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7 Things You Should Do to Get Ready for the Networking Party Season

Posted by Joyce Oladipo on December 12, 2008 at 1:39am

Now that it’s December there is going to be loads of Christmas Networking meeting to go. You have PLENTY of time to finish your shopping (or start! if you’re like me). You also have plenty of time to get ready for these networking events, the one where everyone comes all dressed up and looking great. The one that you always rush into feeling frazzled and disappointed by your outfit and your hair and your lipstick. THAT party.Here’s a thought: if you start planning NOW you won’t catch you off guard.Here are 7 simple things to do now, before the rush starts, so that you can sit back and enjoy the parties in style.Get a Smashing Speech ReadyCreate a smashing elevation speech that clearly communicates what you are looking for in a client: You gotta have something to say that will make them:1. Want to work with you2. Want to refer clients to youA smashing elevation speech is a commercial speech you would use with an ideal prospect if you only had 20 seconds to get a message across. It’s meant to describe what you do in a very short amount of time, with the objective being that this person will not only want your card, but will also want to talk to you further.Use my smashing elevation speech formula and you are good to go.I work with (insert ideal client profile) who struggles with (insert client challenges) and would like to (insert result and benefits).What separate my business from other (insert competitors) is (insert your unique selling propositions) and because of this clients receive (insert motivator and your claim).I get a lot of attention with this formula.Have a Client Attractive Business CardYour business card should be a sales tool that gets you clients. Something that someone looks at and have a very good idea about what you can do for them. Put a compelling message that gives them a reason to call you. Or perhaps you want them to visit your site or sign up for your ezine. So the idea is to get prospects to take action just with your card.Get a business card created that has your name, business name and phone number and have some pull marketing questions on the back that invites readers to consider working with you. Use your tagline too.My business card has prompted several clients to refer potential clients to me. The information on the back of my card always prospect to self-qualify themselves as to whether they will be an ideal client of mine or not. It has an invitation to call saying “Call me to share your business struggles, ask key questions, and ask about solutions, free of charge”. I get a lot of calls because of this statement.The objective of your business card is to get the ideal prospect to say “Wow, I need you!” Vistaprint.com creates nice business cards and they get them delivered within a week.Use the Ultimate IcebreakerGoing up to someone you don’t know can be quite frightening. So try going up to someone or two people that are approachable. Have a big smile on your face and extend your hands to initiate a handshake. In an upbeat voice say “Hello, I don’t we’ve met yet” My name is ... What’s yours? Believe me; people will literally thank you for making the first move. Then ask them what they do for a living. Get them talking first so that it takes the pressure off you. After a short while, they’ll ask you.Wear Clothing with PocketsWhat will you wear to all these functions? Think, in particular, about when you will be getting business cards. Have you ever given someone else’s business card to someone instead of your own? I have in the early days. (It was a little embarrassing).So I figured out a trick. Wear a jacket with 2 pockets. One for your cards and one for the cards you receive. It’s as simple as that, it’s a no brainer.Pretend It’s Your PartyAnother tactic I love using when I’m feeling overwhelmed by a room full of people is I pretend it’s my party. I’m a pretty social person and love to entertain. So when I throw a party and I see a guest that I don’t know, I just walk up to that person and say. “Hi, I’m Joyce. We haven’t met yet. What’s your name? Who did you come here with tonight” with a smile. So when I get slightly shy in a large room, I shift my thinking about the event and pretend it’s my party, then I use the ultimate ice breaker I mentioned before.It always work and ‘am never nervous.Get a Haircut, and Maybe Some Colour too.Book your hair appointment before the event, because if you do not, I guarantee that you will wake up on the morning of the event and think ‘My hair looks horrible!’ Or, even worse, you’ll see the photos after the event and wonder why no one told you that your roots were a COMPLETELY different colour from the rest of your hair.Try one new makeup trick or strategy. Smoky eye, false lashes, berry red lips — go all out this season! A new dress might not be in the budget, but I’ll bet you can do something special with your makeup, possibly without buying anything new at all. But practice now, when you’re not rushing to get out the door. Keep in mind, though, that you only want to do ONE dramatic makeup thing at a time — if you have the smoky eye, keep cheeks and lips neutral. But don’t go too dramatic, you know what I mean.Have a Manicure.If you’re really in the mood to pamper yourself this holiday season, get a manicure; in most places, a French manicure is less than $20, including a generous tip. To make your manicure last longer, choose a sheer shade that won’t show chips or dings. And make an effort to maintain your pretty hands — wear gloves, both when you’re cleaning up in the kitchen and when you’re out in the cold air, and slather on the moisturizer. So you have soft hands, no one want to feel your shaft hands~ Joyce OladipoJoyce Oladipo, The Business Growth & Marketing Mentor, is creator of the Profit Building system, the proven step-by-step program that shows you exactly how to grow your business fast without spending extra money on marketing. To Add $1,000's In Pure Profit To Your Business and receive her weekly marketing articles on dramatically increasing your income, visit www.BeAWealthyEntrepreneur.com.

