Over 8 years ago, I was in the center of every Networking circle in the NY area. No matter what I made it my business to show up and show out. In doing this I was able to get my name out there and a few copies of my books in the hands of some very good people. My sales reflected my hard work and dedication. Two years later, I was recouperating from heart surgery and have not been able to get myself or my focus back to where I once stood.
Even though I tried to maintain communication with alot of my readers, network friends and business affiliates, it is extremely hard to break into the new business network circles. For the most part, I am unfamiliar with a lot of the events in Atlanta. It is not as easy as searching Google. Then when I do find something where I can begin my fresh start, reality kicks in and reminds me I am not ready (financially). However, I will not become discouraged and I will not sweep my dreams or desires under the rug anymore.
When building a business we have to keep in mind that every minute of our day is an opportunity to make a new business contact. Therefore, it is crucial to remain professional because you never know when you are making that "first" impression. Part of learning how to reintroduce myself is to practice my lines. Not that I have a script that I read from but I must remember that I must use each meeting as a chance to acquire a new contact. Have a personal and professional resume about myself that I can ease into casual conversation. When someone asks, "So, tell me something about yourself.", this is the time to make it POP! Never look down on yourself or your achievements. Even if your career is at a stand still, be exciting!
I would say, "For the last 8 years I have been working very hard at beoming an Essence best selling author." After all this is my dream. "I have written and published 4 novels that have been well received by readers of all ages, races, and genders. Currently, I am in the process of finding a way to merge my passion for writing with my love for giving back to my community. I see myself becoming a Motivational Speaker in the near future and have already started college courses to obtain a degree in Communication."
If you are genuine and passionate about your work than your listener will be interested in you and your work. Passion is what binds us as a group, unit or couple. Sharing the same drive to become successful, break into a specific line of work or even just improving ourselves draws us closer as we support each other.
These are not things I learned over night. I had to look deep and figure out what was holding me back. I found that it was me. I was my own worst enemy. Passing up on many opportunities because I always felt like I was not ready. My fear of failure is what was keeping me from soaring to my success. I had to stop doubting myself and my skills. I have already broke the barrier, it is just a matter of finding the right audience. The only way for me to do this is putting myself on display and making a GREAT first impression.
When looking for ways to break into your market do not look down on the use of Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and so many other social networking forums. We are in the technology era. Everyone finds comfort in the ease of online marketing and networking. Become a fan to some markets familiar to your line of work to meet and network with business affiliates and future clients/customers/fans.
Network with me. Find me on Facebook @
- Envisage Publishing: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/Envisage-Publishing/134267513289794 or
- Mary Kay & Me: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/pages/Mary-Kay-Me/119443978162333
I can also be found on Twitter @ladydiva821 and on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/danettemaroney.
As always, I wish you all success ad prosperity for the many years to come.
Books, Beauty and Bliss,
Danett Maroney
http://envisagepublishing.yolasite.com
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