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Apr 01 2019

5 traits of successful entrepreneurs

Portrait of Dominique Dennery

Two young women just out of university wanted to become entrepreneurs. Both were very intelligent and had become knowledgeable in their respective fields. In order to support themselves while starting their own businesses, they each took on assignments with my consultancy around the same time.

As I mentored these bright young women, I did my best to understand their strengths and weaknesses, and to adjust to their unique approaches to work. Over the course of several months, one thrived. The other struggled. I was often at a loss as to help the one who struggled, and I blamed myself for her failures.

But something began to nag at me as I observed their reactions to opportunities or adversity, their attitudes while completing assignments, and their overall outlooks on life. After a few months passed, I began to realize that the young woman who was struggling had an employee mentality, while my more successful mentee was adapting more readily to an entrepreneurial mindset.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the young woman who quickly adapted to entrepreneurialism went on to start a successful business. The other is now working for a company in a 9-to-5 job and still dreams of making it big on her own. With a bit more maturity and experience, she may one day achieve that goal. Or she might not.

Canada has one of the highest rates of entrepreneurship in the world, but still, only about 13% of us attempt to start a business. Of this small number, only about 9% go on to establish a business that lasts three-and-half years or more. And this makes Canada a leader among G7 countries! So, what makes for a successful entrepreneur?

I think these two women’s traits and attitudes are instructive when it comes to understanding entrepreneurial success. Based on my experience as a career coach and small business owner for over two decades, success derives from the following 5 traits or attitudes.

  1. The ability to self-soothe and carry on

Starting or running a business is an emotional rollercoaster. You have to be able to remain calm and persevere when business is slow, and to keep your wits about you when you are lucky enough to be swamped by work. You have very few, if any, sick days or mental health days. And if you want to make a buck, you quickly realize there’s no one to pass it to when it comes time to take responsibility for failures. And you have to manage all these business stresses while still dealing with the everyday life stresses, big and small, that all of us face (bumpy relationships, sick family members, caring for elderly parents or children, etc.). In short, if you don’t have nerves of steel and the ability to make fun of crazy situations that would lead most other people to just curl up into a ball, then owning your business may not be for you. I am only half kidding!

The two young women I mentored couldn’t have been more different in how they dealt with stress. One faced multiple challenges during her time working with me—health challenges, money challenges, and various setbacks. But she just kept on moving forward. The other woman just folded when situations got challenging or complicated. She started projects but was often sick before she got to the finish line. This was the first indication that entrepreneurial life may not be for her.

  1. Adaptability

If you can’t plan for the future while constantly observing and adjusting to new situations, you will struggle to make ends meet as a small business owner. You must be constantly adapting to your environment by asking questions of it: What is in it for the customer? What is in it for you partners or collaborators? What is in it for you? What is the win-win? When do you pursue an opportunity, and when do you walk away? Being in business means both planning and figuring things out as you go! You have put plans in place, but you must stay sharp and flexible as your plan unfurls.

Both young women were challenged at first by the fast moving, constantly changing world of entrepreneurship. In school, there were schedules, homework, exams; it’s a predictable world. If you excel at creating and adhering to a good study schedule for yourself, you will complete your assignments on time, study rather than cram for your exams, and get good grades.

Nothing had prepared them for the real world of proposals and client deliverables. Their project plans looked great on paper, but they learned quickly that they couldn’t get too attached to the plan. As entrepreneurs we know that change is the only constant and we must adapt when it invariably happens. Change in the world of small business comes in a variety of forms: you no longer can get access to contracts because of new regulations; your product is becoming obsolete because of new technology; your competitors have developed a faster and better delivery mechanism; you’re a-list clients are retiring and you need to replace them fast. It never ends!

While they were not responsible for strategizing about new ways to adapt to the big changes in the industry, my mentees had to develop the entrepreneurial skill of changing the tires on the car (or project), as it speeds down the highway!

  1. Being positively contagious

Not every successful entrepreneur is naturally ebullient and communicative. Some of us have days where we’re hard pressed to show signs of life! And we all know how our moods and energy can be contagious. I simply don’t go on sale calls if I am feeling like yesterday’s coffee. No one will buy me! It’s better if I fight with spreadsheets or office files on those days.

