Interview with Ryan Mapes of GoBigNetwork.com

Ryan Mapes is one of the original folks behind www.GoBigNetwork.com -- the world's largest community for entrepreneurs, early stage investors, advisors, and other professionals; all who have an interest in the growth of startup businesses. He currently manages the company's B2B partnerships and advertising division.

Ryan has a background in finance and entrepreneurship and has been involved in several startup ventures in the US and abroad. He was also a partner at Value View Financial, an investment advisory company that serves clients and publishes a financial report worldwide. He currently devotes his time to his work at Go BIG, his new wife, and traveling abroad whenever possible.

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

Ryan Mapes: In my mind, business networking is any activity that creates relationships with the hope that these new contacts will develop into an opportunity immediately or some time in the future.

Networking is valuable on a number of levels. But, most importantly, networking creates opportunities where none may have existed previously. I'm constantly amazed at how often a timely opportunity pops up as a result of a connection that I may have developed several years back.

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

Ryan Mapes: I can't emphasize enough how important it is to always be prepared to create and maintain a business relationship with somebody. It may not be apparent at the time, but you'd be amazed how handy a loose contact may be 2 years down the road.

My advice for networkers is to embrace technology, especially networking opportunities created by the Internet (I'm biased here!). On many online social networks, I've seen members that have created 10 or 20 thousand contacts. Obviously, they can't possibly have strong relationships with every single contact. But, the power (and exposure) that comes from the sheer volume of this many connections is unbelievable.

With that said, I believe it's important to build up a large network of connections, but also look to build deeper relationships with some of the core contacts that you create. This could be as simple as shooting over a quick email once every few months. Or, if you're in the area, take the time to grab a quick cup of coffee. I find that if I can put a face with a name, that connection pops to my mind much more quickly when an opportunity presents itself.

Finally, take a few minutes once a month to scan through your list of contacts. This keeps your brain flowing for potential opportunities within your network. It's easy to fall into the habit of continually adding people to your rolodex without periodically revisiting the list of people that you've added over time.

Josh: Do you see any common mistakes people tend to make when it comes to attempting to make business connections? If so, what are they and what corrections could they make in your opinion which would help them to be more effective in their approach towards networking?

Ryan Mapes: This list is endless! But, the biggest mistake I see is a lack of follow-up after meeting someone. If you meet an important contact and exchange business cards, be sure to send a quick email when you get back to the office. This can help solidify the relationship and open up the doors for further correspondence down the road. People commonly let important contacts go stale because they haven't made contact with the person for several years after they initially met. Don't let this happen! Again, a simple email once every few months will go a long way.

Josh: Ryan, you're one of the folks behind GoBigNetwork.com -- for those who may not be familiar with it yet, can you share a bit about it, as well some of the key benefits that they can expect should they decide to plug into the community you all have going over there?

Ryan Mapes: The Go BIG Network is the world's biggest online community of startup companies. It's a great place for startups to find funding or connect with other resources to help grow the business to the next level.

Go BIG is commonly referred to as the Craig's List for startups. You can post a Request (classified ad) for several services including Funding, Jobs, or a Project that you need completed. You can also directly contact investors or other entrepreneurs on the site. Or, gain/exchange some business knowledge in the Forums.

Josh: Can you share a personal "networking" success story with us?

Ryan Mapes: While in college, I met the founder of a large manufacturing company who was a guest speaker at an event we held. He invited me to work on a major project with him in NYC. -- From there, I was introduced to Wil Schroter who also happened to work with the project... and the Go BIG Network was born! It was a long journey, but several amazing opportunities can be traced back to one simple connection that I made.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Chris Brogan interview - Social Media Expert

Chris Brogan is a social media expert and co-founder of PodCamp, a free unconference exploring the use of new media tools like blogging, podcasting, and videoblogging to build relationships. Chris has been active in the blogging world since 1997 (when it was called journaling). He started podcasting in 2006, and videoblogging later that year. Chris produces the Video on the Net conference, and blogs at [chrisbrogan.com]

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

Chris Brogan: Business networking is establishing social contact with people with the intent of business. I'll tell you that I don't really frame MY relationship building in this way, but only because I believe that it's the same as meeting people for social purposes.

The only difference is that with business in mind, you might be considering how each new contact can build into a business (i.e. monetized) relationship instead of just a friendship experience.

