pray OR network. Huh?

I find the banner not particularly welcoming. It's on the home page before logging in, so it is in the prime "welcome mat" spot--which strikes me as mistaken placement--likely rather off-putting for first-time visitors--folks who have yet to get to know Biznik and the community.

I suspect it is easier for established members of the community to see beyond the bold irreverence of the banner, to embrace the pithy heart of the message--success/survival takes more than prayer--(with which I agree).

I agree with Leila and have personal experience with some people in LA who didn't get it. I get it and found it funny and a bit off centre-the way I like my print/online.

These people were pretty hip but they did not want to go any further when it appeared as the initial message.

One who went further actually got a very religious welcome message when she posted her introduction. It was shocking and uncalled for and the supposed greeter used the royal "we" while espousing his personal beliefs. Therefore, it appeared to be more than his personal opinion.

However, there are tons of people joining daily so that is good.

For the record, I pray and I get myself and others into ACTION!

As it turns out we're currently working on a video series that will soon be replacing these on the home page with brief videos explaining what Biznik is. We're eager to try showcasing these videos front and center to see if they are more effective and welcoming. Look for these within 10 days or so, possibly sooner.

The videos sound great. Whatever came before the recent spate of advertising seemed quite ok. They certainly enticed enough of us to jump on the ship. I like video so I will look forward to seeing them. I have had a flip since they came out and use it for everything but biznik. I sometimes flip my clients so I can mimic their speech patterns. They are the best!

Gee, I've noticed that some people are mean spirited when answering others questions, in a verbal smoke screen of "comment". I don't like grouchy, rude, or judgemental comments, no matter what the question or comment. Jim had a valid remark. My team was looking at Biznik and two folks commented about the "praying" joke, or whatever. Neither thought it was an approperiate message. Nor did I. Oh well. My team and I are here for business, not religion. If I was as smart as you, I'd have my own networking website, then I could say whatever I felt like too.

It is odd that with all the ads we have rotating through that spot on the Biznik front page, that is the only one that elicits any comment.

I fully expected people to complain about the foofy-haired dude "looking like a barista, not an entrepreneur", or somesuch.

But I definitely did not foresee people taking issue with the word "or".

Every day provides us with new learning opportunities. That's fer dang sure!

I still haven't found this picture. Obviously it doesn't make much of a mark on me and it sounds like "much ado about nothing"

Yes. That kind of struck me in an offensive manner as well. Maybe a better term to be using would be..."Instead of wishing the economy would get better, try networking your way through it!"

I appreciate the attention to noticing this topic. I, too, am a believer in prayer. And prayer does work. Its unfortunate for those who do not understand that prayers are answered in a different manner and time frame than they're used to. You know, at the fraction of the speed of light! No wonder many lack the character that patience on prayer builds.

I love Amy Woidke's line: first treat, then move your feet! I'm posting that on my computer next to "Keep calm and carry on."

Agree with all about the important link between spirituality and business. That's how I frame everything I do. And being an entrepeneur allows me to actively work on both.

First post? Great response.

We spent all day in the studio today recording video of 8 Biznik members telling the story of their businesses, and also giving tips on how they get the most from Biznik. We're really excited to soon replace the current banners with these videos, because not only will they quiet this argument, but they'll be MUCH more useful and helpful, as well as more engaging.

We got some extraordinary video today:

• Sara Eizen talking about how she built her business despite having twins
• Kammie Lisenby explaining how she left her job as a cheerleader for the Seahawks to start her professional organizing business
• David Kuhns passionately explaining why passion matters in business
• Jennifer Manlowe sharing her secret to networking success on Biznik
• John Robertson on why self-employment is the most secure form of employment today
• Peter Chee on how to do well by doing right
• Debbie Rosemount on how to use your business network effectively

I'm looking forward to these videos. "Doing well by doing right" sounds very appealing to me right now.