As the face of my business, I know that I have to believe in my product completely and put my best foot forward, with a smile. That demeanour is contagious and will attract other people and opportunities to me. This doesn’t mean that I don’t face rejection from time to time. It just means that I don’t internalize rejection and choose to remain optimistic. I celebrate even the smallest win. Being grateful keeps me joyful which attracts more to be grateful about.

My two young women’s attitudes? Their reaction to rejection couldn’t have been more different. One saw rejection as an opportunity to learn from mistakes and would immediately begin seeking new opportunities. The other was dejected for days. She had trouble getting over one negative comment even when 10 others were positive. She wore a face that said, “I am a victim of circumstances.” Her first instinct was to blame clients or colleagues when something didn’t come through. The energy in a room went south in her presence. With coaching, she was able to change her behaviours at times and get better results, but her enthusiasm was short lived.

  1. Thriving in Chaos

Individuals who like predictability, routine, and order are probably better off working a regular 9-to-5 job. Working for yourself or managing a business often means inhabiting a whirlwind of chaos: missed calls, missed emails, missed deliveries, miscommunications, misjudgement, missteps, and mishaps! So, the ability to keep a clear head and work with uncertainty and ambiguity, and make the best of it, is critical to surviving and thriving in business.

This attitude is closely tied to the other traits and attitudes already mentioned. Both mentees struggled with chaos and wanted me to help them find a way out, fast. I was there for them but couldn’t relieve their anxiety in the moment. I knew from experience that all of us need to keep going until the dust settles, problems are solved, and customers are happy again. In this case, there is no substitute for experience and trusting that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

  1. NOT a perfectionist

Your perfectionism must die or it will surely kill your business. Often, when we are just starting out in business, we try to do things to perfection. After all, it is the high quality of our work that attracts clients to our business. The irony is that we have to accept that although we will strive to do our very best, our efforts must fall short of perfection if we are to grow our business. A business owner has to know when to stop and say: it’s good enough, it’s fine, it’s ready to go out to the client now. It’s not easy to let go, but we must.

The two young women were different in this aspect too. The one who went on to become a successful entrepreneur worked very hard, but she would share her product before it was completed to get other people’s input along the way. She dropped the need for perfection. The other woman strived to do most of the work on her own and agonized about her products. When she shared her work and was sent back to the drawing board by clients and collaborators, she was dejected. And each time this happened, her self-esteem was affected. She was eventually paired up with another employee and started to do better when she was closely supported and supervised. It was clear that she wasn’t ready for entrepreneurship.

What do you think?

I’m sure experienced entrepreneurs will want to add other characteristics to this list. I’m tempted to add The Ability to See What Isn’t There…Yet and The Need to be Pig Headed (sometimes).

Do share with other readers what characteristics are essential to surviving and thriving as an entrepreneur!

 

Dominique Dennery has had her own HR consulting business for over twenty years. She is also an award-winning facilitator, coach, and sculptor.

Connect with Dominique

http://dominiquedennery.com/

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Dominique Dennery · Tagged: 5 traits of entrepreneurs, business women, successful traits of entrepreneurs

Aug 30 2017

Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo returns to Toronto, September 17, 2017

 

In light of current undertones towards immigrants in Canada, the expo promotes peace, hope and success for all business women

 

Toronto…Now in its fifth year, the one-day, experiential Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo (IWSM Expo) celebrates the aspirations and achievements of immigrant women, taking place in Toronto on Sunday, September 17th, at Daniels Spectrum. Under the theme “The Changing Face of the Immigrant Community,” IWSBE offers women an opportunity to get informed, empowered and enlightened, while providing access to business building services, networking opportunities and entrepreneur workshops.

Expos are a crucial factor in helping new businesses acquire the leads, networks, information and polish they need to succeed in the business world.

This is according to Dwania Peele, founder of Canadian Small Business Women (CSBW) and the IWSB expo who notes that women owned small and mid-sized businesses generate around $117 billion to the Canadian economy annually.

“We’ve always championed the fact that women matter, and we’ve sought to celebrate all the roles they fill in their family, career and community,” said Peele. “Immigrants, specifically, struggle in Canada’s labour market despite their many skills, and we are more than excited to be in Toronto with this rallying cry of support for immigrant women entrepreneurs across Ontario.”

Another advantage of a business-focused event is that it presents practically unlimited opportunities for information-sharing, says Peele. “We have found there is significant demand for practical advice and insights that help would-be immigrant entrepreneurs and small businesses to run their businesses effectively. Expos bring together stakeholders from across a niche spectrum and present an ideal platform for workshops, demonstrations and seminars that help participants grow their businesses.”

ISWB expo offers a rich experience with informative seminars and panel discussions presented by notable speakers including the Honorable Gagan Sikand, MP for Mississauga-Streetsville,  and entrepreneur Julie Suen, President and CEO of Chinese Canadian Voice. Throughout the day attendees can view educational exhibits and corporate displays from Canada Business Ontario and the Government of Canada. The seminars and workshops will be far ranging and engaging, featuring topics that impact women’s daily lives addressing such issues as health & wellness, marketing and social media tips, career advancement, business/entrepreneurship, the welfare of our children and much more. While IWSB expo targets immigrant women, there are elements for all women business owners.

In addition, ISWB expo offers ample opportunity for shopping and sampling from local artists and artisans showcasing their handmade wares at the Craftadian pavilion, formerly the Made by Hand Show.

 

IWSB expo offers a one-stop business platform to gather information, exchange ideas and network for anyone considering starting their own business, and for those already in business and looking to expand.

Admission runs for $5 / person including access to seminars, panel discussions and the handmade market.

What:                                   Immigrant Women’s Small Business Expo

 

Where: Daniels Spectrum, 585 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5A 2B7

When: Sunday, September 17, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cost: Admission: $5 (Under 16 years of age free)

Website: http://toronto.immigrantsmallbizexpo.ca

 Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/immigrant-womens-small-business-expo-toronto-2017-tickets-31623796627

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Canadian Small Business Women, Events · Tagged: business, business women, event, Expo, Immigrant Women, networking, small business, startup, Toronto, workshops

Jul 01 2016

Michelle Smith: Canadian Small Business Woman of the Month of June 2016

Michelle Smith

Recently named the “Top 100 Canadian Black Women to Watch” by the CIBWE, “2015 Role Model and Achiever” by the Black Canadian Awards,  Michelle Smith is an award-winning mother of 2,  Nurse Advocate, and Contributing Healthcare Writer for The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper.   Michelle Also known as JA Nursing,  “The Voice Of The Community ”   has been featured on numerous platforms for her wealth of knowledge on  navigating the healthcare and social system.  Michelle has a firm passion for spreading the word about healthcare  and the social factors that contribute to the changes in one’s life.  She continues to bring awareness to  Mental Wellness  as one of the key components to changing  outcomes for  all individuals and groups that she meets. 

Overcoming the stigma associated with being  a teenage Mother, Michelle,  launched   JA Smith Consulting and Nursing Services  with the primary mission of helping individuals navigate the healthcare and social  system, creating her much needed position in the community as a Healthcare and Social Advocate.  Michelle is also the  Founder of  JA Nursing We Care Inc.  Non-profit organization. Both divisions participate in various health, social and mentoring initiatives throughout the community.  Her mission is to focus on community wellness by continuing to Change The Face Of Knowledge  by giving the voiceless a voice. 

Our Q & A with Michelle

*What inspires you?

Firstly  my children have always been my inspiration. Both of my divisions  use my children’s names JA Smith  Consulting and Nursing services and JA Nursing  We Care Inc.

 

*As a small business owner, what achievements make you most proud?
As a business owner what I love most is increasing the health and social literacy of my community at large  through my words of knowledge.

*What advice would you give to other aspiring small business owners?

Be resilient.  Not every day is going to be bright, but believe in you product believe in your service and market yourself to the right people.

*What new things can we look forward to from your business in the upcoming year?

I would like to add author to my credits. As well I plan to go international with my Business.
Connect with Michelle:
Website

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Small Business Woman of the Month · Tagged: Black Canadian Awards, business, business women, Change the Face of Knowledge, CIBWE, Healthcare, JA Nursing, JA Nursing We Care Inc, JA Smith Consulting and Nursing Services, michelle smith, non profit, social advocate, Toronto Caribbean Newspaper

Nov 07 2014

“B2B” Communications: It’s About Time!

Sheralyn

 

Funerals that offer “creamation” services and companies that say their products or services are “Quiality” – what is your first thought? It they don’t show this much attention to detail on services they are trying to sell us via the internet, I guess we shouldn’t expect too much in terms of their service overall. You might have thought from the title that this would be a blog about “Business to Business” Communications and in a roundabout way it is. But that’s the problem with abbreviations – not everyone has the same understanding of their meaning and a breakdown in communication is the result. What I really want to address today is more about a “Back to Basics” approach to communications. Concepts like “yes, grammar matters” and the lost art of conversation. If we are open to learning how to do these things well, it’s possible our “business to business” communications will improve too.

Spelling matters. Grammar matters. Most of us can’t parse a sentence and don’t know a dangling participle when we see one but we sure as heck know (or should know) the difference between “its” and “it’s.” If you don’t (and this is not shameless self promotion by any means) you had better hire someone who does! Your business might depend on it. Utilizing technology, we tweeted a query not too long ago asking for your input – does it matter to you if spelling isn’t accurate on a website. Would it deter you from buying a product or service if the website contained language inaccuracies? The response suggested overwhelmingly that consumers would indeed bypass a poorly written website, choosing instead someone who took the time to get it right. The perception is clearly that attention to such detail really does matter.

These results are not surprising to me, nor should they be for anyone. You wouldn’t expect your doctor to “sort of” be able to practice medicine and I’m sure you rely on your mechanic to really “get it right” when he is working on your engine. It only makes sense that the same level of care and attention to detail would go into the website that advertises these services yet it always surprises me how often this fails to be the case. Time after time we come across websites like the one offering “Quailty” repairs. The thing is, as much as I advocate a return to the basics, technology can actually help us with these kinds of errors because all anyone has to do is hit “spell check” on their computer! Sure it might not catch the difference between the correct use of “here” vs. “hear” but that’s where the B2B education kicks in.

Communication is so many things. It’s about listening, speaking and writing and it is about the “ability to express or exchange information.” (1) How we interact with one another in every aspect of our lives is governed by effective communications. To do it well takes plenty of practice. It is a skill we should continually improve upon throughout our lives. Entire courses on networking are taught to business professional and really, isn’t this just an opportunity to teach people how to have a conversation? We need such courses because so many of us have now become completely reliant upon technology and all the abbreviations associated with it that we have forgotten how to talk to one another. Indeed, we have forgotten how to look up and into the eyes of people who are sitting right next to us! We are rational (sometimes!) reasoning creatures gifted with the ability to orate and yet it is a vanishing art form.

Therefore, I dare to say this. It’s time we got back to the basics. Put down our tech devices and learn the ability to speak and interact with one another. Bring grammar back into our schools and teach kids that while efficiencies gained from “ttyl” abbreviations work in some situations, they do not work for all. We need to learn how to spell and how to put a sentence together the “good, old-fashioned way.” Technology is a wonderful thing but it is only as smart as the user and what we put into it. “Garbage in, garbage out” as the saying goes so let’s recycle those old school dictionaries and put them to good use. From the perspective of your business, here’s why it is so important. Research shows that 59% of consumers would not use a company that had spelling or grammar errors on their website and that fully 70% of people notice these mistakes and feel it shows “an obvious lack of care.” (2) Further, if the average person only spends between 10 and 30 seconds on your website, being memorable because of your errors is not the right way to get noticed!

In educating ourselves about effective and efficient means of communication without the use of technology we might then be better able to apply that knowledge when we do use it. Building a great, error free website that helps tell the world what you can do is vital. Technology IS important but so is how we use it. Communication skills: good for life – and good for business too!

 

(1)MerriamWebster

(2)realbusiness.ca.uk

As Owner and Principal partner of “Writing Right For You” Sheralyn is a Communications Strategist – working together with entrepreneurs to maximize profit through effective use of the written word. Looking for web content that works, blog articles that engage or communications strategies that help you get noticed?  Contact Sheralyn today. Sheralyn is also the mother of two children now entering the “terrible and terrific teens” and spends her free time volunteering for several non-profit organizations.

Sheralyn Roman B.A., B.Ed.

Writing Right For You

Communications Strategies that help you GET TO THE POINT!

416-420-9415 Cell/Business

writingrightforyou@gmail.com

LinkedIn / Facebook / www.writingrightforyou.weebly.com

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Sheralyn Roman · Tagged: abbreviations, b2b, back to basics, business, Business to Business, Business Woman, business women, Canadian Small Business Women, communication, Communications, dictionaries, entrepreneur, error free, Grammar, Grammar matters, information, listening, Mirriam Webster, service, Sharalyn Roman, small business, small businesses, speaking, spelling, Technology, website, writing, Writing Right For You

Sep 05 2014

15 Things Every Business Woman Should Have In Her Purse

 

 Praveeni

 

 

 

As a business woman you’re constantly on the go. Many times your purse doubles as both an accessory and mobile office. As we get busier our purses often get bulkier and heavier but do we really need all that stuff or are we just carrying it around? I often find myself carrying around way too many things in my purse so I’ve come up with a list of the 15 essentials every business woman should have in her purse, other than your wallet of course.

1. Card holder/business cards
Networking is key in growing a business and to do this you need to pass on your name and information. Never miss an opportunity to network, always carry your card holder with a fresh supply of business cards.

2. Notebook & Pen
You never know when you’ll think of your next great idea or have to attend a surprise meeting. Be prepared to jot down your thoughts. Have a small notebook and a black or blue pen handy. Choose a conservative pattern for your book cover to keep it professional (no animal prints or hot pink).

3. Phone charger
Don’t be caught without mobile access, always keep a spare phone charger in your purse. This way you can charge on the go whenever you get a chance.

4. Your staple lipstick & compact mirror
Every woman has a go-to lip colour, make sure you carry yours with you to touch up throughout the day. As for colour keep it conservative for the workplace.

5. Pair of sheer Nude or Flesh tone Pantyhose
A run in your hose can ruin your outfit and professional look. A pair of flesh tone pantyhose can save you from the embarrassment of a run and make sure you maintain a polished and professional image. Choose a color closest to your skin tone. Flesh tone pantyhose gives the illusion of a bare leg and unlike black usually goes with any color you’re wearing.

6. Mini Brush
Don’t let a bad hair day ruin your mood and your work. Take a mini brush with you to touch up and tame any frizz or fly-aways. Travel size brushes are ideal. I keep the brushes from airline amenities kits, they’re great to slip in to a purse.

7. Mints/Listerine Sheets
Fresh breath is essential when you’re meeting new people and selling your business. A small pack of Altoids or any other mint can help tackle your dragon breath. Another alternative is Listerine mouthwash sheets.

8. Blot strips
As the day goes on your makeup starts to fade and your face does get oily. Blotting paper or sheets are great for getting rid of extra oil and shine on your face, especially before a big business meeting. You can find them in many brands but Clean & Clear is readily available at any drugstore.

9. USB Stick
A USB stick or Pen Drive allows you to to carry your work with you. It also lets you save a back up of all your important files if anything should happen to your computer.

10. Pad/Tampon/Midol
Just because it’s that time of the month, doesn’t mean your work life should stop. Always carry supplies with you and if you suffer from severe cramps and pain make sure you have Midol or any other prescription medication you use.

11. Asprin
A headache can really ruin your day and affect your productivity. Apsrin is great for any mild headaches or pains. The travel size bottle is enough since you won’t be using it on a daily basis.

12. Travel size deodorant/perfume
Body odor can really stink up your professional image and reputation. Keep yourself smelling fresh and clean all day long by carrying your deodorant with you to touch up as required. You can carry a perfume purse spray as well however keep in mind that most offices are scent free environments.

13. Bandaids
Paper cuts are inevitable at work so be prepared with a stock of Bandaids. Opt for the clear or flesh colored ones as patterns are not work appropriate. It’s best to buy a small box with different sizes for different types of cuts.

14. Mini Hand Sanitizer
As you go to different business meetings, you’ll be shaking a lot of hands. Unfortunately most germs are spread through shaking hands, protect yourself by carrying some hand sanitizer and sanitize after your meetings and before meals.

15. Mini sewing kit
A loose button or thread can ruin a professional look. Having a mini sewing kit with a few spare buttons can help save your wardrobe and restore your professional look. You can usually find a mini sewing kit in most hotel rooms (take it with you) or purchase one. If you like you can make your own – chose neutral colors of thread and black buttons in different sizes.

 

Praveeni Perera is the CEO and co-founder of Professional Edge Consulting a corporate training company based in Ottawa offering training and coaching services to clients around the world.  She can be reached via Website, Twitter, Facebook or her Blog.

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Praveeni Perera · Tagged: asprin, bandaid, blot strips, brush, business, business cards, business women, Canadian Small Business Women, Card Holders, compact, deoderant, entrepreneur, hand sanitizer, lipstick, listerine, midonl, mirror, Notebook, pads, Pen, perfume, Phone Charger, Praveeni Perera, Professional Edge Consulting, purse, sewing kit, small business, tampon, travel size, USB stick

Aug 26 2014

What’s your definition of success?

Uchechi

If you’re a business owner, then it’s fair to say you’re in a state of constant striving. Whether it’s striving for increase in sales, profit, customers or client engagement, there is always some goal that you have and are always chasing. To be honest, I would say everyone fits this criterion, because it is a human need to always be reaching and striving for more success in our lives. 

It’s a good thing to strive for success and reach beyond where you’re at, but it’s also important to really sit down and define what that success means to you.  What does it look like? Oftentimes, we tend to strive for what others have put in our head as to what’s important. Or we see other’s, who we feel are successful and go after the same thing, not recognizing what it took for them to get there and more importantly what it’s costing them to maintain it.

I’ve had conversations with small business owners who want to turn their business into a huge empire. This is all well and good, but then they also tell me that family and time is #1, and they want to have flexibility to travel the world at leisure without being tied to things, and work minimum hours. Now, can you see how building and sustaining a huge empire and leisure time and family life may conflict? Also those that they admire in business who have built a huge empire are the very ones that say it cost them leisure time and quality family life. However, these individuals who are striving for this, do not take a look at the whole picture and to see if that definition of success (business empire) fits within their own definition of success. If it does not allow them to have quality family relationship and time, I say it does not fit within their definition. It is important to take a holistic look at what is it you want, and are chasing and see if it fits into your core beliefs and values. 

Another important reason to define what success means to you, is because it allows you to have a clear picture of what you want. I read somewhere that ‘you cannot achieve that which you cannot define’. Once you define it, you will have a clear picture of what it is you’re chasing after. You will also recognize all the opportunities that aligns with it, plus ones that may not be the right fit for you.

Your definition of success will change over time and that’s okay. Once you hit one goal, you will then have the need to hit another, which is a human condition that we all have.

We also go through periods of growth and development and what once was important is no longer so. This happened in my life. About 7 years ago, my sister and I opened up a 3000sqft wellness centre with a spa, fitness & yoga studio, and therapy clinic, employing various alternative health care practitioners. Now at that time, I was single and my sister and I did not have any kids. Over time, that wellness centre although it began to grow with more opportunities coming to us, demanded more of our time and energy managing such a large facility with so many staff and contractors. I remember how difficult and stressful it was for me shortly after having my son and trying to manage that business and being a new mom. Fast forward to now where my sister and I both have two kids each and time and family taking #1 priority in our lives. It became clear over the years that that particular dream of a big wellness center, was not in alignment to our core desires, especially during this stage of our life. We later sold the centre and transitioned our business into one where we can manage from both our home offices, with fewer overheads and staff to manage. This now fits our definition of success. 

So I challenge you this week to take a look at what “success” looks like for your business and share it with our community below!

 

Uchechi Ezurike-Bosse is a Business & Lifestyle Strategist, Speaker and Writer, but most importantly, a proud Mother and Wife. Uchechi is Founder of My Empowered Living (http://www.myempoweredliving.com) a website aimed at helping women shift their mindset and live their passion! Whether it’s starting and building their dream business, or helping them create a lifestyle they crave, Uchechi is the modern woman’s secret to success! Visit Uchechi at www.myempoweredliving.com to get her FREE online video training series The 4 Keys to your Business Success! This free 4-day business training reveals her 4 key strategies needed to build a profitable and successful business, and how to put them to work in your business!

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Uchechi Ezurike-Bosse · Tagged: business owner, business women, Canadian Small Business Women, client engagement, customers, development, empire, entrepreneur, goal, growth, My Empowered Living, profit, sales, spa, success, success definition, therapy clinic, Uchechi Ezurike-Bosse, wellness centre, yoga studio

Aug 23 2014

Networking Etiquette

Martina New

 

How does it make you feel, when someone you just met launches into a full-on sales pitch? Probably not so dandy. It may make you feel the same way as those sales calls you get after 8pm all right during dinner, and you just want to tell them to go away.

When this happens at a networking event, it’s awkward. Someone just introduced herself to you, or you said hello and asked what she does, and suddenly you’re finding yourself trying to back out of the conversation.  If you’ve attended more than a couple of networking meetings, you know exactly what I’m talking about! 

I admit that at my very first networking event as a fresh business owner, I hadn’t yet figured out the best way of going about things. Somewhere I had heard or read that it was a good opportunity to get and give as many business cards as possible, and many business owners support that view. Because you never know whom you`ll meet, or whom they know.

Being competitive as I am, yet also feeling a little nervous in a downtown pub stuffed to the hilt with small business owners, I “worked the room” as much as I was comfortable. In between greetings, I excitedly felt the growing number of cards in my pocket and felt somewhat proud over how many I had at the end of the night.

Yet therein lies a problem. As Christel Wintels, franchise owner of the BNI Golden Horseshoe groups, shared at a recent big networking bash, some informal ‘research’ had shown that of all the people who attend any given networking event, only around 5 per cent are there to buy something, yet a good 90 per cent or more are there to sell! So Christel’s commandment is: Thou shalt not sell!

Just like any other set of manners, networking etiquette has its pitfalls. Understandably, we’re excited about our business or idea and want to tell as many people as possible. And isn’t it all about exchanging business cards with lots of new people? 

It is in a way, but of course certain guidelines should apply so that you are remembered in a positive way. For example:

  • Prepare your introduction. Have a well-rehearsed pitch or ‘infomercial’ of 60 seconds or less. It should tell the listener about your key services and main benefits to them. Make it engaging, use some intrigue.
  • Listen! Cany people “don’t listen with the intent to understand, merely with the intent to respond.” Make the conversation about the other person, and hope they’ll do the same.
  • Ask new people for introductions to other specific businesses, and also ask them whom they would like to meet. You will be a superstar if you can introduce them to somebody else you met at that event!
  • Wait for a break in conversation or an obvious end before jumping into a still ongoing dialogue between two or more persons.
  • Avoid introducing yourself to someone just as they’re putting food in their mouth. I always find this one particularly challenging to handle when on the receiving end! I struggle for a suitable and polite response when asked “So what do you do?” while I’m currently balancing hors d’oeuvres on a napkin, and trying to keep crumbly filo pastry off my face and clothes. Needless to say I also don’t want to talk with my mouth full. Maybe say hello to someone else first and come back later.
  • Be humble and accept the fact that not everyone will be interested in your business. Start a dialogue and then wait to hear if that person would like your business card or not. If they don’t prompt you, maybe they’re really not interested or in need of your service.

In any case, enjoy the event! Every networking event is a good opportunity to improve on and perfect your sales conversation, get a feel for which aspects of your conversation and benefits spark the greatest interest, and you never know whom you might meet and whom they know!

Just remember to leave the kind of impression you actually want to be remembered for.

 

Martina Rowley is the founder and operator of Beach Business Hub – THE co-working space east of the Don Valley. She combined her passion and experience in the environmental sector with her community engagement side to create a local work environment where space and resources are shared. She fosters and facilitates collaboration, networking, and learning for and with small business owners and new start-ups. Contact her at:http://www.beachbusinesshub.ca, on Facebook and on Twitter

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Written by Dwania Peele · Categorized: Martina Rowley · Tagged: Beach Business Hub, BNI Golden Horseshoe, business owner, business owners, business women, Canadian Small Business Women, Christel Wintels, competitive, conversation, Ettiquette, franchise, infomercial, introduction, listen, Martina Rowley, networking, networking event, sales pitch, small business, telemarketer

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