I just have to add my two cents to say thank you to the incredible team who made this project possible. It was an honor to have a chance to help a bit during the evening. A memorable and inspiring evening all around. I think we're all SHINING still today!

Hi Kathy, I resonate with your question. I'm always looking for ways to improve my ability to network effectively.
My two current areas of focus where networking is concerned are:

1. Pay attention to the other person's story. Identify a connection, sometimes a way that I can solve a problem and be of service to their business or their clients, sometimes a particular aspect of their work that would be of service to my clients. When that connection is there, it's usually very specific and gives us a chance to talk more clearly about our work.

2. If you identify someone who is a potential good match for mutual referrals, cultivate the ongoing communication to build the relationship.

I have found that the relationship that leads to valuable referrals takes time but is ultimately so worthwhile. Best wishes in your adventures!

Thank you Donna for your insights. I appreciate the reminder to focus and dig deeper.

I happen to be a dowser, and have the ability to locate underground water, so the reference to someone who drilled several times for water without success resonated. It also reminds me of an additional important business skill that I'm still mastering: In your example, if the farmer had asked for help at the outset and hired someone skilled at finding water, they would have identified the precise location and depth for the well and saved the farmer a lot of time and money.

Engaging the right kind of help at the right time is an essential part of successful business practice. Thank you for your practical suggestions. I'll be applying the "drilling down" metaphor today!

Thank you Rachel for a fabulous class. I appreciate your depth of understanding and generosity of spirit. I'm looking forward to the fun of exploring the world of the enneagram.
The biznik group creates a great forum to make this possible - thanks for creating this for us! Beth

I sincerely apologize for the short notice - something has come up with a client and I can't make the event today. I hope that someone else will be able to take advantage of the opening.

Kate, I just read your article and appreciate it immensely. Having worked to overcome my own perfectionist tendencies (which lead to fear of criticism) it's so refreshing to be reminded of the importance of setting our sights to excellence and moving forward. One of the transforming concepts for me, mirrored in your own story about working harder to improve your songs, comes from Maria Montessori, who talked about "The Discovery of Error." This refers to cultivating an attitude of eager curiosity toward our mistakes, and bringing our creative energy to those situations, since they are the opportunities or portals for growth. Thank you for the reminder. I loved what you wrote.

Nancy, Thank you for the encouragement and suggestions in expanding my marketing in practical ways. I left your article feeling inspired about communicating my own authentic story to the world!

Molly, A great reminder to pay attention to the client/customer, making them comfortable and and meeting their needs, rather than communicating through our own assumptions or personal preferences. This article was a good prompt for me to review the Myers Briggs information. I appreciated your concise description and practical application. Thanks!