Networking for Success - The Top 5 Tips to Becoming a Great Networker

Meeting new people is never easy. But humans, by nature, are social beings that depend on other people to survive. We are taught, nurtured, and supported by others. Studies have even shown that individuals who lead solitary, non-social lives end up having shorter life spans than those who surround themselves with friends, colleagues, family and other acquaintances.

Building a large network may seem like a daunting and time-consuming task, but with the right attitude and mindset it can be very rewarding and a lot of fun! These 5 tips are some helpful ideas to get you started on your road to networking success.

1. Expand your definition of "networking event"

Networking for Success - The Top 5 Tips to Becoming a Great Networker

The first step to becoming a great networker is understanding that every single time you find yourself surrounded by people you don't know, you are at a networking event. From Chamber of Commerce meetings to a neighbor's child's birthday party, every time you meet someone new you are building your network.

It is always important to be on your best behavior (look your best, feel your best, send out positive signals to others) because you never know who you are going to meet.

Plenty of people mix work with pleasure, and the best networkers always do. Remember, people like doing business with people they like. What better way to connect with a potential client than socially? That's when you really get to call your clients friends!

2. Ooze positivity and friendliness

You walk into a party where you know no one. You take a look around the crowded room. Not knowing where else to begin, you go to the buffet - more to look like you're doing something than because you're actually hungry. There's a man getting food right next to you, but he doesn't even look your way. He must know you're there. Across the buffet is a woman who looks up at you, makes eye contact, smiles and beams, "Doesn't the food look fantastic?"

Who would you like to speak with? Of course, the woman! She's friendly, positive and has put you at ease by starting the conversation off with a simple statement about something you have in common - the food. You continue chatting with her while you nibble on appetizers and the man beside you quietly disappears into the wallpaper. He missed a very simple opportunity to connect with others.

The moral of the story: ooze positivity and friendliness from every pore. Everyone is just as nervous and insecure as you are. Make others feel at ease with a smile and positive comment and you'll be surprised how easy small talk can be!

3. Be yourself

It's amazing how much we can read into other people. Have you ever had a "bad feeling" about someone you just met? I sure have. And when I sit down and try to figure out what it is that bothers me about this person I don't even know, I usually end up with the same conclusion: the person is hiding something. I feel like the person isn't entirely sincere or honest, or that he/she is putting on some kind of show to impress people. The irony of it all is that these people will be much less successful in their networking attempts than those who let their true, less than brilliant colors show.

How can you really "connect" with someone if you aren't giving your authentic self to the other person? Even if you manage to slip by during the first encounter and make a good impression, eventually your façade will begin to chip and crumble and the other person will end up losing respect for you - not because they don't like who you really are, but because they feel deceived by your attempts to be someone you're not.

4. Show a sincere interest in others

Fact: people like to talk about themselves and things that interest them. If you want to be a good communicator, let people do just that.

It may be surprising to hear that to be a good networker you actually don't have to talk very much! In fact, the best networkers talk very little. Instead, they listen actively to the other person, nodding in approval, opening their mouths only to add a reassuring, "Oh, I see," or "How wonderful!" They also ask open-ended questions and encourage the speaker to continue.

The person could be talking about their new puppy or latest fishing trip - it really doesn't matter what the topic is. If you let them share their passion openly they will walk away excited about your encounter and feeling good about you because you showed a true interest in them.

Notice I said true interest. This is important. Simply saying, "Uh-huh," over and over again while you skim the room for someone else to talk to is not going to get you far in the networking scene. Give the speaker 100% of your attention and focus on what is being shared. Ask yourself how you can help this person instead of always thinking about what the other person can do for you.

5. Just go!

It doesn't matter how busy, tired or hungry you are (those little appetizers will never hold you over)! I've heard all the excuses. In fact, I've used them all myself! But remember, every time you skip an event where you have the opportunity to network, you are potentially missing a unique opportunity to meet someone who could change your life forever - personally, professionally or both.

That may sound like a far-reaching statement, but it's true. Think of the people who have helped you the most in your life. Think of the people who you have had the opportunity to help and how helping them made you feel. Where did you meet these people? Most are likely to be family members. You were lucky to be born into that support group. But what about the others?