So, if I can just blather a moment longer, I'd say it's really important to remember that businesses are chock full of HUMANS, and to think with your heart set on adding value, instead of "what can I get out of this?" The results are stellar.

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

Chris Brogan: Here are a few tips on meeting folks in a business networking setting: When you meet someone, say your name loud enough to be heard, and clear enough to be remembered.

Not like a robot, but clear like you're hoping they remember you forever. PRACTICE this. Another tip, don't do the card-swap/handshake-at-the-same-time thing. The other person might not need your relationship, and you might not need theirs. Instead, when it's about time to break off the conversation, say, "I'm really excited we connected. I'd love to talk more with you. May we exchange cards?" See how that feels? Totally different.

Josh: What is your favorite (preferred) business or social networking site? In your opinion what are the key features which are most valuable to you? What makes the resources you use most appealing to you, as opposed to the other online networking resources and sites that are available?

Chris Brogan: I use TONS of methods to reach people: Twitter, Facebook, my blog, and media like podcasting and videoblogging. I go to conferences and meetups. I use services like upcoming.org and meetup.com to look for events that appeal. This is how things get done in this space.

My networking successes happen daily because of this. Last night, I went to a blogger dinner in Boston hosted to welcome Jeremiah Owyang to the neighborhood. Doc Searls was there, and lots of other really swell heavy hitters and energetic newcomers to the space. What I found in those few hours for potential business, and LOTS of contact was more than most folks would get in MONTHS of handing out resumes.

So If I were going to advise you, do it that way.

BTW, I got my last job from networking. No resume was ever reviewed. Nothing. Just a job on the spot.

Josh: I couldn't resist this last question. On your blog, you mentioned a game you play called, "call Chris". Can you tell us more about it -- as well as how the idea to do it came about and what results you've had since you began with it?

Chris Brogan: "Call Chris" is a game I play using Twitter. I give out my phone number to everyone, and ask them to call as if it's a radio show. Only it's not. It's just a way to have conversations. The main response of this is that I get to talk with people I haven't met personally, or chat briefly with friends who want to have a laugh. The secondary response is that I get a whole phone full of numbers to call should I have something to ask someone in a pinch. I do the game for the primary reason, but the secondary benefit doesn't hurt, right?

Thanks for this interview, Josh. I appreciate your time, and I'm grateful you're out there helping people with their networking and social connection advice.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Benjamin Bach interview - wealth building consultant, realtor and speaker

Benjamin Bach lives in Waterloo, Ontario Canada where he helps people retire rich and young through smart real estate investments. On the side he is an inspirational speaker and leadership development trainer, and manages a private portfolio of real estate properties. Benjamin would love to hear from you, and can be reached at benjamin@benjaminbach.com or through his website.

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

Benjamin Bach: Networking for me is all about meeting people and seeing if I can be valuable to them. Maybe I know someone who they should meet, maybe I read a book which can help their business - however I can help, I'm glad to do so.

Part of my enduring purpose is 'to give freely,' and I really try to live up to that when I'm in a 'networking' setting.

It's crucial to any business, since our profit lies in the pockets of everyone else. If I have a valuable service or good, I can sell more by reaching more people. Networking lets you be valuable to more people. If you've built a business model around being paid for value (and you should), this will result in more profit for you and your organization.

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

Benjamin Bach: 1) Send a hand written note after you meet someone for the first time, and at least once a quarter after that. Keep it simple - "Hey, it was great meeting you the other night at the Business after 5. If I can ever help you, just ask!" has always worked well for me.

Get personalized cards made up - Your picture, contact info and slogan, and a whole lot of space to write. Use a blue pen, and hand address the envelope in blue as well. Send 10 a day, starting now. Anyone you talk to, you send a card. Meet a new prospect? Send a card. Someone win an award? Send a card.

2) Get amazing, cool, funny, memorable business cards made up - mine are a cartoon. Get a card that makes people say WOW!, those are great. Spend some kesef on the design; people will remember them and hand them out. Give them out like candy.

Josh: Based on your experiences, which places and activities have you found best for meeting new people and expanding your business network?

Benjamin Bach: The Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is the premier location for me to build relationships in my community. I believe that in most cities this is the case; Bob Burg suggested I join my local chamber in his phenomenal book Endless Referrals. What a great suggestion!

