Monday, October 31, 2011

Swapsity Kensington Market

It was an aweosme Sunday afternooon in Toronto where our third and final Eco-swap event was held at Kensington Market pedestrian sundays. Tents were set up and tables and chairs arrived. (Special thanks to Absolute events) The dvd's, cd and blue-rays and records were being brough in and the buzz began to participants were eager to look for new titles to add to their collections. Movies from The Good Shepherd, National Treasure, Grey's Anatomy 1st season were avialble for swapping. We also had future event we were promoting in the next few weeks from Uinversity of Toronto Eco-swap event on November 11 and movie called Life without Money being shown on November 18th.


We had a great question that we had everyone answer using mine toothpics. Why do you swap? 1. It's Social 2. It saves me $ 3, It's fun to find treasures 4. It's eco and the winning answer was ? (see the end for answer)

The were 275 items were received and 150 were taken out. One of our slower events but we had a great time networking and meeting new people interested in our event. We had Toronto Star reported their interviewing the founder of Swapsity for a future article to appear in the paper in the coming weeks. New intern for Swapsity was also at the event she was excited about the opportunity to provide the social networking content for the swapsity site.

Our volunteers were handing out flyers and sharing information about our future events we event had a remote control car with swapsity logo buzzing around the tent!

For more information on future event and intitiatives go to www.swapsity.ca (btw answer was 3. itn's fun to find treasures)

Friday, October 28, 2011

Being invited to event yields great experiences

Have great entrepreneurs in your network yields big surprises. Marc Gordon (Marctv.com) offered an invitation at two events Toronto Women's Expo and Social Media event  he was speaking celebrating Small Business week in Toronto Oct 17-23. Toronto Women’s Expo was held in at the Holiday Inn at Woodbine and Highway 7 where there were speakers and exhibitors offering their business solutions and speakers sharing their insights on Social Networking and much more.


It was special day due the fact there were 5 men and the rest all women  it was like being a fish out of water! Marc and I had our hands rubbed (separately) which was great experience, had picture taken with the muscle bound firemen who were selling their calendar and lastly met some extraordinary women who had succeed in various types of businesses.

Had a great conversation with an attendee who had heard me speak about networking at a previous talk and learned more about what she wants to do and how to utilized her unique ability.

Next day Marc Gordon was speaking at Social Media event sponsored by Constant Contact at a Cineplex movie theatre in the Yonge and Sheppard area. Various presenters shared their insights on how they utilized e-marketing strategies for their businesses, from restaurants and executives search firms. They save the best and most funny and entertaining for last. Marc Gordon rush to scene, literally from the rafters of the movie theatre and had everyone in a buzz and engaged for the 40 minutes sharing how social networking can be used effectively and efficiently to build you client list and have them be interested in your content.

Moral of the story, be thankful of people who are in your network and say YES! When they invite you to events, you never know who you will meet.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

The networking gap, who is the better @ networking Men or women?


Insights  from two networking Gurus Jim Pagiamtzis and Janette Burke
A man walks into a social function. During the minute it takes him to reach the table, he has already connected with 10 people. A woman walks into a restaurant. In the same minute, she stops to  talk to only two people.
Who is better at networking – men or women? To answer this question and dispel the myth, I asked Janette Burke, 'Your Marketing Magnet' to weigh-in.
Janette’s answer:  The woman of course!
Jim’s answer: The Man
Jim  Pagiamtzis response
Men are the hunters.  We go out, network, talk and collect cards and promote ourselves. It's the natural way they do business.  Adding online connections from LinkedIn to increase our resources and find the right people for the right deal.
Our status is important in the way we communicate and its done through confidence. We walk in a room scan it quickly and enter the foray of conversation -  collecting and handing out cards with essence of getting quantity and not  being concerned about quality. Through this process we can narrow down our focus and talk to the most influential people in the room.
Being part of the social fabric is where we do our business.  Our professional experience is shared and we know that will lead to a result, although we are well aware this does take time and energy to complete.
Getting connected and making wealth happen is the laser focus that we have entering an environment where we want to succeed and get results.

Janette Burke responseMen by nature may be the hunters and gathers, but if they really want to "go out, network, talk, collect cards and promote their businesses, make connections and wealth happen" (as you put it), they should explore the Women's method for achieving long-term "business success."   
You see when it comes to networking and GROWING our businesses, us gals believe in QUALITY over QUANTITY.  We prefer to take our time getting to know and LISTENING to our prospects.  And tend to bestow all our attention and focus on THEM - asking key questions, exploring their particular needs and determining how we (or someone we know) can easily solve them. 
We also concentrate on building and nurturing the relationship first, knowing that sales and profits are sure to result. 
We QUALIFY our prospects up-front.  In the course of doing so, don't waste precious time and resources going backwards to figure-out this "process" later. We refer to this as WORKING SMARTER not HARDER!
With more and more of us now at the helm of our own companies and earning over 25% of what our boyfriends and spouses make, it appears we're leading and succeeding in our marketplace and paving the way!  So we must be doing something right!!

Janette Burke

Canada’s Six-Figure Marketing/PR Coach, Consultant, Speaker, Trainer, Columnist, Author & TV Personality
Office 905.882.6893 ext. 1
Mobile 416.802.0655
Fax 905.882.6898
Skype janette_burke

 Jim Pagiamtzis
Author, Speaker and Elite Entrepreneur
www.getconnectedmakewealthhappen.com
jim@pagiamtzis.com
Skype Jimu17

Spotlight: Emmanuel Lopez

1st  What inspired you to become the motivatorman
 
I was inspired to create the name Motivatorman because I have so many super, creative ways of motivating people. Primarily I love helping people build a leadership mindset through movies. I do this through my Movies that Motivate blog, speaking services, Youtube video clips and my upcoming books and ebooks. Films have helped me stay positive, resilient and optimistic during dark times in my life and these are qualities of a leadership mindset I love to share. Motivatorman is really my superhero name. I just don't where a cape in public!

 
2nd, Movies have changed and evolved in recent years. The message of being the hero and being the best in who you are no as visibile as they once were. Do you feel the movie industry is doing enough? What you offer and share is showing people that there is a message in the big bluster movie era?
 
I have a deep passion for movies and one aspect I love that I see changing in the film industry is there are more examples of great women leaders in the cinema. Most lists I've found online for leadership movies are dominated by men like 12 O'Clock High, Remember the Titans and Gladiator. I've been very inspired by many women leaders in movies such as Erin Brockovich, The Blind Side and Julie & Julia. We all have favourite movies and movie heroes and I believe they are there to help mirror the inner strengths we have to help us through unexpected crisis whether it is in life, work or financial challenges.


Emmanuel Lopez a.k.a. Motivatorman is an author, speaker, movie blogger and an award-winning illustrator. His Movies that Motivate blog has been featured in The New York Times and The Washington Post as a recommended resource of motivational tips and empowering movie examples. Motivatorman helps people build their leadership mindsets through the magic of films and movie heroes. His dream is to travel around the world sharing movies that motivate and his upcoming self-help books. More info: www.motivatorman.com


EMMANUEL LOPEZ - MOTIVATORMAN
AUTHOR | SPEAKER | MOVIE BLOGGER
Use the Magic of Movies To Motivate!
Featured in The New York Times and The Washington Post

• Tel: 416-504-4424
• Speaker Topics: www.motivatorman.com
• Movies That Motivate Blog: http://bit.ly/bUSAy0

• LinkedIn: http://bit.ly/9Je5dh
• Facebook: http://bit.ly/cxjH4Z

 
 
 

 

Small Business forum in Toronto a Great success

Enterprise Toronto hosted their annual small business forum at the Metro Convention centre  full day of helpful seminars and exhibits from various companies. Promoted this  event online and face to face  to my network and many entrepreneurs and professionals attend the event. Powerful statement that social networking communication does work, when done correctly.

Keynote speaker was Nadja Piatka, found of Nadja Foods who shared about her journey of success. Her struggles from being hounded by creditors to be being mentored and setting goals and achieving them.

The  day continued with various seminars from social networking - Laura Berg  www.mysmarthands.com  she shared great insights on using You Tube, Linkedin and Twitter and how she combined them to achieve great success. She even appeared on Dragons Den!

It was great to network and meet new entrepreneurs throughout the day. Tom Kaufmann sales trainer and college teacher joined me in attending the exhibits and learning about new initiatives from newspaper organizations, companies going green to computer recycling programs.

Two great highlights that happened during the day to me were.

1st  Got a referral from fellow entrepreneur who had heard me speak overheard someone looking for a business mentor and recommend she should connect with me.

2nd. Dell had set up a golf evaluation tent and to my surprise got great feedback on my stroke and with a few minor adjustment will be ready for the PGA links!

Big thanks to Ash Silva fro his inviting Marta Nowinska and Tm Mahdi and I  to the Toronto Board of Trade after-Party. We met professional from Real Estate, investments and even couple of authors!

At the end of  the day it was getting great information and taking the action to follow up with new leads and contacts to make 2011 a prosperous and profitable year.



Sunday, October 16, 2011

Get Connected Make Wealth Happen October Newsletter


Get Connected Make Wealth Happen! October Newsletter
 


   It's October and its time to celebrate! Small Business Business week starts Oct 16-23.


On October 18th, more than 1,500 entrepreneurs and small business owners will gather in Toronto for our 11th annual Small Business Forum. Will you be there?


Join us for a jam-packed day of keynotes, learning and networking opportunities. This is your opportunity to gain insight into growing a businesses from Nadja Piatka, David Crow, Lisa Kember and Jeff Quipp, to name a few. Meet funders, service providers and government agencies all participating in the Business to Business tradeshow. Talk to business incubator staff and participate in the ScribbleLive-powered social media feed (hashtag #sbf2011). Some of Toronto's hottest entrepreneurs will be there just to share lessons learned and best practices with you.

Register at www.enterprisetoronto.com to reserve your spot today!
 Will be speaking on How to be a Networking Success and How to Become a LinkedIN Success
 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Kennedy College 240 Duncan Mill Rd, Unit 510, North York, ON M3B 3S6 
 (On  Don Mills Rd. south of Hwy 401, free parking after 6pm)
New articles and videos
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USVARCQmWwY  Make a Healthier you a Reality!
http://jimpagiamtzis.blogspot.com/2009/01/making-healthier-you-reality.html   Article that I was talking about in the Video
Events
 Wed Oct 18
New Spotlight on Susan Crossman
Canada Job Expo on Oct 18   www.canadajobexpo.com for speakers and exhibitors
Developing story....
Mark November 10 on your calendar
Will be presenting Networking Your way to Success and Dianne Ali will be sharing about Money and about her new upcoming book Mrs. Fraud and You

When: Where: RSVP:
Thursday, November 10, 2011
5:00 PM
Education Through Media
1610 Bloor St West
Toronto, ON
Yes
No
The Money Issue - How To Stay On Top Of Identity Theft
Dianne Ojar-Ali, author of soon to be released book "Mrs. Fraud and You - Would You Be The Victim or Victor When She Comes Knocking?" is a professional with a background in the Financial Industry
Learn more
Price: CAD10.00 per person
 Millionaire Mind Intensive is coming to Toronto
 Register Today    Jim Pagiamtzis is---> mmi4446
From: Friday Nov 25, 2011 - 9:00 am
To: Sunday Nov 27, 2011 - 7:00 pm

Registration on Fri. Nov 25 2011, 7:00 am - 8:30 am Toronto, ON, Canada Doubletree Toronto Airport
655 Dixon Road [Map]
Get Connected Make Wealth Happen !  
Connect with on Twitter
http://twitter.com/jimpagiamtzis
Reply this newsletter and tell me what you like and get 1/2 free consultation to give you strategies to grow YOUR business
Connected on Facebook and LinkedIN. Accepting requests
 

About Get Connected Make Wealth Happen!

Published Author, Speaker and Elite Entrepreneur Jim Pagiamtzis is the founder of Get Connected Make Wealth Happen! has been articles published online by Toronto Public Library Small Biz Express, Centennial College, Happen.ca Linking People and Entrepreneurs,How's Business blog (Staples Business Depot) and Metro Active.org.  Printed articles for FedEx Freight Canada (Newsletter) Centennial College Ascent Magazine. Has been on That Channel.com speaking on How to become Networking Success.

Jim Pagiamtzis in 5 years has successfully leveraged his written articles into speaking all over the GTA from consulting with Burkert Fluid Control, Enterprise Toronto, Career Door, Skills for Change and Trios College. Has delivered keynote for Monarch Park Collegiate spoke on 3 keys task to success and How to attract a Mentor. His dynamic speaking style has empowered and inspired his audience to learn, do and apply his simple and effective Parformance Selling System. Jim has also volunteered with Junior Achievement in Toronto on "Economics of Staying in School"

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Spotlight: Susan Crossman

1st  You have written about  the importance of corporate literacy numerous times. Education of good literacy begins much earlier? can you explain your insights

Literacy is an issue that is very near and dear to my heart and as an avid reader and writer, one of the most exciting parts of parenting for me so far has been teaching my own three children how to read and write.  It’s a capability that literally holds the key to greater worlds for them and it’s critically important for success in any field.

As a writer actively servicing a business clientele, however, I often meet corporate executives who are frustrated by low levels of writing capability among employees. Poor grammar and spelling, and bad document structuring techniques are bad news for a firm’s bottom line. When important letters, memos, reports, and even promotional materials are poorly written, the organization’s message is garbled, its reputation is tarnished, and action that should be taken is not.

Employers blame universities and universities blame public schools. The employees themselves are often very self-conscious about their limited skill set in the area and it’s tough for everybody. I believe literacy starts at home. Many parents assume their children’s public school is taking care of that grammar issue and we also assume that high schools are teaching young people how to write a coherent essay. Indeed, some are. But anecdotal reports seem to indicate that writing skills training today is nowhere near as comprehensive as it was a generation ago.  

As parents with far too much on our plates already, it’s hard to knuckle down and personally provide the training our children might be missing but I think it’s probably the only way to ensure our kids acquire the skills necessary to ensure they become valuable members of the work world. And I say that with regret – as a self-employed single mom I don’t always leap to review my children’s school work with them either, even though I take great joy in word-work.  More importantly, however, I don’t want my children’s careers limited by their inability to express themselves powerfully in writing.





     2nd  What advice would you give to existing writers who want to improve and get more recognition for their craft?


I believe we are each on our own writing continuum and the possibility to improve is always there. Even after decades as a professional writer, I am still taking courses about things that might help me extend my own writing envelope and I encourage other people to do the same.

My training these days tends to be in the area of hypnotic language patterns, personality profiling, web conversion and publishing. I find courses and seminars through my own network as well as a number of other sources. For example, most community colleges offer writing courses, and the Editor’s Association of Canada runs some excellent programs. Other writers run workshops and webinars on different aspects of writing as well. 

I decide what courses I want to take by first becoming clear on my business and personal goals and then asking myself what my weak spots are. There are no gold stars for ignorance but a world of possibility opens to those of us who are willing to take a step into the unknown.

I also think that as writers we all improve by reading a lot. I usually have at least two books on the go at any one time and although I have very little time available for reading these days, I still make it a priority to read a little every day.

In terms of more recognition, I think writers are wise to set up their own blog and contribute to it faithfully. Invite people to read it! Offering to contribute articles to a community or non-profit organization’s newsletter or online blog is also a good idea. And, of course, you want to use social media to funnel people to your published work – tweet about it, Facebook it and even put a link in your email signature  so people will know you are serious about this writing business. There’s a certain amount of “something for nothing” that goes into building your reputation as a writer but if you’re willing to put in your time, work very hard and focus on continuous improvement, then you’ll get there eventually.  


Susan  Crossman

           
           WRITING WITH CLARITY
                                  905-469-1892
Twitter:      www.twitter.com/CrossmanCom

You Tube: Writer's Block --             http://bit.ly/r665Ta  
                 English Musings --          http://bit.ly/jSPmAP

Globe and Mail: Summer Camp --  http://bit.ly/pn1vvR

Find out about my New Novel! -- http://bit.ly/rdMZUv




Thursday, October 13, 2011

The Power of Networking

Yesterday I went to a luncheon held by the bank that
we do business with.

Honestly, I don't do a lot of local networking as most of
our business is done outside of Louisville, but this seemed
like too good of an opportunity to pass up.

So within an hour an a half I got to:

:: Tell about 60 of the most influential people in Louisville
briefly about our businesses.

:: Connect with a gentleman who has 475 local employees
and had an interest in corporate fitness - so hopefully I can
connect him with a couple of our local franchisees.

:: Meet someone who potentially has an interest in making
a six-figure equipment purchase through us.

:: Spend some time getting to know several very successful
business owners.

I've gotten lazy about this sort of thing as 99% of our business
is done outside of Louisville - but you can still see how potentially
beneficial this was for us... just imagine how key it could be for
a local business like yours.

In fact my opinion is this: if you're not doing at least a couple
networking oriented things a month you're essentially saying
'my business is good enough as it is.'

Remember - everything you want in your business hinges on
people - be it more clients, a new space, public speaking opportunities,
corporate wellness gigs... they all can come from personal contacts.

Are you adding to and cultivating yours?


Dedicated to Your Success,


 Pat Rigsby pat@fitbusinessinsider.com

Spotlight: Lexi Kubrak

 



1. Many entrepreneurs are beginning to educate and assist professionals to enhance their careers due the knowledge and expertise. Do you see this as great market that could yield big opportunities moving forward.


We live in an evolving economy that is becoming based on what knowledge we have. The only real way to prove your worth is not by CVs or Resumes alone: it’s by sharing that knowledge in a world wide sphere.

Most professionals are comfortable with making decisions and acting on them every day, it never has occurred in the corporate world to share those abilities and freely give others the tools to do the same. The “trade secret” can’t remain that way - in order to really be seen as a powerhouse in an industry, the executive professional has to prove their worth by utilizing all forms of media to help pump themselves up internally and in the public realm.

Even within a corporate environment, many HR managers look toward those who are sticking out in the company - those that are making sure their ideas, opinions and strategies are available to their team and their fellow employees. Sticking your neck out and speaking up, doesn’t make the bosses feel intimidated but rather excited that their leadership has helped someone take the company to the next level and gave them the confidence to do so. By utilizing a free service such as any social media platform in the RIGHT way, your simple thoughts on efficiency can become your doorway to a better opportunity.

Truly, it’s not a market, it should be treated as a support network. It should become second nature to any professional to have a personal webpage and use it as a great online CV and community reference site for your niche

2.  Social Networking is evolving daily, where do you see it going in the future with the impact on small and medium size business

The rapid changes of the technology now, even as a young women as myself, it’s hard to truly predict where or what will be invented or innovated next. However, patterns in business application of these social platforms show that the next steps are based on how creative the marketing really is.

Personally, I see more integration coming and a cheaper way for those small and medium businesses to do better and become bigger. My favorite company I love talking about it KindFood in Burlington, Ontario Canada. It started as a small vegan grocer in the downtown area - somewhat of a best kept secret. But they needed to change and the company (which is owned by the already well known vegan chef Kelly Childs)  deserved a better relationship with the vegan community at large.