You never know when you will meet someone new and interesting that not only can help you in some way, but will also give you the opportunity to help. That is really what networking is all about. As you give to others, you also gain.

The gains might be financial in the form of a connection to a new job. They could be mental in the form of a really interesting conversation where you learn something new that changes the way you see the world. Or the gains could simply be the emotional high of meeting someone new and "connecting" with them on some basic human level.

You will never know until you go!

Networking for Success - The Top 5 Tips to Becoming a Great Networker
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Heather Hansen, founder of Singapore-based Hansen Speech & Language Training, is an executive speech and language coach, writer and trainer. If you want to boost your linguistic abilities and become a powerful speaker, visit her website http://www.hansenslt.com now for free information on how to speak clearly, correctly and confidently! Join her mailing list to receive your free special report, Speak Clearly! and as a special bonus you'll also receive her monthly newsletter, Speak like a Star!

Elevator Speech Template Examples - Basic 30 Second Introduction Scripts

An elevator speech remains one of the most important networking and marketing tools you have at your very disposal. Of course every business is different and it is all very well talking to people at networking events and so on, but how do you make sure you grab their attention? Is there a template that can be followed that allows you to come up with a 30 second introduction for YOUR business?

Actually there is a format that has proven success and can be applied to pretty much any business that aspires to have clients! Hopefully that is every business that wants to stay solvent!

There are some pre-requisites to achieving success with this approach and the main one is developing a clear idea of your ideal client and the issues with which they are struggling. Closely related is how you help them - what does your company do that solves the chosen challenges of your ideal client base.

Elevator Speech Template Examples - Basic 30 Second Introduction Scripts

Armed with that information, the more detail you have the better, here is the template to follow for any business:

Part 1: Who You are

Hi, My name is... from (company name)

That is all you need. Obviously if you are in a conversation already and someone asks you what you do you don't need to reintroduce yourself! You can also vary this along the lines of: "I'm Jerry and my company is..."

Most importantly, resist the temptation to expand this into a long explanation of where your office is located, when the business was founded, how many employees you have and so on. Shorter is better

Part 2: Who you help

We help (this target audience)...

Again, as short and targeted as possible. Avoid the temptation here to think everyone is your IDEAL client. Messages such as: "We work with anyone who owns a car" is too broad. There is leeway here to change the words as well of course. Pick a variation with which you are comfortable - we work with, we help, I am focused on etc.

Part 3: What problem do you address

Who have (this problem, issue or challenge)

You don't need to elaborate for minutes on end. Define the main problem you solve - not the solution at this stage.

Part 4: What they get

So they get (this particular solution)

The best way to couch these parts is using language that speaks to the emotions of your ideal client - frustration, anger, annoyance, fear, worry and so on.

For example:

Hi, I'm Jerry from Acme Insurance. We help home owners in Leawood who are worried they don't have adequate coverage or even that they are over-covered. With us they get over the frustration of not knowing and get the peace of mind they want by knowing they are insured appropriately.

Elevator Speech Template Examples - Basic 30 Second Introduction Scripts
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Jerry Smith is the co-founder of Marketing Action Club, focusing on small service based businesses and independent professionals who want to grow but struggle to attract quality clients consistently.

Visit http://www.30SecondElevatorSpeech.com for a step by step, online program to lead you through producing an effective, attention grabbing introduction for you and your business.

Social Networking - Netiquette

Over the years, the beauty of the Internet has opened many different doors pertaining to socializing, networking, and the overall art of communication. Today, computer users of all ages are exploring the possibilities associated with chat rooms, discussion boards, forums, and online personals. Sending emails, instant messaging family and friends, and relaying text messages across the World Wide Web are also popular forms of contact. Despite the fact that users are unseen behind the guise of their computer, there is still a written and unwritten code of conduct that exists about the Internet.

Even in the world of online communication, one may offend, confuse, and irritate the people they send emails to or speak with in a chat room. Just as you participate in face-to-face communication, you are often aware of the way you move your body, execute hand gestures, or raise your voice. When contacting others across the Internet, there are also certain messages conveyed through the way you type out your thoughts. One of the most irritating online habits involves the use of all-caps when typing to others. Not only are long strings of capped words a strain on the eyes to read, but is often viewed as "shouting."

