Guy Kawasaki Interview - Entrepreneur, Author, and Speaker

It's a treat to bring you the following interview I did with Guy Kawasaki. He is a founder and Managing Director of Garage Technology Ventures. A noted speaker and the founder of various personal computer companies, Guy was one of the individuals responsible for the success of the Macintosh computer. He is also the author of several books including: "The Art of the Start".

Josh: Guy, how do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Guy Kawasaki: It's building a relationship with someone before you need his help by doing things for him that have no apparent short-term payoff for you.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Guy Kawasaki: Print business cards that are legible without a magnifying glass.

-You can learn more about Guy Kawasaki at www.guykawasaki.com.

Interview with Jim Donovan - Motivational Speaker and Author

Jim Donovan is a leading motivational keynote speaker, and the author of, "Handbook to a Happier Life".

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Jim Donovan: I define business networking as developing relationships with other people. It's important because this is what makes the world go around.

I've always felt that life is about relationships and having a business gives us a game board on which to do it.

We all have products or services to offer and we all need things from others. By cultivating relationships and friendships with people, we gain access to opportunities for new business and access to goods and services we need from a *trusted* source. You can be sure that if I refer you to someone, I've already gotten to know them and what they stand for.

Having good relationships takes the risk out of doing business. For example, my attorney has been to my house for dinner. If I refer someone to him, I know they will be treated right. I wouldn't refer others to someone I did not know and trust and try to work only with people who have been referred to me by someone I know and trust. I don't want to be choosing a surgeon from the yellow pages.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jim Donovan: Yes. When you go to an event, instead of approaching it thinking what you can get, look for what you can give. Givers are the ones who people want to be around and, by the law of reciprocity, are the ones who get.

Too many people go to business events thinking it's about how may cards they can hand out or what they can get. As I said above, I'm not referring you to anyone until I first get to know and trust you. Self serving people are a huge turnoff to most people.

Be genuinely interested in other people and you will soon become the person everyone wants to know and hang out with.

-You can visit Jim Donovan at www.JimDonovan.com.

Shared Interview with Josh Hinds on Business Networking Topics

Steven Pearce over at Common Ground interviewed me on topics dealing with business -- specifically in the area of developing ones networking skills. Kudos to Steven for asking some great questions :-) ... All the best, Josh Hinds

John Harricharan Interview - businessman, lecturer, and award-winning author

It's a pleasure to bring you John Harricharan. John is a highly sought after speaker and award winning author. His books include: "When You Can Walk on Water, Take the Boat" and "Morning Has Been All Night Coming", as well as the "PowerPause".

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

John Harricharan: To me, there is no difference between "Business Networking" and "Personal Networking". They both come from the same root and, so, are totally interrelated. Actually, networking is networking, whether it is for business or any other reason, and the same principles apply. Networking, then, becomes a matter of building mutually beneficial relationships to achieve common, non-conflicting goals.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

John Harricharan: Be yourself -- don't pretend to be something you're not.

People have a built-in "BDS" (bull-detection system) and sooner or later they know whether you're trying to use them for your own, selfish ends. Approach every networking situation with the thought of "What can I do for them?" instead of "What can they do for me?" It is somewhat of a mystical thing in that as you try to help others, a lot more help comes your way.

Connect with people at a "heart" level, listen to what they are saying and pay attention so they feel that they are the only ones in the world while you're talking to them. Find out more about them, their work, their interests and such (within reason, of course) and refrain from trying to impress anyone. Then, if there is something you can do for them, do it without any thought of having them return the favor. You'd be amazed at the magic of such simplicity.

-You can visit John Harricharan at Insight2000.com.

John Pullum - Television Host, Speaker, and Entertainer

It is an honor to bring you John Pullum. John is a Corporate Entertainer & Motivational Keynote Speaker. He's also the host of The Discovery Channel's "More Than Human".

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

John Pullum: I feel business networking is getting good business relationships going with people in your own line of work and other related fields.

My main business is corporate entertainment and motivational / keynote speaking. I get together with local entertainers from time to time for lunch. We don't get a lot of business done but do see each other. We keep others in the group in mind for shows that we either can't do or that are better suited for them.

