or are they making you poor? Figure out who is generating the most revenue for you and ask for clients like THEM the next time you're out networking.
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