Networking During the Holidays

Some marketing strategies get super charged during the holidays and others just fizzle. One of the best marketing strategies to use during the holidays is network. Just think about it - people are typically happier this time of year, they are more open and giving, and they are more social. What a perfect combination.

BUT WAIT! If you do not follow a few simple rules, this time of year can end up being the worse time for your business. So here are 3 tips to getting the most from your holiday networking.

1. Remember, the same people that you are being social with MAY be your next big client or refer you the next big client. Watch what you drink and say. Although you might be at a party, limit your alcohol consumption and be friendly, but stay professional. Avoid having too much and saying something or doing something that will hurt your reputation or leave the wrong impression in the minds of your new contacts.

2. Get to know people, but don't push business. People are more social now than any other time. Use this time to get to know them - not just about business. Ask about their family, holiday plans, favorite memories. Avoid going to a networking event with the typically networking attitude, slow down a little and learn about them.

3. Although it is the season to celebrate, don't forget about business completely. Find reasons why you might want to reconnect after the event and ask if you can contact them later. This will open the door to future business discussions when the time is right.

By using these 3 tips you will be able to meet more people, have them liking you and looking forward to talking with you at a later date. 


Kimberly Deas is a Marketing Consultant that specializes in custom designing marketing strategies, providing virtual marketing assistants and an online marketing software for business owners. You can reach her at www.PromozillaMarketing.com.

Public Speaking As A Marketing Strategy

One of the most effective marketing strategies a solo business owner can employ is public speaking.

The main reason why speaking is so effective is due to the concepts of "experience and exposure." For example, instead of meeting one person at a time at a networking event, imagine speaking to a group of 50 people, all of whom are in your target market and want what you have to offer. You are exposed to many more potential clients at one time!

And, this type of exposure is far more powerful. You are an expert when you speak. You get to learn and teach about what you are an expert on. You get to provide value and allow the audience to experience you as a powerful, knowledgeable, giving, caring person who can help them solve their problem.

Okay, have I sold you yet? I know it is scary as heck to get up in front of a room full of your ideal audience, but you can do this.

I want to give you some suggestions to make it easier and more effective.

You set the tone. Your energy and attitude will infect the audience for the good or not. It is okay to be nervous just use those nervess as a source of energy to help you perform better. You know that commercial never let them see you sweat? Well that that is the key here, you can be nervous just don’t show it.

Dress appropriately for your brand. You should know how you want your target market to see you and the emotion you want to evoke. Your dress should reflect that emotion.

Don’t accept just any speaking engagement make certain they are your ideal client, or at least that they serve the same ideal client as you do. Remember that they are people just like you—and that you immediately have creditability because you have the courage to stand before them. They are going to be more interested in themselves than in anything else. Use that knowledge to help you relax.

You are performing and you must know your material. Be interesting...Interesting people have interesting audiences.

If equipment gets you upset or makes your nervous then don’t use it. More important that you deliver a great message than use new technology.

BREATHE! Take three deep breaths and exhale slowly to help you relax before you present.

Tell them who you are what you are going to tell them, tell them and then tell them what you just told them. Be sure to make eye contact and be yourself. They will love YOU.

Finally, have a great offer and an easy way for them to take advantage of the offer. I would even suggest you make your offer just before you tell them what you told them. Make sense?

Be prepared for questions, even ones you would never expect. Don’t worry if you don’t have an answer, tell them so and offer to find out for them. “I am not certain, get me business card and I will follow up with you with the answer.”

You can do this, reach out to those organizations that contain your ideal market and share how you can help them.