I also try to hit other meetings for business owners like Meeting Professionals International or similar events. These aren't entertainers but people that work for companies that might hire a speaker or entertainer.

I visit business expos and look for larger companies that probably have events that could use me, and attend their luncheons, etc. to meet those people.

Business networking can be as simple as dropping a postcard to a company you are interested in working with or attending a business lunch or dinner with a group of people that you want to work with. It's always good to keep your name in front of them.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

John Pullum: I feel you need to be a good public speaker. If you are shy take improv or other comedy based classes to "try" to break out of your shell. Understand that everyone doesn't want your product. Don't waste time barking up the wrong tree or this will just frustrate you.

When talking to someone be sure to ask people about themselves. So many people out there LOVE talking about themselves and don't let the other person get a word in. Leave time to find out what the person you are talking to does. You'll find better leads and other business opportunities if you let the other person talk and take time to listen.

-You can learn more about John Pullum at www.pullum.com.

Interview with Matthew Cornell of Matt's Idea Blog

It's an honor to bring you Matthew Cornell, from Matt's Idea Blog. He is a consultant, speaker, and coach specializing in the areas of personal productivity and Workflow.

In addition Mathew has authored many articles on topics dealing with productivity, technology, and creativity.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Matthew Cornell: Let me first say that, until the last year or so, I spent my entire professional life as a programmer in government and academic research labs, cocooned in technical problems far away from "real" people.

I happily worked away, clueless about the importance of connecting with others. If I had an opportunity to talk to someone, I was ALL BUSINESS - maybe spending a few seconds of small talk before getting to the "real meat" of the issue, then quickly signing off.

I worked for twenty years this way until I realized, while switching careers to personal productivity consulting, what an impoverished way to operate this was.

My turning point was when I discovered networking was not only a *requirement* for my kind of work (where word of mouth referrals are key), but also deeply satisfying on a human level. At that point I made myself a student of business networking, and started including books like "How to Win Friends & Influence People," "Love Is the Killer App," and "Never eat alone" in my new consulting self-training diet.

The change has been remarkable. I've trained myself to always be on the lookout for opportunities to connect with others, being especially attuned to ways I might help *them*. (Note that this is the "white magic" kind of networking where you are looking for win-win relationships, not the "evil" variety in which you're focused on taking as much as possible, and mainly using others primarily to further your own goals.)

Regarding a definition, I'd say it's about connecting with others in mutually beneficial and hopefully pleasant ways, such that all participants emerge with richer relationships and potential to get what they care about done. In addition, networking adds to your intellectual and narrative mix. As I've heard it put elsewhere, "The currency of business is ideas, not money."

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Matthew Cornell: My suggestion would be a "meta" idea: I'd advise people to treat improving their networking skills as an area of focus, one that will pay off for the rest of their lives. Start with books like the ones I mentioned above, then practice! At work, social organizations, parties, everywhere.

More specifically, I've found it very helpful to do my research before talking with someone. These days, there is usually lots of information publicly available about people you'll meet with, so find out as much as you can about their lives, where they work, and what's going on. Have they received an award? Bring it up, or send a card.

Your research should provide you with plenty of questions to ask them when you meet. Ask them, then *listen* - people love to talk about themselves, and sincere active listening is a gift anyone can learn to give, regardless of where you are in business.

-Learn more about Matthew Cornell at MatthewCornell.org.

Interview with Meghan Wier

Meghan Wier is the author of "Confessions of an Introvert: The Shy Girl's Guide to Career, Networking and Getting the Most Out of Life". She writes on a variety of subjects including business networking, business success, and internet marketing.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Meghan Wier: Business Networking is making and growing business relationships - and it is important for every business, and every business person in order to succeed.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Meghan Wier: The best idea that I can share is to think of business networking as a part of your job. Allocate time to it, set goals, and do it every day. That means sending and returning emails to current and past clients/vendors/friends/coworkers - even if it is just to say hi.

Invest in some nice note cards and send an old-fashioned hand-written note whenever you meet someone new. Keep track of birthdays and send out cards. Set meetings with new acquaintances and meet them out for coffee - just to network.

Make networking your job and it will be a lot harder to put it off -- and a lot easier to be a success!

