ZeroToNetwork

The Virtual Handshake - Free PDF

Sat, 25 Mar 2006 17:27:24 GMT

One of our business networking friends, Scott Allen is graciously providing a free PDF of his book, The Virtual Handshake: Opening Doors and Closing Deals Online.

"Just as online dating has revolutionized the way singles connect, very similar technologies are revolutionizing the way that businesspeople close deals. We wrote The Virtual Handshake to show you how to sign new customers, meet new business partners, recruit star employees, or even find a new job, all by using online networks. More technically, it�s the first mass-market guide to �social software�: blogs, social network sites, virtual communities, relationship capital management software, contact management software, and so on. "

This is a powerful book; one that will inspire you to reach higher leveraging online techniques to expand your business network. And while the PDF is free, we encourage you to buy The Virtual Handshake book. Either way, this is an important book for your business networking success.

Business Network tools

Sun, 05 Feb 2006 21:36:40 GMT

If you are an active business networker like me, you have a very full box of business cards. They do pile up fast. To help you maintain and keep your network organized and easily at hand, I recommend the following two products.

First, purchase a card scanner, which will convert those business cards into your Outlook (or other address book program) address book. I recently bought the CardScan Model 60 and it works great. I uploaded over 200 cards in an hour. And best of all, you can add notes and categorize your contacts to make them easy to locate. It even scans both sides of the card, so you can capture any notes you took when you received the card.

The second tool to consider is a Palm Pilot, or other handheld device that can store your business network. The Palm Z22 is only $99 and it is simple to use, small/light.

These tools make it convenient and easy for keeping your network close when you are attending an networking event or at a business meeting.

Business Networking; it's your farm

Sat, 21 Jan 2006 16:46:01 GMT

Plant corn seeds in the spring, harvest in the fall. The fruits of you labor take time, and it's worth it when you finally get to eat the corn (Jersey corn!). And all through the summer you add water and tend to the weeds. Networking is farming. It's planting seeds and harvesting, sometimes days later, sometimes years.

Two stories of networking success that took time to harvest, one relates to me.

The first story is about someone that I have written about in the past, Deborah, a citizen of Singapore.

Time has faded how I actually started to mentor her, perhaps from this very blog. During the past years I have reviewed her writing (thesis) and resumes and given her support and advice. The cultural difference between S'pore and the United States made much of my advice not much help.

Then while having lunch with another "networking" friend in NYC, an opportunity presented itself. My friend in NYC needed a Far-East telecom industry market research . And the light bulb went off - Deb's thesis is on a Telecom subject, her speciality is market research and she is located in the Far East. And now with a lil luck Deb will be writing a market research report for my friend in NYC...

Way back when this blog was started (2002) I was migrating back from Atlanta and, through networking met the owner of a Marketing Agency.

We spoke frequently and the possibility of a consulting project was taking root. However, I signed on with a different agency, one focused on online marketing, and thus began my new career. It seemed that every 6 month there was a reason to keep in contact with Eric, the owner of the marketing agency. Then, on January 1st 2006, I signed on with Eric's company as VP Online Marketing. Employment was not something we ever spoke about until late in November...

It may take time to harvest business networking corn, but it is well worth it when it happens. Keep your business network well fed and your harvest will be bountiful.

Pass the another ear of (Jersey) corn please.

Business Network for Life.

Sat, 14 Jan 2006 16:42:09 GMT

Pet Peeve time;

Recently I opened up my network and provided support to someone seeking a new job after she was laid-off. I always find it very gratifying to help others and I never ask for anything in return. So what is my pet peeve?

After she found a new position (she was someone I used to work with and was out of work a long time), she disappeared off the radar scope. No follow-up's, no thank you's. No offers to help others. I am sure she is focusing on her new job, which is important - but never forget your network.

At a recent Marketing Executive Networking Group (MENG) meeting we discussed how important it is to remain connected with your network - even after you succeed in find that next great job. It is not unusual for people to discover the power of networking when they are placed in a career transition. This is how I learned. However, my strong advice is to remain connected with (and grow) your new found network once you succeed in finding a new job. Return the favors you received by helping others unselfishly.

Why? Besides being a good thing to do and very gratifying -- you never know when you might "need" your network again. If you have been active in your network, help will just happen naturally. BUT if you have disappeared, and once again need help...

Think about it and become a Business Networker for life!

Business Networking for 2006

Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:05:01 GMT

Make one of your resolutions for 2006 to get involved in business networking. We all will say that for 2006 we shall lose weight, work out in the gym and try slowing down in the car (ok I will succeed at 2/3) -- BUT business networking is so incredibly important and beneficial.

