Resolution Update – February
Networking Improvement Progress: Gradual…
In January, I went to my planned 3 events, including the Creative Mornings at W2, the launch party for Westcoast Families winter issue, and Networking in Vancouver’s Keys to Networking Success. I learned a valuable lesson at each one.
Lesson 1: Creative Mornings taught me that being “genuine” doesn’t mean being completely honest, or 100% factual. Of course you should be sincere, and give people an authentic version of who you are and what you’re about, but don’t forget that first impressions are made in an instant, and unless you start with the interesting stuff, the conversation may be over before you get there. So when someone asks what book you’re reading, it’s okay to talk about one you love, rather than the yard sale find you’re reading even though it’s boring.
Lesson 2: At the launch party, I learned that preparation pays off. I went specifically to meet the editor, publisher, and the ad sales rep that sold me the space so that I could put faces to names/email addresses. I had a couple of questions I wanted to ask each of them, and while doing so, got to chat with them about issues in their lives, as well as the magazine in general. I emailed the editor the next day to congratulate her on a successful party and was invited to submit event info for an email blast. A+! Now, to continue with the good habits…
Lesson 3: At the Keys to Networking Success event, I was reminded that no matter how much you may want to get out there, attend events and meet new people, forming relationships takes time and effort. Several of the speakers talked about how important it is to be unique and memorable, but whether you’re using social media or meeting face-to-face, it’s just as important to remember the people you meet, and do your part in the relationship building. Send a note, follow on Twitter, forward a relevant link, or whatever makes sense, but put in the effort and maintain the relationships.
On the web-based improvement side of things, I’m moving along at a much faster rate. Our website is the top 2 hits when you google “buddings.” In January, when I started tracking it, our media link page was 9th, and we only came to the top if you added either “Vancouver” or “daycare” to the search. We’ve grown to 110 followers on Twitter, and 36 on Facebook (up from 80 and 30, respectively), and our website is starting to have 50+ visitors daily, though that’s more a mark of the advertising than anything I’m doing, but still. The only thing I failed to do (miserably) is give my card to families on a daily basis. We have a really cute new promo card that I’m carrying in my handbag now though, so I’ll be sure to do more of that this month, and see how it goes. 🙂