-You can learn more about Meghan Wier at MeghanWier.com.

Interview with Jill Lublin of Promising Promotion

Jill Lublin is a speaker, author and consultant who teaches on topics dealing with marketing and publicity. She is the author of "Guerrilla Publicity" and "Networking Magic".

Josh: Jill, how do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Jill Lublin: Networking is the process of building and maintaining relationships. It’s the development of a team that will support your efforts and the efforts of your network teammates to reach your respective goals.

Networking is about forging bonds and sharing. Networking is important because magic can happen through your connections with other people. Making the right connections can lead you to the right avenues you need to reach your goals.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Jill Lublin: Real connections come from true, heart-felt, and honest interactions. Shed your business persona and be yourself. If you’ve got a line drawn between your personal and business connections erase that line. Start connecting with others as if each person might end up as your best friend.

The formula for connecting from your heart is simple: you’ll like who you’re being and you’ll naturally attract like-minded, quality people. People you meet are more likely to introduce you to their friends and associates if they like you.

Honest curiosity and vulnerability are key. Intimate connections are the foundation upon which we build satisfied lives and the best connections are heart-centered connections. Don’t think for a minute that success in business requires a stoic business persona.

-Learn more about Jill Lublin at www.jilllublin.com.

Interview with Scott Ginsberg - That Guy with the Nametag

Scott Ginsberg is an author and speaker on the topic of effective networking. He speaks on topics including: "The Power of Approachability", and "Becoming a Networking Superhero". Scott's the author of three books including: "How To Be That Guy - 47 Ways to Create an Unforgettable Brand that Magnetizes More Business".

I loved Scott's idea about carrying blank business cards with you...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Scott Ginsberg: I define it as "development and maintenance of mutually valuable relationships." And I feel it's important for five reasons:

1) People only do business with you if they've heard you, heard OF you, or someone they trust has heard of you.

2) We live in a sales resistant culture.

3) You just never know.

4) The Federal Bureau of Labor indicated that over 70% of all jobs come from networking. I think it's higher.

5) It works. My entire speaking career turned on the hinges of a guy I met on a bus 4 years ago.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Scott Ginsberg: Sure. Carry around blank business cards. When someone you'd like to stay in touch with says, "Oh I forgot my card. I guess I'll just have to call YOU," give them a blank one, tell 'em to fill it out, then hang on to it so you can keep in touch.

-You can visit Scott at www.HelloMyNameIsScott.com.

Interview with Pegine Echevarria

Pegine Echevarria is a leading expert on success, leadership, teamwork, and diversity. Her new book is called "Sometimes You Need to Kick Your Own Butt".

The following ideas are sure to make you a stand out at the next networking event you attend.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Pegine Echevarria: Business Networking is an experience that is memorable, serves others and leads to income producing results. Business Networking opens doors not only for your self and your business but also for your family and friends. It is about connections -- connecting you to people who want to help you and connecting you to people you want to help.

In my e-book "Go Fish for Friends, Business and Opportunities" I tell people that business networking is about fishing. (By the way you can receive "Go Fish for Friends, Business and Opportunities" at no charge by signing up for my monthly newsletter at www.pegine.com my gift to you). The term ‘networking’ comes from the fishing industry. Fishermen use nets to gather fish. They "work the net" casting their net into the ocean and pulling the net in (working the net). Within the net they discover different kinds of fish and other assorted items.

Fishermen know that in the net they will find:

* Things they weren’t expecting
* Fish they want
* Items they want to toss back and
* Surprising delicacies.

The same can be said for Business Networking. Sometimes you never know what you are going to find. Opportunities you weren’t expecting, the connection with someone you were hoping for, people that don’t have the same work ethic as you and then those connections that are so amazing, so wonderful, so terrific that you savor forever. Without Business Networking you are limiting your income producing potential.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Pegine Echevarria: Imagine you are having a party at your home. You have invited many people. As the host you circulate, you make sure that people have something to drink, you share where the food is, and you introduce people to others. You circulate and help people connect with each other. You want to make sure the party is a success so you make sure that you put on your smiling party face.