So with the help of a renovation  and the implementation of social media they became the online best friend of anyone looking for a great meal or great nutrition advice. The Facebook page, which is organized by the owners, isn’t about advertising: it’s about knowledge sharing. They created the page as a symposium (but also a Daily Specials board which always gets me running straight to them for lunch) that followers, fans and friends can talk casually about what KindFood posts. I’ve even seen a lot of debates about health and lifestyle which blow me away. It’s this kind of real interaction within an anonymous platform that help businesses gain respect for their products and their replies.


Bio

What started as a blog turned into her passion. Lexi's love of life and love of the alternative is what brought her to create Enigma Agency. Utilizing social media, word of mouth and people-powered campaigns, more than print her ideas stand out in a crowd - literally. Building a brand and watching it grow is what Lexi loves to see, and her own blog and energetic life reflects her passion to constantly rethink and redesign the way things are done. She finished her degree in Cultural Communication and Information Technology in 2010 and ever since she has created some more challenging and creative ideas to apply her knowledge through client projects and fun stuff on the side.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Spotlight: W. Galen Weston (Executive Chairman, George Weston Ltd)

1st  Your company is one of the biggest in Canada. What’s so entrepreneurial about that?

From personal standpoint, I ran away  to the other side of the world to start a business, develop my own capabilities and confidence and make some money. I cam back to Canada in my 30’s and after that I had a chance to get involved in a much bigger company. But the bigger the company, the more entrepreneurial elements you have to release within that business. It’s essential to have a really strong  group of people that have entrepreneurial spirit within business. We’ve go 30,000 to 40,000 products and the need to be renewed on a constant basis and new products take their place, so we need  to have the entrepreneurial spirit that says, “Well , I need a more healthy product or this or that, or we could do things this way.” It’s a constant challenge to ensure that you’re mentoring everybody  in the business to help motivate them to come up with things that are relevant, new and exciting that they can be given the opportunity to work on.

2nd   Any advice for entrepreneurs?

If you have an idea, give it a shot, give a real chance. The instant gratification isn’t always necessarily there. You have to be patience and commitment. You have to really get your research done, you have to go to people who have experience in the areas you’re talking  about. You have to be brave and get people on the phone or find them through their girlfriends (laughs) or whatever. You have to read about the area and ask yourself: Am I  on the right track?

Question s were used from the Financial Post Magazine  Entrepreneur Issue  October 2011

Sunday, October 2, 2011

Get Connected! 3 Book Plus 1 Bonus chapter










Get Connected!



3 books plus 1 bonus book!

Jim Pagiamtzis













How to be a
Networking Success!




Jim Pagiamtzis
Published Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur

Table of Contents

Page 3 – Acknowledgements
Page 4 - Get Connected - Make IT Happen!
Page 5 - P-A-R Strategy
Page 6 - Business Cards
Page 9 - Attitude
Page 11 - Key Questions
Page 13 - Contacts
Page 14 - Database
Page 16 - Formula for Results
Page 17 - Resources Online
Page 18 - Offline Resources
Page 19 - About the Author









Acknowledgment

It was only a few years ago that I ventured out to learn more about marketing and business in the great City of Toronto.
It didn’t take long to meet an accomplished internet pioneer who would become an important mentor, and would give me  opportunity I needed to become who I am today.
I would climb the ladder of volunteer, administrative assistant, marketer and promoter, to arrive a few short years as a, published writer and public speaker.
In the next few pages you will be introduced to the simple concepts that I learned to become a professional networker.









Get Connected-Make It Happen!

I have a slogan  called “Get Connected-Make It Happen!”  Every day we go and meet people either at the supermarket or at the GYM!  We shake people’s hands (connect) and engage in conversation.  If something of interest creates a connection, we can follow-up and (make it happen) from sharing business ideas or providing  a value added service (newsletter or get connected via a social network).

The following ideas and concepts can be learned and applied to create for yourself a vibrant and resourceful network.
Enjoy!
Jim Pagiamtzis
Professional Networker







P-A-R Strategy

The  strategy is three simple strategies which when used over and over again become your “success cycle”, with the ability to go into any networking situation and meet new people and collect business cards.

1st   Business (Present)

2nd   Attitude (Adjust)

3rd   Key Questions (Respond)

Over the next few pages these points will be discussed in detail to give you the necessary tools and resources to market and promote yourself in the most effective and efficient way possible.




Business Card

The business card you present everyday contains information that you share with potential contacts. It’s your billboard!   Whether you are currently working or seeking new opportunities, being prepared with a business card is the first step.
When I created my first business card it was very simple - one-sided (more on why later).  It contained the name of business, my phone number and email address, and on the top right, a picture of my astrological sign (due to the insistence of the clerk at business depot!) Just that alone created some interesting conversations.
 It’s important to understand that not everyone carries business cards.  You have to be prepared for the opportunity when it presents itself, by simply using the two-card process. You place a second card underneath the first card so when you present your card and a potential contact doesn’t have one you simply turn the second one over and ask them to write their name, number and email address on the back.
Design your own card online go to:
Check out http://payamgis.ecardbuilder.com  (online proofing and more!)
Lastly, is being prepared with a 30-second elevator pitch (or less), to explain what you do.  There may be instances where you may not have 30 or more seconds to do you elevator pitch.  A few months ago I was in an elevator in Downtown Toronto  and was coming down from the sixteenth floor.   At  the 10th floor, a gentleman in a great striped suit walked in and I said, “Great suit!”  We proceeded to the 7th floor and a lovely professional looking woman entered and I said, “WOW!  We have a fashion show happening”.  As the elevator neared the 1st floor I was beginning to enter my pocket to get my business card and the gentleman proceeded to open his suit and get his card (what luck!).  We exited the elevator, exchanged cards and I mentioned  that I  would  call him regarding a project that I was working on in the Toronto.  He said “great” and continued on with his day.
It’s important to carry business cards everywhere that you go from going shopping, bookstore, or the gym. And always be prepared to network- like in a elevator.
A few years ago I created a business card holder from a cassette tape holder by simply knocking out  the middle plastic inserts and placing business cards inside.  I called it the Business Card Holder for the Pro on the Go!   When I went to networking events, and we were seated in group, I simply opened up my Business Card Holder for the Pro on the Go and placed in front of me.  I also carried it my coat pocket.  
Here are some simple strategies to do for at least 21 days to be sure that you will always be prepared for the networking  opportunity:
·        Put cards everywhere in your jacket, pockets, track pants and give them to your partner or closest friends to use or distribuite.
·        If you find yourself not having cards on you say, “Oops I went out naked again” This will trigger you to make sure you remember your cards!
The above suggestion comes into play when you are prepared for the opportunity when it happens.
A few months ago had attended a basketball game doing some volunteer work for organization in Toronto, at the end of the game we were treated to some pizza and watched part of the game.  I asked one of the volunteers beside me what he did and he proceeded to pull out a 3 by 5 index card with his name and experience on it.  I was very impressed!  He was prepared that evening because he knew there may be some networking and possibilities of meeting new people. He was prepared for the opportunity!
At a three day event a few weeks ago and there were numerous people who didn’t have business cards.  I filled out page and half of people who didn’t have cards.  Consequence being that these business owner were missing out on the opportunity to share the business or have another professional who know’s what they and could potential provide them a connection.
I was prepared knowing that this may occur; the important fact is they were not.
A great quote I heard lately, “How you do everything is how you do anything” – T Harv Eker.
Key Tip:  Be prepared with a business card and have a simple pitch to make a great first impression. Look at the bonus chapter on how to create a powerful elevator pitch.


Attitude!

 There is a great book called “Attitudes Are Contagious Are yours worth Catching?” A thin book, but a powerful message.  In the world of networking, it is important to have the attitude of generating Set new connections every day because if you don’t your goals and dreams will suffer. Set a goal of 3  new contacts  day. If that’s too high then make it one and move towards getting to three.
When meeting new people remember to be in their space, but not in their face.  Use the “mirror and matching” technique, make every effort to match the handshake you get.  My slogan “Get Connected-Make It Happen” is heavily predicated on the fact that you meet people with the intention of doing something with them; either in business or in getting a referral.
How you speak and present yourself is closely associated with how you are when you meet people, no matter where you are and what you are doing. Professionalism must shine through you to them.  As you have heard many times, you only get one chance to make a first impression, so make it a good one.
In the book mentioned earlier the authors do a tremendous job in explaining how some personal habits can greatly affect how you go about your daily networking.  You  practice speaking in front of a mirror either a mirror or record your pitch to sure you give it some energy and life.

Questions

In attending any networking event it is crucial to be prepared with a couple of questions to be used with specific intent and with the importance of generating a result.
Generating conversation is what freezes many people either when they are at a social function or at networking events.  Many of us have heard the saying “icebreaker questions”, in my years of networking I have heard this terms used numerous times.

There are also different types of questions to use depending on the atmosphere either business questions or general social questions. It doesn’t matter, as a specific question can be asked to get a desired result.
“Focus goes, energy flows, results show”
Focus on the particular question, give it the energy it needs and the results will show.
Key Tip:  Find topics to create ongoing conversations, which will lead to the follow-up.  This is done by exchanging business cards and writing down memorable words or comments to be used later when calling the new person back.

Contacts

To have momentum come forward in an opportunity whether business or personal, you have to talk and meet new people every day!
Set yourself a weekly goal and when you achieve it celebrate! (Go buy an ice cream or rent a favourite movie)  The main reason to do this is to “anchor” the moment to fuel your future success.
There are different ways people communicate.   Are you primarily an email user?  Are you using social networking sites Facebook, Twitter to post daily update or message friends or contacts in your database. You will find on your journey as an entrepreneur that you will communicate with people in different ways.

As you begin to build new relationships with people you will notice that some people you will reach them via phone, while others you may text and receive an instant answer, and for many a simple email can get a response within a short period of time.  
Check out the bonus chapter on Type, Talk and Text which one do you do most?





Database

A few years ago I was issued a challenge at an event that I had attended on how to create an effective  newsletter.  
At the beginning of the month I sent out the newsletter and had gotten no responses and this went on for a few months. Then finally, after seven months, I began to get responses of encouragement and support.  On one occasion, I had a published author contact me via my newsletter regarding her book.  I had an event that I was speaking at on Mentorship and I invited her to speak at the end of the event.   It was powerful!  The audience connected with her and created a win-win situation for both of us.
 Because of my persistence in doing the newsletter it has now led into feature articles and other special offers being made for my services.
Social Networking websites have been a huge success in the past few years such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and blogging.
LinkedIn is great site to post your resume and expertise and also have the ability to join different groups and get connected with different people all over the world.
FaceBook has taken the internet by storm. The ability to post your picture, talk about your life, be part of different groups and find people from your past mean  you can present and create a powerful network of friends.
Would encourage you to use these sites with specific intent and you will see results. I have gotten referrals, suggestions and promoted various events that I have attended or promoted my own speaking engagements.
I use my own blog at www.jimpagiamtzis.blogspot.com  to promote my expertise, opinions or comments regarding topics of interest.
Lastly, you can create your own personal database using your outlook account to direct it to different people in your network - from people who go the same gym as you, to events of common nature you have with friends. Just Do It, and see what happens. Get Connected Make It Happen!  It may be a lesson and learning experience to learn about your friend’s interests.










Formula for Results

P-A-R Strategy
Networking is what everyone does, from entrepreneurs promoting their business to talking to friends about which New Year’s party they are going to?
Using a simple formula called P-A-R, it creates a simple strategy to network with new and existing people easily and effectively.
P- Present
A- Adjust
R- Respond
Present - Being prepared for the opportunity is where it begins.  From having a simple one-sided business card to give to potential contacts and also using the two-card process to make sure you get their name and number if they don't have a card.
Adjust - Having the right attitude is critical.  Being the real you and creating a comfortable atmosphere when meeting people is very important.  You have one chance to make first impression!
Respond - How you react to people’s questions is also important, and having key questions to ask puts you in the position to make you available to react to their potential needs. Get Connected Make it Happen!
Resources Online
Toronto Public Library - http://smallbizxpress.torontopubliclibrary.ca (three articles)
Articles on online
Ezine articles - http://ezinearticles.com/?expert_bio=Jim_Pagiamtzis&bio_sort=a
www.sipgroup.org (Member’s Resources/presentations)                                           
www.enterprisetoronto.com  various articles and events
www.bizlaunch.ca  articles and events
www.connectuscanada.com  E-book by Donna Messer on Effective Networking Strategies





Offline Resources
Set Yourself on Fire by Phil Taylor
Masters of Networking by Ivan R Misner & Don Morgan
Messy Manager by Jean-Guy Francouer
How do I get myself to do what I need to do by Terry Gogna (www.terrygogna.com)
Success in Toronto  by Hirantha Nandasena
Seven Strategies to Success by Max Haroon









About the Author
                               







Jim Pagiamtzis is owner and founder of Get Connected Make Wealth Happen! He works with consultants, entrepreneurs and corporate professionals on effective communication.
He has written articles for Centennial College, Toronto Public Library and Metroactive.org (blog),
He has appeared on That.Channel.com with Hugh Reilly on the Liquid Lunch Show.

He can be reached at jim@pagiamtzis.com  Check out www.getconnectedmakewealthhappen.com  www.jimpagiamtzis.blogspot.com.
Available for speaking engagements and writing opportunities at (416)894-7859





Email jim@pagiamtzis to get a copy of his upcoming book.

Order your business card online
Learn more about  Parformance Training Program email for appt to see if you qualify

How to Attract a Mentor For Business, Life and Success






Jim Pagiamtzis
Published Author ,Speaker and Elite Entrepreneur

Table of Contents

Introduction…………………………………………………………… Page 3

Quote ………………………………………………………………….. Page 4

My Experience ……………………………………………………….. Page 5

Role Models ……………………………………………………………Page 7

Coach …………………………………………………………………  Page 9

Virtual Mentor………………………………………………………..  Page 13

It’s all about You……………………………………………………. Page 15

What to look for?........................................................................  Page  18

Why do I  have a Mentor…………………………………………..   Page 21

Analysis of Quote from Mentors Mentor……………………….   Page 24

Business, Life & Success…………………………………………  Page 27

Books and Audios………………………………………………….  Page 29

Conclusion………………………………………………………….. Page 30

           About the author……………………………………………………. Page 31









Introduction

It a few short years I have been able to write and speak about the importance of having a Mentor.


















Quote

“Everyone needs a mentor, regardless of what stage your are at in your career. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or an employee, you need a role model to guide you through your journey of success”

-Max Haroon-
















My Experience

In the spring of 2003 I decided to go out networking to learn more about business ($ales and marketing) and attended an event where through a referral, I met Max Haroon who at the time had done a lot of work in the Internet and IT training for many years.

A few weeks later I had the opportunity to sit down and have a coffee with Max and learned more about what he had accomplished in his 35 years in business. He had completed many consulting assignments, forging alliances, as well as initiating various entrepreneurial enterprises. His work had spanned many countries and he has spoken at conferences and symposiums.

Max ran an organization call Society of Internet Professionals(SIP) (www.sipgroup.org) – a not-for-profit group in the Toronto and Richmond Hill area.  For the first year I had the opportunity to volunteer and participate at various symposiums and attended multiple networking events with Max. Quickly, I realized his wealth of knowledge and learned more about his experience in growing  companies to certain levels of financial success. Max calls himself a “social entrepreneur” The title suits him well (by the way he  dress a well and has a great handshake).

A memorable moment occured when we attended an event in Richmond Hill, Ontario met  a wonderful woman  whose experience was in Business Protocol. She showed us a VHS movie (yes your read right VHS!) on “How to Run An Effective Booth At A Trade Show”. To this day, I remind Max how the movie completely changed mine and also his perspective.  Not only in Marketing and Sales, but also the specific reasons things are done to create an atmosphere and environment not only for attendees, but the code and conduct of the booth participants.
As time progressed I became more involved with SIP and began to market and promote events through word-of-mouth, handing out flyers at different events and sending out an monthly newsletters (great story about that later).

We held symposiums every couple of months where we featured specialists in the Internet/IT field and, special guests in marketing and sales.

As the months progressed I had also done some data-entry work and helped to maintain our database. Monthly newsletters called the SIP Post were sent out to our sponsors, volunteers, and participants advising on events occurring with SIP and associated partners.

As confidence and self-esteem began to grow, I had the opportunity to speak and make some small announcements at the events, which to this day, I remember being nervous and bubbling my words. It was the start of the journey that would give me an environment to propel me on the entrepreneurial journey of success.



 


 

 

Role Models


Role models are a great source to learn from. You can learn from their stories of how they achieved  success. From Jim Carrey, Tiger Woods, Anita Roddick, the founder of Body Shop, to Oprah Winfrey.

Friends and Family - For some people this may be a great resource to learn from.   They may have family members who have run or who are currently running successful businesses.  While others may have friends who have their own business, and you may want to learn more about it, take the opportunity to have a coffee or lunch with them to learn more about their experiences.

Professional Associations - There are many fantastic associations in Toronto from Enterprise Toronto (www.enterprisetoronto.com). This runs morning seminars throughout the Toronto Region on various topics.  Some other organizations are listed below:

·         Bizlaunch.ca  Where entrepreneurs start (through seminar and webinar.

Teachers at School - We may have had teacher from our College/University or high school days that we admired and learned some great lessons from.

Community Leaders - Every community has its leaders and there are many ways to learn more about them.  There are neighborhood newspapers that have featured stories on successful businesses in the area. There are neighborhood events that take place, focusing on community and political events. In the spring and summer time there are many events held by different cultural groups and organizations that you could attend.

The key point is to meet new people and ask questions on what they do and how they achieved their success. They are all around you and the journey begins when you go and make the effort to put energy into seeking and learning.

 











Coach

The key focus of a coach is her or e gives you a “specific direction”.  A Great example of this is a few years ago myself, my brother and a friend decided to learn how to skate and play hockey. So we signed up for beginner lessons and we were very excited about the experience. We bought brand new skates, helmets and hockey pants.

Prior to the classes we practiced dressing up in our hockey equipment to comfortable.  We felt like “gladiators” on skates! Very soon the lessons were to begin and the excitement was growing as the day got closer.

And finally the day arrived! At the first practice we met our teammates.  We had a variety of ages and backgrounds on our team.

As we got on the ice I quickly realized that this was going to be a very challenging experience. I had skated very briefly prior to this and did not have many happy memories. The coaches put us through some drills and I and few other participants were lagging behind. Frustration began to set in and I was beginning to have doubts. During the second lesson, I had a friend come and watch me practice and this is where I had a significant experience. I ended up falling on the ice very heavily, headfirst, suffered a brief concussion, and was bed ridden for the next few days. This was a turning point for me. My brother and his friend ended up quitting after three practices, and I also had a choice to make after suffering the concussion. I had a lot reasons to quit, but many more to stay!  I wanted to learn how to skate and was willing to put the effort in to do so. As I continued the lessons the coach made this statement, “You’re not going to learn how to skate coming one day a week. You are going to have to go on your own time and practice”. I took his statement very seriously and that’s exactly what I did. I went to indoor family skates on Sundays and to open skating arenas in my neighborhood. We got some practice times at the local arena with our teammates and gradually we got better.  I got some great tips from my co-worker who had been skating for many years. He told me to practice skating with a puck and learn to control it, also to overextend my skating to allow the body to feel the extra tension.

I began to apply his tips and suggestions and through practice and persistence my skating got better and better. Confidence and self-esteem began to grow and I was more balanced on my skates when I was in front of the net. It worked because that’s how I scored most of my goals!

