So how do you feel when you receive an invitation to a networking event? Excited? Nervous? Bored? Eager? I like my networking events with a little side action, such as a great speaker or some type of workshop. Small talk with strangers? Not so much. Hidden sales pitch or MLM “business opportunity?” Definitely not.

Don’t get me wrong. I actually enjoy meeting new people. And I’m getting better at it. Which is great because my calendar is filling up! Every month I say I’m going to slow down and rest and before I know it, I have to choose between several events each week.

But it’s not just about the numbers. Remember, you have to do more than just show up. Whenever you attend a networking event or other type of business function, your goal should always be to make at least one, preferably three true connections. Make the effort to get to know people on a personal level. Find a reason to follow up after the function. Push yourself and find some way to help or otherwise provide a service to three people. Find a personal connection, a commonality if you will, so you have a natural reason to follow up and set a meeting after the function. When you get home that night, reach out to the folks you met – send a handwritten note card (I know, totally old fashioned, but try it. Makes a great impression.)

Now, check your calendar for upcoming outings and make a list of the 3 people you want to meet at your next function. AND, make a list of 3 of your strategic partners/alliances that you will find referrals for at the event. Always, always plan ahead and set appropriate goals so that you will make the best use of your time and make a great impression, because since you have preplanned and set goals, you will not be guilty of mindlessly handing cards to everyone who passes by!
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Special note: Please plan to attend our event this month: Learn to Network Like the Pros! We’re pleased to announce that we have a guest speaker for our networking workshop on 9/21: Author Jill Lublin.

Jill Lublin is an internationally renowned speaker on the topics of publicity and networking. As author of her best-selling book Get Noticed…Get Referrals (McGraw Hill, 2008) and co-author of the best-sellers Guerrilla Publicity (Adams Media), and Networking Magic (Adams Media), Jill is a master strategist on how to capture the attention of the media and increase your visibility in the marketplace.
So, join us and practice what you learn! Presentation starts promptly at 6:30 p.m. so be sure to arrive on time. Registration begins at 6. Plenty of time to network before and after the workshop. See you there!
Location: PariSoma CoWorking Loft, 1436 Howard St. (between 10th & 11th Streets) San Francisco, CA ($5 venue donation payable at the door!)

I was actually on the receiving end of such an introduction today. I’d heard many stories about my colleague’s friend, a real estate investor who wanted to expand his portfolio through different means. It just so happens that I came across a request for proposals to renovate residential housing for a city agency. I approached my colleague, and he responded favorably by 1) talking to the developer to assess his interest; 2) sending an email introduction to us both; and finally 3) we all met for coffee this evening to discuss the potential business. And guess what? We’ve decided to move forward and submit a proposal.

In this case, the referrer took the time to make sure that each side had their needs met and at the same time, opened the door  for all of us, himself included, to do future business together. Whether or not it turns out that we  submitted the winning bid, for sure we’ve already laid the ground work for a mutually beneficial business relationship.

So tell me, who in your network can you bring together today? Coffee anyone?

August 25, 2010 – We welcome you to join us for our August Forum to meet Eric Peterson, Pension Consultant for Hicks Pension Services and Kari M. Lusby, Regional Vice President for Nationwide Financial. They will be discussing topics such as:

-How to maximize retirement plan contributions
-Understanding retirement plan fees and new fee transparency rules
-Tools for retirement plan fiduciaries

Your Investor’s Forum Host, Matthew Hodgen, COO of Macian Wealth Management (www.macian-wm.com) brings in world-renowned speakers and best of class investors to discuss an exclusive topic every month.
Wednesday, August 25, Noon – 1:30 PM
Luncheon Served
$35 inclusive members & hosted guests/$45 member-invited guests

Please RSVP to *Larissa Lorian at reservations@cityclubsf.com if you plan on attending. (*Not Larisa of Pink Passport Society!)

