The July Meeting of the Association of Home Business opened in Sellwood on July 17th. As members and interested parties buzzed about, the lending library was assembled and a members display area set up.
New attendees got a chance to mingle with current members, discuss their interest in AHB & greet the presenter. During the meal delicious bites were punctuated by robust conversation while sharing dinner.Our gracious hosts for the evening provided a South of the Border flavored meal courtesy of Cha!Cha!Cha! in Sellwood. An assortment of vegetarian and carne style wraps, tortilla chips, salsa, beverages and of course, Gloria's delectable pies filled plates. Attendees were able to savor their table companion's conversation & enjoy home-baked desserts while readying for the evening's presenter.
During dessert, members introduced themselves and their businesses to those in attendance by way of round-robin elevator speeches. New member Kelly Kindrick of Sunset Computers received a hearty welcome by the group and he provided an overview of his service. Each member and guests were introduced to those gathered; the meet & greet allowed folks a glimpse ahead to the meeting conclusion when networking & deeper conversations could be conducted.
Presenter Bob Gallo, AHB Board Member and owner of Touch Point Marketing opened his discussion with the 6 P's of Networking Success. Bob illustrated the Networking process pro's and con's, concentrating on positive ways to network while building solid relationships. Purpose, the first "P" on the list came with hard facts: a networking process needs to be thought out & goal oriented. Each opportunity to network should be approached with a goal and direction.
Bob provided those in attendance a hard copy of the discussion points; many took copious notes on their hand-outs from this seasoned veteran of networking. Bob's views & experience with marketing & relationship building were jotted down with intent by attendee's of incorporating the lessons learned into their own home businesses. Many of the discussion points were also good reminders about building & maintaining personal relationship!Building dimension, depth, sincerity and working with client's and friends who are known and trusted were key discussion points. Purposefully getting to know those we connect with, keeping track of personal details and being mindful were discussed. Many members reinforced talking points with illustrations from their own experiences and routine practices.
Bob also gave pointers on establishing systems that allow anyone to maintain sustainable relationships in work and life. The quality of relationship was illuminated. General agreement was that quantity was not the goal; prioritizing contacts and maintaining long-term and valuable relationship should remain the main priority!All in attendance came away from Bob's presentation with valuable skills and reminders to put into practice on the day to day level in each aspect of work and home.
The Association of Home Business meets monthly on the Third Thursday. More information on the AHB, upcoming presentations and an opportunity to sign up for Dinner meetings is available here. Meeting are at held at the SMILE Station from 6-9 pm.
A Member's Only Picnic will be held August 21st. If you have an interest in joining the AHB prior to the picnic the modest membership fee will be prorated! Visit the AHB website for contact information.
September 2008 Meeting to be held on the 18th will host Shell Tain, a favorite AHB Financial Coach. Shell will add to the information from last year's popular presentation: "Get Paid What You Are Worth" and discuss finances and trends in todays market.
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