When typing emails or chatting with others while online, spelling and grammar really does count in not only making people see your side of things, but also promoting intelligent and free-flowing conversation. Usually, glaring spelling mistakes cause a distraction and confusion in correspondences. Additionally, just because you attempt to avoid making spelling errors and lapses in grammar - doesn't mean you have the right to criticize others for their poor use of the English language. It is highly suggested to ignore the spelling mistakes of others and concentrate on the way you communicate while online.

Social Networking - Netiquette

Additional email etiquette rules include the avoidance of sending or forwarding junk mail and Internet hoaxes, forwarding virus warnings (which are sometimes hoaxes), replying to all recipients of a collectively sent email, and sending unnecessarily large attachments.

There are also plenty of "netiquette" issues to recognize when communicating with others in online communities (chat rooms and forums). One of the first things to do when joining a chat room, forum, or other online group is familiarize oneself with the rules or guidelines of the service. This practice comes in rather handy and helps one avoid any future online confrontations or misunderstandings.

At all times, your privacy should be protected, as well as other members of the online community. It is unwise to use full names in chat room correspondences and is rude to ask the full names of those you come in contact with. Staying on topic is also a rule of Internet etiquette. For instance, if you have joined a chat room community regarding model airplanes, it is often inappropriate to start sharing your marital problems with others. Using offensive language is warned against and is usually punished (suspension or ban).

When chatting, it is also suggested to keep messages short and present information in the most concise manner. Also, a common practice is to use abbreviations, but not everyone is familiar with the current lingo and this should be kept in mind - the abbreviation of your words and phrases should be used sparingly.

Overall, it is suggested to treat communication across the Internet in the same manner that you like to receive correspondences. Usually, the things that irritate you are the same actions others dislike as well.

Social Networking - Netiquette
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Linda J. Allen is the co-founder of GirlfriendsCafe.com, an online social networking site for women throughout the United States and Canada.

For further information on GirlfriendsCafe, visit [http://www.girlfriendscafe.com]

Social Networking Disadvantages - This Could Save Your Life

Social networking disadvantages are mostly related to safety issues. Online social interaction has become a very popular activity online. Like most popular activities there is always a certain amount of danger involved. Social networking disadvantages will be minimized if you are cautious when you use it. Internet networking is the act of interacting and sharing information with others online. If you share the wrong information to the wrong person it can end in some dangerous results. If you are careful when giving out information and networking on social sites than you will most likely be safe and have a great time connecting with others.

Many social sites have upgraded their security to make it much safer for users. When social interaction sites first appeared on the market they were completely untested. Because of this there were many ways for predators and criminals to do harm to users. Hackers are always a concern with the majority of online sites. This is especially true for certain networking sites which promote tons of personal information about individuals. The social meeting sites have taken a lot of hits in the lack of security they provide. Young teens have been killed, forced to commit suicide, and abducted by child predators while using their social networking site. Although these incidents are horrible acts, they do not happen on a regular basis. Many such sites have raised their age limits and security to ensure better safety for networking users. Social networking disadvantages can be safely dodged if the sites are used properly.

Social networking disadvantages are lessened if you follow some common networking safety tips. The first tip to underrate social networking disadvantages is to utilize the privacy settings on your profile. One of the biggest dangers during socializing is having too much personal information available. You can use the privacy settings to screen incoming individuals and what they see of your profile. The second tip to reduce social networking disadvantages is to maintain your computer defenses. Always have virus protection and anti-virus on your computer. Networking sites can have a host of ads that contain virus code which can infect your computer.

Social Networking Disadvantages - This Could Save Your Life

The third tip to decrease social networking disadvantages is to review the network website's safety notifications, standards, policies, and learn how to report violating content. It can usually be found during the registration process. Make a copy so you have it handy if there is ever a security problem that you need to deal with. Another tip for curtailing social networking disadvantages is to remember to be cautious. Don't post it on your profile unless you want everyone in the world to see it.

Bad people are always lurking online waiting for someone innocent to prey on. People are not who they claim to be the majority of the time. Do not meet anyone from a social site unless you are sure that you know them or who they are. Even if you are comfortable with meeting that person still bring a friend and tell people about the meeting in case anything goes wrong. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to social networking disadvantages.

