When should you pay to attend a networking event?

A familiar question. If we are not gainfully employed, bringing in a cash flow, the question arises to whether or not you want to expend valuable cash.
You may want to look at it from another view point. First, can you have fun? Second, will you meet people?
Your ability to network or reticulate with as many people as you can is paramount in your success in attaining your next goal. You may want to look at paying, to attend an event, as an investment in your future.

Business letters

Many years ago I went through a letter writing course for management. As it turns out the lessons learned still apply when writing business letters, which includes thank you notes. The format should be as shown below:

You

We

I

Another words start with "you" statements, then move to "we" statements and conclude with "I" statements, using as few "I" statements as possible.

Sample:

Dear Ms. Jones:

Thank you for your time today and your sharing of information. You certainly have built a fantastic team and strategy.
We have many common ideas that would lead to further growth.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,
Cleon

Are you really listening?

Listening is an art. We are not taught how to listen. As children we are "told" to listen, remember the "You better listen or else" or "How many times do I have to tell you?" You have the opportunity to learn to improve your listening by attending Toastmasters.
Your ability to listen will determine your growth, accomplishments, success in life. To actively listen and pay attention will empower you to respond with full understanding and an accurate response.

When will things change for me?

Attendees rarely ask the above question, at least in those words. Yet with listening it is apparent that some are wondering just that question. The answer:
When we change! That seems to be the resounding feedback from previous attendees when they return and share. You say that sounds familiar, do you? It should as psychologists have been telling us forever that things change as soon as we change.
Is it easy for you to change so you can speed this process up and get on with your life? Are you reading a book right now? Attending a seminar or a class? Networking and talking with others? Attending a support group or a leads group? You have so many opportunities at your fingertips.

The big obstacle for many is to get out of the house and get busy. Don't forget to have fun.

Attitude

Attitude- You can find it in the dictionary for a definition. Let's talk about how it applies to the everyday world. Your attitude is how others see you, even if you try to cover it up. Humans can sense attitude as well as emit it. Have you ever encountered someone in a room and not felt comfortable with them? You know you are supposed to be cordial so you put on your smiley face and give your best attitude. Yet you notice they have an attitude towards you. They sense your covered person.
I've also noticed that some people will tell me about all those terrible drivers on the roadways, then someone else talks about the same drivers as being so courteous. Leads me to question the first person's attitude when they are out driving.
What I do know, is when you have a positive attitude you exude that positive attitude. Others in turn feel more comfortable and can feel it. In turn you sense they have a great attitude. One literally plays off the other.
When we look for what is right and not dwell on the negative others tend to smile and try harder. It is so easy to find what is wrong, our news media, both print and TV seems to find what's wrong. Some of us in turn do the same thing.
Next time you see what is wrong try looking at it closer and see if there isn't something right or done well, even if it is a smile. Comment on the positive part and see how you feel.
I'd be interested in your feelings on this.