August 31, 2010 – (Last Tuesday of every month) BYOB Spotlight Dinner & Networking! BYOB means bring your own business. This time the spotlight is on you! Just $10 buys you the floor and the opportunity to tell everyone who you are and why your business is the cat’s meow! Time for up to 3 presenters at 20 minutes each. Visit our website for additional details: http://pinkpassportsociety.com

September 21, 2010 – Network Like the Pros! Interactive workshop to hone your networking skill so you’ll get more out of every interaction. 6 p.m. to 8:15 p.m., The hour-long workshop starts at 6:30, so you have plenty of time to network before and afterwards.
Special note: We’re pleased to announce that we have a guest speaker for our networking workshop on 9/21: Author Jill Lublin.
Jill Lublin is an internationally renowned speaker on the topics of publicity and networking. As author of her best-selling book Get Noticed…Get Referrals(McGraw Hill, 2008) and co-author of the best-sellers Guerrilla Publicity (Adams Media), and Networking Magic (Adams Media), Jill is a master strategist on how to capture the attention of the media and increase your visibility in the marketplace.
So, join us and learn to network like the pros! Presentation starts promptly at 6:30 p.m. so be sure to arrive on time. Registration begins at 6. Plenty of time to network before and after the workshop. See you there!
Location: PariSoma CoWorking Loft, 1436 Howard St. (between 10th & 11th Streets) San Francisco, CA
Important: Please bring a $5 donation payable at the door to cover the venue rental!
For additional information, and to RSVP, please visit our website: http://PinkPassportSociety.com

Also, ahem, in another recent Keith Ferrazzi blog post, I read about four surprising things to help cement a relationship. http://www.keithferrazzi.com/relationship-development-skills/guest-blogger-tahl-raz-four-surprising-things-that-will-grow-your-network-and-net-worth-now/ (May need to copy and paste into your browser.)

Although the title of the article included the word “surprising” I’m not sure that’s really accurate. I think it was more of a refresher, a reminder if you will, about what we’re supposed to do. We all know, I think, how to treat people don’t we? The problem is, we seldom do all we can for others because we are just so darned…busy…tired…stressed….busy. You know the drill. Then there’s our own personal baggage: insecurity, fear of rejection and all sorts of blockage. Nonsense that stops us from reaching out and opening up. So read the article. Tell me what you think. And then take action. Make the other party feel good today, won’t you?

Okay, by now you probably think you’re probably sensing a trend, right? Not so. But if it’s good information, I’m duty-bound to share it with you right? This just happened to be another good, timely post that I wanted to share with you all because it feeds into the relationships we want to help you build through Pink Passport Society.

If you’re in the Bay Area, on September 21, I am hosting a workshop entitled “Network Like the Pros” at PariSoma Coworking Loft (visit their website for details: www.parisoma.com or our online community to RSVP: http://PinkPassportSociety.com ) We are actually having a guest speaker, author Jill Lublin. So ya just gotta come! If you’re serious about developing your business relationships into something meaningful, then this is a “must-attend” workshop. Get the tips and strategies you need today, but be careful! You might just work up a sweat – heavy lifting involved!

I read a great blog post today by Keith Ferrazzi. Liked it so much I linked to it and forwarded it to several people. Essentially his post was about steps you can take –immediately- to deepen your relationships, both business and personal. Also particularly helpful were the comments people left to add their ideas for building relationships – I picked up several good ones and I recommend you read it here: http://www.keithferrazzi.com/business-networking/how-to-build-it-before-you-need-it-every-day/ (May need to copy and paste into your browser.)

Keith’s blog is all about building community so I strongly recommend that you subscribe to his blog. Lots of good information and if you’re interested, he’s also fostering an offshoot of relationship-building communities so be sure to visit his website also: www.keithferrazzi.com . (No, I am not being remunerated. I just think he provides good info, and it is my duty and my pleasure to share this resource with you!). I’ve read and recommend both of his books, too: Never Eat Alone and Who’s Got Your Back. Check’em out!

Okay. That concludes our commercial presentation. On with the meat of this blog, eh?

One of Keith’s suggestions was to have a monthly party or happy hour. Monthly? Are you crazy? I was so proud of myself for having my first “Larisa’s Annual Barbecue”! Wow, the difference between annually and monthly is almost too vast to contemplate, but I might give it a go…next year. My original idea was to gradually grow the annual barbecue into the event of the year, so it makes sense to include frequent, smaller events throughout the year as I increase my numbers of friends and colleagues. Food for thought, eh?

The other reason I bring this up of course is because it’s right on topic with our August theme of “getting personal.” So let me pose to you the same question he did: how are you developing your network/relationships? What do you do to regularly keep in touch with friends, co-workers, business associates and acquaintances you’d like to know better?

Remember Pink Passport Society’s vision is to build a worldwide community for women, so let’s start now. Leave your comments, your input, and your thoughts about your journey and let’s build something special. Looking forward to hearing from you!

When the anniversary date of your business inception hits the calendar, how do you respond? Do you treat it as a day worthy of note, or just another ho-hum day in the trenches? If it’s the latter, it’s past time to consider some other ideas!