Chic Essentials- Neutral Pumps

Posted by Elise Robinson on December 12, 2008 at 1:30am

Neutral pumps are the "New Black" essential pump. Even as versatile as black pumps are, they do not necessarily go with everything. Add a neutral pump to your wardrobe. Here are a few ideas, CHIC!Unlisted Women's Simply Style Peep Toe Pump $31.96 Nine West Women's Testino Pump $80 STEVEN by Steve Madden Women's Snype Pump $65 Oh Deer! Marilyn $69

Chic Essentials-The Black Pump

Posted by Elise Robinson on December 12, 2008 at 1:30am

Chic Essentials will be a new series of posts that will assist you in developing and/or creating a Capsule Wardrobe. This series will help those who are completely lost when it comes to shopping and piecing together garments, accessories, and footwear.

BCBG Katchen Pump $90

This pair of basic black pumps by BCBG is a great investment to add to your wardrobe. Although, they are a bit pricey, it's well worth it. These pumps have a 4 inch heel but they are comfortable, sleek, and chic. Purchasing them should be easy if you're doing so online. Finding them in a retail store might be a challenge if you wear a popular size. This is just an example of a great pair of pumps. There are plenty of other style alternatives if the Katchen pump isnt your style or if you are not in the position to make the pricey investment. Check out retailers such as Marshall's and TJ Maxx for name brand footwear at more affordable prices. Also, department store sales are the best time to catch a steal. Good Luck Ladies,Chic!

ChicStylez Personal Shopping Service

Posted by Elise Robinson on December 12, 2008 at 1:05am

Chic Stylez’ goal is to make the unfashionable, fashionable. I can achieve this by; Analyzing your current wardrobe, discarding the items that are not appropriate for your body type, coordinating an entire season’s wardrobe with accessories (keeping in mind your budget, personal style, and needs), Accompany you on shopping trips to help you purchase more quality clothing rather than quantity. Assisting you in the purchase of essential must-haves that will ultimately create the perfect Capsule Wardrobe for you.Chic Stylez can assist you in purchasing items that you will love to wear and keep you from wasting money on those items that you never wear.

Service Listing

Personal Shopping-provide clients with individualized attention and service beyond what a retail associate would provide. Includes back-to-school shopping, homecoming, prom, and special events, etc.

Wardrobe Consultation-make an evaluation of client’s physical attributes, lifestyle, and fashion style in order to make the appropriate recommendations that will help the client achieve and maintain their desired image.

Closet Wardrobe Review– detailed examination of the client’s closet. Sort through wardrobe piece by piece, mixing and matching existing items to create new looks from old pieces and discarding the items that are outdated, unworn, or unflattering.

Utilitarian Shopping-consists of grocery shopping, purchasing necessities for a new home, party preparations (birthday, graduation, Christmas, office, welcome home, engagement parties, baby and wedding showers, etc.)

