Recently we had our annual conference. One of the speakers was Cyndi Maxey of Maxey Creative, Inc. She is a speaker, coach, author, and facilitator assisting organizations in improving performance through improved communication (http://www.cyndimaxey.com/). Her first topic was on networking and her first activity was for us to talk to someone at another table. After we had, she asked if anyone would like to share what they discussed.
The Wisconsin Chapter of ASHFSA is a really great group, most everyone knows most everyone else, and most are not shy! However, as soon as Cyndi asked for someone to share, everyone became very quiet. So, being a speaker and knowing what it's like when people don't respond immediately, I did. And then others started talking, too, and we had a very good discussion.
As a thank you for being the first to volunteer, Cyndi gave me a copy of her latest book, Speak Up, A Woman's Guide to Presenting Like a Pro! (Watch future blogs for a book review!) That's when it hit me that Cyndi was doing what I do now (public speaking) and what I want to do--write and publish books!
We spoke briefly after her sessions and again last night by phone. She gave me great suggestions on resources to improve my speaking business and how to get into publishing, including the pros and cons of various publishing methods.
The point to this post is that sometimes we get caught up in networking with people that we already know or that are already in our industry and we don't take the time or make the effort to network with "outsiders." And sometimes those outside our profession can provide great suggestions, ideas, resources, and contacts. You just never know where a conversation can lead!
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