Client Appreciation. Everyone loves a party, so why not take time to celebrate your anniversary with your clients? After all, aren’t they the ones really responsible for your success? You might want to have an actual party (the best idea) either at your home depending on the type of relationship you have, or at a posh hotel suite. Possibly reserve a sky-box at a sporting event or reserve a VIP area at the symphony or other swank event for your best clients. At the very least have a special “client appreciation sale” where your customers receive a gift with purchase. Maybe send out a greeting card with a coupon. Be creative, but whatever you do, do so on behalf of the customer. Make them feel good for buying from you.

 Be Charitable.  Another way to mark the date is to make charitable contributions to a related cause (if applicable) and do so in the names of your customers. When they make a purchase at a particular dollar amount, a portion of the sale goes to the chosen charity. Make it a festive event so clients are eager to purchase because they are “doing good” at the same time. And we love a good reason to go shopping, don’t we ladies?

 Behind the scenes, take some time to document your growth in your company journal or other historical document. It’s a good time to review and update your business plan, too. I know, not so much fun, but it’s important to note your growth as well as make necessary changes related to that growth, to take you to the next level.

 In celebration of You! Do take some time to let us know how you celebrate your anniversary.

But just for today, I will let some of my own excitement spill over, because I can’t wait for the celebrations to begin. If you missed out on past membership drives, well you will have another opportunity. July 22nd is our Anniversary. One year in the dream state (2007) and two years in the making, bringing us to 2010.

Sometimes, I find myself changing the story a bit, trying to get people to understand what Pink Passport Society is all about. Truly, if you only remember one thing, focus on the last word: Society. We are a destined to be a worldwide community of women who, on our way to financial prosperity through Passport Living, will uplift and support each other wherever we may be. We are, for lack of a better term, the “old boys club” for women. No longer will you have to search for a service, product, reference, or friend, because with you, we will grow our community to cross all boarders and languages till we stand united, fingertip to fingertip, across the land.

Re-Introducing Pink Passport Society, the Premiere Inner Circle for Women

Imagine yourself as part of a world where women are equals in the fullest sense of the word – no longer playing catch-up to their male counterparts.

Imagine yourself surrounded by smart, interesting women who have already achieved a certain level of success, yet who also recognize the value of continuous lifelong learning and personal development.

Imagine being part of an international community where women reach out to uplift each other to ensure that all women have equal access to the secrets for greater success.

Imagine having access to all the information, contacts and resources to ensure that your own life journey is colorful and financially secure.

Imagine arriving in any city, state or country with a worldwide concierge sharing the best of the best, restaurant, show, hotel, club, park, and more.

Imagine arriving in any city, state or country, and knowing that you have a friend, a colleague, a guide, an open door.

Imagine yourself as part of the movement that is Changing the Future for Women, one Guided Journey at a Time.

Imagine no more. You are invited to Come, Take the Journey with us.

Welcome to Pink Passport Society.

To start the celebration, as promised, we have a whole week’s worth of fun, starting on July 23rd, and we will be everywhere, throughout the bay area so no one has to miss out. Better yet, take your vitamins and come to all of the events! But most importantly, be sure to complete your application for membership! As a Charter Member, your annual dues will never increase – and that’s a promise!

Friday, July 23rd – (North Bay) Girls Night Out – Comedy at Dmitri’s in Suisun. Get there early!
Saturday, July 24 – (East Bay) Mini Workshop Breakfast
Sunday, July 25 – (San Francisco) Run the San Francisco (Half) Marathon with our Founder
Monday, July 26 – (South Bay) Marathon Recovery Day at the Spa!
Tuesday, July 27 – (East Bay) BYOB -Bring Your Own Business- Spotlight & Networking Dinner
Wednesday, July 28 – (San Francisco) Happy Hour Mixer at Sugar Café (679 Sutter St.)
Thursday, July 29 – Prelude to Your Future – An Evening of Self Discovery
Friday, July 30 – Surprise! (TBD)
Saturday, July 31 – Time for your Mini Planning Retreat, relaxing location of your choice!

Too much good stuff! (Yep, stole that from the TV commercial). Visit our website for updates as some locations may change! Better yet, sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss a thing!

After all has been said and done, I think the true degree of value-added equates to the experience that the end user has when they use your product or service. Ask yourself, what type of experience do you provide for your customers? Have you gotten any feedback? Good or bad (and of course we hope it’s all good), feedback is important so you know what you need to do to satisfy your customers and conversely what you need to stop doing, or at least change, in order to improve your outcomes.