A great personality I like to watch is Don Cherry.  He does a first period rant with Ron Mclean on Hockey Night in Canada on Saturday Nights. Don Cherry was an NHL coach for many years and shares some great examples and highlights of players who are persistent and achieved their goals.

I recently listened to a lecture called “Everyone’s a Coach!” by Don Shula and Wayne Blanchard. Shula was a successful coach for many years in the NFL and Blanchard has written many books in the personal development field. It was great series to listen to and learn more about Shula’s coaching experiences and how they tie in to Blanchard’s teaching. Key statement was in the title “EVERYONE IS COACH”.



School

Recently, I had the opportunity to teach a program called “Economics of Staying in School” with a co-worker of mine. We spent the better part of the day teaching a specific course outline, utilizing interactive board games to teach budgeting and dream building to a gifted class of grade 7 & 8 students.  It was a memorable experience and the students had a better understanding of why their parents plan and follow a budget, and how to evaluate a pay cheque and how that affects what they can buy for themselves.

Teachers - Throughout my school experience I had some great teachers. During the 1st year in college I had a teacher named Mr. Allison Griffiths who taught a class in Purchasing Management. The one thing you need when attending this class was lots of paper!

During high school I had a great teacher who taught us how to type. To this day I thank her for those exercises she put us through. Becoming a writer and author made it easier to use all the eight fingers and two thumbs!

Later on, I will be mentioning more books that have made an impact on being an effective coach.



Virtual Mentor

Max Haroon had mentioned having a Virtual Mentor at a talk that he gave in February 2008, at the Mariott Hotel in Toronto. I feel it important to give a few suggestions he mentioned:

Why books?

Through this booklet I will be mentioning many books that been crucial in learning and developing through the years.

Books on Coaching, Mentorship, and Leadership are available in many places from bookstores, libraries and yard sales. Personally, I am an avid cyclist and go bike riding on the weekends throughout the city.  I have come across hundreds of great books,  CD’s, and DVD’s of every topic. Roadside treasures, as I call them, are available all the time.  People are spring cleaning or moving and always discarding things.

Stories of Celebrities
Either when you go the movies, the local bookstore and/or the local newspaper there are always some great feature stories on local and worldwide celebrities that you can learn more about from afar.  Jim Carrey is one my favorites.  The Ontario born actor has had a phenomenal career , but his early days were not as easy.  He had some challenges himself but his abilities and talents that he kept working,from being on “In Living Color” for many years propelled him to movie stardom and became the actor he is today, due to the antics he did on the show.

Will Smith is also an interesting story. Recently, I read a mini-biography called Will Power by Jan Berenson.  The story covers the start of his career as a rapper to then being a young star on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air leading to the ups and downs of his life and to extraordinary movie career featuring Independence Day and Men in Black.

Biographies

There are many amazing biographies available to read from past and present people, such as, Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King, Donald Trump, Anita Roddick founder of Body Shop, and Living the Good Life by David Patchell-Evans founder of the Good Life Fitness.

DVD’s

Movies like Remember the Titans, Facing the Giants, Rudy, and Pursuit of Happiness are true stories that capture the spirit and essence of having a successful and fulfilling life.

 

Audios

As mentioned earlier I have either purchased or found roadside treasures such as audio cassettes on various speakers and leaders.  Local libraries or bookstores are a great resource for material like this.






It’s all about YOU

Stephen Covey’s book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, repeatedly talks about “begin with the end in mind”. To reach any point of success it is very important to have people available along your journey to talk to and discuss your journey with to make sure you are on the correct course.

A great book by Burke Hedges called, You Inc., where he states in literally every chapter that YOU are the where it begins and where it ends. Being able to market and present yourself is the key to attracting and meeting the right people who will be the resources you will work with and talking to in your journey.

A few years ago I created a slogan that says “Get Connected, Make it Happen” I learn to “connect” with a professional handshake and then give a brief infomercial about my business to “Make it Happen”.  It takes two people to make a business or project happen.  

Social Networking

Social Networking websites have spread like wildfire on the Internet with the key purpose of maintaining relationships between friends and family or create social entrepreneurial organizations. Websites from LinkedIn, Sprouter, and Twitter have been utilized by people of all ages to keep connected and have a professional profile (LinkedIn) or market and promote yourself (FaceBook).

For the past year I have been on Facebook and have had some tremendous success from getting connected to old school mates, meeting entrepreneurs who are authors, speakers and writers, getting referrals and having the ability to promote speaking engagements and events that I have attended.  These are simple and effective resources that can be used with “specific intent” to promote yourself or business activities.

Albert Einstein has a quote that says “the significant problems that we face in life can not be solved with the same level of thinking we were at when we created them”.

There are solutions to problems that require fresh thinking. The ability to find and seek people who can assist you in overcoming certain challenges is how you get to the next level.

Preparedness meets Opportunity
Being a prepared professional and knowing your unique skills and strengths will allow you to be the best you can be when opportunity arrives.








 

What to look for?


The important thing to remember is looking for in attracting a mentor is that they have the “fruit on the tree” as Max Haroon has told me many times and have achieved some success already.

Accomplishments

I recently heard Andrew Patricio, founder of Bizlaunch.ca, a training and coaching organization that has had huge success in a span of four years. Andrew explained that he started up locally and he gained momentum and expanded.  He has only a few sponsors for his business but those are the likes of Scotia Bank of Canada. 

Achievements

An important indication in looking evaluating a mentor is have they have any achievements in their field from awards, recognition. Have they reached levels of business in a specific business. Key indicators of results in achievement.


Professional in Specific fields

This is the most important aspect of what to look for in a mentor. Depending in what particular field you are looking for such as internet related, real estate or coaching there are various events happening throughout the year. Enterprise Toronto has monthly events on various topics and Bizlaunch.ca has various seminars  throughout the Ontario region and Canada.

Power Within and Soho.ca, and many more organizations are available. Simply perform a search on Google to find many more.

Experience

As you progress and begin to meet more professionals you will learn more about the types of industries and more about the experience that is available in those particular fields. Many of the speakers that I heard at Enterprise Toronto have had great success in the field of coaching, running their own business, consulting and/or working with other key leaders in different industries.

Recently I heard Vernon Vatour on Mastery of Sales at Enterprises Toronto and at one point he mentioned Michael Gerber who wrote the book E-Myth, at which point I said “that everyone should read it” literally forty heads turned my way with utter amazement. Vernon without missing a beat walked over and shook my hand and walked backed and continued his presentation. I was very surprised that nobody else had heard of Michael Gerber (who I heard speak a few years ago) who has written a tremendous book on three facets of a successful entrepreneur (manager, technician and entrepreneur).  I have had similar situations happen at other events. The reason being is that I was plugged in and reading great books and listening to awesome speakers.

Business Owners

From real estate to speaking and writing there are various types of business owners you can learn  from. As I went networking through the years, I have collected thousands of business cards from  various business owners. Just recently, I went through my database to re-connect with a few due the fact that I have done some writing, speaking and been published. This was a good opportunity to share this great news and see what projects they had currently been working on.

Summary

The key ingredient to remember is that you are building relationships with many different people. You will be learning aspects of various business is and at the time it may not seem  relevant, but keep the business card and contact.  Down the road you may have started a mentor-mentee relationship that you may have not known you needed at the time.
















Why do have a Mentor?

There are six reasons to have mentor are listed below.

Accountability

                               

In the book called The Secret there is a tremendous illustration of this. It was a story of homosexual male who wanted to be comedian, the challenge he had was that he was accosted either on the street or at work which made him frustrated and miserable. His coach at the time had been communicating verbally but also via email. The coach pointed how negative he was on his emails and recommended he alter his attitude towards the situation. Within the next few weeks the most miraculous thing happened. He began to listen to CD’s, read great books, and through encouragement of his coach he stopped being accosted and people at work either left or changed jobs.  At last he was a successful comedian! The story illustrates that everyone has challenges and it’s what you do about them that changes the outcome.

Listen to your words

In the book Mentor’s Mentor by Corey Olynik, he states that a mentor listens to your words, understands where you are, and  convey that it’s only a state mind and you have to bring brightness to the future you want to create.

You may unconsciously be saying the words but not be aware that not only you are saying them for your mentor to hear that also you are hearing them yourself.  Self-talk is mentioned by every great leader as the most destructive way to limit ourselves of our dreams and goals is the words that we say everyday coming out of our mouths.

Constructive Critism

 Your mentor has many years of experience and knowledge and the simplest ways to convey anything is through stories.

The solution to life challenges through their success is how the next three can be explained.

Walked the Journey before you
You can learn from their journey since you may be on a similar path.  Learning their experience and lesson will make yours seem a little easier or perhaps understanding it is a journey of small steps moving forward.

Experience challenges you are going through and will encounter next
My favorite example my mentor, Casey, uses is “they have already crossed the mine field, you’re just trying to avoid the mines.”  The mines signify various challenges you may be having along the journey of success and learning to avoid the mines will help you reach you goal in one piece.


Challenge you to reach to the next level

A couple of years ago I heard T. Harv Ecker, a famous speaker and author of the book “Secrets of the Millionaire Mind” speak. He has given a simple example that if you rated your problem on a scale from 1 to 10, (one being minor to ten being major) and below you had another graph on from one to ten in solving the problem. Would that be easier to overcome your challenge? Perhaps learning to do something about it? He said something like, “Just frikking do it!”.  I guess he was being polite. There were thousands of people in that room and I remember saying, “Well everyone has different issues and we have business ethics in mind, so why not?”

Problem

Solution
10

10
9

(9)
8

8
7

7
6

6
5

5
4

4
3

3
(2)

2
1

1

 


 



 

Analysis of Quote from the Mentor’s Mentor



Corey Olynik so eloquently says in his book “a mentor who holds up a mirror for his protégé helps him to see who he is: see his possibilities, his gifts, and his greatness. A mentor focuses on strength and not weakness. A mentor identifies potential and creates momentum. A mentor puts aside his own agenda and his protégé expresses his own unique talents. A mentor accepts his protégé for who he is now and sees the potential of who he can be”.

This is such a powerful paragraph that it requires explaining and examining.

“Sees his possibilities, his gift, his greatness”

 As we go through our entrepreneurial journey, our mentor helps explore the possibilities that are within us. encourages our gifts, which may be explored. Speaking or working with our team, greatness is how we explore the world around us and project ourselves to others as evolving servant leaders.

“focus on strengths

We all have positive traits that we use in our daily lives. We walk this earth from sunset to sundown dealing with many people in our journey. Some are friends for the short-term while others are lifetime partners, associates and mates. When we use our strengths for being a good listener and speaking to friends in a social gathering, we are exchanging our strengths and evolving to become better every day.

“identifies potential and creates momentum”

When our mentor is listening he is assisting us in evaluating and pinpointing our natural abilities and shows us, through example, how to generate necessary movement forward.

Howie Mandell a comedian and actor used to get in trouble all the time for talking out of turn  and waving his arms in school. Now he does the same thing in his adult life and makes thousands of dollars doing it.

“express his own unique talents”

Unique talents are explained as Unique Ability by Dan Sullivan, Catherine Nomura, Julia Waller and Shannon Waller explains in depth how we can evaluate and decipher our own abilities which have evolved through the years and become part of us. We need to be consciously-competent that we are using them to our best abilities. This book goes through those insights in depth.

“who is now and potential who he can be”

Frank Freather, well known futurist has explained,” the present is fleeting a nanosecond” and goes on to say that “only the future is manageable”. A mentor wants learn who you are now but also the goal to get you to strive and grow to who you are going to be.

In exploring this paragraph in detail I hope you have understood  that having a mentor along the path increase your success will make the journey richer and increase your  ability to explore yourself in ways that will make you a better individual and more succesfull in business and life.













Business, Life & Success

Mentors will be required in all stages of your journey as an entrepreneur. All the speakers I have heard, the books I read, and the audio that I have listened to all mention in some way that mentorship is esscential for  in business, life and success.

Business

In doesn’t matter what level business you are at either starting out or a seasoned veteran, a mentor can assist and direct your business to new levels. Economic and social trends affect business and are the key to fit your business to your customer’s needs.

Recently, a coach I heard mentioned that there were thousands of coaches who had different experiences. Either a life, entrepreneurial, or success coaches had various types of specific knowledge which they had created a particular business around. All the coaches were looking for potential clients and they all found them due to their expertise, even though they are in the same field.

Life
As we grow and pass through the different age brackets we are guided by different people who may not be called a “coach” per se at the time. They are called mom, dad, teachers, friends, and social circle. They begin to affect and shape our outlook on life. The choices we make are where the journey will begin to take shape. As we continue to educate and learn we begin to make clearer choices as to where we want to be and who we want to become.

As mentioned earlier reading biographies about successful people  will give you a better focus on the future. Futurist Frank Feather says it best, “only the future is manageable”.

Success
A great quote that I have heard that is attributed to many is “success leaves clues”. It is a short statement but has a powerful meaning. During the past few years I have read many thin books that were full of great quotes, ideas, and suggestions that were easy to do and made a significant impact in my current and future success. When reading books it is important to highlight, underline or bend the pages.

When hearing a presentation make sure you take notes and review them periodically, this is great way to remind yourself  of the stage you were at during the time, and how perhaps you have grown since then.











Books

The Mentor’s Mentor by Cory Olynk

Crucial Conversations by Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, Switzler

How to Coach a Fish by Peudan & Herzog

How can I get myself to do what I need to do by Terry Gogna

Search for Excellence by Tom Peter and Nancy Austin











Conclusion

My mentor always says that in business, life and success you will require different types of people throughout these stages. You have just read what to look for in a mentor and why should you have one.

Take the time to go through your contacts and business cards and take the time to meet you future mentor for a coffee and find them at the event in your area or find a virtual mentor.

Taking the first step in your journey as an entrepreneur is the exciting moment which will lead to many doors opening for you in the future days and years to come.











About  Author
Jim Pagiamtzis is owner and founder of Get Connected Make Wealth Happen! He works with consultants, entrepreneurs and corporate professionals on effective communication.
 

  He has written articles for Centennial College, Toronto Public Library and Metroactive.org (blog),


  He has appeared on That.Channel.com with Hugh Reilly on the Liquid Lunch Show.
 


Jim Pagiamtzis is available for speaking engagements and writing opportunities at 416-894-7859



30  Strategies  
How to become a World Class Networker



Jim Pagiamtzis

3 Ways to Maximize Your Network Relationships
One door closes, but two other doors open. That’s how the saying goes; however, often, when networking, it may feel like many doors are being closed and few are opening. By using a few key strategies, you can actively ensure that so many doors are opening that you are constantly introduced to new opportunities.
By maximizing your communication with potential clients and target markets, you will open several doors and in so doing, build greater opportunities for your business and for those on your network.
1. Social Networks
LinkedIn is a great website! You can create a professional profile and take advantage of strategic features. Three that I recommend are as follows:
1.       Get your profile to 100% as quickly as you can. There is a bar on the top left which indicates how close you are. Things such as adding your current status, adding previous employers, etc. will get you closer, faster.
2.       Continually connect with and add people to your network. If you are out networking, shaking hands and meeting new people, you are starting the momentum to growing your connections and inviting professionals to your LinkedIn account.
3.       Get recommendations from friends and previous employers. This will add credibility to your profile and add interest for your growing connections.

2. Telephone
As you meet new people and attend various events, it important to keep the connection moving forward. You can do this, for example, by placing a simple phone call and saying something such as, “Hi John, this is Jim Pagiamtzis. We met at the International networking show last week. So I recall you said you had worked in the insurance industry…” 
Through this simple conversation, you did a few things including reminding him where you met and remembering what business he was in. You are also letting him know that the connection was important to you. From here you could talk about his industry and make recommendations that could assist him, such as ideas to increase his referrals.
You can touch base again and again, making a similar call, and each time solidify your ongoing relationship with the contact.


3. Email

Email is an effective communication tool for basic communication, but it can also be an effective tool for creating interest and keeping people updated.
The key is creating pro-active emails. You can discuss relevant articles you’ve read, industry news, or use the tool as a means of recognizing achievements by people in your network.
Remember it’s not only about you, but the success of everyone in your network.
_______________________________________________
Jim Pagiamtzis is a published author, writer and entrepreneur who has written for the Toronto Public Library and spoken at various venues such as universities, Enterprise Toronto and Initiative TO. Popular topics include How to become a Networking Success and How to attract Mentors in Business Life and Achieve Success. He can be reached via email at payamgis@gmail.com.














3 ways how to work at room effectively

Mastery of networking a room involves the ability to look at the situation in systematic way to be able to network a room effectively.

Centre of influence

No matter how big or small a room that you are networking there will always be people talking either in two's or three's or sometimes more. Inserting yourself in the conversation is all about timing and angles.

Body language

I have attended and read few books on this topic, which has been a interesting piece to the networking puzzle.

Just like the game of pool is all about angles so is how people stand an talk to each other.

There are either in open conversation or closed conversation. They are facing each other belly to belly or are in open v formation ready to accept you.

 Energy

Last and most easy way to network a room is just listen where the most energy is a start there. From my experience that's usually me!

Take your time entering any environment and be smart and little strategic when going out to Get Connected make it happen











Social Networking Strategy - Communication is the Key!

