|
Making the Most of Business Relationships
A great example of working and massaging a business relationship came about this past month when I was named to the Microsoft SBSC (Small Business Specialist Certified) Advisory Board for FY 2009-2010. The advisory board is composed of myself and 9 leaders in the SMB arena in the IT industry nationwide. I personally will represent over 900 SBSC partners in my region. What a great honor for me and my firm!
Solid industry and client relationships (as well as personal) are a direct result from working hard and consistently on the relationship and asking those people "what can I (Debi Bush and CMIT Solutions Denver) do to help you and your business grow?" While at a conference this past week, there was a recurring theme of "NetWORTH" and "Be a Shortcut" that gave me greater insights.
"Networthing is not about you, it's about them. It's when you intentionally stand at the intersection of life and look for ways to connect people, opportunities and ideas. When you "netWORTH" you are demonstrating the value you bring to your network."
People have come to me to help them "connect the dots" and I depend on my Shortcuts (those Go To people or businesses) who can help me and help others. By being a Shortcut, you will increase your value. It is critical to understand that you must also nurture your Shortcuts by being proactive and communicating with them on a regular basis (in person, email, phone,..).
I have stepped up my "connectedness" with clients and Shortcuts these past few months and it is making a difference. Your value and influence increase when you are a true Shortcut and your ability to negotiate increases exponentially. With all of the choices (too many) we have presented to us in this much too fast paced world, wouldn't it be calming and encouraging to have more clarity? That is where Networthing and Shortcuts shine!
Your "mission should you choose to accept it" (remember the Mission: Impossible tv show) is to determine how to nurture your Shortcuts and increase your Networth (not "network") and how you can become a Shortcut for others in your professional and personal life.
I want to thank and acknowledge the following experts on this topic whose keynotes I heard (and took furious notes which are part of this article) at the CSAE conference last week:
Sarah Michel - Perfecting Connecting (the Networthing pro)
Scott Halford - Complete Intelligence and author of Be a Shortcut: The Secret Fast Track to Business Success (get the book on Amazon.com in hardcover or Kindle edition like I just did) |
Increase Work Efficiency by
Creating Zones for Yourself
A recent study shows that 30% of most Americans work more than 40 hours a week. The real question is "are we getting done what really matters?" For many of us the answer is "No" and one solution to help with this is to create various work "zones" to help you get more done.
Active-Communication Zone
Most of us are in this zone all day. This zone is usually at your desk where you conduct central communications via email and phone. This is not the best zone to accomplish tasks that require more thoughtful attention.
Reading Zone
Find an environment that is quiet and free from interruptions. To read effectively and absorb the necessary information consider finding this zone.
Thinking Zone
Important decision making is done effectively in quiet spaces and in times of solitude. This should be created during the commute to or from work, during a break, on a quick walk, or even during physical exercise. Not only will the decision process take less time, but you may also make some better decisions.
Development Zone
To be more efficient in written tasks consider taking your computer to another location such as a coffee shop, conference room, or home. If that isn't an option, then log out of e-mail and set your phone to voicemail to limit the immediate reactive temptation.
To read this article in its entirety, click here.
K.J. McCorry is chief executive of Officiency Enterprises, consulting services that help offices become more productive, efficient and sustainable with resources and time. She can be reached at www.officiency.com. |
|
CMIT Solutions Denver Says "Thanks"
 Phil and I want to thank some special people for having given us referrals that have turned into ongoing business. Our goal is to give and receive referrals as we meet and serve more businesses in the Denver Metro area. This has become a strong source of business for our firm. Clients, prospects and business alliances have become referral sources for us. So, who do YOU know who could benefit from using our services as you have??
Thanks to the following individuals for their referrals:
Gail deVore - ZIM Consulting |
|
See you next month and remember that CMIT Solutions can help your business run smoothly and stay protected!
Best Regards,
Debi Bush
Chief Marketing Officer CMIT Solutions of Denver
Microsoft U.S. SBSC Advisory Board FY10 |
