Business isn't difficult. People just make it so. After all, who chooses to go after everyone, trying to sell everything using every selling channel? Not you, of course!

Or who spends time on the wrong things - you know - the things you should be doing? The things that DON'T play to your strengths. Not you again?

Likewise, networking should be straightforward. Get out there, meet the right people, have the right conversations, keep in touch. Help, sell and connect. Know and be known. So what goes wrong?

Read more: Two Simple Steps to Successful Networking

Ever heard 'I'd love to do more networking but I don't have the time'?

If you don't have or make the time, you will not and cannot network. If you do not network you will not make the contacts you need to increase your influence and win more business.

Let's assume you think networking in all its many forms (online and offline) is a valuable way to achieve your goals. How good are you at finding the time to do it?

I've taught thousands of people to be professional networkers. Here are my top ten tips for making the time to network...

Read more: How to Make More Time For Networking

Do you ever think about what to say before you actually say it?

For 95% of your life, there's no need to. But what about crucial situations where your words have to count? Your elevator pitch, asking for referrals, wanting a 'yes', needing someone to do something you want....

On August 19th, 2007, an oil tanker off the coast of Australia split in two, dumping 20,000 tons of crude oil. Senator Collins, a member of the Australian Parliament, appeared on a TV news program to reassure the Australian public.

Watch this short funny video. Might be real or not. There's so much you could say about it. Have a laugh. Then take in my simple message:

If you want to be compelling, credible and respected, think about what you're saying before you say it!

A few days ago I did a video entitled: The Five Elements of a Winning Networking Strategy (Part 1).

It was an introduction to networking strategy and gave you the business case for a strategy - why do you need one? Why can't you just show up to networking events and win bucket-loads of business?

I also showed you how important it is to Know What You Sell. In this video, I expand on that.

Watch and you'll discover insights and tips and ideas to differentiate yourself from your competition so that you're motivated to network with the most compelling proposition!

Now read more on Knowing What You Sell >>