The Seven Power Play Principles of Focused Networking

1. Always plan to leave a business or social gathering with new networking connections...the operative word is .always..
   
2. Format clear and do-able goals before any networking gathering.
   
3. Be a host...not a guest...at networking gatherings. Use hospitality and .host. conversation to network.
   
4. Keep your business cards, brochures, fliers or resumes (if appropriate) easily accessible.
   
5. Give and you'll receive...make sure your .giving is quality.
   
6. Develop and maintain your connection/network file. Schedule regular times to reconnect each week to contact those you've been out of touch with. Use this time to update and maintain your connections file.
   
7. Schedule at least one weekly network related activity...a breakfast, lunch or evening meeting.
   

As you commit yourself to these Seven Principles and the concept of Focused Networking, become judge and jury on the issue of ethics. I asked in the beginning: Would you buy from yourself? Would you buy from your company? You should be able to emphatically shout YES. No other response will do. I call this Devotion to Excellence.

Excellence in business and in life isn't something you can turn on and off; it's a personal trait and the catalyst of success. Devotion to Excellence won't guarantee that your enterprise or service will make it as a Fortune 500 company, but it might help along the way. By devoting yourself, your network, and your associates to excellence, you will be able to establish a reputation that is unshakable regardless of the Dew Jones average...or the price of yen on the Tokyo exchange.

The great news is that regardless of what happened yesterday, you've got a fresh start today. With a consistent, committed image, and by discussing and doing business in an ethical manner, you promote excellence in your network and on. your team.

FOCUSED NETWORKING AND EXCELLENCE ARE YOUR DYNAMIC DUO. And YOU are your best advertisement.