The term “creative class,” coined by economic intellectual Richard Florida, refers to workers who inhabit fields that require them to be creative thinkers. This isn’t limited to the creative types that might spring to mind right away; artists, writers and musicians. It also includes creative thinkers who you might not consider at first; scientists, computer programmers, small business operators, teachers and so on.

Read on… Oshawa Express.

Some approaches can be successful but one must always remember a few key principles of networking.

1.) It takes time. Networking is like a fine red wine. It takes time to age but when you finally open it, the rewards are bountiful.

2.) Networking needs compassion, trust, and respect. We will get into this further on in this article, but the bottom line is don’t be a selfish networker. You know who you are. You only reach out to people when you need something. You play the sales role well by shaking hands, taking cards and buying a drink or two but never follow up unless you need something. Bad, bad, bad networker.

3.) Diversify your network. Now I sound like Jim Cramer. Use a variety of means of networking including face to face, social media and internal corporate channels. Do not limit yourself, but also do not over extend yourself.

4.) Continue to evolve and grow. As your professional, personal, volunteer, publications, events, and other aspects of your life add to your life summary, update that information and ensure that all the individuals in your network are aware of how well you are developing and diversifying.

5.) Be cautious of hitchhikers. There is nothing wrong with aligning yourself with open networkers but be careful of their message and what they are trying to gain. Aligning yourself with the wrong individuals could have an adverse affect on your reputation.

6.) Be generous but be aware. Be generous with how your share your time and connections but do not over use your power. Your closest networking counterparts put a tremendous amount of trust in you and if you use them too much that is an abuse of the trust and it could damage a relationship.

Please follow this link to read the whole post…
Networking Needs Compassion « Recruiterpoet’s Blog.

Do you fancy yourself a good networking?  Please click comment and add your tips below!

DURHAM REGION, ON – SEPT. 14, 2010: What can you do with $20? Sue Sutcliffe wants to find out. The Internet strategist and professional speaker was inspired by the $20 challenge made at last year’s Day of Hope and Leadership event: to take $20 and help someone in need.

Her company, aWEBthatWORKS.com, is doing just that. Customers who mention this year’s event when placing an order will receive a $20 donation to their charity of choice. And the philanthropic entrepreneur challenges other organizations to step up to the plate and join her.

The third annual Day of Hope and Leadership, an interactive professional development day, takes place Tuesday, October 5 at Tosca Banquet Hall in Oshawa. Organizers will repeat the $20 Challenge issued at last year’s event, says founder Dan Carter. He estimates that the $5000 handed out in last year’s $20 Challenge snowballed into a $50,000 impact in the community.

“Each participant is given an envelope. We say, ‘Inside this envelope is my e-mail address and a brand new twenty dollar bill. You have 24 hours to take that money and grow it and give it, or take it and give it to someone or some organization where you know that $20 can make a difference. Unconditionally.’”

The idea resonates with socialpreneur Sue Sutcliffe. She believes giving back should be an integral part of every business, especially when times are tough.

“When the economy’s tight, people tighten up their giving. Local charities are hurting. Food bank shelves are empty and people in our own neighbourhoods don’t have enough to eat.”

Hearing about Sutcliffe’s challenge gives Dan Carter goose bumps. He recalls having the same feeling when the emails started pouring in last year, telling how participants had invested their money in the lives of others. “We were in tears, saying, ‘Oh my God, you’ve got to read this one.’”

The solutions were varied, and so gratifying, he says. After all, there’s no shortage of people needing help.

“Every day we are introduced to someone who needs a hand up or an ear or a little bit of kindness or a little compassion. On the streets, in the coffee shops, in the shopping centres, in our churches and communities.”

It’s our chance to make a difference.

To learn more about the $20 Challenge or the Day of Hope and Leadership, or to buy tickets, visit www.DayofHopeandLeadership.com or call 905-431-2163. Want to help Sutcliffe help others? Contact her at 1-800-579-9253 or through her website at www.aWEBthatWORKS.com.

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Sue Sutcliffe is a recognized Internet pioneer and e-marketing/social media guru. Her company, aWEBthatWORKS.com, has been helping organizations market their products and services on the web since 1993. Her business offers a full line of Internet marketing services including website design, hosting and promotion. Sue is a leader in her industry, the business world and her community. aWEBthatWORKS.com is sponsoring Day of Hope and Leadership speaker Todd Skinner.

The Day of Hope and Leadership takes place Tuesday, October 5 at Tosca Banquet Hall in Oshawa. Speakers Denise Marek, Doug Schneider, Garth Johns, Todd Skinner and Ian Hill focus on “Living Your Legacy Today.” Tickets are $225.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Sue Sutcliffe
aWEBthatWORKS.com
(905) 263-2666, (800) 579-9253

20 dollar challenge special

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Connecting Creative Minds In Durham Region

Keynote speaker: Dr. Richard Florida,
Director of Martin Prosperity Institute, founder of
Creative Class Group and author of Who’s Your City?

The Art of Transition symposium is a
major gathering of innovative thinkers.
On this day, creative minds will collaborate
and explore the uniqueness of
Durham’s communities. We’ll address
our current economic challenges and
brainstorm strategies to evolve our
local economy.

1. Durham LIVE – for Durham Region, by Durham Region
2. The Power Business Network – Empowering YOU to achieve success
3. Benefits for Women – Helping like minded women connect