Questions not answered at the April 2nd Inaugural Event…

How to make a transition from Management back into sales?

Any type of transition is a challenge. I always encourage myself and my clients to focus on the positive and our individual strengths. Being in Management means having to “Take Care Of” personnel issues, being in sales frees a person from the stress of “Personnel Issues.” Transitioning from Management to Sales is an opportunity to focus on building and managing your own business, something that can be and is very rewarding.

What key learning’s can you share about connecting, mentoring and networking? What has worked and what has not?

I have investigated numerous networking events. All have been positive as I have met interesting people. Some are more productive to the direction I want WINC and myself to go. I’ve learned the following:

When deciding what group or event to attend, I always determine what goal the event will meet. Do I need to expand my “Professional Peer Alliances,” meet potential new clients, or discover what my competition is doing? I ask myself, “Does this make sense with my overall mission or plan?”

When I meet someone, I keep in mind that I connected with this person for a reason. It might not bear fruit now, or ever. New Jersey is a small world and an even smaller business world. Making good, solid connections is a positive thing for my professional and personal worlds. You never know who knows whom or where a great connection may lead. Besides, as a woman, I love to run into people I know and be able to genuinely exchange pleasantries.

What does a mid or small sized business look for to engage in giving or volunteering for charity?

I encourage my clients to get involved in the “Non-Profit” service as a means for business networking. What better way to make solid connections with potential new clients than to work side by side on a project that gives to your community or to a great cause? Some of my recommendations include: The United Way of New Jersey (every county has a chapter), The American Cancer Society, The Women’s Fund of NJ, The American Heart Association, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, The JBWS, The Food Bank of NJ, to name a few. I determine my client’s personal interest and market niche then make the recommendations accordingly.

Asking current clients for referrals?

Please, do not keep me a secret. I am so glad I was able to ___ for you, and I look forward to accomplishing the same for people who you know could benefit from my expertise.

How should we encourage young women attorneys to network for new business?

I would be remiss not to plug the WINC Networking seminars available. We talk about how to identify your target market niche, what networking organizations to join, how to build your introduction into a meaningful connection, and explore the entire “Networking Dance.” The structure can be a single seminar or a series depending upon the depth your associate attorneys need in networking development. Call WINC- (908)852-4200 or email- Melissa@link2winc.com.