Here's to a healthy and prosperous 2006. Stephen Harris

PS: One of my resolutions will be to update this blog at-least twice monthly.

Zero to Network - It's a Bus. Networking Resource Blog

Fri, 15 Jul 2005 20:02:46 GMT

Wow; has it been this long since I have made any updates. To my readers; I am sorry. Over the past few months I have joined a company; then left it - and then started my own Online Marketing Agency.

It has been exciting to say the very least; and at the same time, have been in deep discussions with a number of companies for a possible full time role.

ZerotoNetwork and its sister site JobStuff, a Blog for your Career, was never really meant to be a site updated with news; instead with advice and suggestions for business networking and career transitioning. If you are new to ZerotoNetwork, explore the content; as it is meant to provide help with many aspects of this important time in your life.

I wish Blogdrive had categories; so you could quickly find specific help topics. I am exploring how to do this, so that ZeroToNetwork becomes a resource.

I'll be back soon with more information; including tips on starting your own biz and why business networking can make a significant different in your business success!

Stephen Harris

PS: and if you are in Phili on July 28; your host will be on a panel discussion at WHYY (Public TV) discussing my approach to business networking.

Now that the 28th is past - it was a fantastic event attended by nearly 200 people. Thanks to Company of Friends Phili & WHYY for hosting!

Business Networking: Genius Perspective

Sat, 07 May 2005 02:38:56 GMT

Dick Richards, from the "OnGenius" blog allowed ZeroToNetwork to reprint his excellent thoughts on Business Networking. Dick is right on the money. Enjoy:

Dick Richards� Rules For Networking
May 5th, 2005

Presented in the spirit of a network being defined as a
collection of people who are committed to one another�s success

Know what business you are in
as a person: your genius and purpose

Be attuned to what the universe is telling you,
and create a vision that inspires and compels you

Attend to your vision
and tell others about it

Think of networks as resources for both personal empowerment
and collaboration to create new realities

Be willing to invest youself in helping
others realize their visions

Know, and let others know, what you want
and what you have to offer

Listen carefully for what others want
and what they have to offer

Create linkage between wants,
offerings, and visions

Know that when you choose to give rather than withold,
you enrich and empower an entire network

Believe that when you act, the web of life trembles

Remember that networks are processes with many centers,
and neither structures nor hierarchies

Have fun, celebrate often, and remain positive

Click here to visit Dick's blog - and thanks to Dick for permission to reprint his article.

Network success goes sour

Fri, 29 Apr 2005 04:00:53 GMT

Please keep in mind, as the news spreads. The networking success is very real. LinkedIn works. However, it turns out that over the last 11 weeks at my employer - it was not a good fit for me nor them. These things happen. Whether I think they are right or wrong - is not material.

In my companion blog - JobStuff, I'll be discussing the interviewing, red flags, and how to handle situations where the fit just doesn't exist.

One quick business networking lesson - keep your network alive, as you may need it on a moments notice. My network never went away, and once it was determined that this role will not work, it was easy to kick it back to high gear.

If you are interested, my resume: www.stephen-harris.com/sphresume.doc - seeking technology oriented marketing opportunites - either F/T or Contractual.

More updates on business networking shortly. Stephen

A Business Networking success story - my own!

Wed, 09 Feb 2005 18:47:09 GMT

First I must offer an apology. It has been difficult to pay close attention to this blog, and its sister: jobstuff.blogdrive.com. In the midst of a very positive and intense job search, there was not much bandwidth for writing. I was maintaining my current position while searching for something new & greater.

However, the search is over and I cannot wait to share with you the experiences and learning�s - and offerings of business networking advice. I will not identify the company; however it is an excellent opportunity for me and a great group of individuals.

For today I want to share with you how this position came about. Did you guess it was business networking? You're right on!

I will admit when my voluntary journey began in November, my focus was on recruiters, job boards and some light networking. I did not have the time to begin cultivating a new network. I was hunting, no time for farming. And in the end, it was my pre-existing network that I built in the past three years that came through, plus one bit of technology.

Here is my story:

A friend and fellow blogger, Jim Stroud (Jobseekers Revenge) sent me an email that described the new job listing tools on LinkedIn. Even as a linkedin member, I was not aware of this new feature. I scanned the jobs and found one that was very interesting. Although not an advocate of submitting my resume through job boards, I thought it might be an interesting experiment. Plus, my thinking was that select and focused job boards might be more receptive to resumes (less volume, higher quality). LinkedIn is becoming quite a powerful business networking medium. I'll write more about LinkedIn shortly.