Toastmasters has also been very good for meeting people, not to mention the BEST resource to improve communication skills. Go to conferences. I can't even begin to tell you about the people I met when I travelled to Texas to learn from Jim Rohn this past March (and I know you agree with this - you and I have matching pictures with Jim and Chris!).

Josh: How do you generally engage a person in conversation upon first meeting them?

Benjamin Bach: First, I make a conscious effort to note the colour of their eyes. This ensures I am making GREAT eye contact, and makes it easy to genuinely listen to the person (since my attention is trained on them). I try to look at everyone with love in my eyes - not in the romantic sense, but in the way that lets them know you really care about them as a person (read Og Mandino's Greatest Salesman in the World for a better explanation of this).

I stand up straight, make sure my arms aren't crossed, and smile. After that, you just need to follow through on the expectation you've built with your non verbal communication - ask questions that focus on them and allow them to be portrayed in the best light possible, and listen attentively.

Don't sell yourself. Don't offer your services. Don't interrupt their stories to go say hi to someone across the room. For the minute or two you're speaking with them, give them your undivided attention, and make them feel special. They will associate these positive feelings with you (and when they get your card a few days later they will remember the charming chat they had with you!)

Josh: Can you share a personal "networking" success story with us?

Benjamin Bach: Sure, I'd love to. I moved to the city I'm in two years ago, and knew only one or two people. Through the relationships I've built, and by continuously adding value to my clients, colleagues and friend's lives, I've built up a good size (and growing!) sphere of influence. The quality of my sphere was demonstrated recently; this past month I was voted Favourite Real Estate Agent, beating out about 1500 other real estate agents.

Tim Sanders says that your network is your networth. Heed his words and start meeting more people today. Give out ten business cards a day. Write 10 hand written notes a day. Give TONS of value. You will be rewarded with abundant relationships and riches.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Melissa Giovagnoli interview - Founder and President of Networlding

Melissa Giovagnoli is a leading expert on the development of individual and community leadership networks as a means of growing and accelerating brand loyalty and performance improvement inside and outside organizations. Her organization, Networlding, has provided exceptional relationship marketing and management programs for organizations like AT&T, CNA, Motorola and Disney.

Melissa is also the author and/or co-author of ten top-selling books. She has also been a guest on both radio and television including The Today Show, CNN, WGN, CNBC and FOX. She is a frequent presenter at conferences looking for interactive sessions.

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

Melissa Giovagnoli: My definition of networking is an activity of connecting that leads to business opportunities for all parties involved. In other words, networking should be an "exchange," not a transaction of taking or giving, In an exchange, both parties share their respective interests and needs and both parties commit then to explore making introductions (versus referrals where you have first-hand experience working with the person) to potential connections that lead to opportunities.

With Networlding, my process, there also exists the value of integrity that needs to be in place in the minds and, more importantly, hearts of both parties. Success in networking leads to more success. The focus is on quality of relationships, first, that leads to the quantity of opportunities.

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

Melissa Giovagnoli: One of the most important things is to find "open networkers" who are also willing to mentor you a bit. Where do you find these people? If you connect with me on LinkedIn (and link with me at melissa@networlding.com - name - Melissa Giovagnoli) you will be able to view my 3000-plus connections.

Those contacts who have their email addresses in their names are usually ready, willing and able to help you, at least for a limited time. Don't put all the pressure on one potential mentor. Locate three or four. Keep your requests simple. Ask for a 15-minute phone conversation. Honor this person by finding out what matters most to them. Spread the word about this person by promoting them to your friends and colleagues by email.

Open networkers love being promoted. In return, ask for their best networking tips and, always, ask them to share with you the name of the person they think is the best networker they know. What then? Ask to be introduced to that person to do the same thing with them--get some simple, short-term mentoring advice. What you will find is that you will build a network of one great connection after another and the best thing you can do then is to introduce these great networkers to each other. Chances are they won't all know each other and by being "The Connector" you will create tremendous value for you and all others involved in your networking efforts.

Josh: What events, places, or resources (online or off-line) have you found to be especially good for networking? And based on your experience what makes them stand out?

Melissa Giovagnoli: There are many sites. We are now offering a $500 e-learning program for Networking for Sales at NetWorldingElearning.com. You can gain access to this service at no charge by linking with me on LinkedIn. Also, visit our site at NetWorlding.com and sign up for our newsletter and blog. Finally, we are building out a wonderful online community for socially responsible networkers (those who hold our values of integrity, making a difference, collaboration and innovation) at www.networlding.me.com.