LinkedIn
Many professional s are using this simple and effective website to display their resume credentials with picture and interests. Have the ability to join groups and ask questions on different topics.
You can also request referrals and request to speak to professionals in other networks via permission based email. Add people your network and grow you resources with your own social network.
Post updates , search for groups and connect with other in you network through existing connects ( with permission) Ask question to industry experts on different topics and join relative groups online.
Created your own online resume through easy to use template is great benefit you can update at your own convenience. There are also various types of online software that is available to upload presentations you have completed and search for answer by asking industry experts.
Have had the opportunity to locate previous co-workers and friends with easy to use networking addition feature.
Twitter
This social function allows you to type 140 characters of information from daily interests to links and website you may be connected to. Tweeting is simple and easy to do. You can have followers or follow others on the social networking journey. Many CEO, singers and actors can be found twitting on their daily happenings.
Recently many corporations have used the Twitter to keep their customer informed on company news and product and service launches.
You can also post links to other networking sites that you have posted information for followers to learn more about you in the social networking arena.
There are many other enhancement software you can find online to increase the people you want to have follow or have following you.
This is social website has its advantages in being an "connection" website to link people with other social website you are on, from posting links of articles or blog post of interest.
Facebook
Facebook has combination of resources to use. Taking approach of learning it step and step to create profile that is interested and engaging with your friends, make frequent updates and work toward building your profile.
Creating your own sub groups within the community where you can promote events to a specified inner circle of entrepreneurs and professionals.
You can add pictures of events you have attended to build you relationship with other and share what your interests. You can tie in your blog address to your profile and attach other blogs that you also read.
Promote events that you are planning to attend and share them with your group who are in the local vicinity.
The environment of friends you create will have an impact on the type of information you give and receive with you profile. Avoid playing games and participating in activities that could have potential to distract you
Connection of networks
Key goal is to combine the networks to create a strategy of interest which will lead to following.
Create interest
Share with your networks what you are doing. Do speak regularly or write articles online. Do you associate or promote people of interest who add value to people.
Promote Events
What events do you attend in your area and why. Take pictures of events and post them with brief explanation.
Create referrals
You have to create an appetite that your potential customer customers need to follow you and learn more about you. In all the above networks you can email and send message to your online professional's database. Email and ask them what they are doing and how you can assist.
Get Connected-Make it Happen
Get connected with the people who can bring value to you and your group and gradually learn and understand how you can bring value to them. Either by specific information or events of interest and in due time you can make great things happen!
How to Become a LISTing Success

The most import factor in have a successful business is to keep adding you list of new prospects everyday (yes you read it correctly EVERY DAY). Networking is habit that has to be constant habit and become part of your daily routine., the art of connecting with your targeting audience is continues cycle.
Recently met a real estate agent who was distributing postcards my neighbourhood, took the time to approach him ask him about his business and gave him my card, and offered him a referral.
Above is a great example of adding a resource to my list and potential cross-marketing opportunity in the near future.
During my presentations I share the P-A-R strategy and emphasize its "Success Cycle" and you do it over and over again.Engaging the activity of continuous effort.
Present - Have a business card everywhere you go. You never know who you meet and who they may know
Attitude - Entering any situation with a positive attitude will enhance your ability to connect with prospective clients and grow your business relationship with them.
Respond - The ability to Ask and listen and have an engaging conversation will make it more of a memorable and easier when you follow-up.
We are in the 21st century and media had change and evolved with the times. No matter what day or year it is. It's all about people connecting with people building successful relationships.
Finding you niche in that market will bring you clarity you need to be adding your list and closing sales. There are more resources available to the buyers and sellers which makes more challenging for the real estate agents provide the best price and service.
Social media has drastically changed how house are being viewed, sold and evaluated. Finding ways to make sure you clients understand the information your email or speaking to them about is crucial to build a successful sale.
Competition will never disappear; the opportunity is there to have an effective professional image and service where you understand your clients needs.
Carrying your business cards everywhere you are ready and able to networking anywhere which is clear advantage in these economic times where word-of-mouth marketing is and still remains the most powerful and effective referral source.
Living your day with mind-set that opportunity is everywhere will give you scope that you are prepared and ready to add to your list anytime and anywhere!
I have an entrepreneurial friend who has built successful business in the computer repair business all through word-of-mouth and referrals and has successfully used social media to create an effective profile.


















 

 

 

3 Proven Ways to Follow Up With New Contacts


It my experience it has been very disappointing that I didn't get anyone call me back. There are many reasons why this happens
My professional opinion is it come down to fear from picking up the phone and believing there is nothing worth discussing. Which is the furthest thing from the truth!
1st Envelope system
In many of the presentation that I have shared. Always share this system where you use 2 envelopes.
1st Envelope will have all your cards in it from the event.
2nd Envelope will be where you will insert all the card you have called. The most important thing is on the front side of the envelope put the date you will complete it and get yourself a prize when its done.
"The goal is to get business cards from one envelope to the by giving yourself a simple reward that you will receive when you have completed the task"
Important tip:
As you begin to through the cards be prepared to go through the momentum of calling them all, if you do have a lot that you may break them up into sections. (be very careful doing this) it may affect in completing your goal. Make the calls and make note on the cards (or have paper and pen beside you) to make notes while you are on the call. Example
Questions to ask
Which social networking sites are they on?
What new projects are they working on?
What did they enjoy about the event?
This will assist you in the long-term with building a memorable relationship.
2nd Accountability
This is the most powerful and effective way to complete your task. Having an accountability partner gives the challenge to complete your goal much faster. You can do the following have either a monetary value attached to complete the task or you have to do something for your accountability partner (ex. Wash car, or coffee for the week) It will create the necessary momentum to compete the task
3rd Group call
This is similar to the suggestion made above but gives it an added dynamics of being in the same room. Get everyone in the same environment create the necessary tension to complete the task quickly and effectively.
You may not to make calls for your financial freedom perhaps you can make calls for a slice a pizza! Being part of a team to accomplish this task is the secret ingredient to success that you may not read about it books. Having been part of this environment and have seen many entrepreneurs 'stretch' themselves outside the comfort zone to get it done.
Use the above mentioned ways to create guaranteed results.
Go out and Get connected and Make Wealth Happen!

























3 Strategies on How to Network at a Tradeshow


1st Business cards
Are the most important tool next to word of mouth that you use to engage potential client, future business owners. As you walk around the event look at other business card on display and get comfortable in ask for the owner of the card, which is a simple way to generate conversation regarding what they do for the company and if they ask if they have a few moments to speak with you. This will give you the starting momentum to having great conversations all day.
The rule with this tool is to use to only give it out when it is asked for. (This is not easy as it sounds) It may take time to master this technique. When you do it will make your card more valuable.
The are art of giving is easy, art of receiving is where true value begins.
2nd Asking key questions
Is an effective way to create ongoing conversations. At a recent tradeshows in Toronto I was waiting in line to get registered where I began great conversation with an attendee who had written a book on cooking. He went on to explain that his book has been huge success with colleges and universities due the fact his recipes were very short and easy to make. By the time we had reached the desk we had exchanged cards and had mentioned very little what I had done. This sets up a great ongoing conversation when I followed up with him a week later
Having some prepared questions prior to attending the event will make your networking strategy work better such as "Have you been to the tradeshow before?", " Do you know any of the exhibitors?", Would you be interested in walking the show with me for a few minutes, I just go here."
3rd Visit booths and ask questions
Engage in small talk relating to the industry. Recently celebrated small business week in Toronto and had met entrepreneurs which I had invited last years event. They had booths at this years which I was happy to see. We had great discussions on working together strategically in the future
Many of the booths have contests and give-aways for various prizes. You can share a light joke with the attendee as to what you will do with gift when you win it. If the they announce the winner at the show and to make sure if its you to come an track you down!. It could be a prize that you have been talking and sharing about with others and you may say this is a good sign you could win it today
Learning and applying these above mentioned strategies will give you simple steps to become an effective networker. Get Connected Make Wealth happen!
Writer and Speaker in a year- You can do it!
It is with great honor to share this article in appreciation for the  Toronto Public Library. It was not long ago that I wrote three articles within a 5 month period which gave me the credibility and leverage to be able to speak to various groups and organizations in the Toronto Region. Let go back in time and tell you the story.
In  October 2007in Toronto and the Small Business Seminar was happening sponsored by Enterprise Toronto and Centennial College. There was tradeshow and seminar happening all day with lots of opportunity to network with other entrepreneurs. Had lots of business cards and was prepared with infomercial about myself.
“Bring business cards and have infomercial about yourself”
First stop was the tradeshow where there were vendors from various companies Staples Business Depot, Car Dealership, Graphic Designers and many more. The Toronto Public Library had a booth representing the Small Biz Express Section. Had a brief conversation with the representative and continued network and meet people at the show. There was also various seminars  being held by seasoned experts in different fields.
Overall the show was very informative and met some great entrepreneurs whom to this day have contact with. The importance part of networking is the following up with all the contacts that have been made. ( 24 to 48 is the normal time to call back)
Had proceeded to follow-up with participants and exhibitors at the events. One of the tradeshow exhibitors was the Toronto Public Library who had a website call the Smallbizxress which the featured monthly articles on different entrepreneurs and the different expertise. Within the next few months had submitted 3 articles from Mentorship, Effective Networking Skills and How to Market and promote yourself and also had one my mentors Terry Gogna (www.terrygogna) submit two articles regarding his book “ How can I get myself to do what I need to do”.
Having the articles online gave me the opportunity to leverage them to various contacts that I had met networking in the Toronto area with the opportunity for future speaking engagements. Within the next six months had spoken for Enterprise Toronto at City Hall and North York on Do you have a Mentor? to  Career Door Inc in Toronto who did IT Job Fair with complimentary speaking seminars as a value added information for the participants.
The most memorable and (nervous) talk was my first day for Career Door in February 2008 at the Marriot Hotel in Toronto. It was a two-day event and was scheduled to speak two times. My first speaking engagement and had to do it twice!  Putting together a powerpoint presentation to have some resources to use was ready get this done.
Room was average size with seating for about 50 people with a stage and podium. Going into the first talk I was very nervous until of the hotel caterers gave me water on the house to calm me done and some encouragement sent me of to get start my talk.
Few months early one my mentors had suggested to record myself which was a great way evaluate yourself moving forward to get better, with that had set up my recording device and was ready to speak.
Both talks went well and with the help of Max Haroon (www.sipgroup.org) and Ron Vereggen (www.rapidsucesscoach.com) (who were also speakers that day) were helpful resources to have available on both days.
Having a successfully spoken proceeded to speak to other organizations in Toronto and with few months spoke at Enterprise Toronto, Bloor-Dundas Employment Centre, Skills for Change and numerous time at Career Door Inc  over the past year.
Have learned many lesson along the way from importance of audience participation, improving presentation style and engaging with audience.
On your of success you will come many opportunities that you will pursue with the realization that it will open many door for you and allow to get better every day and gain the confidence and persistence to pursue bigger goals and desire.
Get Connected Make it Happen you too can become the best you can be.

























Bartering led to Networking
  Before DVD's came into the market there were these cd's called Laserdiscs (size of an record album) that you could watch movies on. Quality was amazing you could watch in on Letterbox or full screen. Back then  letterbox  was something  new and many laserdiscs collectors really liked that. Reminded  everyone  of watching  at the  theatre and  enjoying  the  clearer  picture style.
At that time had started buy a few LD's and had started building a collection. As time passed there were some that I didn't watch that much so I put an ad in the local paper  to trade some of my ld's. Within a week began to get  phone calls and  started to trading my ld's
There were so many types of people I met a doctor who had a huge collection! To entrepreneurs who did barter and sold some ld's.
Came across a store that was going out a business and was selling all there Lds and at that time he had movies like Lethal Weapon 2, Aliens and Eiger Sanction. My collection quickly grew and it was a cool hobby to have at the time.
Learned  many  valuable  lessons from that art of negotiation, networking, and building rapport.  Important lesson that apply to today's market whether you buying a new car, home, searching for items for  your home.
As time passed met business owner who I traded with and bought some LD's in bulk due to liqudation sales.
Even joined a Laserdisc newsletter club via mail and atteded some industry events also.
















Are you Creating Business Momentum…. and profiting along the way?
The economy is going through changes, people are being careful where they are spending they budgeted dollars. These challenges create a need for every entrepreneur to be more knowledgeable about their products and services. The needs of  your potential customer and clients are still there. As I teach in my “Network your way  to Success” to entrepreneurs I always say “ you have two ears and one mouth use them effectively, Ask then close your mouth and  listen”. In the book Small Talk by Debra Fine she states in every chapter the importance of asking key questions to your potential customer and clients.
Having ongoing momentum on your side, the future look bright, obstacles look small, and trouble seems temporary. In  moving forward with any kind of movement is possible. To inspire and get out of your comfort zone into your  wealth zone. Below are few strategies to consider.
1.System of Success
. Give yourself some easy challenges to create some positive momentum moving forward. As stated earlier there are great books to read, which give you questions and easy ways to talk to people on a daily basis. Social Networking is great way to keep in touch with current and potential customers. Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter all have programs that you can talk to people live if they are online or send an  email with information of interest to friends.
- start an E- newsletter and email to entrepreneurs you have met
- start a blog on area of expertise and email friends
- attend events in your local area and network promote your business
- promote events of close friends or organizations you attend
- hand out sample of promotion material
Give yourself a weekly challenge to engage move forward. As you do this you will have lessons and experiences  along the way that will contribute to your momentum.
2. Stay Positive in amidst the Doom and Gloom
In the recent magazine Enterprise (www.enterprisemag.com) Beryl Allport states some great points which I agree with.
-Choose consciously where you focus your time and energy
- open doors to new possibilities and opportunities
-create some fun and see the joy in little things daily
Momentum is created by small steps daily and with persistent execution with great a sum of energy propelling you forward to creating synergistic movement that give you energy and attracts people to you and your cause.
Have a support of group of like-minded entrepreneur is the formula of many successful entrepreneurs for many years. Keep the close via phone or email and you will pleasantly surprised that they will give the confidence and self esteem to move forward. Everyone wants to win even through challenges evolving leaders rise up to the occasion and move forward.  As a song on my mentor plays all the time called “Get over it”
3. Building your team
In the book Good to Great by Jim Collins he states so firmly. “Get the right people on bus, sitting in the right seat on the bus, if not get them of the bus.”
Strong analogy and so true! You want people on your team that share the same vision and focus that you do. This contributes to the momentum of you and your team.
Everyone one of you team members have skill and strengths and various areas of expertise. It’s your ability to keep aware of these and focused in that frame of mind that will allow the overall contribution to a successful team moving forward and creating the rewards of growth and profitability for everyone.
Building business momentum takes a plan of daily goals and the persistent action for result to overcome the tough and challenging economic teams. Rising above the waves and seeing further and reaching farther to satisfying the needs and wants of your potential customers.









Money Game!
There have been many great books written, board games and professional speaking on Money. Making and spending money has been done for years. Understanding it as a tool and not idolizing is where the lesson begin. Below are some exercises to do to test comfort zone on money and how you may view. You may be surprised by the end the power of money!
Mental mindset
We carry money with us on daily basis from bills in our pocket to change in your car. We put it all sorts of places from money jars to contributing to charities at our local coffee shop.
How much money could you carry with you and walk around with it for a full week? $100 or $1000?. This is a powerful test that I have done for the past few years and created some personal stress thinking that I would spend it or lose it. This was my sub-conscious mind playing mental games with my understanding with money. ( It just a piece of paper with a face and number on it) After a few days this imaginary fear was gone and was totally comfortable with it. Had not spent the money and actually had engaged in interesting conversation regarding the exercise.
All you need is a Money Clip and Money (couldn’t resist!)
Begin by carrying $100 dollars then as you gain confidence add more money to the clip. You will have different feelings as you begin add money on weekly basis.
When you reach  $500 get out a piece of paper and write how you feel or tell a friend about your test.(who know you may inspires them to do the same)
Prosperity game with cheques
This game is even more challenge. Imagination is a powerful component for this to have a huge effect. Photocopy some check (about 30). Then take what you make a month (net) not gross (nice try). and spend it in a day. Remember this exercise is to be done for seven consecutive days. This will challenge your mental mindset. You may come up with some inventive ways by the third day for sure!
This will give you the understanding how money can be used as powerful to do many things.
This is what happens  to lottery winners when they win a huge sum. They can’t get rid of it fast enough. Lately many have hired financial advisors to assist them (good idea). To allow them to keep them focused on what they should to with the money. Even thought this is a game you can really make a strategic game with how you can be creative with the money and what to with it. Can use it to fund schools, contribute to charities, give anonymously to strangers.

Social Networking Strategy: Communication is the key!
In recent months there has been many webinars and websites discussing the value added reasons in combining communications are a key social strategy for your online presence. As internet entrepreneur have utilized key website with great results. Below were going to give you some practical advice on how to use the social networking as a key tool to build your resources and promote your expertise or marketing ideas in easy and effortless way.
LinkedIn
Many professional s are using this simple and effective website to display their resume credentials with picture and interests. Have the ability to join groups and ask questions on different topics.
You can also request referrals and request to speak to professionals in other networks via permission based email. Add people your network and grow you resources with your own social network.
Post updates , search for groups and connect with other in you network through existing connects ( with permission) Ask question to industry experts on different topics and join relative groups online.
Created your own online resume through easy to use template is great benefit you can update at your own convenience. There are also various types of online software that is available to upload presentations you have completed and search for answer by asking industry experts.
Have had the opportunity to locate previous co-workers and friends with easy to use networking addition feature.


Twitter
This social function allows you to type 140 characters of information from daily interests to links and website you may be connected to. Tweeting is simple and easy to do. You can have followers or follow others on the social networking journey. Many CEO, singers and actors can be found twitting on their daily happenings.
Recently many corporations have used the Twitter to keep their customer informed on company news and product and service launches.
You can also post links to other networking sites that you have posted information for followers to learn more about you in the social networking arena.
There are many other enhancement software you can find online to increase the people you want to have follow or have following you.
This is social website has its advantages in being an “connection” website to link people with other social website you are on, from posting links of articles or blog post of interest.

Facebook
Facebook has combination of resources to use. Taking approach of learning it step and step to create profile that is interested and engaging with your friends, make frequent updates and work toward building your profile
Creating your own sub groups within the community where you can promote events to a specified inner circle of entrepreneurs and professionals.
You can add pictures of events you have attended to build you relationship with other and share what your interests. You can tie in your blog address to your profile and attach other blogs that you also read.
Promote events that you are planning to attend and share them with your group who are in the local vicinity.
The environment of friends you create will have an impact on the type of information you give and receive with you profile. Avoid playing games and participating in activities that could have potential to distract you

Connection of networks
Key goal is to combine the networks to create a strategy of interest which will lead to following
Create interest
Share with your networks what you are doing. Do speak regularly or write articles online. Do you associate or promote people of interest who add value to people
Promote Events
What events do you attend in your area and why. Take pictures of events and post them with brief explanation
Create referrals
You have to create an appetite that your potential customer customers need to follow you and learn more about you. In all the above networks you can email and send message to your online professional’s database. Email and ask them what they are doing and how you can assist.

Get Connected-Make it Happen
Get connected with the people who can bring value to you and your group and gradually learn and understand how you can bring value to them. Either by specific information or events of interest and in due time you can make great things happen!

We covered some simple steps to a productive and result oriented social experience is a process to being confident to try influence and understand how you deal with people online within the various social networks available above.










How to Market to your Network and get appreciation
Living the Get Connected Make Wealth Happen lifestyle has created the opportunity to meet great entrepreneurs but also have great success together. Two years ago I had attended a Life Entrepreneur where I met Tm Mahdi form Cg6. At the time he had just published his first large size newspaper called Crossover ( he had personally delivered a copy for me to read after the event)

As time passed we had connected at various events throughout the city from Freelance Bootcamp at Ryerson to Small Business Forum at the Metro Convention.

Shortly after that we had a meeting regarding get some speakers for an event called Initiative TO which was happening in Toronto City wide the week of Nov 15-19 celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week. Had sent out an email to my network regarding this event and had a great response (read story below) So great that we had to make some change on how to connect with organizer

The event was a overall success and I had three entrepreneurial  friends  who ended up speaking at the event and one location that I have done some marketing the week before.

Remember that you meet people everyday and you just don't know when and where you will connected again.


"I want to personally extend my hand out and share my thank you to Jim Pagiamtzis. Because of you, my voicemail has been so clotted up in interest. Thank You. And many thanks to Marilyn Garshowitz, Cheryl Rankin, Anfernee Chansamooth, Eric Bernhard Kristle Calisto-Tavares, Brent Kobayashi, Dan Hashemi, Kune Hua, Jan Keck, Kenny Santos, Elysabeth Fischer, Vivianne Gauci and Natalia Kantor for making magic really happen." Tm Mahdi

Go out there and Get Connected and Make it Happen!








Power of Newsletter!
Couple of years ago went to event and the speaker challenged us to start a newsletter. So the journey began. It was begin of an exercise which would open new doors and create ongoing relationships.

The months began to pass and nothing happen. No results! I began to get little frustrated, remembered the speaker said this would happen and began to think more outside the box regarding this information.

It wasn’t it was a flashy newsletter with bright colour and fancy pictures it was about the information that was important.

Had an upcoming talk that I was doing on Do you have a mentor? Which I included in the newsletter with some other upcoming events , links and services of interest. Few day later got email back from an author who I had met that had written a book on mentorship. Invited her out to come speak at the end of my talk, she showed up and wrapped up the event and even sold some of her books! I was impressed!

This gave me confidence to continue doing newsletter and have had more results happen from getting testimonials, referrals, recommendations to contact other entrepreneurs.

Giving away prizes from free ebooks to doing funny contests such ask how many times certain word appears in the newsletter.

Recently have found some free resources online that has given newsletter better interface which I like and have done a few that way.

Another reason that a realized was going to be equally important was the part of follow-up, keeping your contacts top of mind about you and what you are doing is important.

With the advent of Twitter and Facebook. Having follower is very important in the social media landscape. Having also a simple way to communicate with your contacts at least twice a month can equally be effective and provide results.






Follower effect can be powerful for your brand
During the past few years have stressed to entrepreneurs the importance of the follow-up with your customer , clients and potential new contacts. In an earlier article talked about the newsletter be used as an effective tool to keep people up-to-date on what you are doing on a monthly basis.

With the explosion of Facebook and Twitter it has been very interested to see how the creation of a following can create the six degree of separation but on steroids!

Motto I live by everyday is “Get Connected Make Wealth Happen!” I share this with everyone that I know because we connect with people everyday and want to make things happen from sharing business ideas with potential prospects to increasing our network of people we know.

This can be done in many ways from attending networking events and meeting people face to face or you can go online and join site like Linkedin and start building professional contacts online and do it in a easy and effortless way.

There is no doubt Twitter and Facebook has changed the landscape for many people for everyday entrepreneurs to movie stars. Important thing to remember is what type of followers are you attracting and do you know anything about them.

Entrepreneurial friend of mine always says “what are 20 things describe your ideal prospect” by the time you get to number 13 you will uncover some interesting things!

So the next time you either are adding a friend or adding a contact ask yourself few questions regarding the value of a them following you and also the interest of them learning more about you.
Remember Get Connected Make Wealth Happen” You only have one chance to make a 1st
Impression








How do you communicate daily?

Communication Language in the 21st Century has change below is great story.

During the past year have been speaking on “Networking your way Success” and have lots great personal stories to share during my talks to bring to focus the power of networking.

Due to encourage from some friends who were interested in reading about the 3 T’s joke here goes a brief summary.

I ask the participants “How many people like the talk put there hands up?”. At this point this is the second time I have asked this question and usually have a few more hands up (wait this not the punch line).

Then I ask “How many people like to type put there hands up?”. Usually get a few hands up at this point.

And finally ask “How many people like to text put there hands up?” At to my surprise usually get lots of hands. So I share my story on how I learned how to text.

Late last year I got a new phone and the salesperson mention that I can make 250 free texts a month. I explained that I had not even sent one text the whole. He looked at me a little perplexed and said “Well you got to learn”.

Off I went with my new phone and didn’t think anything of it. Had played around with the texting feature but didn’t get to much involved with it, until I got to New Years Eve when I got 5 texts in one night! And all I could respond was saying OK and TY. Which was very embarrassing to say the least?

So I went to friend and said to her “Can you show me how to text ?”
She said “Jim, I have a question”(oh oh I said this is going to hurt)
I said “Sure”
She said “ Where have you been?”
I said “Earth”
She said “How long”
I said “38 years”
She said “ You have issues, figure it out on your own” ( this is where everyone laughs usually)

It became apparent that I had to learn on my own. I did ask some other friends who with some minor twisting of arms gave some pointers.

Within time I began to get the handle of it and began to send out some few test texts to friends and was getting used to it and time passed on.
The real lesson came when I began have conversation with people via phone and they would say to me “just text me?” and I was very surprised because I was speaking to them anyways why text!

Going through this 3 T’s example made me realize how important communication language is in the 21st century with technology moving a lighting speed via Iphones, Blackberries and other mobile technologies coming out. People were on the move and didn’t have time to talk or type and plenty of time to text each other.
As an entrepreneur it became very apparent to me as the days and months past in purchasing my new phone, I can stumbled upon a fade that for many would consider normal but for others it was opportunity to learn how to better communicate with you customer and clients moving forward.

Currently have a gym partner that I workout with couple days a week and the main way we communicate is by texting and sometime via email. We hardly talk anymore. It has been an unusual experience but an effective lesson on communication language.
As you create new relationships and or even improve current ones. Be aware how you friends, entrepreneurs and family and talking to you and how you can be more effective and efficient in your daily tasks.
















Power of Networking it does Happen!
In a recent talk at Happen in Burlington shared a story on the how I assisted and participant at one of my speaking engagements get a job!

It was the last week of October 2009 and I has speaking for Happen in Toronto (www.happen.ca) organization that "Linking people and Opportunities". Was speaking on the "Networking your way to Careers Success" to group of executives and entrepreneurs which had accepted my invitation.

Shared the concept of the P-A-R system and simple process in getting connected and make it happen in creating result in your executive job hunt. Participants were having a great time and shared some great stories of success.

Many time at the end of my speaking many participants come to the front and and share some one one one time with me. Jeff Conn had a great listening ear that day, because he heard that worked in the trucking industry(FedEx Freight Canada). He handed me his card which said Transportation Professional Expert in: Third Party logistics, Dispatch, and Transportation Operations. Included his phone numbers and email contact and last but not least his Linkedin portfolio address.

Two months passed and Operations position had come up, so I called Jeff and told him to send me his resume and I will forward it to Human Resources. Later in the day relayed the information that it was complete with HR's contact information. He followed-up few days later answer any question they may have.

Week later noticed Jeff being interviewed and was pleasantly surprised to him their. His interviewed had finished and connected with Jeff on his way and stated that it went well and they were already talking about salary expectations. Within the next 48hrs he was hired!

Below is an excerpt of testimonial Jeff had written to Happen.

"Christmas has came early as I have landed a position FedEx Freight Canada team as a Operations Manager, Handling and working on their current transportation supply links through their Canadian operations. My start date commences Jan 4th so I am bringing in 2010 with a bang!

I want to thank you all for your assistance and guidance during this past while. Although my transition was not as long as others, I do know persistence and determination will land each of you in your next dream position.

I want to thank Jim, Robin, John and Greg for all your help and bringing a wide variety of key topics and speakers to the group. It greatly aided me in my search and instilled some new tactics to use during my career search.

This opportunity did come through the Happen Group and I want to thank Jim Pagiamtzis (a Happen Topic presenter)for putting me in front of all the key contacts at FedEx without your assistance I know I would not have found this opportunity (It was a truly a hidden opportunity)"
Jeff had done a number of things correctly from engaging and speaking to me after the presentation. Following up with Human Resources



















Power of Social Networking and Ingenuity!
Earlier this year had a great experience working with referral I got regarding the aspects of what I teach on “Networking your way to Success”

Jay Rosales had a background in Sale and Marketing and was currently looking for employment.(I had got referral from his Dad!) During our first conversation learned about his background and what he was looking for. Shared with him my experience regarding networking the power of social networking and dealing and utilized some different ideas to him the "edge" he need in his job hunt.

I was due to speak in few days and had invited him to attend the event and hear my talk on “Networking your way to Success” at Job Fair called Career Door Inc. (needed someone to record my speech anyways!) They had complimentary seminars as part of a value added service to the participants.

Had asked Jay to complete couple of assignments prior to attend the event

1st Start a blog www.jayrosales.blogspot.com & www.jayrosales.wordpress.com

2nd Create business cards.

On the day of the event there was excitement in the air. The room was very large and organizers were expecting a big turnout. Jay had agreed to attend the morning session where had the opportunity to meet Max Haroon Founder of Society of Internet Professionals and one my mentors.

It was a packed room with 100 attendees waiting to hear my talk. I was first up of the four speakers for the day. Become a public speaker has been an exciting journey that I have started and has open many great doors of opportunity.

During the presentation mentioned Jay Rosales story he had shared with me just prior day prior.

Jay had attended had attended a Job Fair week prior. He wanted to be different so he purchased 4 Tim Horton’s Gift Cards, great low cost marketing idea. People he connected with he gave the gift card. What did that create? He was different and created add value with the intent of being remembered and therefore created a strong interested for a follow-up.(which indeed happened)

Due to his background and our conversations he created a great idea, which he use with his ingenuity and unique ability in motion. I call this example as “having the edge”

Being different amongst all those attendees was what separated him from everyone else. (By the way he did get some follow up calls due to the gift cards.

He also used Facebook in a great way to some research with some interviewer to better create and stronger and engaging conversation.At one interview the young lady had complained about her feet being sorry and Jay made the comment about soccer and he immediately laughed and became more comfortable as the interview progressed.

Follow up calls are always encouraged whenever possible. You want to create ongoing communication and get answer to specific job that you interested. Think outside the box and give your self the opportunity to share your talents and experience with you potentials. Thank you note or email or appreciate phone call with a pleasant message.

In the months that followed Jay Rosales did find employment in the marketing field due to his persistence and commitment to never give up in his journey. Below is excerpt of testimonial that he has sent thanking me for the conversations we had.

"I also received some valuable lesson from Jim Pagiamtzis. he taught me the importance of blogging, to showcase the skills I've gained over my career that could help others in improving theirs. Jim also introduced me to the value of networking, I relay that same importance to anyone I know that unemployed. He would make ideal Mentor because he is willing to help you become successful, at work and in life"

















Volunteer to Success

First article that appeared on Empower.ca

Small startups and SOHO business have one big issue, which is common to all businesses, how to promote their business (or their products and services). Obvious solution is marketing and advertisement but you need some budget. So you become a walking advertisement of your business, and networking is the best way to go about it. Again there are many ways but volunteering is a multifaceted method of networking combined with personal development.
“Get ConnectedMake It Happen” that’s what Volunteering is all about if you ask Jim Pagiamtzis, “ you may want to check the dictionary to get another answer” he says.
Extremely proud of his greek heritage Jim decided that he wanted to do more and connect with Greek Community in Toronto. “you mention Greek here in Toronto and everyone mentions the Danforth and the awesome food.” which is great.
He did some research via Internet and talk to few friends who did work in the Greek community and very quickly he found a few organizations which were a great fit. He quickly realized that there was a lot that could be done, during the next few years he participated and promoted many events from greek singles events, wine tasting tour, attended various board meetings dealing with greek issues facing the community and made many personal and business friends along the way.
After that the connection was made and Jim had put together his own website (www.payamgis.com) where he put up links to various Greek organizations and other groups that may been of interest.
“ Looking back I learned so much about many things from business to personal growth, that has help me today to empower others just do a little and experience the difference.
Currently still doing some volunteering in the internet community with the Society of Internet Professionals (www.sipgroup.org) Over the past few years he participated in various events from Symposiums to Trade shows and Conferences.
Below are a couple of benefits that Jim has got from the various shows he has participated in.
1. Networking- being in the environment where you are dealing with different people from show organizers, support staff and fellow volunteers, you have the opportunity to network and build valuable relationships at all levels
2. Skills- developing and practicing effective presentation skills when working in the SIP booth from how to use brochures or explaining various programs and events.
3. Attitude- have a positive and learning attitude to be an effective volunteer in all aspects of participating in various events and activities
Currently Jim still participates in assisting and participating in Trades Shows and Conferences with the confidence and attitude that he shows and tells new volunteers through example that you can volunteer and be successful at it with the key reminder “Get ConnetedMake it Happen”






















Applying effective trade show techniques.That Work!
At events, visitors’ minds are more open to product evaluation and the purchasing of products/services than any other time of the year. Every volunteer should know how to build a quick rapport with the visitor at the booth. Be a professional and dress the part. Don’t eat, drink or read the newspaper in the booth; Go out of the booth if you need to make a phone call.

Promoting from the booth at a trade show event can be made more efficient if our volunteers understand and practice the “three S” of booth staffing:

1. Stop them

2. Speak to them, list and qualify

3. Close and Sell them


1. Stop them. In the confines of a show booth, you have limited time to greet visitors and introduce them to the features and benefits our programs or service. Your first contact with a visitor is often made through a simple, yet effective, greeting and smile. Visitor should be welcomed by name (usually have a badge) give a firm handshake and sincere smile. To start the conversation, our volunteers should be polite, friendly, professional and respectful. Try some of these openers:


“Let me show you some of the programs we offer.”

“We have initiatives that you may find of interesting.”

“Have you heard of _______?” If they answer NO, then tell them, “we have not done a good marketing job! “we will be celebrating our____ Anniversarynext year)

“Are you involved with the Internet?”

“Hello_______, what do you do for a living?”


2. Speak to them, listen and qualify: After you have secured the visitor’s attention, engage them in conversation. Raise open-ended questions that require more the “yes” or “no” response. Inquire about the attendee’s networking and association interest and the kinds of programs they would like to attend. Ask about their organizations or own need for professional designation. Listen carefully to their answers while at the same time developing a strategy to invite them.

At this point direct them to what you are promoting and set them for the close.


3. Close and Sell them: Sit them down (if chairs are available) if not get them to a table where they can have the room to write. Share the information and paperwork and assist them with any additional questions.


In closing get them to drop of their business card for one the prizes available for attending the booth.


Through repeating this process in systematic way, you will created momentum and experience to effective apply and achieve great results applying effective trade show Techniques. That Work!


Have fun and enjoy your marketing experience!



















Communication
“The Exchange of Information, Ideas or Feelings”

It is apparent from the dictionary meaning that Communication is, not only a vital aspect of day-to-day living, but equally important in business.

Everyone has access to the tools of communication, which for obvious reasons are more prevalent in the work place.

Telephones, computers, faxes, intercoms, newsletters, mail, memos, correspondence and talking are some of these tools. Without communication, we couldn’t exist and certainly business would abruptly stop.

Part of the success of any business relies on and is proportionate to the proper use of the tools of communication. We should never forget that a communication breakdown would be potentially disastrous to a business.

The etiquette of communication in business is also important factor to its success. The exchange of information between customers and your business is important to paramount proportions.

Communication executed well and with a personal and professional etiquette excludes confidence and a caring feeling toward a customer who will feel a trust with whom they are in contact with.

If every employee understood accessed and recalled the information available from every department, customers would almost only ever have to call your business and talk to any one person to feel confident that they made the right choice in calling your business, as all their needs could be met through a single call. Because this is not easily attainable, we must be aware that we can still gain a customers confidence by always being helpful, courteous, happy and willing to call them back with the required follow-up.

The etiquette comes in with a pleasant, self-confident exchange of information and always, always to what you say. In other words, it is imperative to call a customer back when you say you will, even if you do not have the information they are expecting.

Receiving a call form someone who has promised to call you back, lets you know they care and have not forgotten you. Conversely, not getting a call leaves you to wonder if you have been forgotten about or worse, that the person just didn’t care. You then become uncertain if you have been inconvenienced enough to call them back. If you don’t care that much, why bother.

The experience of calling someone back when you have promised, even though you do not have the information they required, oddly enough, has always been a pleasant experience. You automatically gain a confidence that wasn’t necessarily there when the customer first called and you haven’t even done anything for them except show you have respect for them because you genuinely care that their requests are answered.

It should never be forgotten or taken for granted that communication between departments is also essential for the well being of business.

The more we all know about our company, the easier it is to gain confidence from any customer who is communicating with us and that information exchanges and communication etiquette will instill a confident and caring feeling upon our customers.






















Relationships important key to success

Get Connected-Make Wealth Happen
Putting your connections to use and make it happen is what separates you and rest of the entrepreneurs. Great network to get connected is Enterprise Toronto (www.enterprisetoronto.com) meetings are held throughout the Ontario region & www.bizlaunch.ca Hold seminars throughout Canada for entrepreneur either starting a business or already in business.
Enterprise Toronto Enterprise is an innovative public and private sector alliance created to provide one-stop sourcing of services and programs tailored to meet the needs of the Toronto's Entrepreneurs and small businesses. Enterprise Toronto can help you make good decisions during your business start-up and develop your management capabilities as your business venture grows. Enterprise Toronto is managed by the City of Toronto Economic Development Office which offers services and programs in the areas of Small Business and Local Partnerships, Business Development and Retention, Investment Marketing, Economic Research and Business Information
There are many more organizations out there who provide great information. Ask you network to refer you groups they may and you will pleasantly surprised they know of many to recommend.
During the past two years have spoken to audiences in the I.T community to entrepreneurs and resource centers. In my presentation I always list numerous resources from books to online and offline material. Sometime even bring supply of books and printed material to share with audience part of the value added presentation. These referrals are part of the personal relationship I have with the individual, the organization or initiative. Giving this information doesn’t increase my income, it does increase my self-esteem, knowing that I am giving away- at no cost-valuable referrals.
How then does this word-of-mouth referral system work form me? It’s simple. Everyone on the list knows that they are being introduced to people they would never meet. They know they are accountable for their actions and that relationship they have with me is reciprocal.
I have a phrase its “Get Connected- Make It Happen” part of the strategy is you first have to connect with your who you meeting. Get to know them and what they are about. Over time you build the relationship and if there is value or service to exchange you can make it happen. During the past year have met and partnered up with many entrepreneurs to promote events, books and or promote specific services either via mail or newsletter format.
Have received gift form cards to words of praise with has been very humbling and satisfying due the fact we collaborated and made it happen. Have built a long-term relationships with Max Haroon from the Society of Internet Professionals (www.sipgroup.org) have had the opportunity to learn from and work with Max on various projects and causes that has given me the arena to learn and grow. Evolving as a leader of entrepreneurs and be the example to others that they can learn from your journey.
Challenge yourself and go out and network at various events and meet the future leaders and achievers and realize your resources from buiness cards and contacts you make on your entrepreneurial journey will affect you and the others around you.
Get out and Get Connected-Make Weatlh Happen


Are you Dressed for Success?

One of the most fundamental things that every entrepreneur should know and realize is the most famous saying " You only have one chance to make a first impression" so you better make it great one. In getting connected with various people through out your day its very important to just speaking with professionalism but show that you professional business entrepreneur.
"First Impression is a lasting impression"
Let's face the reality in networking world. Appearance and personal conduct do matter. Whether we agree or not , judgments are made continually about us based largely on our appearance, on the way we look. Our credibility is based on our appearance and on our professional conduct. Those who want to succeed in business, life and success take the time to look their best and act appropriately for any given occasion.
No matter what background, anyone can learn to look great and conduct themselves in a professional way. Entrepreneur must realize that details do matter. As professionals in our industry we must strive to take that time to get the best assistance to look our best in anything we do.
In getting new suit its important to make sure you go to qualified professional to assist in your needs.(recommend resource at the end). Professional clothiers know that such level of care is reflected in your personal appearance and in your mannerisms will attract positive and as well foster confidence. As you pay more attention to details you'll find that such skill is highly valued.
Wearing shoes that are shined will you give you the appearance of a go-getter or a great fitting neck tie will look more serious, research studies show there is high correlation between appearance and perception of professional abilities, your first impression is a lasting impression that you want making your best impression!.















How Do You Market and Promote "You" ?




You can’t market yourself 24 hours-a-day, 7 days week, there are tools that can effectively do it for you. Success is directly related to how you are perceived, which is related to your exposure in the market-place. Better credibility will bring more visibility therefore there must a specific intent of how you use online (internet) & offline (contacts) to promote your talent and experience.
Internet
For the past few years social networking websites have exploded as the new medium to promote you either personally or professionally. LinkedIn & Facebook can both be used in effective ways to promote your skills and abilities and business. A few months ago I received an email from a contact I had met at a networking event stating the features of Facebook and the benefits of being connected with him through stories and testimonials. He made an effective presentation. During the next three months I found school mates, received referrals and information on various events.
Increasing your visibility is recommended by many entrepreneurs and coaches. Research, locate and meet potential people that could assist in your employment search or expanding social circle with various authors, speakers and community leaders.
Blogging
Create your own blog; it’s simple and free. Once you register, you get your own URL, which is like your own website. This can be used to write self-promotional articles about you. Or write a brief article on a hobby or activity you enjoy. This is a powerful and effective way to expose your talents and experiences in various fields.
Business Networking
There are numerous symposiums and seminars held throughout the Greater Toronto Region on a weekly basis. The importance of attending and participating is critical in accessing unadvertised jobs referred to as the “hidden market.”
Businesses know the significance of “Word of Mouth” as the best marketing method, so why not apply it to YOU. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for either a job or more business and tell them what your skills & strengths are.
Having your own business cards and a 30 second elevator pitch are critical to being prepared in talking to potential employers or business clients. While attending an event last year I picked up one business card which resulted in contributing to three online articles. This led to more visibility and to a talk that I was asked to do at an IT Job Fair in Toronto.
Follow-up with new contacts
As you collect business cards, the next step is to create a computer database of contacts you have made. You can use outlook or contact management systems (ACT) to update and maintain information.
Follow-up by sending a letter, email or phone your contacts on a monthly basis. Keep them updated on your search by sending a mini-bio of your achievements and experience. If you do receive a referral, make sure you send a thank you card, email or phone in appreciation.
Action will lead to progress, leading to rewarding results. “Get Connected, Make Wealth Happen!”
















Get involved in blogging and Make IT Happen!


Blogging is easy plus it’s effective in getting yourself noticed. Get you connected the potential customer or clients in your particular area of expertise.
Sending a comment about someone else’s blog posting is quick and easy. If you comment enough, other readers will recognize you as someone who is an active participant and an expert in your field. Lots of entrepreneurs have had their comments posted on blogs. Usually the comment is in reference to a posting that either they have read or great article that has beeen written. The best comments add something to the discussion and go beyond just agreeing or disagreeing with the original post.
Leaving a comment is not a bad way to start blogging but doesn’t create the kind of acknowledgement that running your own blog can do.
Setting up a blog is easy. Just go to anyone of the various blogging sites ( use www.blogger.com) and register your blog name. Registration is free. Just follow the instructions on how to setup your personal blog.
Once you’ve got your blog running, the next step is to add content on at least a weekly or, better still, a daily basis. If you want a blog that will attract readers then your blog postings have to be of interest to those folks. All of us have work and life experience that we can share in our blogs.
Posting to your own blog is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in your field of work. Your loyal readers will subscribe to your blog (via an RSS feed which is best explained by Googling the term RSS) and your future employer may notice you. At the very least you can refer employers to your blog to see what sort of person you are.
And, unlike static websites that just sit there, because you add content to your blogsite the web search engines will keep your rating high on places like Google. This is a very good thing. Most people searching on Google look no further than the first couple of pages of listings. If your blog is listed on those pages more people will be inclined to visit.
After you’ve got your blog up and you’re posting daily then it’s time to start visiting other blogs written on similar subjects and leaving comments that include your blog address. Adding links to other blogs on your blog’s main page will encourage other bloggers to reciprocate. Now it’s time to get a Twitter account so you can encourage all your followers to visit your blogsite to read your new post.




Are you creating Value?
In these economic times they best way to attract and retain new clients is by creating value for you new customers and friends. From giving out Guest passes to the local gym to inviting them to local events of interest.
We are all connect these days via email, phone and social websites. Everyone celebrates a Birthday during the year and a quick phone call to say "Hello" is always appreciated.
As entrepreneurs we are growing and learning on a daily basis. We serve into the community and we expand our social circles on monthly and yearly basis. Remember that your potential client may not need your services now but maybe later they may.
There are lots a great books available today. Take the time to ask if your potential customer and clients enjoy reading and if they have interests in particular subject matter. Book on your bookshelf won't help anyone but in some hands they will.
Have seen more than a few lives change due loaning of book from 360 Degree Leader by John C. Maxwell to Secret of Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker
So remember when your going out networking and meeting new people are you creating value so that you can be expand your social circle or just shaking another hand and moving on.
Get ConnectedMake IT Happen! is predicated to the fact that we "connect" on a daily basis and its our choice if we want to "make things happen". No matter what we do and who we are, sharing wisdom and knowledge is the greatest gift we can give to create a better society.











Entrepreneurial Journey to Success

"The road less traveled is where the experiences and talents are learned and then applied in your everday life"

As you walked the hallways and heard different teachers you have learned essential information that you will apply in your working life. As you become more experience in a particular field, there are three important components to apply and do in your continued educational career.

Put yourself in the position to listen to great speakers

Various organizations in Toronto have symposiums and seminars throughout the year (www. enterprisetoronto.com, bizlauncha.ca) topics on business and roundtable discussions are held by professionals in various fields. Be proactive, make notes and engage speakers with questions and feedback. This is the arena where relevant information is shared and discussed. Learning great stories of success and from others experience on their journey of success.

In the last few years have heard Jack Welch, T Harv Eker, Alvin Law, Robert T. Kiyosaki dynamic speakers from different industries talking about business, life and success and how they achieved there success ahd they dealt with their failures, through teaching and training I contstantly apply and teach their principles.

"Learn, Do and Apply" Blair Singer


Read Biographies on people of success

Learn from great leaders from the past (Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy) and from the present (Donald Trump, Oprah Winfrey) they all have had experience where they began there success and how they keep moving forward to bigger and better business ventures.
Many of the leaders have had similar experience and you will learn how they dealt with them and what they learned as they went through it at the time.

During the past couple of years I have read biographies from Living the Good Life (David Patchell-Evans fouder of Good Life Fitness Clubs) Gretzky (Gretzky & Taylor), Business as Unusual (Anita Roddick, Founder of Body Shop)

"Leaders are Readers" attributed to many

Associate with people of success

As you go out and meet entrepreneur and business leaders you begin to grow your own network of professionals in different industries. Many may become lifelong friends and some may become partners in business ventures and others will be mentors and leaders that you will aspire to learn and become as successful as they have been.


Early in my networking career I met an internet t pioneer who had successful not-for-profit organization, quickly realized his experience and knowledge and began in participating in symposiums and seminars as a volunteer as months and years went by did marketing and promoting which included some digital photography. Have spoken on Mentorship and teaching other volunteers and professionals about the learning experience it was to participating in organization in the community.

"Your are who you associate with" attributed to many

Get Connectd with various entrepreneurs and leaders in your community and enjoy the journey of success where you can Make Wealth Happen!
















Top 15 books from Jim Pagiamtzis Vault of Success
Below are books the have inspired and provided great lessons. Some are available only online and few through me. Email if you have any question, comments or testimonials regarding this book and how they have tought you howt improve in your business,life and success.


1. Persistence Pays by Lori Raudnask
2. Think and Grow Rich by Napolien Hill
3. 360 Degree Leader by John C. Maxwell
4. Cash flow Quadrant by Robert T. Kiyosaki
5. A Passion for Excellence by Tom Peter and Nancy Austin
6. E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber
7. How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie
8. You’ve got Style Robert a. Rohm Ph.d and Julie Anne Cross
9. Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz, Ph.d
10. You Inc. By Burke Hedges
11. Launching Leadership Revolution by Orrin Woodward and Chris Brady
12. How can I get myself to do what I need to do? Terry Gogna
13. The Saint, Surfer and the CEO by Robin Sharma
14. Dreaming Big by Bobb Biehl & Paul Swets
15. One Door, Two Locks by Dr.Jim Muncy













Mouth Magic!
It’s not what you say it’s the music that you play
How many times have you practiced you infomercial and believe that it will be effective when you use it for the first time. In most cases it won’t due the fact you may have buzzword and language that may not relate with your potential audience which does not create the engage you want. There is a solution to this  its called Magic!
 professional networker have quickly really realized its all about three things action, repetition and changes which leads to created momentum of engaging and get qualified leads which lead to results
You networking pitch is important, it’s the way you deliver and articulate it is the where the magic happens.
There are business owner who have their own businesses utilizing proven business system that creating habits in the long-term success.
Use the language they understand and can relate with

Ask engage questions

Tell a story


Are they leaning toward you?
Are they present in the conversation?
Are you great marketing hook to engage in a meaningful conversation?





In my journey of networking I realized early on the what I said when I met entrepreneurs and professional at various effects had a huge effect on the possibilities of having  future conversation with them.























Networking led to Mastermind
Two years ago attended an event in Toronto called “Life of Entrepreneurs” which was put together by Max Haroon of Society of Internet Professionals. It was very special evening feature speaker Phil Taylor and two other speakers.
He gave a memorable beginning on dream sequence on the Toronto Maple Leafs winning the Stanley Cup! ( The room got really loud very quickly) This got the crowd buzzing with anticipation.
Phil Taylor shared his heart and soul about Business, life and Success using examples from Think and Grow Rich (Napoleon Hill).
Year later reconnected with Phil Taylor at Enterprise Toronto and was excited in learning that he book has been released call “Set yourself on Fire”. He also was part of Toastmaster Int’l and had been speaking all around the world on topics in his book.
We had some subsequent meeting and participated in business and political endeavours in the upcoming months.
He has also talk about an organization he was building called Goal Achievers International which was for entrepreneur and professionals seeking success in the long-term. He has outline and process created and has formed local teams.
Having read Napolean Hill and many authors who were had stated the mastermind teams are the key to success in any business.
In February 2011 I joined the Goal Achievers Speakers Development Group in Toronto, through Phil Taylors encouragement and belief that I could contribute my knowledge and experience in this endeavour. 
Was introduced to a team of successful authors, speaker and entrepreneurs who all want to use the power of mastermind to enhance their careers.
What started of as opportunity to listen to an amazing talk let to the connection






How to create elevator pitch that works!

I have said many times  speaking on Networking your way to Success that you have to be “prepared for the opportunity”, have a prepared statement on what you do and how you provide results  to your specific target market is the most import tool you need.
There has been many occasions from attending social event, basketball game to even being in an elevator! , where I had less than 30 seconds to make a statement, key thing to remember is you need to have at least three prepared statements to use  in different situations that you may be in.
In order to put together an effective and efficient elevator pitch there are two things you have to know (considering perspective of the listener):
1st What’s in it for me?
2nd Why should I care?
You need to have a catch statement   that will create interest for your potential customer to ask questions for more information which will lead to asking for your business card.
You have to explain what you do and put an actions statement attached to it, to gain interest.
                       “I’m Jim, and I’m a writer who compels people to take action”
 The statement contains name, position and call to action statement. This is the simplest template to follow that can be used to explain anything you do.
Speaking to professionals who are in transition or who starting a new business the process I have shared is that your are brand that adds value for them.
When you get into the momentum of doing it every day and speaking it effortlessly, it will roll of your tongue at easy as have a drink of water.
We talk about various topics everyday from the weather to latest news become an effective communicator is having a strong and controlled conversation that will yield in a result in a new contact or even a referral.
Go out and Get Connected and Make Wealth  happen!
Now you have collapsed your pitch in 30 seconds, prepare various alternatives, 15 seconds, 60 seconds, 90 seconds and 120 seconds.

Spotlight  Series

Presented
 Jim Pagiamtzis
www.getconnectedmakewealthhappen.com


Going on getting connected with various entrepreneurs have been inspired by their stories and success. These are feature of entrepreneur that I have met in my travel in Toronto. 
There are powerful ideas and stories shared through Question posed regarding their success in the industry and how it can impact your Business, Life and Success.



















Spotlight: Natalia Kantor
I have had the opportunity to share the stage with many great entrepreneurs this year, with various unique abilities. Natalia Kantor really did share the "Get Connected Make it Happen" moment at Initiative TO on November 17. She began with a brief introduction and then came to the crowd to learn more about us and allow us to "choose" one of her cards. I said "she doesn't waste time connecting". after that we were treated to great talk on her Road less traveled of being on entrepreneur

1. What is your definition of an entrepreneur?

Natalia Kantor answer:
Entrepreneurship: "It's not about reducing the world to what it is but rather seeing what it can become!"
Entrepreneurship is a gateway to reinventing business, reinventing culture, reinventing yourself and reinventing the world. Entrepreneurship is about innovation. And innovation can only happen with 'out of the box' thinking! Entrepreneurship is about making and breaking your own rules, testing the grounds and redefining what is possible! Entrepreneurship is about creating and not only filling the demand.

2. You have traveled and seen many parts of the world. What part of the word has made the most impact for you?


I have traveled to many, many places and they all have made a big impact on me. Each place teaches you something different.
In my opinion, travel in general is the greatest teacher because when you travel, you become more receptive. New surroundings sharpen your mind.

Natalia Kantor
Biography

For the longest time I tried to define who I am as an individual and as a professional. I graduated from Ryerson University in 2006 with a new media degree. Initially I worked as a graphic and web designer. Then I moved up to working as a creative director. Later I fell in love with video as a format and worked as a production manager for an online magazine. I found that if you don’t know yourself, someone else is always more than happy to define your role for you. I found it harder and harder trying to fit myself into a box of someone’s design. I made a decision to take some time off and define who I was for myself. I traveled to such places as Burningman and the southern United States, England, Scotland, Ireland, Spain and Australia. Today I can say that I am an entrepreneur. I describe myself as a multi-platform creative producer. Multi-platform because I produce multimedia, web, print, photo and video work for a range of online and offline media platforms. I am the director and founder of We Are Communications, a creative agency focused on integrating creative direction, communication, innovation and entrepreneurship with Web 2.0 applications and social media. I am also a founder of women's network called Co-Inspirers, focused on creative self-development. Currently, I am incubating Roads Less Traveled, a multi-platform host-driven travel series, an online community and an annual conference focused on alternative living and I love what I do.


ROADS LESS TRAVELED.TV
“Imagine the alternative, a different way of life”

FAN PAGE: www.facebook.com/roadslesstravaled
TRAILER: http://vimeo.com/13742301













Spotlight: Marc Gordon
Recently had spoken at Initiative TO on "How to attract a Mentor in Business, Life and Success" throughout the day there were speaker who I had shared the stage. Marc Gordon had a presentation that was funny and engaging.

1st. Many of the business you had started were prior to social media of today. You made it work through work ethic and commitment. With the explosion of online videos do you think businesses can still connect with consumer online effectively and create long-term business

Marc Gordon response:
I believe that "connecting" with a client, or market, is done on a level that goes far beyond social media, videos, email, or web sites. The fact is that consumers decide what to buy for so many reasons. And these reasons can change overnight. Something as simple as a celebrity endorsement, bad press, or school yard influences can render the most aggressive online campaigns ineffective. And while video and other types of web marketing tools can have some form of influence, at the end of the day the consumer will buy products for the same reason since mass consumption became a reality: because they fill a practical or emotional need.


2nd. What advise do you have for entrepreneurs looking for business opportunities going into 2011?

Marc Gordon response:
My advice to entrepreneurs would be to focus on the quality and innovation of the product and service first. Great marketing will not compensate for a lousy product. Also, do not get swept up in the belief that social media must be an essential part of a company's marketing program. I have seen many businesses lose business because they have allocated so many resources to keeping their twitter and Facebook accounts active, rather than focus on customer service and product development.

Marc Gordon

Tel: (416) 238-7811 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (416) 238-7811      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

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Learn more about me at marcgordon.ca

See how your business can grow at fourword.biz

Spotlight: Barb Sawyers
Networking in Toronto have had the opportunity to meet entrepreneur who have expertise in various areas of business, Life and Success.

Currently a friend has been editing two books that are based on my talks that I have been doing the past few years on “How to become a Networking Success” and “ How to attract a Mentor in Business, Life and Success”. She made a comment saying “ Jim, You right like you talk!” I said “What’s wrong with that!”

Below is a review on great book by Barb Sawyer called “You write like you talk only better” 3 steps to turn good talkers into great talkers.

The book is full of great template ideas and exercises to build your writing skills. Going to share briefly on 3 points that I found of interest.

1st When writing email or letter to someone put a picture of them in front of you.

Get Connected Make it Happen-response

This was brilliant idea that you can do with business cards, pictures this will create a stronger “connection” between you and the recipient

2nd The first 30 words should be clear and to the point

Get Connected Make it Happen –response

You see this everyday in newspaper and magazine. First paragraph has just enough information to get you interested in reading the entire articles

3rd First impression count most

Get Connected Make it Happen-response

In the world of networking we go out shake hands with people everyday, online we do the same but we use our words as our way to connect and generate interest in our writing.

Barb Sawyers helps good talkers become great writers so they can connect with more people.

She shows people how to write like they talk, only better, through her book, training, speaking and blog at http://www.stickycommunication.ca. She also writes for clients, transforming a telephone conversation into written words.

Barb sharpened this skill through more than 25 years writing for a wide range of organizations, her master’s degree in journalism and her active involvement with the International Association of Business Communicators.

Spotlight: Tibor Shanto

During the year have had the opportunity to meet Tibor Shanto through the SOHO events held in Toronto. Few months ago he shared insights on his book Shift "Turning prospects into Customers" at the Toronto Action Summit held by Andrew Skelly.

Recently read the book and found to be very impressive and went through a number of great illustrations that every entrepreneur should follow no matter in dealing with B2B or B2C.

1st Shift is always happening where we realize it or not. At the beginning he shares a powerful action for you do that illustrates shift and sets up the book for a powerful and learning base read.

2nd nChapter 4 talks about “Emotional Favorite and how important it is to create a powerful connection with your potential client and customer and specific insights in what to do to strengthen that business relationship.


3rd Chapter 5 is called “Trigger event Referrals” this is the lifeblood of any business. There are specific types of referrals that are explained and how they have an impact on how they promote you and what you do. Simple and easy to remember applications to give new energy to a great resource.

The book is great example of the Get Connected Make it Happen in action from a step by step point of view.


Tibor Shanto had leveraged 20 years working in various sectors and provided perspective how this information can be used to, shorten sales cycles, increase close rations, create double digit growth. Known as “brilliant sales tactician” Tibor show organizations how to execute their strategy by using the right information to created the perfect combination of what are the tactics to apply and when.








Spotlight: Hirantha Nandasena
Success in Toronto
Get Connected Make it Happen Special Edition

Few months ago I watched an internet radio station and heard a great story of an entrepreneur who has had great networking success in Toronto!
We got connected recently and had an interview regarding his upcoming book being released in early 2011.

1. What inspired you to write the book?

When I migrated to Toronto in 2000 and even when I started writing this book in 2008, I could not find a book on this topic. Every month I came across or heard about one or more new immigrants struggling so I thought I should help them out by writing this very practical book and help them succeed here just like I did. They don’t have to struggle if they know what to do, how to get things done and they can live a great life in Toronto and be proud to be Canadian. Instead of blaming the immigration system, I thought I should try to find solutions and implement them. This book is one solution and I have more solutions that I am planning to implement in the future. Now that I have completed the book, my goal is to let each and every new immigrant to Toronto ( Greater Toronto Area ) know about this book.

2.What do you want people to learn from the book?

The book is very practical and gives solutions to real life problems new immigrants face. As you can see in the detailed table of contents at www.successintoronto.com/table-of-contents , it has a lot of information about many aspects of life. Main principles, What to do in the first 2 weeks, how to find a great job, good things about Canada, finding a place to live, travelling, buying a car, handling the winter, assistance etc. are just some of the topics covered. I would like them to follow the principles I have mentioned in chapter 1 and to take advantage of the valuable information in the other chapters. I would like them to learn how to succeed here in Toronto.

3. There is many book on success written, what makes your different?

I am poised for semi-retirement in 2011 at the age of 33 and the readers can achieve great results by following the principles I have mentioned in the first chapter of the book and by having access to a lot of valuable information that could save them money, make them more efficient and effective etc. This book is very practical and focuses on Toronto ( GTA ) making it more relevant to them. Just as an example, I even explained what the TTC is and how to use it. It would also be a great gift for a new immigrant.

Check out www.successintoronto.com for more details on what the book covers

Stay tuned for more information regarding Success in Toronto in the near future

Spotlight :Joe Collins
In my speaking on "How to become a networking success" have come across many participants who have pArticipates in what I call " open line communication" where I communicate once a week with individuals who seek either some light accountability or guidance on their success.

Joe Collins has done just that and accellerated his own development in a few short months he proved to that he had the commitment and integrity to meet with with to strategize and do some role playing.

He also came out and volunteered at tradeshow where spoke at and did an excellent in communicating and sharing relative information at the booth

The most proud moment happened at an event where i had been asked to speak to Toastmasters group on talk that I did on arties that had been published in a college magazine.

Near the end of the event they had part where you selected a folded piece of paper and to a short talk on the topic.

As you may have heard number one fear by everyone is public speaking, on this day Joe Collins stepped up a delivered a very funny and memorable talk on "his first crush". He had the crowd engaged and interested.

He continues to learn and grow and is able to take on challenges with the ability to find the solution!

Way to go Mr. Joe Collins






Spotlight: Phil Taylor
In recent years I have met many great entrepreneurs who share their
passion with others. Phil Taylor stands out who gives it out
unconditionally for the success in other. His recent book Set Yourself on
Fire! How to ignite your passions and live the life you love!

Phil has some great insights on Business, Life and Success that have
inspired many to be the best they can be and his book have great ideas how
to pursue your passions

Question 1
Many entrepreneurs set goals they want to achieve in the new year. What
are your suggestion on how to achieve them?


At Goal Achievers International we have a simple, yet powerful and proven 7 Step formula that we use as we pursue our goals. The steps are as follows:
Write down your goal.

List the benefits of achieving this goal.

List existing obstacles to be overcome.

List the people, places, or things that can help make your goal a reality.

Identify any specialized knowledge or skills you need to acquire or reach your goal.

Write out a specific action plan to achieve your goal.

Write down the date the goal will be achieved.

In addition to this, perhaps the best advice I can give to entrepreneurs who are pursuing their goals in the New Year is, don’t try a do it alone. Success is a team sport! Get yourself into a personal success team, known to some , as a Mastermind, (we call it GoalAchievers)
In Chapter 8 entitled ‘From a Fire to a Bomb Fire’ of the book “Set You on Fire! How to Ignite Your Passions and Live the Life You Love!” You will learn in detail, how to harness the power of your own success team and read of its transforming effect.
In short, having your own success team will allow you to achieve more in less l time by working together in a spirit of cooperation and harmony. You will realize the awesome dynamic of this synergy, that indeed when this coalition is formed that the whole, comprising of the team, is truly and significantly greater than the sum of the individual parts. One can also find out more about this process by reading the Chapter on The Mastermind, in Napoleon Hill’s book Think and Grow Rich or visit www.goalachievers.org

Question 2
What is one of your favourite quotes and why?

One of my all time favorite quotes, that I absolutely love!..in fact so much so , that I have had it framed and had been hanging over my bed for years is by Henry David Thoreau , stating –
“If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with success unexpected in common hours.”
This quote speaks about the magnificent power of intention and how the law of attraction plays into it! I found this, through experience , to be so true! What we focus on expands and sooner or later as we harness the power of faith through a clearly defined action plan – it will and does manifest itself!


Phil Taylor is a multiple award winning speaker, trainer and internationally recognized authority on communications, sales, team performance, entrepreneurship and goal achievement and Author of an exciting new book entitled , Set Yourself on Fire! How to Ignite Your Passions and Live the Life You Love!”
In addition, Phil Taylor is founder of GoalAchievers International Inc., a global organization devoted to empowering individuals and organizations, through the harmonic and cooperative effort of others, to achieve extraordinary results in all areas of one’s personal and business life.
Having been a top sales performer, entrepreneur, founder and owner of numerous businesses over a period of two decades, Phil knows and understands first hand the various challenges and adversities that confront individuals as they pursue excellence in their given profession. Through his vast experience and specialized knowledge, Phil imparts his extensive insights through his colorful speeches, interactive programs, seminars and workshops, thus empowering individuals and organizations how to plan, design and achieve optimal results.
Phil Taylor can be reached at:
phil@goalachievers.org
Tel: 647-380-8757
Twitter: http://twitter.com/philtaylor
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001116366364
Linkedin:
http://ca.linkedin.com/in/speakingforsuccess















Spotlight: Carla Langhorst


Become part of the speaking circuit with Enterprise Toronto have had the
opportunity to share the stage with many entrepreneurs with knowledge in
expertise in various industries. Carla Langhorst is the author of Will it
Fly "the idea tester

1. Dragons Den has gain popularity last few years where entrepreneurs
pitch there business idea/There has been a wide variety of business
featured on the show. The show does give great insights on what
products may work. What would you do or say if one of your clients was
looking at pitching their idea on the show?

First, focus on sales. Every single company who has been successful on
the show has had a significant amount of sales. The true sign of a
successful business is that they are making money....from sales, not
investors.

Second, focus on developing a sales pipeline. You can't be satisfied
with what you currently have, otherwise you aren't showing a grow
potential. You should be able to project you growth rate in the next
12 months at a minimum.
Third, potential to penetrate new markets and build strategic
partnerships, this is your business development strategy. Make sure
that you have a plan of how you will continue to grow beyond the next
12 months.

The funny thing is, if a company does focus on sales and has a great
pipeline and a solid business development strategy, they don't really
need the dragons.
2. Where do you see social media marketing heading in the new year?

In 2011, you can no longer fake it to make it in social media. Social
media marketing will (finally) become more strategic. I think the
last 3 years showed all the different ways that social media can be
used to push business. However, instead of thinking about how to use
social media strategically, many companies just started using it. 2011
will be the change maker. Those who use it strategically will continue
to see results. Those who don't, will no longer see results. Also, all
social media platforms will no longer simply be used by everyone.
Consumers will have to pick which ones they continue to use as they
don't have enough time in the day to 'follow' them all, which will
segment the social media marketplace forcing companies to do the same.

www.theninesconsulting.com, Carla Langhorst at
cl@theninesconsulting.com
Spotlight: Christopher Van Der Hoff
Living the lifestyle of meeting great people wherever I go has connected me with some insanely great people(couldn't resist). Christopher va der hoff is that unique individual who can engage you in a great conversation but share ideas that canincrease you understand how the sales is an import area in your life no matter what you do.


1. How did you become an insanely great speaker?


I started early and did a tremendous of speaking with Junior Achievement locally and nationally. I made presentations, MC’d and keynoted. I was also President of and Chaired the Canadian National Junior Achievement Conference. All this is while being a high school student.


At thirty years of age and for three years I worked the Dale Carnegie Training organization. I help teach their course in Effective Speaking and Human Relations as well as conducted fifty workshops for them.


About ten years ago I became very heavily involved with Toastmaster International. With Toastmasters, I was asked to present a keynote, entitled "How To Deliver Magnificent, Powerful, High Impact Presentations", over forty times.


With Rotary International, Christopher was asked to present his keynote, entitled "Crazy ‘Magnificent Sales Ideas’® That Work ", over twenty times.


So it’s practice, practice, practice, practice,


2. Can you give us a quick tip to give insanely great customer service?


Cavitt Robert many years ago said it best the customer does not care how much you know about your product or service until they know how much you care about solving their problem


Christopher van der Hoff

Professional Sales Speaker, Trainer and Consultant


Spotlight: Patrick Bizindavyi
Living the Get Connected Make it Happen lifestyle have had the opportunity to meet successful entrepreneurs in various fields. Patrick Bizindavyi falls under the category of extraordinary entrepreneur



1. you played basketball for 15years what lesson did you learn that you applied in your entrepreneurial career?



My basketball years taught me that it is not over until the game is over. I also learned the value of self discipline and team work



2. There is saying 'it’s about the journey not the destination", in your blog you mention you have interesting journey. Who have you met lately that made on impact for you?



On my journey, I have met amazing people such as James Arthur Ray and Bob Proctor. They all have made an big impact on my life. However, even though I have never met him, Michael Jordan has made a huge impact on me by his determination and will to win no matter what. I learned a lot just by watching him play the game he loves.



Writer, coach and speaker, Patrick Bizindavyi was born in Burundi. While working as an English Professor in his native country, he attracted national attention by becoming the youngest basketball coach to win 15 trophies in 7 years. Bizindavyi went on to become a journalist. Host on radio Bonesha FM, his trademark show “Mercredi Tempo” had the highest rating from 1999 to 2002. After moving to Toronto in 2002, Bizindavyi has become one of the most recognized figures in the Francophone community: as a host on radio 105.4 CHOQ FM, the only francophone radio in the GTA, and also as Master of Ceremony for events during Black History - francophone version. For the last three years, Bizindavyi has been involved as a speaker in the United Way campaign in Toronto. His blog “Journeyman Stories” is due to be published in book form in the coming year.

www.journeymanstories.blogspot.com



Spotlight: Courtney Carroll
In the past few years have heard many entrepreneurs speaking on various financial programs. When I heard Courtney Carroll speaking at an Empowerment event it become very clear he understood financial planning. He has ability to share insights that make it clear to understand and easy to apply.



1st There are many books written on financial strategies, why do we still have an issue with millions of people doing so poorly in this area.

I believe we have been sold the wrong message by our governments and the media at large. People are being encouraged to live their lives for a pension rather than creating their lives by design. The majority of books on finance speak to the importance of paying yourself first and putting your money away in mutual funds for the long term. The habit of savings is indeed important and is one of the chapters in my upcoming book (Financial Fitness Blueprint) but to think that mutual funds will give you the security at the end of your retirement is a fallacy. Canadians need to understand that profits are better than wages. It is better to work 7-10 years developing your business rather than 30-40 years working for a pension. Until this concept is understood and embraced we will continue to see millions struggle financially around the globe.

2nd What insights or suggestions can you share for those looking to change their financial destiny?

To create a better financial picture for our future we must begin with the end in mind. We need to know what it is we want and then work backwards from there. In the educational field we call this backward planning. Here is an example of how to do it. Let’s say your goal is to create $10 000 dollars a month in passive cashflow. Establish how long you think it will take you to do so and which vehicle you will need to drive to get you to that goal. In this situation it could be the business of public speaking, a MLM business that has a residual income stream or my favorite real estate.

If my goal is to create $10 000 in passive cashflow in five years then I can begin my plan. Ten thousand dollars (my financial goal), divided by 5 (the number of years) equals $2000.00. Jim this means each year for 5 consecutive years I will need to buy real estate that returns $2000.00 a month in order to reach my goal.

The next step is to figure which markets to best leverage my money and how many homes I would need to purchase each year to get $2000.00 of cashflow. If each house averages $500.00 a month in cashflow then I would need to purchase four income properties each year. Therefore to get $10,000 dollars of passive income in 5 years I will need to purchase 20 homes.

Jim the formula for creating wealth is very simple. Those who know it and work it consistently will always reap the bounty of life’s rewards that are available to all who truly desire it. My book outlines the key steps or Financial Fitness Blueprint needed to successfully navigate the field of personal finance.



Courtney Carroll currently works as a Principal with the Toronto District School Board. As a successful administrator with the board of education he is passionate about empowering young adults to aim high and create their lives by design. Courtney has spoken to thousands of youth during his career about overcoming obstacles and the power of positive associations.

Courtney Carroll is a successful real estate investor who has worked in the field of finance for the past 6 years. His passion for finance was born from witnessing his family’s mismanagement of money and the bankruptcies that followed. He has taken the pain and embarrassment from his past to create a powerful message that helps others avoid the financial mistakes his family made. He is a regular speaker at ToastMasters International and has delivered keynotes and workshops on the topic of financial fitness to organizations in the GTA.

Courtney Carroll is currently in the process of completing his first book entitled “Financial Fitness Blueprint” to be published later this year. His speaking topics are on Financial Fitness, Life’s Lessons from the Field, 3 Keys for Success.

Courtney Carroll can be reached at ccfitone@hotmail.com or by phone at 416-347-0864
You can also visit his blog at http://www.courtneycarroll.com
























Spotlight: Jean-Guy Francoeur


Recently read the book called Messy Manager and its was enjoyable read that Jean-Guy took a complex problem of business management and created a easy to follow application to run a successful enterprise in any field.

1st       What was the inspiration to writing this current book?

The book is based on my decade+ of being an entrepreneur. I’ve never had a ‘job’ so I had to figure out the business world and I’ve had some phenomenal mentors along the way thus wanted to give back. Wanted to write a book that could become a tool belt for entrepreneurs whether young or old to have a track to run on instead of  jumping all over the place.



2nd     What  would you advise an entrepreneur or professional looking at writing a book?

Attend the Publish Your Way to Profits Weekend Workshop. It’s a $2000 investment that will save you $20.000+ time, money and mistakes. It’s not just that I teach the workshop but it’s the fact that you’re learning from a professional who has published over 250 books and generated over  $100 million using the very same principles  you’re trying to learn (ie: Gerry Robert). Don’t reinvent the wheel, just borrow a page from the playbook of professional who have demonstrated by their results that they can help you!

Also, follow the philosophies: 1. Get in down then get it right. 2. Getting the book is the easy part-getting RID of the book (i.e: marketing) is the CHALLENGE!

Lastly, give yourself permission to write a book. Everyone thinks you need to be mega-rich or a  PHD to write a book  but  the truth is that everyone has an expertise in something and everyone has the right to write! 


Spotlight:  Gary Keane
Recently had attended an event where I heard the logic and understand on how the internet is working and what make it great opportunity for the IT community to deliver a quality product. Greg Keane from It Help Crew has delivered results to his clients.

1st    The internet is a evolving entity that is changing everyday. What was the inspiration into get in a business in providing IT assistance?
The inspiration came from many things, the knowledge that IT is very important and a strong belief that this is a service that businesses must have, that this is an enormous multi-billion dollar industry and growing. Only 10% MSP adoption rate for small businesses which means enormous market potential. I also believed I could deliver excellent services more efficiently and at a better price than the current players of the game. I think I was born an entrepreneur and so starting and running a business was a natural progression after working in IT for so many years.
 2nd  Small and medium size business are very focus on sales why is important they look after there IT needs?
Of course sales are key and very important but in today’s technology reliant environment built around the efficiency  of computers and the networks they rely on if your IT is not up to par or not working then there becomes a break down in the vital synergy that is needed to operate your business. Too many business owners do not clearly understand the impact and cost of having even your front-line computer down for just a few hours. There could be possible lost sales, lost customer loyalty, and the fact that you are now paying the front-line employee to twiddle their thumbs. Depending on the type of work you’re in a downed computer could impact your operations greatly. Now image if it was a device that affects the entire office like a server or router.
Computers and computer technology are vital to business operations, our CRM, website, sales force, POS, VOIP, chat, teleconference, design, building operations, HRM all live on the digital landscape, that little black box humming away is your companies MVP.
www.ithelpcrew.com - Your personal computer help desk.






 

Spotlight: Jane Atkinson


Recently got connected online with Jane Atkinson, Author of Wealthy Speaker. Book was inspirational and had great insights on how to become a speaker no matter your experience.

1st What inspired your to write the Wealthy speaker


Back when I was working as a business manager/agent, professional speakers in my industry would always ask me "can I take you to lunch and pick your brain?" They wanted to know my secret to success with my various speakers.

At the time, I thought, "some day I'm going to charge for this". And so when I moved into my own coaching and consulting company, the time was right!


Surprisingly, when I went to write it all down, everything easily fit into 3 categories (Ready, Aim, Fire) which made it quite seamless. The ready section was all about setting the stage to build a business and getting crystal clear on what you are selling. Aim was about making sure that same clarity was reflected in solid marketing materials (ie: websites). And then in Fire, we walked through how to roll out to your target market.

Since blogging and social media was introduced, I wrote a 2011 update which takes some of our Fire strategies and adopts the new mediums.


2nd There are many authors who write books but don't make the effort to leverage book due to fears of not be able to speak to crowd etc. What you recommend

Well as Jerry Seinfeld put it so brilliantly, "some people would rather be the person in the casket than giving the eulogy at a funeral!"

This is a pretty normal fear. But if you really wanted to leverage your topic and begin a career in public speaking, there are many thing you can do.

1. Consider joining Toastmasters, that is their specialty (helping people move past the fear).

2. Practice. Give small speeches at your church or anywhere they will listen. When you are passionate about your topic, it comes through. And if you're nervous, just tell them, maybe you'll all have a laugh about it and relax. BTW, opening with humor can really help everyone relax!

3. When giving a speech, here are 3 keys:

BREATHE: Take ten, long deep breathes prior to going on stage. That oxygen will help nourish your brain and keep you thinking clearly.

KNOW YOUR STUFF: When you have your presentation down cold, and know your material - which most authors would - it's much easier to


BE PRESENT: Three is to try to be in the moment and if you can, have fun. When you are having fun, the audience will as well. A good example of this was Anne Hathaway when she co-hosted the Oscars. What could be more nerve wracking? Yet, she looked like she had a good time!
 
For more information on her book and access to her blog  go to
http://www.speakerlauncher.com/
 
Remember its all about Get Connected Make Wealth Happen the resources and information is out there for you to succeed. Thanks Jane!



















Spotlight: Donna Messer

For the past 5 years have enjoyed reading Donna Messers article in various magazines and online articles. Recently had great opportunity to meet with Donna face to face at International Networking day where we celebrated her 30 years in making great connections. Donna has written and spoken about so many areas of networking.

1st Question
  Entrepreneurs beginning to learn about business and how to grow it. Can you share the importance of building the resources for the long-term needs.

I’ve been in business for many years and I still keep in touch with people who were in my network from the beginning. Networking is all about “we” not “me” and in order to make that work – I need to keep in touch and ask my network “what’s new?”

People are happy to share their story with me – and I am constantly updating their data – knowing who I know, and who would benefit from knowing them is what I’m all about. Short or long term – it’s all about trust and credibility. By keeping current with your network – you keep their trust and you increase your credibility – and ultimately that builds the relationships you need for referrals.

2nd Question
    21st century had created a frenzy with social networking to promote and grow your professional and business portfolio. Had getting connected face-to-face being replaced by texting and talking on Skype?

