Debbie's comments

I'm sorry to miss this, but I'm doing a workshop in Kirkland that same night. Drats.

Liam, thanks for opening the conversation. I've been experimenting with this on Biznik so I've done both free and fee-based. I ran one workshop 3 times, free twice. It filled both times. Someone told me I should have charged for it, given the value offered. So I did -- charged $20 the 3rd time and only got 2 sign-ups.

Recently, I posted a specialized workshop for coaches and charged an amount that I was satisfied with (and I wanted to experiment with pushing the envelope a bit) -- $45. I got no sign-ups and even had someone ask me why I was charging so much "when lots of Bizink events are free."

I do think there's an under-valuing going on here on the part of Biznik event hosts and an unwillingness for people to plunk down money when they're not sure of the value they'll get.

Personally, I think networking events like Happy Hours, lunches, etc. should all be free, but workshops and seminars should all charge at least $5. For those who don't feel they're qualified to charge, and who are using Biznik to test the waters, maybe there should be a separate workshop section of freebies. Otherwise, we should assume that people running workshops are going to offer something of value at least worth the price posted, just like we operate in the world outside of Biznik.

My two cents.

My all time favorite book is Attracting Perfect Customers: The Power of Strategic Synchronicity by Stacey Hall and Jan Brogniez. I've used it each time my business hits a plateau. The exercises help me to get very clear about what I want and what I'm offering.

Thanks for the great question, Melody!

Pamela's writing events are making it possible for me to finish my book. Thanks, Pamela!

A little glitch: My past events didn't list an event I attended last week. When I looked at the event, I was listed as an attendee, but my photo wasn't there and alas! -- I'd been stripped of my star.

Also, when I clicked on my profile from that list, it said the profile was not published.

(The event was Contribution Networking on 11/6.)

Thanks--

Hi Rich, Welcome to Biznik! I'll keep an eye out for your future events.

Best, Debbie

Sorry, I'm needing to cancel. A friend is in town that day for business so I'm going to meet up with her that morning.

I hope to make it to another Mill Creek event soon!

I'm getting all my post-election day chatter on Twitter. It was fun scrolling through in real time as the results were coming in.

I love your questions, Nancy! I do think having a President who will lead with integrity and intelligence can only mean positive things all around, here in the U.S. and internationally. If my business gets a boost, that's merely icing on the cake. I'm plenty grateful as is, with Obama coming to the White House.

Hi Sandy, I live in the Juanita area in Kirkland and have been wanting to get portraits done of our two dogs as a Christmas gift to my husband.

Could you send me a message with your rates and some general info?

Thanks and welcome to Biznik!

Debbie

Hi David,

When the space is ready, I'd love to stop by and take a look. I'm always looking for space to do my workshops and need room for about 8-12, so yours would be plenty large enough. Having tables is a plus as well.

Thanks for letting us know and please keep us posted!

Hi Phil, I'm a fan of getting involved in groups based on hobbies and activities I love. It may take a while to build connections, but that's true of all networking. It's not about selling yourself at a book club, soccer game, or at church, of course, but just expanding your social network and building friendships.

Your fellow club/team/church members will know you're a real estate agent and will be likely to call upon you later when they're in need (or refer a friend/family member) because they've gotten to know you a bit on a personal level.

I wish I could join you again (got so much done last time-- thank you!), but I'm facilitating a retreat all day on the 24th. I hope to come in November!

Debbie

"If there's a book you really want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it." ~Toni Morrison

Jessie, Thank you for sharing your blog. What a fantastic resource!

Sharon, I love your photo! Thanks for posting your question. Have fun in SC!

Great event! Jenny, I remember you sharing that you planned to do this and I've been keeping an eye out. Looking forward to getting some expert feedback, meeting new people, and connecting again with lovely Pamela.

I recently met Al Green. He seems to be doing very well in the market. You might enjoy talking with him if you haven't already met.

Debbie

Nancy, Thank you for spreading some sunshine with your story! I was sorry to hear about your ankle (must have happened right after the event you attended on the 4th?). I hope you don't have too much longer in that cast.

Reading about your gratitude for all the kindness that's come your way is truly heartwarming.

Thank you for taking the time to share.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery, Debbie