I think you're on the right track here, but I would go a step further.

Asking a question and listening is a good approach. But it's important to keep in mind why you are asking.

Networking shouldn't just be about potential business. It should be about connection.

Asking the question "What do you do" is a fine appetizer. But the meal really begins with the next question.

"What is your favorite thing about what you do?" or "How did you get you get into that?" or "Who are your biggest influences?"

These kinds of questions allow us to discover how interesting people realy are, and quickly open the possibility of genuine rapport.

This very simple augmentation creates conversation that stands out and is meaningful. It also builds community.

And that is smart business.

If it fits your style, go fot it. You could have a lot of fun making the WonderBra association work for you. (Is WonderDraw a good fit for your company? etc.) Only possible snaffu is will it be off-putting to male clients? If so, any ways to brand it so you mitigate resistance? (Focus on women-owned business? Don't over-use the bra metaphors, etc.)

If it feels good to you try it out. There's no better litmus than experience.

Cheers,

Sadee

Thanks for a great event Joseph! I've never met a writer who had the ability and gift of helping business owners do better business. Thanks for your ideas and insights-- I will definitely take your suggestions/inspirations to heart.

Sadee Whip

Hi Mike,

This might sound a little weird but what if you provided a "give a buck" link on your website so people like me who don't do work with animals but really respect people like you who do can give you a buck to provide you with, say, one paid day/week that you can do all this great work and not go broke? I'd give you buck and bet a lot of other people would, too. It's cheap, easy, fits in to my schedule, and is hassle-free, plus I get to make a contribution. (I offer my pro-bono services to humans) I bet a lot of other people might feel the same way. Plus it could be a great PR opportunity for you. (i.e. write and article "Don't have time to make a difference? This guy does and it'll only cost you a buck!) then send it out. Who knows, maybe you'll get some great work out of it!