We now have women involved in all the spheres of business and politics, including a presidential candidate. The women, who made it to the top, undoubtedly are masters of networking and self-promotion. Yet for many women, self-promotion and networking are still not part of a regular business day. That’s why I was excited to find W.I.N – Women Interested in Networking - a network of professional women with the stated goal of “shameless” self –promotion.                                                                                                     

Last Tuesday I attended this group’s meeting. When I walked in, the room was buzzing - it actually looked like a speed dating meeting (I never attended one, but that’s the image I have).  Close to sixty women were moving around, rapidly introducing themselves, asking about each others business and exchanging business cards.  I walked away with 10 business cards; the rest will be scanned by the organizers and distributed to all who attended. The second part of the meeting was a 30 second commercial each of the women got to present what they do. It was an interesting experience, and it made me realize, I need to do more work to explain in 30 seconds why should someone consider me to be his or her real estate agent.

At the meeting there were women lawyers, chiropractors, public relations, financial consultants and many others whose services I can use personally or refer business to them.  I liked the feeling of  “shameless” self-promotion, which is usually contrary to my behavior. I sometimes refer to myself as a “secret” agent, because I don’t like in-your-face type sales and pushy salespeople. I did not have to worry about it at this gathering – I was there to tell everyone that I sell real estate, what is special about my work, and hand out my business card.

I plan to get to know these women better, and "shamelessly" promote those who provide excellent service to their clients.  One of my firm beliefs is that one has to first give, before they can receive. It"s true in personal relationships and it works in the professional ones. At the meeting I proudly described my blogging, and  offered to help with anyone who wants to start (the women had no experience at all). As I learn more about their businesses, I plan to write about it in my blog, since it can help my readers to learn more about the community.

Professional network like Active Rain expands the opportunity for women to reach out in support of other exceptional women professionals (without offence to the outstanding professional men) beyond their geographical community.

Being with other women also gives me an opportunity to talk about the important role women play in decisions relating to real estate.  Some statistics show that 20% of women buy real estate by themselves. Another large percentage – are the important decision makers. The idea of women supporting and promoting women isn’t new – man have been doing it for ages. We need to learn from the best.

Truth be told, I hesitated with the title, is it too pushy? Ladies and gentleman, what do you think?      

                                                                                        

 



Please call Faina Sechzer at 609-553- 4175 to discuss how I can be of assistance.