Networking Insight

10 Ways to Stand Out in Your Network

It can be easy to get lost in the crowd. We are part of multiple networks you can easily be forgotten. In order to leverage the power of your network, you should find ways to stand out. Below are 10 ways to help you stand out in your network:

1. Consistently add value by sending relevant articles, events, etc. to specific people that may find this information relevant.
2. Host your own events so you can invite your network.
3. Brand youself with a blog, website, or industry articles.
4. Find multiple ways to communicate such as email, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. 
5. Make connections on a regular basis.
6. Meet people for coffee or lunch on a regular basis.
7. Find ways to get others involved in events, meetings, etc.
8. Be approachable when others come to you for guidance.
9. Be a giver and help whenever you can.
10. Be positive and enjoyable to be around.

What other ways can  you stand out in your network?

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EFactor Presents: Got Funding? - Next Week!

EFactor Presents: Got Funding?

As an entrepreneur, you know that funding is critical. It helps to have some money to get your business off the ground or expand when it when a great opportunity comes up. Traditional sources are tough in this economy, but all it takes is a little imagination and some expert advice about some of the great new channels for funding now available.

If you are looking for funding, then you have come to the right place and it's time to register. This event will educate entrepreneurs about various funding options for start-ups and small business owners. From angel investing and debt financing, to bootstrapping and small business loans, this not-to-be-missed event will feature experts from each funding niche.

Speakers

• George Deeb, Managing Partner, Red Rocket Venture Partners (bootstrapping)
• Joe Dwyer, Venture Partner, OCA Ventures (equity funding)
• Corliss Garner, VP Commercial Banking, BMO Harris Bank (debt funding)
• Denise Ching, Associate Director, IL Small Business Development Center, UIC (alternative funding)

Event Details

• Date: 9/25/12
• Time: 6-9pm
• Location: Catapult Chicago, 321 N. Clark St, Suite 2250, Chicago
• Price: $15 regular, $20 at door
• Sponsors: EFactor, Catapult Chicago

For more details and to register, go to www.efactor.com.

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Positive Energy Equals Good Relationship Building

No one likes to be around negative people because they are downers and uncomfortable. Yet, we still find ourselves interacting with these people. 

How many negative people have you integrated into your long-term network? Probably not many. Once someone makes us uncomfortable, we tend to stay way.

When we interact with positive people, we feel good and want to be around these individuals. Their positive energy has a lasting impact on us. 

We have the opportunity to be around a lot of people throughout our lives so why not focus on only the ones that make us happy. In relationship building, it is critical that you make referrals and connections with only those who you trust.

So make an effort to also maintain positive energy when you are around others. Here are some strategies to help you become more positive:

• Smile often
• Welcome others into the conversation
• Send uplifting emails
• Share good stories
• Don't bring up controversial subjects such as politics and religion
• Don't talk negative about others

What other strategies can you think of?

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