Do the same at any networking event. Imagine that the event is your party. Most of the events you go to are hosted by organizations and there are so many people no one really knows who the host is. Besides I’m not asking you to say you are the host... just act like you are.

How? Here are some tips:

* First imagine you are the host of the event. Put your party face on (even if you are nervous and scared... make believe it’s your party)

* Before you go into an event identify where the rest rooms, the food and the drinks (all stations) are.

* Make it your job is to ensure that everyone is taken care of so that attendees know where the food and the drinks are.

* Welcome people when they arrive, if you are near the door.

* Walk around and encourage people to mingle.

* Introduce yourself. (If they ask "Are you the host?" say "No, I just want to help and make everyone comfortable")

* Introduce people to each other, look for strays and help them connect with others.

* By doing this you reduce your anxiety, you are actually being extremely helpful, you are perceived as a mover and shaker, people appreciate you and people want to get to know you. You become a star!!!!

-Visit Pegine Echevarria at Pegine.com.

Interview with Olivia Fox Cabane - Networking Expert

Olivia Fox Cabane is an author, speaker and the Executive Director of Spitfire Communications. She is the author of "The Pocket Guide to Becoming a Superstar In Your Field". Her passion for teaching communication has lead her to lecture at Harvard, Yale, MIT and the United Nations, and to be frequently interviewed as the current networking expert on both radio and television.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Olivia Fox Cabane: It's grabbing every opportunity that you see! It's networking any time, anywhere. "But I don’t have time to network" -- Yes, you do! Networking doesn’t just happen when you take time out of your busy schedule to appear at an official "networking" event. In fact, networking can happen anytime, anywhere.

Every minute you’re around other human beings is a chance to connect. Self-made millionaires are known for their tendency to network everywhere and all the time -- on the golf course, but also at the doctor's office, at the health club, or on a plane.

You don’t necessarily need to carve time out of your already- packed schedule for "official networking." Instead, just focus on meeting people and making connections in your day-to-day activities. The most effective way to do this is to use "wasted time" or "waiting time." As a rule of thumb, the more bored people are, the more receptive they are to being approached.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Olivia Fox Cabane: Only one?! Too many favorites! Here are a few for you to pick from:

1. At a cocktail party-- the best place to stand in a room in order for people to like you better... Near the food. First, it makes for easy conversation starters, such as "what do you think of the cannelloni?" Second, when people eat, their endorphin levels rise, which puts them in a better mood, thereby improving the chances that they’ll like you. Third, eating also boosts their memory, and therefore the chance that they’ll remember you later. The dessert section is ideal: by this time, they won’t be starving anymore, their endorphin levels will already have risen, and the pastries are always an easy conversation starter.

2. Ten tips to feel comfortable at any event...

TEN TIPS TO FEEL COMFORTABLE AT ANY EVENT

* Find out everything you can about the attendees -- it will give you conversation fuel.

* Wear an icebreaker; anything that will draw attention and inspire people to approach you.

* Read a couple of mainstream newspapers just before the event so that you can use the headlines as conversation.

* Get there early: This gives you the opportunity to warm up slowly as the other guests gradually arrive.

* Remember in detail one of your proudest moments just before entering the room. The memory will flood your system with endorphins, an instant confidence booster.

* Breathe! Deep breaths have an instant calming effect.

* Pretend you're the host of the party: it boosts your self-confidence because it makes the event your event.

* Position yourself around the desert buffet: it makes for easy conversations, and when people eat, their endorphin levels rise, which puts them in a better mood.

* Approach people standing alone: they're probably feeling awkward and will be grateful to you for saving them from anonymity.

* Compliment them on something they're wearing, and then ask an open-ended question about it. It's one of the most effective icebreakers around.

-You can learn more about Olivia Fox Cabane at www.SpitFireTeam.com.

Interview with Donna Fisher author of Power Networking

Donna Fisher, is an author, Certified Speaking Professional, and corporate trainer on Making Connections that Make a Difference. Her books include: Power Networking, Professional Networking for Dummies, People Power, Power NetWeaving, From Picket Line to Online and Five Keys to Building Business Relationships Online.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Donna Fisher: Business Networking is business people sharing information, ideas and contacts with one another to help support the success and growth of one another's businesses.