Social Networking Disadvantages - This Could Save Your Life
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

If you want to know more about someone you've interacted with there are free ways to check some basic info. You can use the link below if you have any doubts. Search Shady Character Now Here [http://free-find-people.com/]

[http://www.products-reviewer.com]

The Effects Of Single Parenting On Children

Times have really changed. Many old customs and traditions which were taught and practiced for several years are becoming obsolete now. The modern culture has changed and outgrown values and beliefs that were thought to be the core.

Even though moralists and conservative people are expressing disgust over the currently evolving belief and culture systems, the truth is, however, what has been unacceptable in the old world is now becoming fast and rapidly rising trends.

Some of the effects of single parenting have ranged from social to financial issues.

The Effects Of Single Parenting On Children

For decades and even centuries, one of the most concerning issues to conservative people is the issue of single parenting. Ancient social philosophies have often linked single parenting to adventurism and liberation of people.

The Catholic Church has always been the dominating mentor and guide of traditions, norms and living. The church is so adamant to advocate the sanctity of the sacrament of marriage of matrimony.

That is why the procreation outside wedlock is strictly considered a ground for excommunication. It is one of the greatest sins, according to the Catholic Church, to engage in pre-marital sex.

From the church's point of view, single parenthood can be considered as a punishment of some sorts, for those who disobey the teachings of the church. Obviously the fundamentalists think otherwise. So, is it?

Single parenting is already becoming a rapidly growing trend in the society. Studies show, that in the US alone, there are four single parents to every ten parents and there are two single parents for every 10 adults. Could you believe it?

The Child

Since the decision of single parenting is taken by the parent, one voice is often ignored and sometimes unheard of. It is that of the child's.

It has been found that single parenting has adverse mental, emotional and psychological effect on the child. This has been validated by psychologists and advocates from time to time.

The direct effect of being raised by a single parent is especially visible in child's thinking and mental mind set.

Although single parents must be commended for raising a child alone, he or she should not be blamed for any mental or psychological result of the situation to the child, as psychological assert.

Tests and observations have consistently concluded and found that single parenting makes children more aggressive and rebellious. Experts say the behavior could be the outcome of the angst and humiliation the child experiences while growing.

There are very obvious reasons to make the child feel abnormal, different and unaccepted. The traditional families have two parents, the mom and the dad, jointly raising kids with help and advice from each other. Whereas in single parenting, a single person decides what is best for the child and sometimes takes extreme measures to get it accomplished.

Neighborhood also plays an important role in the development of single parent raised children. Sometimes it treats them too cruelly, which can make things worse. Humiliation and awkward feeling of insecurity is dangerous if left untreated or undetected in the child. That child can take the burden for the rest of his or her life.

In some conditions, single parents and their children both may need professional help through counseling. Counselors can give reasonable advice to the child and the single parent to make sure every small issue and difficulty is ironed out.

Counseling from professionals can form or make up a support system that will make single parenting easier and more effective. Because single parenting is no ordinary parenting, the parent and the child must learn to accept the situation minus the negative feeling.

It's a difficult situation for any child to be raised with one parent, but surprisingly, not an impossible one anymore. Society has accepted the facts and has stopped looking at single parenting as an abnormal occurrence. There is a positive trend which is especially useful in reducing, if not nullifying, the adverse effects on single parents and their children.

The Effects Of Single Parenting On Children
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Get a free single parenting book that will help reveal and provide solutions to some of the problems faced by a single parent. Get this book now by going to: about single parenting. Also to read more articles and get further resources on single parenting visit good single parenting articles [http://www.singleparentcenter.net/singleparentingarticles.html].

Social Networking: Positive and Negative Aspects

Social Media and Social Networking sites are taking the internet by storm. Social media serves as a great platform to interact with friends, relatives or make new friends and meet new people online. Social Media sites are technologically advanced web interfaces offering content-exchange via short-messaging services, email or chat. In spite of its growing popularity, social media faces threats of hacking.

Although people find social media essential for retaining ties, it poses threat of vulnerabilities. Since social media consists of personal information, the users must be extremely careful while providing confidential information to these sites. Though some famous social networking sites, such as, Facebook, twitter, LinkedIn, Google and Orkut, etc are extremely popular, they too face the threats to its users who are oblivious to safe internet practices. It is better not to give out passwords very easily, too much information sharing can often be counter-productive. It is advisable not to reveal your future travel plans on a social media site, your profile viewer with malicious intentions may plan to commit burglary in your apartment!

