Networking, Networking, Networking

What is all this buzz about networking? How does going to a breakfast help us further our business? The simple answer is, it's about the oldest form of marketing, word-of-mouth. There is no better recommendation for your business than to have someone else mention your products or services to one of their customers. The personal touch is what gets you noticed. Networking is not just about you though, giving back is also key to successful networking. Mention to your customers the people you network with. All of this creates a groundswell buzz about your business, your colleagues businesses and when you couple this with effective media advertising, you would be surprised at the number of people that will say, "I've heard about them, my friend (insert name here) mentioned them to me the other day".

Starting a new business in New Zealand after being away for nearly 9 years has shown me the power of networking. I have spent the past 4 months attending every event I can and talking about my ideas and listening to what others are doing. The result, I have met a lot of amazing people with great backgrounds, I've been able to get valuable, immediate feedback on my business ideas, I've been able to confidently recommend other peoples businesses to contacts and I am beginning to receive referrals. The end result, it will generate business, it will stimulate others businesses and it will be good for the New Zealand economy!!

BlogThought

Do something for someone else, with no thought of reward or recompense and you will make the world a better place for everyone.

The Importance of Excellence

I had a wonderful customer service experience last week that I thought I would explore. I was on a business trip to Brisbane Australia from Auckland and had to arrange transportation to and from my home to the Auckland airport. I live on the North Shore and a taxi fare can be between 80-90 dollars. I googled shuttle companies and ended up arranging transportation with Shuttle Link (www.shuttlelink.co.nz). I had a great trip out to the airport, the driver was superb and I got there with lots of time to spare. While I was in Brisbane, I ended up having to extend my trip by one day. I made all the flight changes but forgot to let Shuttle Link know that I would not be arriving on Wednesday night at 11:30, but rather on Thursday night at 11:30. When I managed to get on line to check email on Thursday morning, there was an email from Shuttle Link saying that they had waited until almost 1:00 AM and then went on to add, and I quote:

"Please let us know if you are alright, and need to arrange another pickup or did you make it home ok"

Needless to say, their concern for a customer was obvious and I immediately advised them of my new travel plans. On arrival in Auckland Thursday night they were there waiting. On the ride back home, I offered to compensate them for their time the night before. The driver said that he wasn't going to ask but he would not say no. (NOTE, I Offered, they DID NOT ASK). Their concern for their customer was above and beyond and I would recommend them to anyone who is travelling to and from the airport or has other multi passenger needs.

BlogThought:

If you are passionate about customers, really, truly passionate, they will reward you in ways you never thought possible