Secret to Success? It’s NOT work. It’s NETWORK
Atlanta Journal Constitution article: Networking is critical to one’s success. In good times and bad, it’s the ties that bind. www.Google.com – Check out networking associations and organizations – there are tens of thousands available! Tired of the same ‘ole networking chatter? Wish you could be somewhere else? Is anyone listening to what you have to say? Does anyone care?
With 29+ years of networking experiences to draw from, it’s obvious to me that for most individuals networking is either ‘tell and sell’ or ‘hit and run’! The race to the finish line seems to be about who can engage in small talk faster and collect the most business cards. Recognizing that females differ in the way they network, The Joy of Connecting was created to provide a platform for professional women to meet, to socialize, to build relationships AND foster business without the harried/impersonal format that’s most familiar at mixed gender events. Women love to connect with one another and do so naturally. Just recently I received several testimonial/endorsement letters from JOC participants and thought – why not let you hear about The Joy of Connecting from women who value their experience and were open to sharing their thoughts with others?
Testimonials:
Bonnie, as a first timer at a JOC event, I immediately felt at home and welcomed. Every single female in the room was open, positive, and encouraging! It was a safe place to be yourself and share with other likeminded women. The evening was organized, well ran, and respected everyone’s time! Yasmeen Lord, Designer – By Yaz – Atlanta, GA
I had to share a few words to describe my first Joy of Connecting event: welcoming, relaxed, educational, positive, and productive. We first enjoyed a delicious meal and got acquainted simply as individual women, without performing pitches or “commercials.” Then we followed a structured format to share information about our products or services with the group in a natural way which reflected our genuine personality and sincerity. At the program’s conclusion we freely mixed and mingled to ask questions, try free samples, and follow up on interest. A few sales were made on the spot. A special treat is the inclusion of artists who sometimes share their talents, such as a wonderful song or fabulous fashion piece. The room was brimming with mutual support, encouragement and reciprocity. There’s no doubt in my mind that each one of us left feeling very “connected” to other participants and were eager to attend the next JOC. Joanna Boyce, Ardyss, Int’l – Licensee for Lawrenceville, GA
I always immediately know it when I’ve connected with positive people. An entrepreneur since 2005, last night’s Joy of Connecting business networking forum was the best meeting of its kind that I have ever attended! From the extraordinary ambiance to the fantastic food ~ this room filled with empowered women was delightful in manifold ways. The strength, support and resourcefulness shared promises to yield great benefits to my business and my life. So as I take another whiff of Kathey M’s “Good Soap” ~ I am reminded of the joys of connecting! Thanks Bonnie ~ you rock! Val McLeod, Chief Facilitator – Conversations with V (Savannah, GA)
My experience of attending The Joy of Connecting event in February 2012 has impacted my business tremendously. The diversity and versatility of every leading lady in attendance was truly rewarding in every aspect of business growth. I have attended countless seminars over the years and have to admit that JOC is one of the most effective and powerful of them all. The beautiful angel and founder of JOC, Ms. Bonnie Ross-Parker is like a magnet of energy and compassion in connecting women business owners. I am proud to be a lifetime member of JOC and will continue to support and encourage every new or veteran business owner to attend. I promise every woman will leave there on a natural high of success…like I did. Thank you Ms. Bonnie for embracing me with your gracious and elegant spirit. I am definitely a certified JOC supporter! Pebbles, Owner of Closet Talk Consignment Lounge Smyrna, GA