Fee Schedule

Personal ShoppingFee: $20/an hour-back to school-special events: homecoming, prom, etc.Wardrobe Consultation + Shopping TripFee: $35/an hourWardrobe Consultation w/o Shopping TripFee: $30/an hour ( no minimum)Closet Wardrobe Review at your HomeFee: $30/an hour (2-3 hour minimum)Utilitarian ShoppingFee: $40/an hour-grocery shopping-purchasing necessities for new homes-party preparations (birthday , graduation, Christmas, office, welcome home, engagement parties, baby showers, etc.)Minimum Fee: $ 25**The minimum fee is accessed to any assignment that takes less than an hour to complete

2009 Here I Come!

Posted by Elise Robinson on December 12, 2008 at 1:04am

I just got my cards in the mail and I love them. I have so many chic ideas circulating in this fabulous brain of mine. I believe and I'm claiming it, 2009 will be a new beginning for ChicStylez!!!!Please continue to visit my blog and tell your friends about me!!!

Looking For Items For Under $10

Posted by Mrs. W. Jean Cashaw on December 11, 2008 at 10:18pm

-Jesus Is The Reason Candle $3.82-Kids Christmas Santa Boot Necklace,Bracelet, and earring set $8.99-Prayer Box Necklace $7.14-Nativity Jewelry Box $3.59-smiling Santa mug $6.25-and many morehttp://www.inspirationsfromtheheart.com/williejeanWe offer gift wrapping for any occasion!All Christmas items are 10% off through Christmas Night.Every 5th order though December will receive 10% off their entire order except shipping.Just copy and paste the link.

Social Networking, What Is It All About?

Posted by Rhonda Jai on December 11, 2008 at 3:46pm

From ArticleQuickSubmit.com

Social Networking, What Is It All About?

There are many newcomers to the world of social networking. Many enter this world thinking that it is a great way to promote their services or products. After a few days, weeks, and even months of little to no interest being shown in their business, they become discouraged or disenchanted with social networking. Don’t let this happen to you! Before you start networking online first have a clear purpose of why you are social networking and what goals you are trying to achieve. With so many social networking opportunities how do you know which ones are worth your time? Well first let’s determine your purpose.

What is your purpose for social networking?

First you need to know your purpose for social networking. If you don’t have a goal for why you are social networking than you are wasting your time. The very act of social networking i.e. making blog postings, inviting friends, browsing profiles, etc. takes a tremendous amount of time. So before you even join a social network first decide what you are hoping to achieve by becoming a member.

Which social networking site is right for you?

The first thing people say when asked “what is your purpose for social networking” is marketing/advertising or getting new business. Well if that is the case then you need to look for a social network that has your targeted market. If your business is a business to consumer than seek out sites that have consumers that will purchase your service or products. If your business is a business to business then join networking sites that have tons of business owners who are in need of your products or services.

If you are networking to find people to invest in your company, business partners or other business owners that you can partner with in order to promote your business then join business social networking sites.

Business social networking sites are also a great place to learn from other business owners. It is a great place to exchange ideas and to get advice for managing your business.

Limit your social networking sites?

Now because there are so many social networking sites to select from I suggest limiting it to three initially. Three may even be a large undertaking depending on your schedule. But I would initially start with three social networking sites and consistently work those sites for 30 – 45 days. Measure your results along the way and then at the end of about 30 days or so see if you are achieving your goals or if you are close to achieving your goals. If one of the sites you have chosen is not producing the results you need, then drop that site and find one to replace it. Then start process again.

Now if you are unable to find the right social networking site that will allow you to accomplish your social networking goals, than consider starting one of your on. But just know managing and growing a social network is very similar to starting a business. It takes time and lots of energy. It is not for the faint of heart and if you do not have the time or energy to start a social network, than consider another marketing method. Social networking is not the only marketing tool that you can use to get the word out about your business.

You now know your purpose for social networking and you have your list of social networking sites, you are well on your way to achieving your social networking goals. I wish much success in your social networking journey. If you have questions along the way join us on Social Networking For Busy Black Business Owners.

