Is Schmoozing a Thing of the Past?

When I was a kid and I watch some of my favorite television shows like “Bewitched”—it seemed that all the business that Darren accomplished was done by “schmoozing”—dinner parties and lunches where it seemed that the conversation was seldom about work. I was led to believe that this was how business relationships were nurtured and this was how business was done. In my early years of working and in the years I worked as a fundraiser and development person for nonprofit agencies, it was still assumed that “schmoozing” was how to get things done. From what I have been reading … Continue reading

Can’t Find a Group or Organization That Fits? Start One…

I often write about different approaches to take with networking in order to benefit your career and your home business and one of the best ways is through professional and service organizations. Joining a group is a fantastic way to meet other people and promote your home business. But, what if you cannot find a group or organization that interests you or suits your goals and temperament? How about starting one yourself? Just because other networking organizations or leads groups exist in your area—doesn’t mean there isn’t room for one more. You might find that you can really tailor and … Continue reading

Should You Include Alcohol in Your Business Meetings?

Business etiquette can seem like a daunting world to be understood—there are all sorts of unwritten rules and expectations to be learned when one goes into business. Some of them might be very unique to your field of industry, or to your local or regional area. One such consideration is alcohol—should you or should you not include alcohol in your business meetings and gatherings? In my years of working with various businesses and groups, I have found alcohol to be a very interesting custom. Working with performing arts organizations and businesses, alcohol was always present at just about every activity—from … Continue reading