If you haven't seen this video yet you are in for a treat. Simon Sinek articulates very well just how important your Why is for your business.

The reality is that most business owners have a great understanding of What they do and How they do it but often never focus on Why they do it.

The Why of your business may be more profound then you might first realize. Sure we all want to make money, but if that is your only Why, then chances are that you will inspire no one and you are limiting your success.

While I am no fan of Nietzsche, I do like this particular quote. “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” When you realize how important your Why is for your business, it can do wonders in transforming it into the business you want it to be. It can even transform the culture into something powerful and exciting both inside and outside the business. 

Every business on the planet knows What they do and How they do it. It is when a business provides their unique Why that it sets itself apart from others, becoming a leader in their industry. What is your Why?

How to successfully network at a mixer or event

Networking and developing strategic relationships is an important part of any business. Getting off on the right foot and making a good impression is important if you are looking to land that account or find a strategic partner to send you leads.

Many businesses sometimes have trouble figuring out how to network themselves effectively. This is an outline that can give anyone the right tools and appropriate etiquette to network successfully.



A) Bring lots of business cards (more than you need)
         1. Bring a pen
         2. Write on the business cards you receive, any important information about
         that person so that you remember them (this also lets them know you are
         listening to them)

B) Practice listening and asking lots of questions
         1. Don't be in a hurry to share about yourself or your business
                  a. Anytime you ask about someone’s business, they will always be happy
                  to tell you all about themselves and what they do
         2. Discover what needs they have for their business
         3. Discover what needs they have personally
         4. Don’t be known for being a talker, let them do that

C) Have a scripted mini 45 second presentation
         1. Practice it a lot
         2. Direct the presentation to focus on areas you might be able to serve them
                  a. Based on what they said when you were listening so well
                  b. This is why it is important to go second

D) Be easily identifiable
         1. Where a name tag and make sure it is legible and has your name and your
         company name
         2. Dress for success. Business casual is usually most appropriate.
                  a. If you have a costume, uniform or clothes that are typical to your
                  profession then wear that (you will stand out)
                  b. A suit can sometimes communicate to people that you are a sales person
                  so don’t over dress
                  c. If you have a shirt, hat, or something with your logo or business name
                  on it, that might be a good idea

E) Moderation on food and beverage
         1. Although its good to be memorable, drunk is not the way you want to be
         remembered and is a business turn off
         2. Don't be a pig. When you eat, don't network
                  a. Take a break from networking to enjoy the food
                  b. Having a drink in hand is acceptable while networking
         3. Important Note: It's hard to network or pass out business cards with a plate
         in your hand and drink in the other

F) Language and character
         1. Don't be vulgar or use foul language
                  a. Bad language will always degrade your business, your profession and
                  your character
         2. Use professional business language without using jargon that others may
         not understand
         3. Be personable
                  a. Don’t talk only business; personal connection is important
         4. Don't interrupt conversations just to introduce yourself

G) After mixer follow-up
         1. Craft a simple email letting them know that it was nice to meet them
         2. follow up by phone with anyone that you thought might be either interested
         in your services and set an appointment
         3. Invite key businesses to your networking group

The best sales people, owners and CEOs of businesses all over the country have
practiced these tips and general rules of etiquette. You won’t become an expert
overnight, but by being committed to attending Chamber events on a regular basis, you
will find it easier and easier to make important networking connections.

Many business owners feel a little intimidated by the prospect of networking in a large
crowd. The best practice is to start by ignoring the crowd and focus on connecting one-
on-one with businesses, one at a time. If you find it challenging to introduce your self to
people, find a small group of 3 or more and just stand and listen. Eventually, someone
will ask you about what you do.

Leaders Moving Forward has partnered with world renowned speaker and leadership trainer, Scott Black.

Scott V. Black is the CEO and founder of Empower U & Like It Matters, LLC. Scott founded Empower U in October of 1994 and started the transition into Like It Matters in 2011. He is certified as a Human Behavioral Specialist and as a Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) who has worked with tens of thousands of clients across North America. Scott has conducted Leadership training in three countries over the last 20 years. Helping people get what they want in their professional and personal lives is the drive that keeps Mr. Black “Raising the Bar.” Scott has done numerous radio and TV. Shows and hosted the radio show, Under Construction with Mr. Black.

Scott has delivered transformational leadership training to large corporations like; Coca Cola Enterprises, Miller-Coors, Kraft-Nabisco, as well as NFL football players, housewives, Pastors and thousands of other individuals who have a desire to be the “Best of the Best”

Scott is a sought after Key Note speaker and delivers his words with the same passion and fire that he lives them with. The Leadership Awakening course Scott developed is nationally known as the most powerful leadership training available today. He is currently consulting and coaching executives and business teams from across the country.

As part of his training work with corporations, he specializes in helping teams and individuals better understand themselves and others. His custom Conflict Resolution and Secrets of Motivation work helps his clients and their teams to discover and reach their potential in both their business and personal lives.

Scott has been working in the field of personal development since 1992. Before forming Empower U in 1994, Mr. Black was a Master Trainer for Rapport Leadership International. As their National Sales coordinator, he also helped grow the company by over 300% in a few short years. He is also credited as writer and producer of the musical CDs; Awakening, Think About That… and Steppin’ Over the Line.

Mr. Black is also a sought after writer. He has written numerous articles and 4 books. Scott’s first book, Want it. Create it. Live it…3 Steps to becoming your dreams, was released in October ‘02. In 2008 he co-authored, Discover Your Inner Strength with Ken Blanchard, Brian Tracy & Stephen Covey. In 2010 Black co-authoring the book, “Yes You Can”, with Warren Bennis and the late, Jim Rohn. His Fourth “180 Ways to Live Your Life Like it Matters”, is a road map for living a life of purpose and passion, like it matters.

Scott’s strong belief in the potential of the individual has moved his passion to train and coach business leaders and their teams to be all they can be. He is an inspirational leader who is committed to making this world better, one individual at a time. His mission is to get people emotionally involved with their cause – helping individuals and organizations take themselves to the next level.

Scott is happily married to his bride, Valerie. and they raise three children; Faith, Christian and Major Black outside of Ft. Worth, Texas.