Therefore, privacy concerns must be of primary importance in networking. It is true that social networking provides an opportunity to develop inter-personal relationship, one need to be aware of the possible security threats. Especially, students often post detailed and specific information, on Facebook, Friendster, MySpace, etc, they can be more easily traced by strangers and even acquaintances!

Social Networking: Positive and Negative Aspects

Often they violate the school policy or the code of conduct by posting inappropriate pictures or information on their social networking profiles, so they are held accountable when the school administrators further investigate the matter. Moreover, other disadvantage is that students are often turned down job offers because of their information employers are finding out about students on their social networking sites! The employers take these images the students portray on these sites very seriously because it depicts the reflection of personal character!

Well, keeping aside the dangers of socializing on the net, it can be a good way to communicate with friends and relative, also to make connection to people with similar tastes, interests and goals! Thanks to social networking sites, because often meeting people personally has become the thing of the past. Thus, staying connected with classmates and colleagues is a major benefit of social networking sites!

It helps to stay connected with different cultural program, events listing and other information related to campus culture. What a great way to stay understand and stay connected to your campus community as a whole! Most importantly, these sites offer students the opportunity to create a positive self image.

Last but not the least, if you want to stay safe on the net, evaluate your profile account and postings frequently.Do not post your personal information, address or cell number. You can utilize and adjust your privacy settings so as to control who has the access to your personal information.

As it is said, everything has both bright and dark sides, we should be careful in using social networking sites constructively rather than destructively! So, enjoy, happy networking!

Social Networking: Positive and Negative Aspects
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

The Author Kathy Fernandes is a freelance writer in local newspaper and magazines covering topics like networking and social media.

Networking: 5 Fantastic Ways To Network Effectively

It seems as if everybody is into networking these days but only a handful of people know how to network effectively. Don't miss out on golden opportunities to become acquainted with those who can help you personally and professionally. Follow my list and you'll be utilizing all those fantastic new contacts in no time!

1. Look utterly presentable! Being smartly dressed will go a long way in attracting people to you. Wearing a nice suit is not enough. Make sure you pay attention to the finishing touches such as your shoes (are they polished?), your nails (are they short and clean for men and manicured for ladies). Is your hair clean and tidy? In short, how you present yourself is how people will treat and respond to you.

2. Do not pass out your business cards to just anyone. Although I am sure you want to publicise your business or maybe just yourself (!), others will view this as being a little too eager. Hold back. Get to know others and only then suggest that you exchange details if you feel that there is a rapport.

Networking: 5 Fantastic Ways To Network Effectively

3. Don't try to work the room. Contrary to popular belief, working the room can work against you. It's the law of diminishing returns. About two years ago I went to a networking function with a friend of mine whom I'll call Ravi. Before long, Ravi had met everyone in the room. However, I held back and noticed a lady reading a French daily paper. I approached her as I am a Francophile and we got on so well we chatted the entire evening. Ravi was disappointed in me as he always thought of me as a "great networker". I tried to explain that it is not the quantity but the quality. I have since become incredibly good friends with that lovely fellow Francophile and we have gone to many cultural functions and made some wonderful friends together. Ravi on the other hand, never heard or stayed in touch with one of those people with whom he had met that first evening.

4. Don't limit yourself to business networking. When we think of networking we think of business events and functions. However, don't discount other opportunities such as cultural associations and even volunteering. If you come from a particular ethnic heritage, think about joining local associations which will enable you to meet others like yourself. Volunteering is also a great way to meet people from all walks of life and some of the best friends and business contacts I have made have been through volunteer work. It also makes you feel better that you are contributing to society and not just thinking about how the next person can help you.

5. Prepare to stay in touch. While it is nice meeting new people at networking events, it's pointless if you do not follow up. Make a point of contacting people whom you met within a day or two either by phone or email. I was particularly impressed by a young banker who sent me his business card with a short note by snail mail (he had just run out of cards when I had met him). Suggest to your newfound networking buddies a small group lunch and ask them to bring along a friend. Just keep the momentum going.