Article Source: http://articlequicksubmit.com/article-social-networking--what-is-it-all-about-.html

About The Author:

Rhonda Jai is the site admin for Black Business Central www.blackbusinescentral.ning.com - an online network for Black Business Owners

THE NETWORK HUB - INTERVIEW WITH 2009 MISS BLACK ARIZONA

Posted by Rickey on December 11, 2008 at 10:43am

PLANT SEEDS OF WEALTH AND CHANGE IN YOUR CHILDREN

Posted by Tamar on December 11, 2008 at 6:16am

Although my father and I have two different perspectives on Entrepreneurship and Real Estate, he planted the seed in me by always telling me that my long term goal was to work for myself and own at least 2 pieces property. When I entered my teens years he bought and taught my brother and I about stocks. Finally he hired us when he started his business. While my mother worked outside the home she soon became frustrated because she felt that she was not spending enough time with my brother and I. She eventually quit her job and stayed home with us. While we attended public school she use to hold after school sessions with us. As a child I especially did not understand or like doing extra homework assigned by my own mother. Looking back I understand why I now have my own business plus work within my family business and stay at home to raise and home school our son. While my brother works for a business he still has a couple of his own businesses which provide multiple sources of income for his family. He also invested in stocks. So my parents were a blessing and the seeds were planted. We were given the foundation and basic principles when we were younger and eventually added to what we were taught.Today we are raising our son to be self sufficient and financially independent. At age of 3 he is always pulling out his business or bank cards and has asked me to help him create his own website. This might sound unbelievable but it is true and normal, meaning that working to be independently wealthy is all that he knows since he received is first gift at 5 days old which was a baby sterling silver rattle. He sees his father restoring furniture and his mother working on websites. He is interested more in what we are doing than playing with toys. He would rather use the computer mouse to look at different antiques. The toys that he does have are antiques such as trains and fire engines. It doesn't stop there. We are teaching him to eat healthy; get a sufficient amount of exercise; to speak properly; and in general just to lead a righteous life. One thing that I have not mentioned but the reader may be wondering about is that he is one of the happiest and most loving toddlers on this earth. When he is older, our son will be in control of; land with gardens and fruit trees, several houses without any mortgages, several skills and trades such as restoration of furniture and houses, and houses filled with Antique Furniture, Fine Art, Sterling and Coin Silver, Antique Rugs etc. And by the time he is 13 he will own at least one company. He also is learning 3 languages. We have given him the tools to continue the Legacy that was created for him.When my niece was 4 she asked one day if she could have $1.00. I asked her what was the $1.00 for. She said that she wanted to get some ice cream. I told her that if she bought the ice cream that she would no longer have her dollar but if she invested it then she would have the dollar plus extra money from whatever she invested in. Today at the tender age of 8 years old she has a positive net worth from Sterling and Coin Silver and Fine Art.The challenge for this week is to get your children involved and interested in a journey to Riches, Wealth, and Prosperity. For example take him or her to the Metropolitan museum or give him or her a book or magazine on Antiques, Fine Art etc. For those that may not have children do the above for someone else’s child or children. I am not saying to actively go out and do this, just be an example. Children are very smart and impressionable. If they show interest feed their curiosity. Have a blessed and prosperous rest of the week.ShalomTamar

Submit your articles to African American Family Connection

Posted by Omitunde on December 11, 2008 at 5:15am

I have added some new categories to my site so I am now seeking talented authors to submit articles. I know you are out there and you have something to say.My site features articles focused on present achievable solutions to the social and economic conditions collectively affecting black families today.African American Family Connection is an online magazine created and designed to engage the Black community in dialog to empower families locally, nationally and globally as a viable presence and change the negative view of Black people in society and our own communities.If you are interested please submit your articles to editor@aafamlyconnection.com Embed articles in email please, no attachments.Omitunde, Publisher of African American Family ConnectionAn online magazine about African American Family values and community.Visit AAFC for the latest issue each month and a copy of "The Ripple Effect".

Powerful Presentation to Change Your Life - New York City -Thurs, 12/11 @ 7 PM

Posted by Linda Berk on December 11, 2008 at 5:07am

Learn about Shop To Earn, a new and innovative shopping portal featuring major retailers and cash back discounts. Shop To Earn is becoming the largest shopping portal online where you earn money by shopping. Incredible timing with company is generating unbelievable results!If you are interested in hearing more, there is a rare meeting with one of the top brokers in the company tomorrow evening. Please let me know if you are interested and available to attend a 1 hour session Thursday, Dec. 11th at 7 pm in midtown Manhattan (56th St & 7th Ave).

