I'm overwhelmed!

I know exactly how you are feeling. I was totally overwhelmed in the beginning. Still am sometimes! Now I have somewhat of a plan, if you can call it that. I like to scan the forums for interesting threads where I can learn something, help someone else out, or both. A couple of times a week (wish it were more, but there's that pesky problem of delivering a product to clients!) I glance at article topics because there are great ideas there, too. I'm not able to make it to as many of the events, but I usually check once a week to see what's being offered.

I'm sure you will find your own rhythm, based on what's most important to you.

As far as paid memberships go, check out this chart. It's a great, visual way to compare the benefits that come with each level.

Yes, you have to filter through everything. I want to read so many of the articles but have to focus on just a few, as I have my own to write for my blog and paper column and haven't even posted any on Biznik yet! Eesh!

Check out the bennies for each type. Def a benefit to upgrading. You can always try the $10 one first to see how it feels.

Regardless, it's the best 24. I spend every month, if you choose that option!

Blessings, Amy

Oh, and I forgot. Try to attend a "How to Network the Biznik Way" event. (Check for dates and times on the Events page.) It will answer a lot of your questions!

I agree with Amy. I started almost on day one with the $24 paid membership (I think I was a free member for like two days or something) and am getting a great return on my investment.

Welcome Kristine! I think we can all relate to those feelings of being overwhelmed especially in the beginning. I am still pretty new myself (I joined in March of this year) so I am still learning how to best navigate the Biznik network and where to put my time and efforts. It will get easier.
But as Judy and Amy say...you need to have some kind of "filter" or you could be on Biznik all day long! There are so many interesting and infomative articles and a lot of very good events to attend that can help you with your business.
There is such a wonderful group of people involved with Biznik so you are in very good company. Also there is always someone willing to help you with your questions and point you in the right direction. As far as upgrading, I think Amy and Judy have given you very good advice so I will just "ditto" what they said. It will all take some time but just know for sure that joining Biznik is one of the best things you could have done for your business...you will never regret it no matter what "level" you choose to participate. Enjoy!

Another way to get more exposure and build your reputation is to attend events. I aim to attend one per week, as long as that one per week is pertinent to my biz and is where my energies are best spent for networking that week.

It's good to see someone on the web - it's even better to meet them in person. Plus, people are more likely to recommend people they have met in person and have some point of reference for.

You never know who is going to know someone or you might meet someone who has something or knows someone who has something that you need.

Bnik socializing is great in general. Making human connections and if they happen to become a biz contact down the road, so be it. If not, that's ok too!

Consider some other workshops like Howard's Shameless Promo and def read the article about not painting a target on my back...i think Zita wrote it?

Most of all..HAVE FUN! That is what Bnik is here for!