August 10, 2007

Need free consulting advice? Free business development advice?

Once again, for members we have a new way for you to get more from your membership (what's next?  personal delivery of a cup '0 joe every morning?  :)

We are starting our Advisory Group, which is an opportunity for those wanting advice and those wanting to give it. 

In a nutshell, we will compile a group of people who are willing to meet 1:1 for one hour at no charge with another (member) consultant who has a specific question.  Then we match people up --  those who have questions with those who are willing to provide it! 

The chapter's only role will be to serve as a "go-between", essentially, for those who are not sure who to approach for advice.  That said, if the member has someone in mind they would like to ask (and is not on our list), we are also happy to ask for you.

The details on this program will come together likely in Sept 07, so if you have ideas or input, please write here.  What are your thoughts on this?  Will you step up to help project manage this for the good of the chapter?

The goal, in concert with our vision, is to create community between our members and provide a supportive & successful environment for all.  And need I mention:  Get Smart, Get Known and Get Business.  (And get a cup 'o joe?)

March 05, 2007

Advise Appreciated

Ok now it is time to ask for some advice from my more experienced colleagues.

I met with a potential client today who absolutely needs to employ my services in order to be successful. The methodologies I advocate (leveraging social media for marketing and PR) are pretty new to the business world. There were two principles. The decision maker appeared to be stuck in the conventional, old-world model. The other 'gets it' but I suspect does not have enough influence to sway the decision-maker.

How do some of you convince a sceptical decision-maker that the revolutionary product or service you offer is not only key, but his only hope of success?

There are many great success stories, some of which I used today. Unfortunately, I don't have enough of my own success stories yet to carry the day solely based upon my own reputation.

Thanks in advance