Following my 5 Fantastic Ways To Network Effectively will make you not only better at networking, it will attract more people to you as well. As they say, it is a two way street.

Best of luck and happy networking!

Networking: 5 Fantastic Ways To Network Effectively
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

By M. Tan
Executive Director of Yumcha.com.au
http://www.yumcha.com.au
Australia's Premier Networking Site for Asian Professionals

Balancing Your Work, Family and Social Life

Balancing Your Work, Family and Social Life
By Gene Griessman, PhD
 
            Many of us have an image of personal balance as a set of scales in perfect balance every day. But that's an unrealistic goal. You are in for a lot of frustration if you try to allocate within every day a predetermined portion of time for work, family and your social life.  An illness may upset all your plans. A business project may demand peaks of intense work, followed by valleys of slow time.
            Balance requires continual adjustments, like an acrobat on a high wire who constantly shifts his weight to the right and to the left. By focusing on four main areas of your life - emotional/spiritual needs, relationships, intellectual needs and physical needs - at work and away from  work, you can begin to walk the high wire safely.
            Here, drawn from my conversations with many high successful Americans, are ten ideas for balancing all aspects of your life:
1.      Make an appointment with yourself. Banish from your mind the idea that everyone takes precedence over you. Don't use your organizer or calendar just for appointments with others. Give yourself some prime time. Regularly  do something you enjoy. It will recharge your batteries. Once you've put yourself on your calendar, guard those appointments. Kay Koplovitz founder of the USA cable television network, which is on the air 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. Koplovitz ran the daily operations of the network for 21 years. For more than two decades, there was always some potential claim on her time. Therefore she vigilantly protected a scheduled tennis match just as she would a business appointment.
2.      Care for your body. Having a high energy level is a trait held by many highly successful people. No matter what your present level of energy, you can increase it by following these steps:
Eat. Don't skip meals. Your physical and mental energy depend upon nourishment. Irregular eating patterns can cause a frayed temper, depression, lack of creativity and a nervous stomach.
Exercise. Over and over again, highly successful people mention the benefit of exercise routines. Johnetta Cole, president of Bennett College for Women and former president of Spelman College, does a four-mile walk each morning. She calls it her mobile meditation. The benefits of exercise are mental, emotional, physical and spiritual. If you are healthier and have more stamina, you can work better and longer.
Rest. A psychologist who has studied creative people reports that they rest often and sleep a lot.
3.      Cut some slack. You do not have to do everything. Just the right things. Publisher Steve Forbes taught me a lesson: "Don't be a slave to your in-box. Just because there's something there doesn't mean you have to do it." As a result, every evening, I extract from my long list to-do list just a few "musts" for the following day. If, but three o'clock the next day, I've crossed off all the "musts," I know that everything else I do that day will be icing on the cake. It is a great psychological plus for me.
There is nothing wrong with pushing yourself hard, disciplining yourself to
do what needs to be done when you hold yourself to the highest standards. That builds up stamina and turns you into a pro. At time, though, you must forgive yourself. You will never become 100 percent efficient, nor should you expect to be. After something does not work, ask yourself, "Did I do my best? If you did, accept the outcome. All you can do is all you can do.
4.      Blur the boundaries. Some very successful people achieve balance by setting aside times or days for family, recreation, hobbies or the like. They create boundaries around certain activities and protect them. Other individuals who are just as successful do just the opposite. They blur the boundaries. Says consultant Alan Weiss, "I work out of my home. In the afternoon, I might be watching my kids play at the pool or be out with my wife. On Saturday, or at ten o'clock on a weeknight, I might be working. I do things when the spirit moves me, and when they're appropriate."
