November 2001

Welcome to The Net Effect!

This is the second edition of a monthly newsletter for people who are interested in how to maximize their networking interactions...and we have a new name, The Net Effect!

Feel free to forward this to friends and colleague who would find it useful.

With the economy shifting, all of us --- individuals and companies --- need to know how to walk into a room of strangers and strike up meaningful conversations, ones that will lead to new customers, jobs, or partnerships. Our aim is to provide you with tools to aid in your progress toward your networking goals.

In this issue:

Best Practices

Tips

Recommended Reading and Resources

Upcoming Events

One-on-One Coaching to Improve Networking

How You Can Network for Us

Request for Your Tips and Stories

Subscription Preferences

Best Practices

Guest Column

Please welcome Paul Burdisch, our first guest columnist. We're sure you'll find his insights enlightening and worthwhile.

More and more people are recognizing e-mail as an excellent networking tool. Here are some do's and don't's from an e-mail marketing pro that can help you get the most value from this important channel:

	When following up with a new contact via e-mail, DO write a subject line that stands out. Doubtless, the individual receives far more e-mail than he/she can read, and you want to make sure yours is among the lucky ones. When writing subject lines, think in terms of the recipient's interests. Also, work in the recipient's first name to the subject line to help ensure your message gets seen.
	DON'T write long e-mails. We're all pressed for time, and wading through an unsolicited electronic novella is nobody's idea of fun. As you read through your draft, ask yourself if each word/phrase/paragraph is essential to your message...and be aggressive in weeding out anything superfluous.
	DO use the spell checker on your e-mail program. Sure, you can write "more casually" in e-mails than in a formal letter, but that freedom doesn't apply to mistakes in spelling, grammar, etc.
	DON'T send unsolicited attached files, such as your resume. Many recipients are nervous about viruses in attachments and simply delete them. If you want to forward your resume as an attachment, it's best to first ask permission.
	When you do forward an attached resume, DO include the text in the body of your e-mail as well. That way, you cover the situation in which the recipient can't open the attachment or misplaces it.
	DO make sure your signature file is up-to-date--it's free advertising on each e-mail you send! Include a six- or eight-word mission statement about yourself, to help differentiate yourself from the crowd.

Paul Baudisch founded, ran and sold a successful e-mail marketing firm, and now consults for companies on their marketing and operations challenges. You can reach him at baudisch@mediaone.net

Tips

	One comment I would make is that folks copy and paste resume text into the body of their e-mail, unless specifically requested to attach a file--though in the minority, some recipients are nervous about viruses in attached files.
	Also, your "last name, first name" rule also applies to subject lines in cover e-mails.

--Paul Baudisch

	You never know where your next job may come from. Do not discount any and all avenues. You must also budget the appropriate amount of time to each avenue.
	Accept all information graciously and do not criticize anyone or any company.
	Practice Practice Practice Whether it is your "elevator" pitch, interview questions / answers, you must practice.
	Do not dwell on the past. Talk about what you want to do next and how your past experience has set the foundation for your future.
	Vary your networking routines. Do not always go to your specific industry events. Branch out!
	Participate in the Effective Networking Events. Learn from terrific networkers.
	Silence is one of the best sales tool anyone can ever teach you.

--Dave Jacobson
Director, New Business Development
Vestcom

I have found that calling everyone I know and asking for referrals has let to some excellent leads - even calling the sisters or brothers of people I know.

--Sue Rothberg

Recommended Reading and Resources

If you're a jobhunter, consider subscribing to the newsletter at HotJobs.

Also, see the website for some articles that will be helpful.

Upcoming Events

November 15, 2001 - 8:00 am
Boston: Kickoff Networking Breakfast at the Third Annual Boston Business Expo at Hynes Convention Center in Boston. Sponsored by the Boston Chamber of Commerce.

November 19, 2001 - DigitalEve Phoenix.

At the moment, all other November events are private. Please check the website for updates.

If your company is interested in hosting one of Effective Networking's programs or seminars, please contact Sales@EffectiveNetworking.com

Special event for Bostonians to know about. Locke-Ober is a Boston institution and is where many dignitaries, politicians and businessmen dined. Until the mid-70s, it was less than female friendly, shall we say. Lydia Shire, chef extraordinaire and owner of Biba and Pignoli in Boston has purchased Locke-Ober.

Join DigitalEve for their 1st Anniversary Party at Locke-Ober on November 27th. For more information, go to: http://express.seeuthere.com/events/id=130459. This will offer FABULOUS networking opportunities.

One-on-One Private Coaching to Improve Networking

For those who would prefer the privacy of one-on-one coaching, please feel free to contact Diane@EffectiveNetworking.com.

Perfect for: Busy executives, gift from family or colleagues, someone looking for a job.

How can you Network for us?

We are seeking decision makers in several categories:

Businesses: "How can I encourage EVERYONE in my organization to network for new business" - this is a fun, affordable, and interactive seminar for companies large and small who want to be sure everyone on the team can help out in these difficult times.

Conferences: Obviously a lot of networking takes place at conventions, why not start out with something informative and fun. Diane Darling was just booked to be the keynote/kick off speaker for a conference. If you know of a conference or meeting planner, please let us know.

Outplacement Firms: When bidding for business, they want to offer their clients as many services as possible. Networking is essential for outplaced employees to find their next opportunity. In addition to resume writing, interviewing skills, the outplacement firms would benefit with adding these workshops to their offerings.

Contact Sales@EffectiveNetworking.com

Please share your Tips and Stories

Each month we want to include your networking tips and stories. Please send your contributions to Editor@EffectiveNetworking.com

Subscription Preferences

If you would prefer not to receive The Net Effect, please reply with UNSUB in the subject line.

Feel free to forward this to friends and colleagues who would find it helpful.

Have a wonderful November! We'll be in touch again soon!

Best,
Lee Vodra
Editor, The Net Effect
Editor@EffectiveNetworking.com