However, immediately after submitting my resume I realized - DUH - I should use LinkedIn to see if anyone I know can assist me with handling my resume at this company. And right there, someone I have been networking with extensively (yes you David), not only knows this team of people, but worked there previously. David S. quickly sent an email to his contact that carried my praises to the hiring executive. An effective one-two punch. And it worked; it got me in the door! The rest is interview history!

What's the lesson here: You never know how your network will come to your assistance, so keep it evergreen. For both of the individuals listed in this entry, I have provided assistance and support - and it came back in a great way. Thanks Jim, David and LinkedIn !!

and - yes, I have extended my business networking during this search, which I will also share in upcoming blog entries.

Stephen Harris

One quick Networking Post Note: Another person in my business network played an important role in this success story. John F. was consulting at the company and happens to be working in an office adjacent to the hiring executive. I wasn't aware that he was working at this company, but he did a voluntary follow-up with the hiring executive, providing him with a recommendation. Networking came together big time for me. Both via the electronic LinkedIn networking tool and people!

Business Networking: It just happens

Thu, 13 Jan 2005 17:01:25 GMT

Business Networking can happen at any time, any place. Recently sitting in a coffee shop, someone overheard my conversation and asked if I was an executive recruiter. I'm not, but it led to an interesting conversation and an exchange of business cards.

Ironically, earlier in the day (in this same coffee shop), someone asked if I was a lawyer. This led to a conversation but no real connection. Maybe I need a sign that say I am a...

Anyway: I am not recommending that you actively ease-drop on conversations, but with an apology ahead of time, it could lead to an interesting connection. Try: "I am sorry, I overheard you mention that you are involved in Widget Farming...".

Networking happens - be prepared!

Business Networking technique for interviewing

Wed, 15 Dec 2004 19:48:04 GMT

A call from a recruiter leads you to an excellent opportunity at Amalgamated Inc. You recall that a few years ago you did business with Amalgamated or know of someone that is employed there. Naturally, you can call upon these people to gain insights into the culture and environment. However, take the additional step and ask these internal contacts if you can use their name as an internal reference.

Even where the hiring manager does not know these individuals, an internal reference is a key advantage that others of equal skill may not have. Take advantage.

Which is another reason why you should always maintain your business network, because you never know where it will be of value.

This suggestion works in sales or other business contacts, where an internal references could make the difference between gaining or losing a deal or appointment.

What? No contact within the company? Try LinkedIn, a great way to tap your electronic business network for equal benefit. More on LinkedIn shortly.

Stephen Harris

Blogging and Social Networking

Wed, 08 Dec 2004 03:30:18 GMT

Scott Allen, business networker extraordinaire and co-author of the Online Business Networks blog, commented on my August 28th entry about blogs and networking (click here to visit this previous article).

My treatise is that blogs are a valuable networking channel and Scott agrees:

"As much as I enjoy the social networking sites, I have to say that in terms of value created for time spent, my blog has a slight edge over the social networking sites."

Yes the ZeroToNetwork blog is about business networking - but does that really imply face-to-face? Does this imply Linkedin & Ryze? No, it implies making valuable business connections whether across the hall, within your geographic area or across the world through many different channels. My various blogs, as I am sure Scott and other dedicated blog-networkers will agree, has opened an amazing number of doors. Use all the tools available to you - on and offline - when business networking. And I agree, it casts a wider network net over social/business networks as well. But don't exclude any one channel in your business networking mix & strategy. Stephen Harris

Thanksgiving and Business Networking

Thu, 25 Nov 2004 15:42:52 GMT

For our reader friends in the United States, Happy Thanksgiving! As we visit with family and friends, remeber Business networking is always on. Naturally; today we focus on food and family - but keep in mind it's an opportunity to network.

Family and friends are the closest and most viable business networking sources - but first & foremost, enjoy the holidays. Happy Thanksgiving one & all - and do pass the apple pie! Stephen

Innovation in Business Networking

Sat, 20 Nov 2004 01:23:15 GMT

On my JobStuff Blog, I am reporting the results of a friend's search for a new career opportunity. A major tool in Doug' arsenal has been business networking. He has tapped his close network connections and reached to out relevant people on LinkedIn.

Recently Doug met with a small entrepreneurial company for an interview, through a recruiter. Although he did not get the position, he made a connection with the executive. In an exchange of emails, not only did this executive agree to join in Doug's LinkedIn network - but further agreed to meet with another of Doug's network members for a possible business relationship.

Business Networking is everywhere - even on an interview. Keep that in mind.

Stephen Harris

Brown Bag or Business Network at Lunch?

Wed, 10 Nov 2004 18:07:33 GMT

Networking occurs in places least expected. At work; the lunchroom or coffee center can be important in-company networking locales. In a recent Fortune Magazine online article, a reader asked if they were missing out by not eating lunch with co-workers.