Some jobs don't lend themselves to this strategy. But blurring the boundaries is possible more often than you may think. One way is to involve people you care about in what you do. For example, many companies encourage employees to bring their spouses to conferences and annual meetings. It's a good idea. If people who mean a great deal to you understand what you do, they can share more fully in your successes and failures. They also are more likely to be a good sounding board for your ideas.
5.      Take a break. Many therapists believe that taking a break from a work routine can have major benefits for mental and physical health. Professional speaker and executive coach Barbara Pagano practices a kind of quick charge, by scheduling a day every few months with no agenda. For her, that means staying in her pajamas, unplugging the phone, watching old movie or reading a novel in bed. For that one day, nothing happens, except what she decides from hour to hour. Adds singer and composer Billy Joel, "There are times when you need to let the field lie fallow." Joel is describing what farmers often do: let a plot rest so the soil can replenish itself.
6.      Take the road less traveled. Occasionally, get off the expressway and take a side road, literally and figuratively. That road may take you to the library or to the golf course. Do something out of the ordinary to avoid the well-worn grooves of your life. Try a new route to work, a different radio station or a different cereal. Break out of your old mold occasionally, with a new way to dress or a different hobby. The road less traveled can be a reward after a demanding event, a carrot that you reward your self with or it can be a good way to loosen up before a big event. Bobby Dodd, the legendary football coach at Georgia Tech, knew the power of this concept. While other coaches were putting their teams through brutal twice-a-day practices, Dodd's team did their drills and practices, but then took time to relax, play touch football and enjoy the bowl sites. Did the idea work? In six straight championships games!
7.      Be still. Susan Taylor, editorial director of Essence, sees to it that she has quiet time every morning. She regards it as a time for centering - for being still and listening. She keeps a paper and pen with her to jot down ideas that come to her. The way you use solitary time should match your values, beliefs and temperament. Some individuals devote a regular time each day to visualize themselves attaining their goals and dreams. Others read, pray, meditate, do yoga or just contemplate a sunrise or sunset. Whatever form it takes, time spent alone can have an enormous payoff. Achievers talk about an inner strength they find and how it helps them put competing demands into perspective. They feel more confident about their choices and more self-reliant. They discover a sense of balance, a centeredness.
8.      Be a peacetime patriot. Joe Posner has achieved wealth and recognition selling life insurance. Several years ago, Posner helped form an organization in his hometown of Rochester, NY to prepare underprivileged children for school and life and, he hopes, break the poverty cycle. You may find some equally worthy way to give something back through your church, hospital, civic club, alumni association or by doing some pro bono work. Or you may help individuals privately, even anonymously. There are powerful rewards for balancing personal interests with the needs of the common good. One of the most wonderful is the sheer joy that can come from giving. Another  reward is the better world that you help create.
9.      Do what you love to do. As a boy, Aaron Copeland spent hours listening to his sister practice the piano because he loved music. By following that love, he became America's most famous composer of classical must. When I asked him years later if he had even been disappointed by that choice Copeland replied, "My life has been enchanting." What a word to sum up a life. By itself, loving what you do does not ensure success. You need to be good at what you love. But if you love what you do, the time you spend becoming competent is less likely to be drudgery.
10.  Focus on strategy. As important as it is, how to save time for balancing your life is not the ultimate question. That question is, "What am I saving time for?" Strategy has to do with being successful - but successful at what? If others pay your salary, being strategic generally means convincing them that you are spending your time in a way that benefits them. If there is a dispute over how you should use your time, either convince the people who can reward or punish you that your idea about using time is appropriate, or look for another job. The "what for?" question should also be asked about the life you live. It is truly a comprehensive question and gets at the question of wholeness.
 