Announcement - Newly Published Author - Latrice Fowler

Posted by Latrice Fowler on December 11, 2008 at 12:27am

Forgive me if none of the link above aren't clickable. Please follow the links below to get to the above pages. Thanks!

Author Latrice FowlerPhotographer Dave McKeenBook's Official Website It's Your Time To SucceedPublisher's Website Xpress Yourself Publishing LaVerne Y. Adekunle Macaiah Tillman Nataki Suggs Dr. Deitra Payne Karen Fletcher Sheryl Madison Anna Cohen Barbara Hakala

Foreword Contributor Edwin Edebiri MBA

Da Vinci's Blog Log Has A New Look, In Honor Of Our 1yr Blogoversary!!!

Posted by Da Vinci on December 10, 2008 at 8:10pm

Thank you to everyone who has been reading the site. It's been a year since www.davincisbloglog.com has been up and running so we decided to take it to the next level.Please feel free to share your thoughts and HELP SPREAD THE WORD.

Grandparents reinforce family values

Posted by Omitunde on December 10, 2008 at 8:00pm

Grand parents are the salt of the Earth! We have raised our families and worked for most of our lives to take care of ourselves and our families to the best of our ability. Providing safe shelter, clean living conditions, healthy food, a balanced environment free from abuse or neglect, was my goal for my children. Maintaining this level of clean drama free living requires discipline, focus and determination to live life with a consistent level of devotion to giving your children the best life you could.In our 50’s, 60’s and beyond we should be able live the life we have earned and do whatever we want to do in our retirement years. For some this is not until until the late sixties or even 70’s, now retirees work part time either out of necessity or to stay active. It is not so easy to retire nowadays unless you have a sound financial plan in place to cover the cost of living a comfortable existence.Health care, housing, food, life insurance, transportation, are essential whether you are a married or single retiree. We don’t want to be a burden to our children, we want to live the “golden years” when you can travel, indulge in your favorite hobbies, become a serious gardener and play with our grandkids when we want to.Read moreOmitunde, Publisher of African American Family ConnectionAn online magazine about African American Family values and community.Visit AAFC for the latest issue each month and a copy of "The Ripple Effect".

Women of Color Coach - Are you in yet?

Posted by LaShanda Henry on December 10, 2008 at 7:53pm

Women of Color Coach Membership $29.99 Special

Ready for a NEW YOU this NEW YEAR?

Posted by Tamyka Washington on December 10, 2008 at 4:31pm

Since cold winter months can cause serious damage to our skin, its time to consider ultimate protection! Mary Kay offers an exclusive line of skin care products designed to meet your individual skin care needs. As your personal consultant, I can provide a system just right for you!For a limited time, I am offering two luxurious pampering packageseach including a wonderful gift, 10% off and free shipping!Package One ~ Miracle SetThe Miracle Set is the age-fighting skin care collection proven todeliver dramatic results for soft, beautiful, younger-looking skin.

Includes TimeWise 3-in-1 Cleanser, TimeWise Age-FightingMoisturizer, TimeWise Day and Night Solution plus Foundation.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Package Two ~ Satin Hands Pampering SetThe Satin Set provides irresistibly smooth, super-soft hands.

Includes Satin Hands Scrub, Lotion, Extra Emollient Night Cream.To Purchase Your Package(s), Click Here!

A PLACE TO COME AND MEDITATE, ENJOY!

Posted by RESIDUALINCOMENOW on December 10, 2008 at 3:24pm

I am finding Tremendous value in using this Tool. Less than 47 cent per day cost

Posted by Rickey on December 10, 2008 at 6:33am

This simple yet powerful way of communicating is now so easy to put into use. Try it for yourself.You can in matter of minute provide your audience with a way to better view ( literally ) what you do.Have a fantastic day,Rickeyhttp://www.blackbusinessaffiliate.com/members/nbbta/postcard/RYE8UE77YP.html