Josh: Can you share a personal "networking" success story with us?

Melissa Giovagnoli: Just the other day I connected three clients with presidents, vice presidents and directors of their target prospect organizations within a couple of days. It's so gratifying to help make these connections.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Stephen Joyce interview - President of Sentias Software Corp.

Stephen Joyce has been working as a travel and tourism technology consultant since 1995. In 2005 Mr. Joyce and his company, Sentias Software Corp., began development on Rezgo.com, a next generation Web 2.0 tour and activity booking engine for small and medium sized tour operators.

In June of 2007, Rezgo.com was officially released and now boasts a user base of 500+ companies. Mr. Joyce is also very active in fostering tourism technology and is the founding President of the North American Chapter of the International Federation for IT and Travel & Tourism (IFITT North America). In addition to his tourism initiatives, Mr. Joyce is also on the Board of Directors of the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce.

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

Stephen Joyce: Business networking is about creating relationships and finding connections with people. It is so easy for business people, especially small business people, to lose site of the fact that their business, when distilled to its essence, is about people.

As a travel technologist, my business is dependent on maintaining successful relationships with vendors, clients, and partners. All of them are people that make up my network.

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

Stephen Joyce: Approach your network with a "How can I help you" mentality versus a "What can you do for me" attitude. It is very easy to look at your network as potential customers and to limit your interaction with them as if they are or are not your potential customers. A better approach is to look at your network as only one in six degrees of possible relationships. If you ask your network how you can help them, inevitably your network will ask you how it can help you.

Josh: How do you follow up with the people you meet? Do you have any particular system in place for keeping up with and managing the relationships in your business network?

Stephen Joyce: I usually send a quick email with my contact info and invite them to join my LinkedIn network or Facebook.

The reason I like Facebook for example, is that it is a little less formal than LinkedIn and provides an ongoing view of my activities. This is important because if the contact is not necessarily a lead, then there may be other ways to engage them in one of the many other activities.

Josh: What events, places, or resources (online or offline) have you found to be especially good for networking? And based on your experience what makes them stand out?

Stephen Joyce: I am a huge fan of local Chambers of Commerce or Boards of Trade. I am heavily involved in the North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce and sit on the Board of Directors. I am also the Chair of the Membership committee and work with an excellent group of volunteers who put on the membership network events.

These events are a great way to meet other local business people and share successes. As a result of my involvement, I have sourced excellent vendors, acquired new customers, and made many colleagues both locally and regionally.

Online, I recommend using LinkedIn and Facebook. LinkedIn is excellent, as I mentioned before, for more formal business relationships and for maintaining contacts or introducing new contacts. Facebook is less formal and, although my initial goal was to use it for business purposes, it is an excellent way to show a personal side to business contacts.

Sometimes it helps to show that you are a regular person with a family and kids and a dog and not just a name and a title on a website. Adding certain personal details can actually add context to your position and profile. Remember that you should only share information you feel comfortable disclosing.

Josh: Can you share a personal "networking" success story with us?

Stephen Joyce: I went to a morning breakfast meeting that was sponsored by a local cultural festival about a year ago. At the meeting I met one of the Board members of the cultural festival society who is also a product marketing specialist.

Over the next year, we began to talk more about how he might be able to help us meet our marketing needs. Although the fellow had not done any work on software product marketing, he was able to apply a lot of his traditional product marketing expertise. That one networking experience eventually changed the marketing focus of our company.

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Interview with Tony D. Clark of SuccessFromTheNest.com

Tony D. Clark is an entrepreneur, writer, artist, and designer who spends a lot of time talking others into profiting from what they know, being creative, and doing what they love. He is readying the launch of his new venture, Teaching Sells, in the fall of 2008. He blogs at Success from the Nest -- providing advice for the aspiring home-based entrepreneur, all served up with humor and cartoons.

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

Tony D. Clark: Because I've always been self-employed, I never really differentiated business networking from just meeting people. It's simply the act of getting to know people, taking an interest in what they do, and looking for ways to help them out. And listening -- lots and lots of shutting up and listening.

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

Tony D. Clark: Learn to listen. It's amazing how many people don't know how to use this skill. There's a difference between feigning interest and waiting for your turn to talk, and really listening to what someone has to say. Take an active listening approach -- using questions and your own anecdotes to enhance what the other person is saying.

