Ed: What is the biggest false assumption that people make about networking?

Kathleen: That you have to be overt. Shy people can't network.... THAT is the farthest thing from the truth. Networking is easy, adaptable and you can do it anywhere.

Ed: Is there a right way and a wrong way to go about networking?

Kathleen: NO wrong way. There are more effective ways. Just like anything else out there, you can learn tools to create a more effective network environment. However, Networking is two people communicating and helping each other grow.

Ed: What should people do right after a networking meeting and why?

Kathleen:

1) write down on the back of other's cards-date brief description of what you talked about, where you met this person.

2) Then, you should write down something that you can do to help the other person succeed;/ /for example: if you have a lead or contact for them. That is a great thing to write down.

3) On that day, or the next day, you should contact the person and freely give them your lead, or tip. Again ask that all important question. "is there anything I can do to help you?"... from there you will be asked the same question. Be sure you know what you want. don't be afraid to ask for what you want.

Ed: What makes Connections Marketing different from the other Networking functions out there?

Kathleen: Connections Marketing is a combination of three things.

1) Formal Networking

2) Relationship marketing

3) Vision quest.

Connections Marketing is taking all three things to a new level. The workshop I give will not only provide you with leads and tips, it will give you a clear vision of purpose when you network. Then, it will cultivate an atmosphere that is absolutely open to helping you succeed. you learn to find 'signs' that you are on the right track in your life.

The workshop will equip you with everything you need to build your business in a brighter, healthier, and more prosperous way. Besides, you are guaranteed to leave there with at least 5 leads, tips or ideas that will move you closer to your goals.

Ed: What are some of the success stories you have witnessed because people were able to attend your functions?

Kathleen: I've received the following feedback from people who've attended one of my functions:

I left with over 30 business cards of people who said they or someone they knew would be interested in my products. Thank you Kathleen!"

"I followed up on the leads I received. You wouldn't believe it!! I have 3 new clients and 2 pending business opportunities! I am so excited!

"I can't thank you enough. I had a riot last night!!! I even got so many great ideas I don't know where to start."

"I received 13 new memberships for my organization! Do I look happy? The answer is YES! When is your next event?"

Ed: How many networking groups should an entrepreneur belong to?

Kathleen: As many as you like. HOWEVER, it is important to note this: YOUR time is valuable. BE SURE that you are NOT going to functions that become 'social gatherings'. It is okay to have social functions in your life as long as that is what you are intending on doing. -You are who you hang around with. Be sure that the members of the group are like minded and want to move ahead. Be sure that there is a learning curve involved in the function... not just a sit around kind of thing -be sure that most everyone has the mentality of 'helping others'... that will ensure your success.

Ed: Why do some networking groups succeed and others fail?

Kathleen: Main reason is: they are out for themselves. They mistake networking with just being a social thing. The main reason for networking is to move yourself and others ahead together.

Kathleen Mailer is an author, entrepreneur and Canada's ONLY Connections Coach. She has helped hundreds of small business people balance their lives and achieve their goals. For more information on her books, or on the upcoming full Day Goal Setting workshop, call Kathleen at 230- 5946 Ext. 2 or Email her at million- aires@makingmillionaires.com