Stop trying so hard.... Boost self esteem and confidence

Posted by Robin Tramble on December 10, 2008 at 2:30am

Power point~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~(c) 2002 Robin TrambleStop trying so hard!Are you trying desperately to live right and still find yourselffailing? I was too until I realized that I can't do it aloneI am destined to make mistakes or miss the mark,however, Father, God has provided grace so that ifI should he covers me. What I need to do is repentand start again. He is at work in me helping me todo what I need to do.An important question to consider is who are you comparing yourself to?Sometimes we set ourselves up for failure becausewe don't align ourselves with God's view of us, but rathersociety's view or our relatives' view. Stop trying so hard!Relax and enjoy life. Yield yourself to the potter's touch as Hemolds you and shapes you into the beautiful vessel He hasdesigned you to be.Low self esteem can affect your productivity, a lack of confidence can negativelyimpact your business and personal relationships which as a result impede your success in life.I want to share this power-packed eBook with you to demonstrate the effectiveness ofboosting your self esteem and confidence.You will realize measurable results as you implement some,if not all of the tips and information included.Simply visit the site below to gain access to this powerful resource.http://tinyurl.com/6b4v2pYour empowering Mentor/Trainer/Coach,Robin G. Tramble

Networking with Your Key Target Audience

Posted by Joyce Oladipo on December 9, 2008 at 9:26pm

What I’ve learnt over the years is that networking the traditional way is one of the non profitable ways of growing a business. So why do people go to networking events? I guess it’s to get more clients, but that’s not what’s actually happening is it?I’m not saying networking is a bad thing but the way we do our networking is. Here are effective ways to massively increase your networking results WITHOUT ever having to waste your time at networking events!There is a lot of information out there that talks about how to network effectively. They talk about creating a powerful elevation speech, listening to potential clients and doing all the right things but they don’t mentioning the real reason why most people fail to gain anything worthwhile from their networking efforts!Why networking events hasn’t work for meMost of the networking events I go to like the chamber of commerce is full of people that are not really interested in my products and services, they are there to secure deals for themselves, which makes it a waste of time and money for me. There are a few qualified, potential clients and LOTS of competitors!You need to network where there is no competition.As a service professional, we find ourselves sharing the networking room with numerous competitors. All these competitors are there to get the same limited business that we are there for. Most of the peoples at networking events are all sellers not buyersBig companies tend to send their sales staff to networking events to help them win more business. Most of these people are not the decision makers and those that are decision makers are there to make money not to spend it. So the really potential clients are limited.I have also noticed over the past few years that these networking events are full of the same people, just a handful of them are new and that doesn’t mean that these new people are still not my direct competitors.Networking events can cost you a lot of money. You will not know how much you have wasted until you take the cost of the annual membership and ADD the cost of attending the event to the cost of your time maybe 2 hours or more to the hour you spend traveling to figure out the real value.What would €4,000 investment in a direct mail campaign win you in new clients? I just sent out 50 letters that cost me €60.47 to potential accountant that brought in a total of €60,990. Taking about investment huh.How to Network Effectively and Get ResultsI have been able to work well with accountants over the years, so I make it a priority to be where they are. I subscribed to a free Accountant ezines or magazines. These ezines or magazine always list where the next local events are held, so I don’t miss any networking event. I go there on a regular basis.When I network with my ideal clients, I tend to lookout for ways I can help solve their problems. Most of the time, they are there just to discuss problems they are facing in their businesses. In this kind of setting I know that I have access to my ideal clients with no competition. So whenever I give a solution to a well known problem, I get the attention. So when these prospective clients find out that I am there to learn more about their challenges; so that I can serve them better, they want to discuss their issues with me. People in these networking events are not there to sell. They are there to listen - making them perfect for anyone, like myself, with a valuable message. You could use this approach with just about any industry or profession.So if you are going to go to any networking event, be where there are no competitors and where the event is filled with ideal, prospective clients.~ Joyce OladipoJoyce Oladipo, The Business Growth & Marketing Mentor, is creator of the Profit Building system, the proven step-by-step program that shows you exactly how to grow your business fast without spending extra money on marketing. To Add $1,000's In Pure Profit To Your Business and receive her weekly marketing articles on dramatically increasing your income, visit www.BeAWealthyEntrepreneur.com.

Note: this page contains paid content.

From ArticleQuickSubmit.com

Social Networking, What Is It All About?

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.