So what makes for a successful balance life? I can think of no better definition than the one given by Ralph Waldo Emerson:
     To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because I have lived. This is to have succeeded.
 

Balancing Your Work, Family and Social Life

Balancing Your Work, Family and Social Life
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Gene Griessman, PhD, is an Atlanta-based author, workshop leader and speaker. His books include Time Tactics of Very Successful People and The Words Lincoln Lived By. To learn more about Dr. Griessman’s products and speaking engagements, visit him online at www.presidentlincoln.com.

Global Vacations Network Scam - Is it One?

Global Vacations has been around for a long time. You can join them and have the ability to take luxury vacations and also sell memberships to others to make money. It is also called Global Resorts Network or GRN. There are many people that have made significant incomes with GRN.

The main issue with this type of opportunity is that it costs thousands of dollars. In the current recession/depression economy, it is increasingly difficult to find people that can spend 00 to join a home business opportunity. Marketing products that cost thousands of dollars is a great way to make a fabulous income quickly, but more people fail at those types of businesses than succeed and you end up with people feeling like you "scammed" them if you are the one that signed them up.

There is not a Global Vacations Network scam, but there are many people that failed that may feel like they were scammed. The truth is that they failed in that business because they were not able to effectively market the product and convert the leads they gathered into sales. GRN offers its members awesome tools to market the business, but many people just don't put forth the effort to stick with something to get to the point where they start to succeed.

Global Vacations Network Scam - Is it One?

That said, in today's economy it is much easier to market a consumable product at a lower price point. Network marketing companies are thriving today because more people are concerned about the stability of their employers or the safety of their 401k's. When people are concerned about their financial future, it is much easier to get them to look at a home business than it would be in more prosperous times.

Home network marketing businesses that have a solid product that people want, that is consumable and that interest you are probably one of the best home businesses that you could start. Joining a "high ticket" program like GRN is only advisable if you have a significant amount of time and/or a decent marketing budget to put into your business to get it to the point where you really make a significant income.

Perhaps the biggest key to success in any business that you join online is that your sponsor or their team has strong training and leadership. More people fail from having a lack of tools or inspirational leadership than for any other reason. Marketing online is not hard, but unless you know what you are doing you will flounder and spend your marketing dollars in ineffective ways.

If you don't have a significant marketing budget, then you need to learn how to use free or low cost marketing methods. These methods are very effective, but many of them require a significant effort and have a learning curve. If you have the time to put into a home business, the free methods of marketing are the most effective and provide significant gratification to people that use them.

Global Vacations Network Scam - Is it One?
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Steve Jankowski is an attorney who transitioned to a business owner and then decided to build a home business. He specializes in training people to utilize the internet to build a home business. He resides in Minnesota with his wife Nancy and their 4 daughters. www.toptiermentor.biz [http://www.toptiermentor.biz/rotator.php]

The Personalisation Agenda - Core Issues For Social Care Service Providers

The personalisation agenda means a major shift in the way care and support providers approach service development and delivery. This article gives a brief overview of some of the most critical business issues for service providers.

Residential care, housing with support and domiciliary care services have traditionally been service led according to models established by commissioners and regulators. The personalisation agenda requires service development, which includes the commissioning process to reflect what individuals really want according to their own basic needs, preferences and aspirations.

Personalisation throws up a number of challenges and opportunities with sweeping changes taking place across the care and support sectors. Here's a snapshot of some of the key issues service providers have to deal with:

The Personalisation Agenda - Core Issues For Social Care Service Providers

1. Recruitment, retention and development of new skills for staff will become critical issues for the market as a whole and on an individual provider basis.

2. Personalisation provides opportunities for the care and support sectors to offer a wider range of work through the development of the personal assistant role and brokerage skills.

3. All services will be focused on outcomes agreed chosen by customers. Services able to evidence results for their service users will have a more competitive edge as the market matures.

4. Opportunities for organisations to diversify and specialise will exist for providers able to respond to developing markets.

5. Recognition that customers may value services that move beyond traditional definitions or care and/or support. The meaning of 'eligibility' will take on new meanings and will be redundant in some cases.

6. Providers will need invoicing and accounting systems able to handle payments made by individuals from personal budgets.

7. New business skills will be required for many organisations that need to learn how to market their services directly to customers and to 3rd party intermediaries such as brokers and advice agencies.

8. Local partnerships between private, voluntary sector organisations and local authorities will change as new personalisation roles emerge. Commissioning will be more about market facilitation with less emphasis on control. Providers should have more freedom to innovate according to needs and preferences of customers.

For more information on how to approach personalisation including specific advice for housing with support, carers, and home care providers, the Social Care Institute for Excellence regularly publish useful advice.

The Personalisation Agenda - Core Issues For Social Care Service Providers
Check For The New Release in Health, Fitness & Dieting Category of Books NOW!
Check What Are The Top Cooking Books in Last 90 Days Best Cheap Deal!
Check For Cookbooks Best Sellers 2012 Discount OFFER!
Check for Top 100 Most Popular Books People Are Buying Daily Price Update!
Check For 100 New Release & BestSeller Books For Your Collection

Glen Crosier is a marketing and business development consultant based in Brighton, England specialising in the care, support and community sector. He is author of the Selling Care blog which provides marketing tips for care and support service providers linked to the personalisation agenda.