Josh: Donna, can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Donna Fisher: Connect with people. Don't just meet people, connect with them. It is easy to meet a lot of people. It is more valuable and fulfilling to connect with people.

Connect with people by giving people your full attention, being present with them in the moment, showing an authentic interest in who they are and what they need to be even more successful. Connect with people by looking them in the eye, calling them by name and providing them with contacts and suggestions that can help them grow their businesses.

-You can learn more about Donna Fisher at www.DonnaFisher.com.

Rene Godefroy Interview - Motivational Speaker and author

It's an honor to bring you Rene Godefroy. Rene is a motivational speaker and the author of "No Condition is Permanent!".

As you read the ideas shared below I'd encourage you to pay special attention to the advice Rene gives on putting the law of reciprocity to work in your favor.

Josh: Rene, how do you define Business Networking, and why do you feel it is important?

Rene Godefroy: Every business person should be in the "prospecting" business. Too many entrepreneurs jump for joy because business is good. And so, they stop prospecting. Big mistake! Their pipeline should always be full of fresh and qualified prospects. That's where business networking comes into play.

Regardless of whether or not business is doing well, we should continue to acquire more business. Perhaps this mindset will allow you to get rid of your less desirable clients or customers. You see, lack of enough prospects forces us to cater to people who we normally might not have chosen to do business with.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Rene Godefroy: My advice to any business owner is to avoid wasting time networking with unqualified prospects. Before you start networking, first decide what you think would be your ideal client or customer. It makes no sense to go to a pond to fish where you know the fish aren't biting.

Also, don't be too needy. It's disgusting to see a group of starving people begging while they network. Stay away. The old adage says that people will resist being sold, but they will gladly buy. Instead of telling people what you want and need, try to find out what you can do for the prospect.

Activate the law of reciprocity in your favor. Shower "gifts" on your ideal prospect. Recommend a book, give a compliment, send an article, offer a thirty-minute free consultation with no strings attached, or offer to send some helpful resources. Be creative. There are so many little -- yet valuable gifts you can give that don't require spending money.

-Learn more about Rene at www.villagehero.com.

Interview With Ruben Gonzalez - Author and Speaker

It's a pleasure to bring you Olympian, Keynote Speaker, and Author Ruben Gonzalez. Ruben is the author of "The Courage to Succeed".

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Ruben Gonzalez: Business networking is about developing strong relationships with other business people and helping them reach their goals so they will connect you with people that can help you reach your goals. It's all about delivering value to others so you can reap value later on.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Ruben Gonzalez: If you focus on delivering value to your business contacts - having your antennas up for opportunities that may be helpful to your business contacts, over a period of time you will develop a reputation for being a selfless, genuinely helpful person.

Once that happens, those people will begin to reciprocate and lead you to opportunities that will fit your strengths.

-You may visit Ruben Gonzalez at www.thelugeman.com.

Phil Town Interview - Rule #1 Author and Speaker

It's an honor to have caught up with author and speaker Phil Town. Phil is a self-made millionaire several times over as well as one of America’s most widely sought-after speakers on investing. He is the author of the best-selling investment book, "RULE #1".

Mr. Town appears regularly as part of the "Get Motivated" touring success seminar, where he speaks to more than 500,000 people annually about Rule #1 investing.

As you read the following ideas from Phil pay close attention to what he says about "developing relationships with people that share your similar interests" and how doing so can open you up to new business opportunities.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Phil Town: To me business networking is a bunch of people at a convention center with name tags. I can't handle it but then I've always been a bit anti-social. The trouble is, it's real important. You are going to find that the more people you are connected with, the luckier you get when it comes to opportunities.

The key word in business networking is 'connected'. I'm not a big fan of casual business card exchanges. Mostly that stuff gets tossed or becomes fodder for some generic email blast to three billion people. Or at least that's my rationale for not doing it. I never feel much of a real connection in those 'business networking' environments. I go for connections that involve something I share with someone and I don't do things to get connected. I get connected because I do things I like and meet people who share that interest.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Phil Town: Frankly, Josh, I suck at what traditionally passes for networking. Harvey Mackay (Swim with the Sharks) is a master at networking and I highly recommend his book. But for me it was always really uncomfortable to do the kinds of things Harvey takes in stride. For example, he sits in first class on flights and always strikes up a conversation with person next to him. I live in fear of sitting next to a guy like that. I try to get on early, get out a book and be deeply into it before my seatmate arrives. So for me traditional networking is really like rowing upstream... painful at best.