Think about the reputation of Virgin Airlines, Jet Blue, Oprah, Nordstrom’s, and others of their ilk. These superstars have each developed a devoted following and have a reputation that precedes them. They’ve created enthusiastic “evangelists” because, well partly due to their positive reputation for surprising and exceeding expectations, but mostly because they deliver on those expectations. Customers expect a positive experience, and their expectations are more than met. So they tell all their friends and relatives, and circles of influence, and the cycle continues.

How can you achieve such a following? If you haven’t done so already, be sure to read back over the June posts (for a short month, there are 5 Wednesdays, which means 5 blog posts!) which give you tips and insights on creating added value for your customer. Develop your own “little something extra” and began creating the “wow!” experience for your clients, who will tell all their friends, who in turn will tell all theirs, who will tell… well, you get the drift. So get busy. And as always, report back!

For instance, when I visit an establishment and have occasion to er, use their facilities, if there is no hot water, I am immediately up in arms and pretty grossed out. How cheap do you have to be to not provide hot water? If you’re going to cut corners to save money, do it in a way that is seamless and invisible to the end user, the customer!

What about stores that use the nameless plain paper (or black/pink plastic) bags to pack your goods? Does the owner not care enough to promote their business as that bag is carried around, visible for all the world to see? Of course, this doesn’t bother me as much as the lack of hot water, but it sure makes me think about flea markets and uber-discount shopping. Does such an image project the value you want to impart to your customer? I think not.

If you need to save some coin, and let’s face it, today ‘most every business needs to do so, then do it in ways that the customer won’t find out about it. Kind of goes along with the slogan for a popular deodorant: “never let them see you sweat.” And now, never let them see you cheapen your image!

Have a care. Your image speaks volumes. Personal image and business image. What is yours saying to your adoring public?

What are some other ways you’ve noticed businesses screaming “I’m CHEAP!” at you when you patronize their establishment?

P.S. Pink Passport Society is sprucing up its image! We are working on a better website, rolling out new benefits AND working with some pretty sharper Preferred Providers to really help you out. I am so excited I think we will party for at least a week. If you haven’t done so already, make sure you sign up for our newsletter, Boarding Pass, so you don’t miss any of the updates! In the meantime, you can visit www.pinkpassport.org or http://pinkpassportsociety.com for more information.

 If your product or service provides lasting value, you have a happy client who will be thrilled with her purchase and will likely tell her friends and family about your great product. Keep in mind, value does not always mean the lowest price. Don’t let yourself get caught up in price wars or you will quickly put yourself out of business. What are you doing to ensure that your goods provide the value that your clients are looking for? How do you rate against the competition? 

 What are some add-on values that you can offer? Consider the usual suspects like:

• 2-for-1 pricing
• Free shipping
• Free pick-up/delivery
• Thank you cards

 If you endear yourself to your clients they become loyal and will likely tell their friends and family about how wonderful you are, and by extension, how wonderful your company is. Endearing leans a bit toward the warm and fuzzy side. Less tangible things like making someone feel special and appreciated. How are you conveying such feelings to your clients?

 What are some value-added offerings that leave clients with somewhat intangible, but still highly important feelings of well-being about purchasing your wares? Brainstorm some ideas to supplement the following list of ways to make your customers feel really good about patronizing your business:

• Client appreciation events (party, open-house, tickets to an event, etc.)
• Client appreciation sales
• Customer of the month/quarter award – maybe a photo-op?
• Greeting the person by name (pronounce it correctly, too!)
• Remembering the last purchase – follow up before they’re out with a reminder to refill or making a recommendation for a complementary item
• Remembering their special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries, milestones). Send them a card “just because it’s your special day” and chances are you will be top of mind when it’s time to buy a gift for someone on their list or to recommend you
• Can you package your product in a tasteful, reusable container so that your name/logo is constantly busy?
• Of course you can always use the old favorite: under promise and over deliver

Why not think outside the box, like the restaurant with the tattoo promotion – tattoo our name on your body and get free tacos for life! Some people actually got such a tattoo, but in addition the promotion itself generated lots of publicity and got people to visit the restaurant.  How can you create some buzz about your business?

At Pink Passport Society, we always strive to provide ALEs – A Little Something Extra so those who attend our workshops or who become members will always get more than what they expect. You should always strive to exceed expectations.

 These are just some ideas to get you started. What else can you come up with to stand out in your customers’ eyes…for the right reasons? Add a comment below and share your thoughts along this vein.