Our colleague, Donna Itzoe of Verizon, is on site at the IABC International Conference in San Francisco. Donna had a great observation as she wasimmersed in networking at this large and important conference.

“I’d say staying in the moment is important for networking” she reported. “You are trying to meet and network with as many people as possible, but don’t continually scour the room for the “next” person while you’re talking to somebody.” Read More...

One of the 10 rules worth repeating is always being on.

Now, I realize this is a tough one at times, but we all need to be ready to engage people in conversation. My example today is a crossover from the trade show floor. Read More...

The Dallas chapter of IABC asked me to present to a members only breakfast this morning. What a great group!

It was an informal breakfast meeting of about 20 of us. Long-time and new members asked great questions and added even better comments. Hosted by Melinda Guravich at Mary Kay, Inc. HQ in North Dallas, it was a great opportunity to share the Top 10 Rules of Networking. Read More...

Cynicism is running rampant on campus. I picked up a copy of my college newspaper when I returned recently to my alma mater for my son’s graduation. In the comics section, this cartoon, by Ted Rall (www.rall.com) appeared. Being the networking event guy that I am, it caught my attention.

I do think Ted is insightful when it comes to the what recent or soon-to-be grads are experiencing. Also when it comes to writers and creatives, this could be a scene. However, I must say that I see a bit of a different mix: groups at networking events are usually a mix of thirds.

One third are job seekers. Yes, as they should be, they are out and about continuing to connect. Read More...

Today I received one of those calls you really want to get. One of the people in my network who had been between opportunities, called to tell me he had landed.

I appreciated the conversation and was reminded of another cardinal guideline–renew the acquaintance of those you encounter after you land. It’s the old “you never know who you will be working with or for” axiom. Bill and I spoke about how he had found the opportunity (from a friend of many years and then an introduction) and a promise of his new/revised contact information. Read More...

Whenever we travel, we always notice the differences from home as well as the similarities. In Mexico, we noticed courtesy.

From the time we arrived to the time we touched down in the US 10 days later, we were treated very well. Read More...