I know a lot of very successful networkers that rarely say anything, and they are considered great conversationalists! Mainly because they do more listening then talking.

Josh: During the speaking and training I do, I often say that an important key to "effective networking" is creating value in the eyes of those you meet and connect with. Can you share some of the ways you go about creating value for those you're interested in getting to know better and connecting with on a deeper level?

Tony D. Clark: I like helping aspiring entrepreneurs not for altruistic reasons, but because I genuinely love independent thinkers and those who do things their own way. Life and work are fun -- when done on your own terms. So when I meet someone, my mind begins to spin on all the ways I can help them succeed, because that's fun.

Creative people and knowledge experts have a desire to share their gifts. Finding new ways to do that is part of the game. It's like when you see a great movie, you want to tell everyone about it. I'm that way with the life of entrepreneurship and self-employment. And I'm always on the lookout for ways to bring others into the "club."

Josh: What events, places, or resources (online or offline) have you found to be especially good for networking? And based on your experience what makes them stand out?

Tony D. Clark: Honestly, I've had more success with online networking over the past 5 years or so, than offline. I have business partners I've met online, and never even met face to face. I do most of my business online, so that makes sense.

It's going to sound contrived, but some of the best business contacts I've ever met have been through blogging and social applications. The same rules apply -- you're always looking for win-win, and not just what's in it for you. I'd gotten jaded with offline networking events, because they mostly were the same people looking for the same handouts. I choose my offline events very carefully now, and make sure they are something more than stale munchies, warm beer, and various types of cold-callers looking to build their list.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Diane K. Danielson interview - CEO Downtown Women's Club, Speaker, Author and Blogger

Diane K. Danielson is the CEO of DowntownWomensClub.com a career website and social network for businesswomen and the co-author of Table Talk: The Savvy Girl's Alternative to Networking (2003) and The Savvy Gal's Guide to Online Networking (or What Would Jane Austen Do?) (2007).

She blogs for www.womensDISH.com, the Boston Globe, and reviews books online for Entrepreneur magazine and is a frequent speaker at corporations and organizations on gender and generational issues.

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

Diane K. Danielson: Business networking for me is about connecting with people around like interests. This is something I enjoy and tend to do quite naturally because I love learning about business (all businesses) and I love talking to people and helping them if I can.

When you really think about it, networking is about learning; and if you stop learning, or limit yourself or your knowledge base, it's likely that your career, and even your interest in your career will stall out.

My first real exposure to networking was the summer after I quit being a lawyer. While I was technically "networking" for a job, what I was really doing was seeking information about all these other fascinating careers that I found much more interesting than being an attorney.

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

Diane K. Danielson: Stop worrying about your own comfort and focus on other people's comfort. If you make other people comfortable (chances are, if you're at a networking event, they're just as self-conscious as you), they are going to like you, and people do business with people they like.

Josh: What are some special techniques for starting a conversation at a networking event? Can you share some memorable ways to approach people you are interested in connecting with?

Diane K. Danielson: Always raise the energy level when you approach a group. Don't be the one complaining about the traffic, location, food, the weather, whatever. Remember: you want to make people comfortable.

As an opener, flattery always work. If I'm approaching a speaker, I might comment on an interesting point and ask them to tell me a little bit more. Or, if I can tell someone has taken great care with their attire/appearance, I might comment on their taste, a piece of jewelry, etc. But, beware, false flattery is always evident. Then after the hello, I put on my journalist hat and start asking questions.

One tip - stay away from yes and no questions. When inquiring about someone's place of work, ask how long they've worked there, what brought them to the company in the first place, etc.

Josh: What events, places, or resources (online or offline) have you found to be especially good for networking? And based on your experience what makes them stand out?

Diane K. Danielson: I actually like online networking because you can get right down to business (and it's at your convenience, not someone else's). I've had particular success with LinkedIn's Answers feature, where I can ask a question and have people answer. This also happens with blogs. When I comment on someone's blog (or vice versa) people do answer if I have a question, and then the conversation continues. Online also allows you the time to research someone's background (something you can't do at a cocktail party!).

For my in-person networking, I actually call myself a "CLC" gal (Coffee, Lunch and Cocktails). I like the casualness and the freedom to mix and mingle, or to leave when I need to, that a sit-down dinner doesn't always afford. But, in truth, my best networking interactions tend to be random and unplanned - on airplanes, at a neighbor's holiday party, through my soccer team, or just hanging out with my girlfriends.