Still, the fact is that some of the best things that have ever happened to me, maybe all of the good things, came from being networked in some way or another. But the networks I was in weren't business related per se. I just got myself networked as a side-effect of being really interested in some things in my life.

For instance, I love riding Harleys. Always have. As a result other guys with the same interest would get together with me for rides and we became friends. Then one of those guys suggested that I do a business with him and we formed the touring arm of EagleRider Motorcycle Rentals, a business that is going gangbusters all over the US today.

I met Dr. Jonas Salk and invested in a company he was chairman of because I was interested in philosophy and took a class outside of school that Peter Salk, Jonas' son, was also taking. We became friends and that led to a business investment.

One of my daughters plays volleyball and I'm a huge fan of hers. Another Dad who has a daughter on the team is the same way and we became friends and that resulted in my other daughter getting an internship with him. So for me, networking is about connecting with people who share your interest in something. I guess I'd recommend that you put your personal interests before your business networking to get the most out of what real friends can do for real friends.

-You can learn more about Phil Town at: his official site: RuleOneInvestor.com or at his Blog.

Interview with John Ahern of CBD Financial Planning Group

The following business networking advice comes from John Ahern. John is a business owner specializing in wealth creation and management with CBD financial planning group (CBDfp Group).

Josh: John, how do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

John Ahern: You may or may not of heard of these sayings around networking before, however, they are powerful seeds to help you start thinking differently around the way you do business. Things like, "Networking to Win", "If you're not networking you're not working", "Be Seen, Get Known, Move Ahead" or even this one, "Network or perish".

When you take a moment to really think about the message in these words it spells out the impact of people in your business, and for that matter, your entire life. For me, and this may also be true for you, people are the most important 'thing' (to use a term) in your business and life. Here's the motto; "People first, great systems and profit will follow".

Ok then, if people have the most impact in your life and business, why do so many remain strangers?

When you take this to a higher level of thinking, you start to realise that networking is a life skill, not just something you do when you want something. It's about giving to receive and elevating your business and who you are to add value to people. The very same people who own businesses and have influence with others. By continuing to search for opportunities to add value, your networking and business becomes meaningful work.

Taking another step, if you will, meaningful work creates a sense of purpose and people with purpose are people with passion. People with passion are people who perform and naturally attract others. Others that want to do business with you and are not driven by price or competition. It's about creating a culture through people and networking that your customers take pleasure in the buying experience.

Take 30 seconds to burn this into your mind, it's easy to be competitive, however not everyone is creative. You see, anyone can be competitive and run a successful ad campaign or marketing strategy that sells a product at a similar or discounted price to their competitors. However, creativity is the currency of the future... People want more out of your business than price.

They want more out of you then just a client number. People are looking to be engaged and searching to feel good with the experience you provide.

Better than that, there is no greater place to be creative in providing a wonderful experience than in networking. In saying this, not only is NETWORKING an essential life skill, it is also the most basic business building tool in today's competitive/creative market place. It gives you the opportunity to use the currency of the future... creativity. Not only that, you get to learn and grow through the experience of other master networkers.

One final spin on networking. It's available, free and open to everyone, without exception and as long as your networking values are strong, ethical and transparent you will 'create' a new experience in win-win relationships with people who are important to you and your business.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

John Ahern: So People first... then great systems and profit will follow. This is my number one idea that you can put into practice... it's like "be prepared", "people first" when networking.

The next important idea, is be yourself and understand the nucleus of your own customer value proposition. How do I add value to others?

The third important idea is; "intention without action equals squat" or, in another way, "intention plus action equals will". So take action and get involved in networking and you will grow as a person, your business will have meaningful work and you will add value back to people.

Here's something else that you may or may not already know that's not an idea, it's the next piece in the equation. Besides, respect, integrity and sincerity in your networking you need great systems in place to continue growing the experience for the people you come in contact with.

Systems, like an adequate data base, that allows you to be constantly making strong connections, following up and keeping in touch. Multiple contacts builds trust and trust is the atmosphere for business transactions.

Finally, may I leave you please with the next level of thinking to networking. It's creating win-win strategic (healthy) alliances and mastermind groups.

-You can visit John Ahern at the CBDfp Sydney site or the CBDfp Brisbane site.

Interview with Stephen Kraus - The Success Scientist

I'm honored to bring you the following interview with Harvard-Trained success scientist, Dr. Stephen Kraus. He is an author and speaker. Dr. Kraus teaches the science of success, combines decades of research on personal achievement, and explores the "greatest hits" of psychology’s most fascinating research.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Stephen Kraus: Why is it important? Because marketing and business development efforts are the key to business success. You can have great ideas and great content, but if they aren't marketed well, they won't become successful.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Stephen Kraus: Key idea: Start by choosing a niche, and developing a deep understanding of your target market. Then identify other businesses that sell non-competing services to your target market. These other businesses will be ideal partners for networking and marketing.

-You can learn more about Dr. Stephen Kraus at RealScienceOfSuccess.com.

Interview with Rhonda Sher of The 2 Minute Networker

It's an honor to introduce networking expert and author, Rhonda Sher. Rhonda speaks nationally teaching powerful and practical networking techniques, she is also the author of The 2 Minute Networker: The Simple Step-by-Step System for Growing your Business through Networking.

Get ready for some valuable business building ideas ...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Rhonda Sher: Business networking is simply the process of connecting with like-minded people. It is the easiest way to create strategic partnerships, referrals and expand your sphere of influence.

Business networking is sharing resources and creating win/win relationships. It is critical to being a success in business because people will always do business with those people that they know, like and trust. We treat our personal lives in the same way. We choose our friends based on who we want to spend time with. Business is no different.

Dale Carnegie said "People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing." Business networking is the fun part of growing your business. It opens doors to meeting new people and learning new things. Dale Carnegie also said "There are four ways, and only four ways, in which we have contact with the world. We are evaluated and classified by these four contacts: what we do, how we look, what we say, and how we say it." This is true in both our personal and our business lives.

Networking is simply connecting with others and without connection, we are alone. The joy of success is in sharing it with others.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Rhonda Sher: One idea that someone can easily put into practice is to set a goal to meet two new people a day. It doesn't matter whether you are going to the market, getting gas or simply picking up your children from their activities; smile, make eye contact and start a conversation with someone you don't know.

Find an area of interest that you both have in common to start a conversation or pay a genuine compliment. Ask an open ended question and do 20% of the talking and 80% of the listening. You will be amazed at how much you can learn about a person just by listening and asking the right questions.

Make sure that you have a notepad to get the name, address and phone number of the person you have met and to follow-up with them in writing or by phone within 24-48 hours. It is an easy way to "take the work out of networking" and grow your database of new contacts.

For more information on how to follow-up, I recommend using a high tech, high touch approach with www.getsendoutcards.com. It makes it simple to make someone feel special and takes little effort but produces huge results.

-Visit Rhonda at www.2minutenetworker.com.

Interview with Sean Woodruff

I'm pleased to bring you the following advice from Sean Woodruff. Sean is a successful entrepreneur and marketing expert who happens to enjoy teaching and sharing his knowledge with others (a trait which I'm sure is one of the reasons he's met with the success that he has).

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Sean Woodruff: I'm not sure I have ever really defined it. I have a base belief that all businesses, people, experiences, ideas, results... everything is linked together by relationships. The relationships are what form the "network".

So, my definition of business networking would be relationships in a business context.

Josh: Sean, can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Sean Woodruff: I find it hard to keep up with all the different names people want to call different forms of business strategies and ideas.

My idea would be for everyone to free themselves from the idea of networking and look at their business as relationships they have with individuals. Individuals make up businesses. Get the relationships right and the business will be right.

Not thinking about business networking may not be a "politically correct" idea when talking about business networking advice but it is the way I feel about it. I think we make everything way more complicated than it really needs to be.

-You can visit Sean at www.WoodruffDirect.com.