More than Mortgages

Evelyn, my trusted Mortgage Officer, helped me discover and fix mistakes on my credit report that would have slowed or prevented my mortgage if she did not go above and beyond her role. She is also well known for finding her client's jobs, projects, used cars, contractors and more because she is a fabulous networker. I believe a huge part of her success is attributed to her taking a sincerely interest in her clients: Evelyn is a smart networker. Email me at Dena@resolutionsPlus.com if you would like to connect with Evelyn.

Six Clients Later

I was sitting with my friend and trusted colleague Joy Pedersen who, like myself, walks, eats and drinks networking as a lifestyle. In fact, that is her business. She is so good, that if you want to get connected, Joy knows a large variety of quality folks from all walks of life (ExpressSuccess@optonline.net). We found ourselves reflecting on a referral she gave me for a business consultant a few years ago. I was very satisfied with the results plus, I truly like her as a person. I was so pleased that I have since sent her five new regular paying clients. Additionally, I recently learned that one of my referrals actually hired her daughter who say's "Its a dream come true!" Here is the best part – this consultant never asked Joy or I for more business. But, when we (Joy & I) meet someone we think we can help by connecting them to others, we do it. We believe that networking is not only about our needs. Focus on helping others and you will be remembered more than you realize.

Take a Sincere Interest in Others Beyond Your Job

While visiting my brother, I noticed an ad saying “Big Brother Big Sisters pick up all your used items”. I immediately remembered my client lightly mentioning the need for this about a month ago. I figured I might be too late but sent her the connection anyway. It has nothing to do with my job. She was extremely grateful which made my 30 second email worth it, certainly a small but sincere step to building our relationship.

There are No Coincidences!

At a Chamber of Commerce breakfast, that I did not want to go to, there was an exercise that instructed us to randomly choose a business card and get together with that person socially, at a later date. Coincidentally (or not!), I picked the same business card of the person who chose me. We met for breakfast, clicked immediately and instantly became friends. During our conversation she asked me about a particular service I provided and decided her team needed it. She referred me to someone and after a year of referrals and meetings, I landed a huge contract that lasted several years and enhanced my business.

Stay In Touch

I worked with a guy, John, at my first company about 15 years ago. We stayed in touch over the years. About three years ago his daughter's boyfriend (Brett) was looking for a job in NYC in Learning and Development. He sent me his resume to see if I had openings at Digitas. We didn't at the time but since I knew John so well, I decided to take it a step further and sent Brett's resume to a network email group of HR folks in the advertising industry. From that email the HR lead for RGA saw his resume, interviewed him and hired him! I later met Brett over lunch after his first promotion. He was still so appreciative of how I put him in touch with the role and company.

When You Least Expect It!

One holiday season while pondering what gift I could give my family, my dad suggested printing my artwork on note cards. Amazingly, this simple idea quickly sprang into an LLC - all because I wanted to give something personal to those I love, for the holidays!

So here I was with my very own business and vision, yet no idea how to grow it. I reached out to a family friend who connected me with Brian Leatherberry, a marketing consultant. To my surprise he offered to take me in as a pro-bono client! It has been such an educational and positive experience and the business is growing!!

Then, the ALS Association, to which I donate a percentage of my profits, invited me to sell my cards at their walk and asked to include my art pieces in their annual holiday calendar. I am grateful for the opportunities that continue to come from good friends and surrounding myself around good people.

Julie Wions, Owner, Creations by Julie

Tell Your Story to All

I was around 24, and eager to live in NYC to pursue my acting career. Unfortunately, I was not financially ready at the time. After sharing my thoughts with a friend, she connected me to her sister who was traveling abroad and needed someone to cat-sit in her Manhattan apartment. I wound up living in Manhattan for four and a half months rent free due to this offer!

During that time, I needed new head-shots and was trying to scrounge up about $1,000 while researching photographers. One night, while heading back to the apartment, I was approached on the subway. This stranger and I began talking and realized we knew some of the same people. Coincidentally (or not) he was a photographer, and ended up doing my professional headshots for free!

Whether at a party, on the subway, or at a neighborhood barbeque, you just never know where using those wonderful talking and listening skills can get you!

Julie Wions, Actress, www.JulieWions.com