How to Build Your Network and Make It Work For You

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

* Tips Interviews

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Tips Here are a few of my top tips: ● Find out what you can offer and what you truly need/want out of your connections. ● Respect the time of others. ● Share your network with others. ● You never know who you are talking to or who knows who, so if you have nothing nice to say then don’t say anything. ● Cross Promote: Competition can be your strongest alliance. ● Check out our cross promotion sheet as an example of what you can offer to others. http://issuu.com/tammyjohnson/docs/crosspromo_ps9online

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Interviews

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Chozen Company: Icebreaker Radio Website: IcebreakerRadio.com Public Contact Information: (828) 565​ 1423 / IcebreakerRadio@gmail.com Q: What do you love the most about what you do?

A: Seeing the impossible happen through faith, actually overcoming all that opposes the vision through faith, and knowing in faith that the best is yet to come.

Q: In your own opinion, what would be a simple way to make sure that if you met a potential networking contact, that you would make them remember you?

A: Ask questions, listen to their answers, then give feedback.

Q: What is one of the least effective ways for someone to approach you when it comes to networking?

A: If the nature of their approach reveals that they will want something for nothing.

Q: How would you react to someone that you don't really know that well that asks for a cosign/referral?

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

A: Ignored Q: Do you still believe in carrying around business cards? Why or Why Not? A: If the intent is to promote or network a particular event, I would suggest cards and flyers.

Q. What is your biggest pet peeve when it comes to networking?

A: None really, either the contact is sale or not. Thanks for inquiring is my initial thought.

Q: Define networking in your own words and what it means to you.

A: It is simply a form of basic marketing / sales / public relations.

Q: When it comes to reputations in your field , if someone has had a horrible track record with business would you give that person a chance if they approach you in a networking setting? Why or why not?

A: Since we control the conditions of how we provide our services, reputation is never a factor. Either you have a budget or you don’t.

Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to making connections? What made this network the best fit for you?

A: Twitter. Those who tweet usually don’t mind responding. Reach out and touch someone now.

Q: What has been the biggest obstacle for you when it comes to networking in general?

A: Accepting that the vision will not happen overnight no matter what person you meet…

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Nikki McKnight (Nix) Company: 3riple 2ouble Entertainment Website: www.706nix.com Public Contact Information: 706nikki@gmail.com NIKKI MCKNIGHT AKA NIX Nikki “706nix” McKnight is on her way to being one of the top female emcees of her era. The Columbus, Georgia native is one of the latest female rappers to step on the scene commanding attention with her honest and raw rhymes, with her skillful ability to paint vivid pictures with each verse.

She got her start rapping whenever she could, on the back roads of Columbus. At first rapping was a high school hobby, toying with the idea of a career as a rapper, but only writing long verses in battle like format, without ever thinking of creating actual songs. It was not until her longtime friend encouraged her to take rapping serious and develop her hobby into a full-blown craft and art.

Nix recorded her first song “Who Am I,” in 2002, and discovered her talent and passion for writing rhymes. The reflective track put Nikki’s life into perspective and setting the foundation for what she does best; translating her life experiences into catchy songs that anyone can relate to.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

While Nikki continued to record music, she would not deliver her first full mix-tape until 2010, debuting her skills on “The Wake Up.” The following year her “No Beat Iz Safe” mix-tape created a buzz around her name, but 2012 would be 706nix’s break out year. She kicked off the year performing at the SCMC Maybach Music Seminar in March 2012. On the heels of that momentous performance, she opened for fellow female emcee Trina (Da Baddest Bitch) in Columbus, Georgia in April. That same month her hit single “Motivation” was rated Top 10 on the UK Internet charts, and was featured as the top tweeted song of the month on Spotify.

Nikki is on her way to the top. Her singles “Sky’s The Limit” and “Motivation” have frequented the playlists on 98.3FM The Beat & FOXIE 104.9FM in Columbus. She continues to make a name for herself with her forthcoming mixtape, “The McKnight Files,” Nikki’s most revealing LP yet.

On “Right Here,” she talks about relationships, to showcasing a smoother side on “Special.” Nikki’s music is honest, heartfelt, progressive and reflective of her personality. She possesses versatility that allows her to create music for people from all walks of life.

Q: What do you love the most about what you do?

A: Being that I'm quite the shy individual, music allows me to say a lot of things and express a lot of feelings that I probably would have a hard time relaying any other kind of way. It also keeps me from having a lot of bottled in emotions, which really does relieve a lot of stress for me. It's like having my own therapist and best friend wrapped in one.

Q: In your own opinion, what would be a simple way to make sure that if you met a potential networking contact, that you would make them remember you ?

A: Just introduce myself and ask if there was an email/number where I could reach them to discuss any future business matters. I always get a better response from networking contacts by building a relationship and not just trying to push my product in their faces off top.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Q: What is one of the least effective ways for someone to approach you when it comes to networking?

A: The whole "I rap, you rap, let's rap together" mentality. lol. I put a lot of hard work into what I do and I'm beyond the stage of doing it "just because."

It's more to it than just recording a song and throwing it on the internet or letting your homies hear it. I want to see or feel like you really are trying to do something besides waste my time.

Q: How do you network effectively without sounding overly promotional?

A: I build relationships with the DJs, bloggers, promoters, etc. I build relationships with other artists that I have a significant amount of respect for as well. Everybody knows somebody and word of mouth is a powerful tool in itself.

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve when it comes to networking?

A: SPAM!!! I know everybody wants somebody to check out their product, but there is a way to go about it. This is something I've learned myself along the way, so I don't lash out at those who do it. But like I said earlier, there is a proper way to approach people who you want to check something out for you. I will send links or whatever to people that I KNOW FOR A FACT don't mind because we are cool like that. Other than that, if someone doesn't say "hey, send me a link to your music," then I won't force it on them.

Q: When it comes to reputations in your field,if someone has had a horrible track record with business would you give that person a chance if they approach you in a networking setting? Why or why not?

A: Good question. I would just have to go with my gut on that one. Funny thing is, I'm currently having this issue with a certain individual who is very persistent about doing business. I'm the type who is going to do the research on you. I'm also the type to watch and observe. If I don't see any way that this could help to advance what I'm doing, I'd most likely pass on it.

Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to making connections? What made this network the best fit for you?

A: I would have to say twitter has worked wonders for me as far as making connections. Just by watching the people I follow and how they interact with others on a daily basis. Seeing who they interact with and being introduced to the people they network or communicate with has been a big plus on my end. www.phoenixstar9online.com 10Â

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Like I said earlier, that word of mouth is powerful.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Makeba Giles Company: MELISASource Website: MELISASource.com (http://www.melisasource.com/) Public Contact Information: EMAIL: melisasource@yahoo.com || TWITTER: @MELISASource Makeba Giles is Founder, