Monday, March 13, 2006

Putting the M in the New York M.I.N.I.T.: Networking to Make a Connection

The New York M.I.N.I.T is an energetic framework for busy professionals that taps into the root of networking...relationship building. The first tenet of the framework is the need to be Genuine and Authentic as you set out to network. Remember, the personal connection, even without scoring another business card, can always be a lasting benefit of networking. Keeping focused on the moment and the people you are surrounded by will help you not to glaze over in a frenzy of business card collection!

When you approach the first move in networking at a conference or meeting...remember the image of an octopus on rollerskates...you don't want to appear that way, do you? Think of the Octopus on rollerskates trying to cross the ballroom or conference room floor...lots of activity and plenty of motion expended...but nothing is happening that is productive...the octopus isn't making progress. Go farther with this picture.Think of each arm with a business card tucked into it...the octopus wants to mix and mingle, to get those cards out...but is thwarted by his own frenetic energy.

Pause...and breathe...Take 5 business cards and tuck them into your pocket...or better yet, buy a very cool looking holder that will make a nice impression when you finally CHOOSE to give your card over! Head for your meeting in your moment and think of M....NAke a connection!


MAKE a Connection in the New York M.I.N.I.T.

* Before you go...do a quick google of the group, mission, and people who matter. Be ready to use that in a connecting first moment
*Enter the room alone and find another loner, to break the ice and warm up you connectivity. Use your knowledge of the group from your Google to form the first question...Is ______--(head of the organization) here yet? I would like the chance to meet him/her?

The answer you get will determine how long you'll spend in conversation since you may want to find those who know or know of the power people in the room. Even if they don't introduce you, you can say..." HI, MS_________( Powerperson) I've just had a great chat with_____, who spoke highly of your work in _________________) You may not know the original person, but they may have helped you network from a quick conversation to the top dawg!

*Get the names of the loner people and burn them into your brain!Look them in the eye and associate...red tie, Ralph...Siver haired, Stella....Read the name tag...ANYTHING to recalll.Because as you come through the room again...you will want to see whom these people are chatting with and perhaps you want to join the group..."Excuse me, Stella, thanks for pointing ----out to me, I had a great conversation with them. By the way, I'm_____, if you recall," will take you far into a new group and help you to see if the conversation is rich enough to remain in!
* Speaking of name tags...wear yours in a prominent way at the throat or buy a special lanyard that you can loop around in a visable wsy...nothing worse than having people eyeball your navel in an attempt to read your name from a low hanging badge.

* Stay in connecting mode until you feel that the conversation is beneficial or not...but don't give up being relational and interested! If you feel that this is going nowhere...look to draw another nearby loner in with eye contact and a friendly gesture. After intros to get the two partners chatting, make your polite excuses and step away to find another Mske your connection opportunity!

Friday, March 10, 2006

Rotarian Trish

Rotary International President’s Visit



Carl Wilhelm-Stenham, RI President for 2005-06, captured the hearts and minds of hundreds of Rotarians from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania on March 7th at the Hanover Inn at East Hanover, New Jersey. His engaging and authentic style of speaking inspired new and seasoned Rotarians to focus efforts within their own clubs as he described the “courage and daring” necessary to sustain the expansion of Rotary.

Dr. Wilhem-Stenham spoke eloquently about opening Rotary in Russia, China, and Cuba. He spoke of the challenges and successes that are part of this process for which he has dedicated his presidency, and urged members to be supportive of efforts regarding Rotary expansion throughout the world. In light of decreasing US membership, he targeted the need for Rotarians to make Rotary meaningful to young people, the need to find leaders, both men and women, in the community…and invite their participation. “A party without guests is nothing!” he stated in his address.

The President is on an International Tour as he carries the message of Rotary. As a new Rotarian, it was an honor to hear his inspiring speech and to meet him personally. Thanks to District 7490 and7470 for offering me and others the chance to hear this wonderful leader.


Trish Rubin

Tuesday, March 07, 2006

Networking in the New York M.I.N.I.T.

It's really an American belief that only the best power to succcess, fight and claw their way to the top...only the strong survive!
Not true in networking! Only the Connected Survive...build a climate around yourself that takes you from the mindset of network collector to one of...catalyst!

Learning to create a buzz around business comes from the bridges you build, not burn, on your way to the top! And especially in New York City. The community is far from tight, but it's textured and affords great context for connection to new clients and supporters.

Using the framework of the NEW YORK M.I.N.I.T. , The EdVentures Group can promote your connection to the success you want. Start with the networking you do at a big conference or meeting..make it count!

The New York MINIT is a tight framework a business person can use to target a room...not for the purpose of collecting 50 business cards, but the 5 cards that will get you business!

M....Make a Move!

I....Invite the Connection

N....Nice Work!

I It's my Pleasure!

T...That's a (W)rap!


In the following articles, the framework will be described for any executive to practice...take your own 5 business cards and hold them in your pocket and read further!

Sunday, March 05, 2006

BPW International Federation

The Annual BPWI Federation Meeting held in New York City presented many opportunities for Women from all over the world to meet and network around the topic of Leadership.

Business and Professional Women's International Federation offers a great vehicle for women to network and to support and serv women in an International Community.

Reasons for Joining the Organization include:

An International Perspective on Issues
The Community Spirit of Women
Connections to Business
Political Arenassocial Opportunities Worldwide

Membership can be achieved at the Local and International level.

Please go on BPW.com for further information!