I work on many projects for the Australian Businesswomen's Network (ABN) and all are primarily connected with sharing with you my expertise on sales and marketing.
One of the many things we do here at the ABN is to give as much training, advice and guidance as possible, to help you make your business (whatever its shape and size) the best it can be.
So, what better way to do that than to start at the very place you came to for help? The ABN!
Focus to move closer to your goal
When I give advice on anything to do with sales and marketing, I always stress that it is really, really important that you keep focused on your goal so that anything you do, or put your time and money towards, moves you closer to the goal.
The question to ask is: "How can I grow my business, in the most profitable, low-cost and resource-effective way?"
In other words, look at the best return on investment for your resources. You've made an investment in becoming a member of the ABN so why not get a return on this investment? I'll show you how below.
A quick word, whether you've just joined the ABN or are a long-term member
You'll be familiar with some of the ways in which the ABN helps you grow your business. But read on to see if there is anything you can add to your box of tricks. Or, if there is some way that you've benefited from being a member that I don't cover in this article, we'd love to hear from you, and we'll do a follow-up in the next edition of this newsletter.
So, you are a member and you're thinking "What should I do now?"
Networking Events - I recommend that the first thing you should do is check the ABN events calendar on the website (
www.abn.org.au) and register to attend a 'Make the Most of your Membership' event. They are a fantastic way to learn more AND a great networking opportunity!
More Events - Speaking of networking, I highly recommend attending AT LEAST two events during the year. I know it can be difficult to find the time to attend events but I suggest you plan ahead and choose events where:
- you know there will be good networking opportunities for YOU
- you have time to research attendees and speakers as the event gets nearer
- you have specific goals in mind when you attend.
Your goal could be simply to meet with a number of new people and swap business cards, or it could be to meet with one or two specific individuals you know are going to be there and spend a little time with them asking a few questions that may help you with your business. Alternatively you could offer your experience and advice to one or more people that may help them with their business. Seek out opportunities to learn new networking skills to maximise these sorts of opportunities. You never know where a chance encounter can lead!
Expert advice to grow your business - Another opportunity worth 'exploiting' is access to mentors to help guide you to grow your business. The MentorNet mentoring program will see you improve your business skills and ultimately improve your results.
It might sound a little 'sales pitchy' and as an expert presenter on the program, I might appear a little biased, but MentorNet really does offer a great opportunity to learn how to "grow your business, in the most profitable, low-cost and resource-effective way".
Or what about our exclusive Member Goals Groups to ensure that you never feel like you're 'doing it alone' as you and your peers (other members) work with each other to develop and achieve your goals for your business. Goals Groups can be your very own 'advisory board' for both work and life. We are about to revamp these groups so that attendees get even more out of them - so I recommend this option also.
Publicity that costs you nothing - The last thing I want you to seriously consider is taking up the opportunity to receive publicity for yourself and your business in our publications which go to thousands of women. Plus, in the form of the ABN Member Directory you have your own page on our website (which is visited by thousands of people each month). It costs you nothing so - If you don't at least do this you are passing by a fantastic opportunity to promote your business.
Let others know about your business - Finally, don't forget that one of the simplest things to do - which you can do as soon as you finish reading - is to ensure that your online profile is up to date and reflects both you and your business optimally. This is where members go to find more information about you and can make or break the chance that someone will make contact.
YOUR NEXT STEP: Choose at least one of these opportunities to make more from your membership and implement it during the next week or month.
If you want to know more - check out the ABN's website, www.abn.org.au.
Enjoy all your membership benefits and I hope to see you at an event really soon.
Leanne Griffiths was the Marketing Manager of Griffin Theatre in Sydney. She also heads up Communication Development team on the ABN Advisory Board.
Experienced in HR, training and people-management, Leanne is an inspirational leader who loves to bring people together and create motivating environments for people to thrive and reach their full potential.
Leanne is also involved with Quest for Life (a charity helping people living with cancer) and is currently President of Bundeena BASC not-for-profit association, which is a vital service for the local community.
You can reach Leanne at lgr47@bigpond.com