Josh: Diane, you're the author of "The Savvy Gal's Guide to Online Networking". Can you give us a quick overview as to what the reader can expect to learn in the book. Also, could you share a few of the techniques you teach in it?

Diane K. Danielson: The Savvy Gal’s Guide to Online Networking (or What Would Jane Austen Do?) is a "how to" manual jam-packed with tips and tactics - but written in a fun, friendly and familiar format. That’s where Jane Austen comes in.

Throughout the book, the reader can follow the antics of Wendy, a Jane Austen-like character, whose blog excerpts appear in each chapter. Why Jane? Because good manners is at the root of good networking. No matter what the medium.

Some of the online networking tips that run throughout the book include:

Savvy Tip #5: Do the one-minute search test before you hit the send button. If you’re approaching a new contact via email, take one minute to search his or her name on the web. If there’s a wealth of information out there, and it’s easily discoverable within 60 seconds, then it’s likely that person will assume you have, at a minimum, that base knowledge before you make contact.

Savvy Tip #8: Don’t be a networking bully. We know that your product, service, or dynamic personality would brighten other people’s day, and if they can’t figure out how, then you would love to explain it to them. However, you can’t assume that at the particular moment you sent your email, the other person really wants his or her day brightened by you. This is where networking differs from sales. Your earnest persistence may come off as bullying if you don’t leave some "wiggle room" for your contact to politely decline your request to connect.

Savvy Tip #15: Avoid online identity theft. We’re not talking about the online theft of your bank account, but someone innocently co-opting your online image. It happens, especially if you have a somewhat common name. The best way to stand out from the crowd is to populate the web with content by, or about, you. You also might consider using a nickname professionally or your middle initial. Both will help distinguish you from any online "twins."

The Savvy Gal’s Guide to Online Networking (or What Would Jane Austen Do?) is 140 pages, and is available at Amazon and BarnesandNoble.com, as well as through the Downtown Women’s Club, where new members who join for $49.99/year will receive a complimentary copy in their welcome goodybag. For more information about the book, and the continuing saga of it’s main character, Wendy, visit www.SavvyGalBlog.com.

Sponsor Message: An email to let someone know you're thinking of them is nice, but a real life, hold it in your hands card or note is just plain powerful! Here's a system you can use that makes sending personal greeting cards nearly as fast to create and send as your trusty email program (and it's a lot more fun to use). To learn more, and watch your business connections flourish go here.

David Nour interview - Managing Partner of Relationship Economics, LLP

David Nour is a social networking strategist and one of the foremost thought leaders on the quantifiable value of business relationships. In a global economy that is becoming increasingly disconnected, Relationship Economics, LLP is solving global client challenges with intracompany, as well as externally focused, Strategic Relationship Planning(TM).

David is an author, a senior management advisor, and a featured speaker for corporate, association and academic forums, where he shares his knowledge and experience as a leading change agent and catalyst for Relationship Economics(R).

It's my pleasure to bring you the following interview with David Nour...

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

David Nour: I'd say it a little differently - I'd say, relationships are the destiny shapers of business success!

The rest of the world builds relationships first, from which they do business; unfortunately as Americans - we're often so myopic on the business that if and only if that part works, we'll think about building the relationship. Hence the disconnect with many parts of the world - they care more about your character and sense of trust than they do any products or services you offer.

Josh: Do you see any common mistakes people tend to make when it comes to attempting to make business connections? If so, what are they and what corrections could they make in your opinion which would help them to be more effective in their approach towards networking?

David Nour: Sure - all the time:

1. they "network" without a purpose, goals or a plan (PGP). 2. they think it's all about them, when in fact it's the exact opposite. If you aim to meet, get to know and find ways to become an asset, you accelerate your ability to exchange Relationship Currency; 3. Trust simply defined is Credibility + Empathy - you can't create a productive business relationship without it.

You have an opportunity to build relationships every minute of every day - don't loose another minute buried in the minutia of the day! Projects come and go; relationships can last a lifetime!

Josh: Can you share a personal "networking" success story with us?

David Nour: In 1999 I was invited to speak at a conference in San Francisco on 1to1 Marketing. At a dinner cruise of the Bay Area hosted by one of the technology providers, I sat next to a CEO and we spoke for 3 hours on the quantifiable value of proactively embracing your customers and their market insights. Two months later, I became the company President!

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com