Chances are, you're communicating with friends, family and professional contacts in a myriad of ways. There's the phone, e-mail, Facebook, Linked In, Twitter - the list is never ending. How's a girl to network - and do it well - with so many options? And how exactly does one network, anyways?
Well, look no further: Ann Marie Weinert is here to help! Ann Marie, or Red Hot Annie as she's best known, is a Chicago burlesque dancer. She's been contacting Kate and I for months - sending us e-mails, Facebook invites and more - to promote her shows and her company, Vaudezilla Productions.
After reviewing the e-mails Annie sent and inquiring about her networking habits, I realized that she's on to something: girlfriend knows how to network!
It just goes to show that everyone - not just those who work 9-to-5 - are networking, and doing it well. So, it's time to bring out your "A" game. Here are Annie's tips on bringing the most to the networking arena:
Lisa Marie: When did you integrate a strong online campaign?
Red Hot Annie:I've always been Internet-savvy, even as far back as 1998 when I first posted my headshot and resume on a little Web site. I could see the potential of getting hired just from putting information out there on the Web. I use e-mails, Facebook and Twitter, a variety of sites that focus on burlesque and pinup, and, of course, I have my own Web sites (where most of my work finds me).
L: What has the return been like?
A: I've been lucky to have an Internet-presence, so the return is very good. I have many, many fans/friends at my burlesque shows because they are able to easily find my show information online. Red Hot Annie and Vaudezilla are very recognizable brands in the burlesque scene [because of this]. In fact, all of Vaudezilla's regular shows have come from people finding us easily online and contacting us to come put on shows in their clubs, bars or theaters.
L: Are you constantly evolving your networking skills? Any future plans?
A: Yes! A business owner and promoter has to constantly be aware of new trends for networking. It's to my advantage to learn about new networking sites and tools as quickly as possible. I like to read about social networking sites and build my own theories. All things pertaining to promotion are about consistency and persistence.
L: Advice for those just learning the ropes of networking?
A: Don't be an opportunist! Networking is a way of building a base for the success of everyone's business, not just yours. The worst networkers are the kind of folks who expect their networking partner to do all the giving - find them leads, introduce them to potential clients and give them advice. The best networkers are the type who give, give, give. The more generous the relationship is (ideally, in both directions) the more useful it is. Don't be afraid to make connections for people.
L: Other thoughts?A: I have found that the people who I use and refer the most are the people who are easy to work with, and don't bog the potential connection down with any of the following:
Too Many Questions, Too Soon. Most ideas start small. Networking is knowing when to ask questions and what kind of questions to ask. If someone wants to include you on something you think is silly or impractical, the best approach is to politely decline. If you are interested and want to show your excitement, ask general questions to gauge how far along the project is. "What inspired that idea?" is always a great place to start.
Contracts/Legalese. There's a time and a place for this, and it isn't at the first sight of a potential project. Unless the project is of a nature where I have something significant to lose or protect, I like to avoid contracts and legalese.
Expectation of Credit. Make the connection, give a little and then move on. When possible, have the kind of attitude that says, "it's my pleasure to help you, no additional thanks or credit necessary."
I didn't get into this business because I have any personal fondness or interest in networking, yet most people consider me to be an incredibly successful networker. Part of the reason is because I reach out to a lot of people to see if there's a way I can contribute to what they are trying to build.I am always looking for ways to give - because, as a business owner, I know what it feels like to have an overabundance of aspirations with a lack of time and resources ... and I know how much I value someone who is willing to be low-maintenance and help!
It's time to follow Annie's lead and really get networking! If you're interested in her performances, visit her
site for a list of upcoming shows. She even teaches burlesque classes - fun!
xoxo,
Lisa Marie
Photos credit of Peter LeGrand and BCJ Photography
