Building a STRONG Network

Whether you are new to networking, PWC or a seasoned business professional here are a few tips that will help you make the most of any networking opportunities (especially the bi-monthly PWC meetings!) and create a healthy and strong business network:

1. RSVP and Arrive Early
2. Dress to Impress- Like it or not, in business many times people do judge a book by the cover. So be sure that yours is properly packaged :)
3. Bring plenty of business cards and promotional materials (at least 30)- being prepared always leaves a lasting impression.
4. Greet professionals with a friendly handshake (or hugs for PWC) and by name.
5. Listen....do not simply try to "sell" them on you or your services, take the time to listen to them.
6. Eye contact, take the time to make a connection instead of rushing around the room passing out business cards without making real, lasting contact.
7. Follow up- timely follow ups from a quick email telling them it was a pleasure to meet them or scheduling a coffee or lunch for a one to one meeting will help build and strengthen your professional network and relationships.
8. Consistency- attending meetings and functions on a consistent basis increases familiarity helps to reinforce and communicate your commitment to your business, your network and your community.
9. Get Involved- Becoming more active in various levels will not only help build upon consistency but it will increase your exposure to the entire network at large and give an active example of your dedication, work ethic and teamwork approach to business which directly translates to the value you will be for your clients.
10. Be an Encourager- Smile, Uplift, Encourage and maintaining an overall positive attitude comes across in every aspect of communication from body language, the words we say and the way we greet one another. Being a bright spot in someone's day may make a much bigger difference than you may ever realize (even if it does not come directly back to you in the form of "business" or a "sale")
11...
And perhaps overall, the greatest act that you could ever do for your business is Invest In Others! When you do all of the above and have truly listened to the wealth of professionals around you and not only take notes for those who you may be able to help with your services, but those who you could refer to others- that is the Holy Grail of Networking! It will pay itself forward in every way as you work to not only grow your business...you help grow those around you as well!

PWC Meets the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of Every Month

A Reminder that new for 2011 PWC has transitioned to a simpler meeting schedule that's easy for everyone to remember: The 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month at Maggiano's Little Italy at the St. John's Towncenter.

Please RSVP by Monday the week of the luncheon online at www.pwcjax.org


Our next PWC lunch is Wednesday, April 6th @ Maggiano's 11:30 - 1:00pm
RSVP online @ www.pwcjax.org come out and network

Spotlight Speaker Opportunities

PWC 2^nd Quarter Spotlight Speaker Slots open February 2^nd!

As a PWC spotlight speaker you are entitled to:

·         Display table dedicated for your company materials.

·         Company materials may be placed on all tables.

·         Five minutes to speak in front of the group.

·         Recognition in meeting evite and PWC website during the preceding 2-week period.

To secure a spot: 

1.     Go online! Fill out the application at http://www.pwcjax.org/pwcjax/SignUp.aspx   

2.     Don’t forget! Respond with your first and second date choices,

3.     Secure your spot! Send payment to PWC by 3/2/11,

4.     Get exposure! Send in your bio and photo to phurl06@yahoo.com

All proceeds from PWC Spotlight Speaker fees go to the PWC Grant Program – the money comes back to YOU! Act quickly as these coveted spots fill quickly! Once you have completed online steps, a confirmation email with instructions will be sent to you. We are looking forward to hearing your 5-minute presentation on the company you represent.

Upcoming Events [February/March]

Feb. 2nd- PWC Meeting
Maggiano's 11:30-1:00
More Details & RSVP

Feb.16th- PWC Meeting
Maggiano's 11:30-1:00
More Details & RSVP

Feb. 22nd- EXCEL-erated
IronStone Bank/ San Pablo
7:30-9:00 am
More Details

March 1st- Southside Sunrise
ALL Councils Event
8:00-9:30am at Costco

March 2nd- PWC Meeting
Maggiano's 11:30-1:00
More Details & RSVP

March 4th- It's HER Business
UNF University Center
7:30am-2:00pm

March 11th- Cornerstone Luncheon
Hyatt Regency, Downtown
11:30-1:30
More Details

March 16th- No PWC Meeting
Cancelled for the WIB Awards

March 21st- Women In Business Awards
11:30-2:00pm
More Details

March 28th- EXCEL-erated
Pablo Creek Library
5:30-7:00 pm
More Details