In my opinion, we have to move with the times, while I still use face to face networking wherever possible, I’m using all the technology at my disposal. I have a QR code and from my Facebook business page – anyone with an IPhone can shoot the QR code and immediately get the message “talk to Donna” and it dials my phone number – awesome! I’m a writer and I’m always looking for good stories – using social media I can ask, “does anyone know anyone at Apple? I’m looking to write a story on the impact of the IPad on entrepreneurs and business owners.” Within minutes I will get a response I can measure. I use Skype to talk to my friends in Switzerland, Holland and around the world – it’s cost effective and it keeps me in the loop. My LinkedIn page is updated regularly through my Wordpress Blog. Is texting something I use? Not often, but if necessary – it’s there for me.

I use – Blog Talk Radio, On Line Television, and On Line Publications – that way I have visibility, credibility and profitability at little or no cost! As an entrepreneur, I have to stay on the leading edge of technology – if I don’t I’ll lose out.

About:

Donna Messer is an author, speaker and coach, an inspiring and passionate motivator, who has addressed thousands of people on three continents.

She is a former broadcast journalist and the author of more than 4,000 articles that have been published in magazines and newspapers around the world. Her book Effective Networking Strategies is a Canadian best seller. She is the Managing Editor of a new publication called TorontoEntrepreneurs Magazine.

Messer has played a critical and active role in introducing networking training to the curriculum of colleges and universities throughout the Canada, the United States and Europe.

She serves on the Executive Board for Women in Food Industry Management. Donna is also an active Rotarian, and on the board for The United Way of Oakville. She volunteers her time to support charities directed towards improving the status of youth, those with disabilities, women and new Canadians.

ConnectUs International Inc. www.ConnectUsCanada.com


Spotlight: Dan Sullivan 

He has written book on Unique Abilities and Laws of  Lifetime Growth and has a successful practice called the Strategic Coach which has training and produced thousand of successful business owners.

1st Question

Your book  Unique  Ability: Creating the Life you want explains that each of us has personal talents, passions and skills, but many of us have not take the time to identify them. How can adviser clarity their unique ability and use it to share their life’s work?

It’s a simple exercise. Draw a picture of  two interlocking circles, with an overlap in the middle. Representing  the two  areas  that identify your unique ability. In the left-hand circle, write  down every ability that you always feel confident in, things held accountable for. It’s never just one thing;  it’s  usually two or three. For example, we have one of the largest coaching companies in the world, but I have almost nothing to do with running the company. There are only three activities I always feel excited and confident about being held accountable for: creating new concepts for the program, coaching and marketing. Those three go into my circle, and there wouldn’t be another single activity in my life that would make its way in there.

The right-hand side is: who do you want to a here to? There are people who make  a lot of money, but they don’t want to be hero to the people who are actually writing them the checks for what they’re doing. They do it for the money, but they don’t have any particular passion for it. If  you want a prescription for unhappiness in life, just make a lot of money doing it for people that you don’t particularly like. So make sure that people in the right-hand circle are people that you want to be a hero to, and call also write large checks.

Once people  lock into this, it’s almost like your set for life, because these are thing don’t change. What  you are  like at  25 is what you’re going  to be like at 65.
2nd Question
In your most recent book the Dan Sullivan Question you explain that entrepreneurs competing for business usually place importance on having the best answer, when in fact having the right question is more integral, particularly in getting to know your clients. What questions do you  recommend  planners have at the ready?
Never, ever try to sell something in the first meeting; make the entire meeting about the client. I’ve developed a first-meeting question that identifies the client’s future in this way: “If we were having this discussion 3 years from today, what has to  happen in your life both personally and professionally, to make you happy about your progress?”
Unless you get the entire landscape of the client out, you really don’t know where any kind of   financial solution is going to fit into this person’s life. Go as broad as you can say. “I’d like to get a feel for where you’re heading as a person  because I don’t know whether I’m the right person for you or if what I offer is right for you.

This is totally a good- citizenship approach, but it’s got a subtle competitive advantage to it: people are used to being sold to that if you approach the client with a totally open-minded question about them, not about you and your products or your track record- you’ve just differentiated yourself from 99 percent of  your competitors, It not about you at all, but strictly about them.

There a three thing you want to get clear: What do you see as a danger in their life that three year from now has to be eliminated from their life for them to feel happy?  What are the opportunities they have now to move forward?  And what strengths do they have right now, things that are already working, that they like to see maximized over the next three years?  Then have a conversation about that.

For more information on Dan Sullivan coaching services   go to  www.strategiccoach.com

*Information was used form article called Dan Sullivan on Tapping your Entrepreneurial Strengths by Tom Nawrocki


















Spotlight: Leslie Hughes

1st Question
 Facebook and Twitter have both got a lot of attention the past few years.
Do think that LinkedIN will ever get the credit it deserve in this
currently social media space.
ANSWER:

Social Media is usually considered to be a business-to-consumers space.
Facebook and Twitter capture most of the "buzz" when it comes to customer
service and the viral spread of messaging.

While LinkedIn may not be in the forefront for a consumer-based audience,
it is THE place to be for a business-based market.

With over 100 million members in 200 country, LinkedIn combines your
online resume along with and an online Rolodex (but it's also much more).

You can showcase yourself as an expert in your industry through obtaining
testimonials/recommendations, importing your blog, uploading your
Powerpoint presentation (through Slideshare).

You can ask and answer questions in industries and categories that you
specialize in.

Building your database of business contacts allows you to reach an
exponential audience and turn cold calls into warm introductions.

Anyone who uses LinkedIn regularly understands the power this social
network brings.


2nd Questions
Small and Medium Business owner have made impact in the todays
business
market. What have you done with Punch Media to make it difference for you
current clients
PUNCH!media helps to educate our clients about the shift from traditional
"push" marketing to online "pull" marketing.

What's important for businesses to realize is that Social Media is a
wonderful tool for customer service.  Answering questions, providing
relevant information, generating discussions allows for companies to stay
top-of-mind with their target audience.

We strategically work together with our clients to determine how Social
Media fits within the overall marketing mix and guide them how to develop
content so that it fits within the context of the specific Social Media
sites (such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, blogging etc).

We train clients how to set up their profiles, set benchmarks and measure
metrics.

PUNCH!media stays up-to-date on current technologies, new media and
marketing as well as best practices of what is working so that our clients
can benefit from our specialized expertise.

How we make a difference with our current clients is quite simply that we
train them to be the best Social Media marketers they can be!


 

















Spotlight: Brett Wilson


It was only few years ago had the opportunity to meed Bret Wilson at the Small Business Forum in Toronto. Was luck even to get a picture (below)

1st  Question
 As compared to other areas of the country, how do you see Toronto as an environment for small business start-ups? Does it differ significantly from other areas of the country?

Answer
That's  a good question. We didn't choose Toronto over other places; it'sjust the practical side of it all. Do I see Toronto differently? I think I see Canada differently. I think that Canada, a little bit in part to Dragon's Den and in part due to a resource-based economy, taking some risk and betting on yourself a entrepreneur is taking hold across this country. That is what is exciting to me.

Certainly Toronto, as one of the financial capitals of the world, has been the hotbed of fundraising and capital. It attracts people who invest and it attracts people who fund. That's what make it great for the show.

2nd  Question
What do you see as the single biggest obstacle that inhibits aspiring entrepreneurs on this country? What are possiible solutions?

Answer
I think it is confidence. With confidence, risk go down. I was on an airplane once with a client, and he ask me whether I was planning on staying with my current employer. I hesitated because the last thing I wanted to do was let on that I wasn't happy with my employer. When I paused, he looked at me and smiled and told me. "Just so you know, if you left I would hire you."

That single statement set in place the course of my future because I realized that if he would hire me, someone else would hire me and it was time to leave. Soon after that I started at Wilson Macke, which would become First Energy and it was someone giving me that confidence that started it all. The study of entrepreneurship and of marketing is all part of what I call the perception risk.

That's what is exciting about show like Risky Business. There will be people screaming at the television. "Don't do it !" or pick the door one or door two. It could have a feel like the Price is Right kind of thing where it is exciting, but it's also all within a $10.000 or $20.000 range.

Most people aspire to own a car and a computer and a few TV's. If you can do that, you can access the money to participate in this type of investment.

3rd Question
If you could aspire one piece of advise to an aspiring  entrepreneur, what would it be?

Answer
I push everyone to go back and study marketing, Until you have your Phd and event then, maybe you have been studying the wrong part of it. It's only way to get a business, product or service going. You just have to do it.

Question appearted in article in the Toronto Business Times June 2011 http://www.torontobusinesstimes.com/

















Spotlight: Andrew Woo

Recently had the shared the stage at Centennial College Speaker Series with a fellow Alumni who shared great information regarding his journey of an entrepreneur.
  1st Question
 In today competitive world how important is it for professionals and entrepreneurs to have a powerful and effective brand
Answer:  It is vitally important to establish a clear and concise brand.  Branding is not as challenging to acquire but effective and profitable branding is harder to accomplish and sustain.  Branding is more that what is initially seen such as your logo or company’s vision statement.  It really extends far beyond the marketing strategies but deals with how we establish and perpetuate growing relationships.  Keep in mind our actions dictate the perceptions that ultimately determine the value of your brand.
2nd  Question
 How did use being a magician and sharing your program to help business grow
Answer:  As magic has been and continues to be a lifelong love affair I decided to incorporate the essentials of magic in developing my professional speaking services.  The essentials to marketing and providing customers with value added  services is communication followed by business development.  The secrets of magic are not the explanations to the illusion but more so how the ideas and concepts are related.  Magic is the perfect vehicle to illustrate this process while at time interjecting light hearted moments.  The dialogue between the magician and the audience is the business development or relationship building stepping stones.
BIO:
 At the tender age of seven the magic bug struck. The catalyst for this passion was conceived at his birthday party. His parents arranged to have a local ventriloquist and magician entertain the birthday boy and his friends. From that point forward Andrew would spend endless hours watching demonstrations at local Magic Stores in Toronto.
Throughout the years Andrew has performed at countless birthday parties, corporate events and abroad. Although primarily he focuses on corporate events and keynote speaking engagements from time to time he will perform for children's parties simply for the fun of it. He has instructed at the Sorcerer's Safari Magic Camp, a camp dedicated to teaching of the art to youngsters. He belongs to various magic clubs and associations and cherishes the time he spends with his fellow magicians.
Andrew completed his post-secondary studies and became an Accountant and entrepreneur. He has worked for some of the largest corporate companies before venturing out into what he specializes in today - corporate training and entertainer. Always a thinker he creates, produces, publishes and markets his own line of magic effects including a published magic book. Andrew loves to give back and teaches magic to serious students of the arts. He is dedicated to passing on his knowledge to future magicians.
























Spotlight: Duane  Browne

Question: 
Tel us about Pool of Wealth and the goal  
Answer:
Pool of Wealth was created for 3 main reasons:
1.       To help motivate people to go after their dreams and stay committed to its fulfillment
2.       To act as a resource hub to provide tools needed for success
3.       To help people realize that prosperity is EVERYONE’S birthright

Pool of wealth was created initially to engage young people in understanding the importance of dreaming BIG and setting goals to achieve their dreams. I started speaking to teenagers on planning for success. I would also mentor promising students on the type of activities they should be engaging in to take their lives to the next level.
Through my own personal development, I decided to expand the scope to anyone looking to find their passion. Everyone has a God given talent, and it is our duty to realize it, cultivate it and share it with the world. I believe my role in the grand scheme of things is to help as many people as possible realize the pool of wealth that is in all of us.
Lastly, I wanted to use Pool of Wealth as a platform to display my own personal triumphs as it relates to goals and success (to give the feel that ANYONE can do ANYTHING they put their mind to). One accomplishment I am proud of was being able to start Fudge Foundation (www.fudgefoundation.com) which is a foundation dedicated to philanthropic efforts.
At Pool of wealth the motto is: procrastination can wait, find your passion , prosperity is your birthright
Question:
How important is association with success?
Answer:
Association is vital to success. No man is an island and who you choose to associate with,, is an indication of your success level. There is a saying that birds of a feather flock together. This means that the people you surround yourself with will either bring you down or uplift you (there is no middle ground). When I was a little boy my mother use to always tell me” by your friends you are known!”. You are judged by the company you keep (this is why you can go to jail for being a witness to a crime). If you want to be a failure, surround yourself with people have not reached any level of real success. If you want to be successful, you MUST surround yourself with winners.

The best situation to be in is surrounded by successful people that know more then you and have accomplished what your dreams are. This association will help put you on the fast track to success, make you aware of possible future pitfalls and mentor you for additional perspective on how to overcome obstacles. If you THINK you are not able to associate with successful people, you are wrong. You can start associating with successful people by educating yourself on their behaviours, habits and even way of thinking. You can also volunteer with those you admire. It is really up to you to take charge of your own success. So basically association is CRITICAL to success - Your network is equal to your net worth – so get connected, make it happen!
www.poolofwealth.com register today for Motivation quote. Stay tuned for more exciting video interviews coming soon!
Duane Browne
Cell 416. 892. 2723














Spotlight: Basile The Greek Comedian

Basil has come to Toronto many times and has been an excited, seriously very funny comedian to watch live.

1st Question

Are there any particular traits that you find are unique to the greek sense of humour?

Answer

We all share tow things. One, we’re Greek. The  other, we speak both Greek  and English. We share the common stories that we have gone through with family, food, traditions, faith  and the funny uncanny situations that we have all gone through with Yiayia, Papou  and the entire family. My comedic perspective on the family, that I share with all of you on stage and in all my “Growing Up Greek in American” comedy specials, is a combination of  stories that I personaly lived through and stories that friends, family and fans shared with me. I present these stories in a clean and original way that all people who are Greek or married “into” Greek can relate.

2nd Question

Is there a story behind your career in comedy?

Answer

I have been a professional comedian for over twenty years- I quit Law School to pursue my dream of entertaining people. I have over hundred TV appearances in my career on show like The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, HBO, Showtime and Comedy Central just to name a few! I have  been entertaining Greeks with the “Growing up In America” comedy series since 1996. My first special  “ Comedy Greek Style” came out in  1999, the second  “Live from Boston” in 2002 and the filmed in Montreal in 2006, “Greek Gone wild”.

I have been blessed to have worked with such great Greek Comedians who are original in their material and have a following  such as  Ellen Karis who will be opening me for in Toronto. Jim Mendrinos  and even Jimmy Santis with musical parody cd’s that we have put out. “Men in Skirt” and “Hey Yiayia”. All of our products are available around the world with our distribution in just every country. My website www.OPABASILE receives 17,000 to 20.000 hits weekly and it’s great way to keep in touch with all the my fans! I love what I do!! I have been blessed with a great family and unbelievable fans around the world and especially here in Toronto,  Canada

For more information on Basile the Comedian go to www.OPABASILE.com







Spotlight: Randy Ramadhin
1st How did you first involved in real estate?
I was headed to be a Chartered Accountant in 2000 after graduating from U of T Commerce.  I was "too good" to be self employed because I was going to have a secure corporate job.  During my final year at U of T I wanted to explore an area I had seen many hard working individuals do well so I took the first phase of the real estate agent's program, but I was being educated to work on public entities where the language of stocks and bonds were the wealth building tools.  My reality of wealth and the public stock market crashed when Arthur Andersen LLP, the premier auditing firm at this time crashed due to the Enron scandal.  I lost my job and most important learned that if I was going to invest in my career and my wealth it was going to be in something I could control- real estate.
I got into real estate as a real estate agent, then later as a mortgage broker, knowing I was going to make my wealth in this industry.  I got paid to learn from wealthy clients and now my clients pay me for my knowledge.
2nd You have written a book on the condo market. Can you share some insights?
Firstly, the Canadian condominium market is the leader in innovative research, marketing and technology in the world, thus, the complexity of the product a buyer purchases is enormous.  To buy a pre construction condo by going into a few builder sales office or just having a real estate agent show you a few condos, is simply not enough.  The same way the banks and schools have prepared us to invest in our RRSPs by introducing us to business courses in school, training professional financial planners and investment bankers to prepare stocks for sale, is the same way an investor should be looking to learn about real estate. 
Condominiums are divisible, tradeable, rentable and in abundance, which sets it apart from any other real estate investment today.  The Canadian real estate market has so much money chasing good deals that capitalization rates are at all time lows.  With over 18,000 units being sold a year from hundreds of new condominium launches a buyer must have a competitive edge to deciding where to invest his or her money.  My book is that competitive edge.
Finally, condominiums are complex legal structures and complex investment vehicles that are demanded by investors from every nation in the world.   If you are looking to invest in a condominium, read my book to get a birds eye view of the industry, the buildings and most importantly, the edge over the world's buyers.   You can visit www.condoinvest.ca to learn more about "Profitable investing in condominiums: Strategies, tips, and expert advice for the Canadian real estate investor".

Bio

Randy Ramadhin is an advisor that puts his money where his mouth is.  Randy is a professional real estate investor that consults to clients seeking wealth creation strategies in real estate.  Randy has an honours degree from the Rotman School of Business at the University of Toronto with a major in accounting and served as a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario.  Randy possesses a real estate broker’s license in Ontario since 2000, a mortgage broker’s license in Ontario since 2003, a candidate membership to the Appraisal Institute of Canada.  Randy has held the position of chair of the Condominium Committee at the Building Industry and Land Development Association, member of the Greater Toronto Home Builders Association, and member of the Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals.  Randy is currently a member of the Commercial Division at the Toronto Real Estate Board, a member of the Real Estate Investment Network, and serves as a director for two condominium boards in Ontario.

Randy Ramadhin serves as instructor at MREISeminars.com teaching wealth creation strategies to new and seasoned real estate investors while advising numerous clients on resale and new condominium purchases and sales through the condominium advisor website www.CondoInvest.ca   Randy served as content advisor and producer to Inside Toronto Real Estate, a real estate show on Rogers TV, hosted by co-author Brian Persaud.

Randy and his wife serve as Rotarians in Greater Toronto while heading up a non-profit Castles for Families, which teaching families money management skills to help them own their own home.  Proceeds of the sale of this book will be going toward www.CastlesForFamilies.org











Spotlight: Cheryl  Rankin


As we head into a 2011 its important to realize that networking is an ongoing process. Have had the opportunity to share the stage with Cheryl Rankin of Fit For Business and want give you insight on how to approach the next few weeks in a proactive manner

Question 1.
Networking is all about approach what do you recommend to create an effective conversation online?

-- Networking online is about two things.  One is consistency; be sure to get on your social media listings at least once a day.  If possible try to change up what time of day so different people will see the posts that you do.  If you only post once in awhile then no one will be watching for your post and / or trust that you might read their posts.  Two is ‘help other people’; try to make sure that most of your posts are helpful ones.  If you are always selling your stuff then people will start to ignore your posts because they already know what it is and have no reason to read it.



Question 2.
You have either attended and / or hosted your own networking events, have you learned anything new that has sharpened your approach when meet new people at events?

 -- Most people attend events so they can sell their own products and services.  Knowing that they have this focus; I try to help them before giving them and info about my company.  If I can tell them that before they leave the event that I will introduce them to a good candidate for them (even name the other person) I then tell them what I do and ask them to help me.  I do not ask them to buy – I ask them to listen for clients for me since I have helped them.


 To learn more about Cheryl Rankin go to www.fitforbusiness.ca or fitforbusiness.blogspot.com