Wow! Where does the time go? It seems like the days and weeks just fly by and I'm always behind trying to play catch-up on the many projects and ideas I have going. I really want to make this a daily (maybe too ambitious?) habit. I actually enjoy writing and hopefully you enjoy reading as well. But I just sometimes can't seem to find the time. I think one of the things I'm finding the most challenging is trying to organize myself and my time appropriately. It seems there are days when I start off in the right direction but then get side tracked by something else. Focus! I must Focus and have a plan! I focus and get into a zone when I photograph. I need to get myself into that same frame of mind when I'm doing other work. O.k., so I need a plan. Any ideas? Please hit me in the comments.
I had a very interesting conversation with someone recently regarding networking and networking groups. Here are some of the questions that came up. Are networking groups really worth it? Is an "exclusive per business only type" of networking group better than a "nonexclusive" type of group? Do networking groups really get you more business or do they hurt you in acquiring business? Some people are just so turned off by the whole networking group idea that they just won't hire you because you are part of a networking group. Even though your work is excellent, you provide great service and your prices are fair, they still won't hire you because you are part of a group. This just makes no sense to me. They like you, your work, etc., but won't hire you because you are part of a group. I don't know, but the way I see it is, whether you belong to a group or not, aren't we all somehow just really networking every single day in our daily lives. Think about it. You (Miss/Mr. Photographer) had your house painted. You loved the guy. Hey, he did a great job. Your neighbor down the street is looking for a painter for his house. So what do you do, you recommend your guy. You are networking! Now let's say Mr. Painter happens to be painting another customer's house and happens to overhear that they are looking for a photographer for their daughter's Sweet 16th, so he now recommends you. Networking! So after giving this some thought, I don't really think it matters whether you belong to a networking group or not, if it's exclusive or nonexclusive. We all network. If you belong to a group, good for you. I hope it's helping you in your business. I think what matters is the work, the service, the price. They should all be top notch and fair. Remember if you are going to recommend someone you are in essence putting yourself and your reputation on the line. So network and join groups. But recommend only those that you feel are worthy of it and you in turn make sure your work is worthy of a recommendation.
The photo up top is that of dinner two nights ago. It was so, so good. It was an herb rubbed chicken with spinach, tomatoes and a balsamic
wine reduction. Delicious!
See ya next time. Hasta Luego.
Alina
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