For myself, I mix time between eating at my desk and dining with co-workers. In a large company, this is a great way to learn what goes on in other groups and establish your in-company network web. It's important to network inside your organization as much as externally.

Don't overlook your internal network to grow within an organization - or to help get your job done with the cooperation of others.

Click here to read the Fortune article (scroll down), by Annie Fisher.

The Journey Begins... into the Transition Zone

Wed, 13 Oct 2004 22:23:57 GMT

Blog Note: Over at my other blog - JobStuff, a Blog for Your Career - I am beginning a multi-part segment following a real persons journey through the transition zone. Most of the topics deal more with Job & Career searching, however there will be a healthy dose of networking advice and information.

I will keep ZeroToNetwork readers informed when there are specific Business Networking tips in regards to a journey through the transition zone.

The mature business network

Sun, 03 Oct 2004 01:13:25 GMT

When I began my network journey, I attended any and all events as time permitted. Of course, I had a mission - find a new job and/or promote my consulting. Every event was fair game!

Secure in employment, I still network. However, now I am much more selective. Networking doesn't mean you need to be out there every day for any event you are invited to. At some point you should stop and consider - what is it you are seeking out of networking. Then follow a strategy to ensure you are attending the right meetings to meet your specific needs (or ones that you particularly like to attend or where the topic/guest speaker is of interest).

In recent weeks, I have turned down more events than I attended. I realized my time was valuable and that attending events simply to meet new people isn't enough of a pull for me. Coincidal, my online network is growing substantially.

In an upcoming book by master net-worker, Scott Allen - he says that realistically we can keep around 150 people in our inner circle. It becomes important to grow and feed your existing network than to continually build one.

Something to consider and discuss in a future Blog entry: The balance between face-to-face and online networking and the effectiveness (and lack of) for each.

stephen harris

Business Networking, now a course in college.

Thu, 30 Sep 2004 00:40:18 GMT

I wish that there was Business Network training in college - now there is. Click here for an excellent article from the Wall Street Journal' : Career Journal. Click here to read the article.

Business Networking Tele-conference call - Meeting Recap

Wed, 29 Sep 2004 02:59:25 GMT

I just completed the Business Networking Tele-conference call - Jumpstarting your Career Search. We covered so much ground in 30 minutes, I thought I would recap some of the highlights from my presentation.

Once again, I want to thank Bill Vick (PhoenixLink, SeniorSuccess et al) for sponsoring this event and inviting me to speak. And thank you for attending. I hope that you came away with at-least one valuable piece of information to spark your campaign.

Click here to read my notes and recap for this teleconference.

Business Networking Teleconference for Execs (free)

Tue, 21 Sep 2004 20:13:16 GMT

Loyal BlogReaders: I am presenting a teleconference on Business Networking for Executives seeking their next opportunity (the approx $100K+ club). The event is sponsored by Bill Vick at The PhoenixLink. This is a free invitation to join in Tues, Sept 28 11:00 EST. Simply email Bill (bill.vick@thephoenixlink.com) and mention you heard about this from ZerotoNetwork.

The following is the formal invitation from Bill -- thanks! Stephen:

A free teleconference focused on the executive job seeker stranded in the transition zone will be led by Stephen Harris next Tuesday, September 28th at 10:00 AM CST (11:00 EST).

Stephen speaks from experience. As a former executive with a Fortune 500 company he was relocated to Atlanta from NJ and then let-go, laid-off or downsized. Whatever your choice of words he was forced to face the reality of being unemployed but through the help of many others he learned what worked and what did not. You can benefit from the mistakes and successes he has enjoyed in this action packed 30 minute teleconference.

Today Stephen is a Director at an Online Interactive Marketing Company, the author of two career & business networking Blogs and has successfully mentored individuals to a successful new job. He coordinates the NJ Company of Friends group, has attended many networking events. hosted business & charity networking events, mentored others, starting a project management consulting company, met with C-level entrepreneurs, and even became an executive recruiter � all while seeking his next great full-time position.

He feels Networking is about giving. Stephen has received so much help and assistance in his own search that he feels pride in "giving" back his experience and expertise so please join him on Tuesday, September 28th at 10:00 AM CST (11:00 EST).

To register please return this email to bill.vick@thephoenixlink.com along with the following information and we will send you the access phone number and code. This could be just what you need to get your job search back on track.

Your Name:
Your email:
Are you currently-employed?
Current or previous title?
Your Industry?
Are you looking to remain in this same industry or change?
Identify '2' things you are looking for in enhancing your Business networking skills?
1.
2.

Please email or call me with any questions or suggestions. This teleconference is on a first come first served basis and attendance is limited.