Be a Substitute

By Jennifer Murray

We all know how important it is to network and get your face (and company) out there. It’s refreshing as a small business owner working from home to get out and learn about the businesses in my community as well as talk about what’s happening with my business.

It may feel weird (a good kind of weird) to be the new kid on the block or a new individual at a networking group. The good part is the attention of course, when the spotlight is in your corner; nothing more obvious than as a substitute for a regular attendee.

Referral groups in this city are abundant (see Networking Today’s Networking Groups). They can really work for certain businesses. Every Friday morning I start my day with The Networker$ and enjoy the membership as well as the referrals. We are committed to attend every meeting with the caveat that we send a replacement if we cannot; as is the case with most of these groups.

As a replacement, you promote the person you are presenting at a specific time often saving your own company commercial for later in the meeting. Regardless, you have opportunity to network with individuals you may not normally have access to. In the last edition of Networking Today, Maria Marsala, offered tips on discussion items at a business table over a meal (see Questions to Ask at a Meeting that Includes a Meal). Very useful information for networkers, especially those in a substitute position at a table of routine individuals. Embrace the spotlight and engage in the table conversation. You never know when you may call on the individuals at your table or vice versa.

To entrepreneurs looking for a replacement; create a path of success for your substitute. Here are some tips:

• Make sure the sub knows your sixty-second commercial (a written version is best).
  
  
• Provide an agenda of the session (include when the networking should happen).
  
  
• Set out any rules of the group pertinent to the agenda (especially when she can talk about her business).
  
  
• If available, share the group’s Web site address for reference.
  
  
• Let her know if you want feedback on the session.

Being a substitute is fun. Most people are keen to talk about their business to a fresh pair of ears and subsequently to listen a little about what your work passion is. So, the next time someone asks you if you’re willing to substitute for a 7:00 a.m. networking meeting don’t think of the hour, think of all those people you didn’t even know are up and about all ready.

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Jennifer Murray, proprietor of The Nimble Assistant is a virtual assistant providing administrative services to small businesses in Middlesex County. With eight years of experience and being able to manage multiple tasks with various schedules, Jennifer provides proficiency in a range of office services. Visit www.TheNimbleAssistant.com for more details.

Published in Networking Today, August, 2006