As promised, here is the second part of the article, Where to Get Noticed, by author Jill Lublin. If you missed part 1, you can read it here.

Where to - GET NOTICED!

Part II

Organizations

OK, now you know that you have to take action and begin. The question is where do you start? Consider organizational events. they can be the ideal places to begin making contacts because virtually everyone who attends these events is there to network and make connections. Frequently, these events have been structured to facilitate networking. Specific times have been set-aside for attendees to meet one another, interact, and make connections.

The fact that these events are networking oriented can take the pressure off shy, uncomfortable newcomers. Since everybody has the same agenda, to connect with others, strangers will frequently approach you, introduce themselves, and engage you in conversations. When you talk with others, it breaks the tension, and makes it less frightening. You find that talking to the next person is easier and that you’re more comfortable.

A dizzying number of organizations hold networking events, so the trick is to attend those that could be most productive for you. Choosing the best events can take a little investigation and although every group is a potential source of referrals, some are clearly better than others. Therefore, it’s usually worth the time and effort to learn which can be the most opportune for you. Or start your own group.

Groups serve different audiences and have different slants or purposes. Civic organizations support community projects, women’s groups work to promote women’s causes, and industry associations serve the members of their particular fields. So I always belong to a number of groups.

Before you join organizations:

• Clarify you objectives for both the short and long term. List what you want to accomplish and how long you realistically think it will take.
• Precisely identify your target audience. Know exactly whom you want to meet, travel writers, classic car restorers, or wine distributors. Then go to organizational events that they would attend.
• In identifying your targets, look for cross-promotional opportunities. Members of certain groups may not use your goods or services themselves, but they could give you entree to a large number of people that will.
• Learn about each organization; investigate what you may be getting into. Ask about its mission, agenda, membership profile, events and causes, how often it meets, and the commitment you will be expected to make. If you’re young and new in business, do you want to join an established service organization that has an older demographic? Perhaps you do. Speak with your friends and business associates. Learn about their experiences and what they would recommend for you. Be their guests at meetings and events and experience them for yourself.
• Before you join an organization, speak with at least one member. Get a general overview of the group, its strong points, what it’s like to belong, how it could help you, and information about its members. Specifically ask what they like best and least. Usually, those you speak with will introduce you at your first meeting or even sponsor you, which will help you make contacts and gain credibility.

Join organizations in your field, but also venture out. If you’re a publicist, join publicity associations, but also think about going to authors groups because writers need publicity. If you’re the only insurance salesperson who belongs to the motorcycle club, it could help you sell policies. Joining organizations outside of your own industry can also turn you on to new and fascinating people and interests, which can stimulate and add excitement to your life.

When you join organizations, decide how involved you want to be. Devoting your time to causes, serving on committees, and being an officer can dramatically increase your profile. Ask yourself, can you afford the time, effort or expense of leading a campaign or being a director? Is it worthwhile for you? Or will your service be rewarding enough to justify the time?

No matter how far you branch out or how successful you become, I think it’s essential to remain closely connected to your local community, your Chamber of Commerce, business, civic, and community groups. These organizations will be your base; their members will be the core advocates who will root for you, support you, and spread your fame. When you try to expand beyond your local area, they can give strong endorcements when people in the new markets ask about you.

Become a star in your industry. Go against the grain.

For more information about Jill Lublin, author of Get Noticed… Get Referrals: Build Your Client Base and Your Business by Making a Name for Yourself (touring July 7 - August 1), visit the Virtual Blog Tour website. And, visit various blog tour stops throughout the month to learn more about Get Noticed… Get Referrals.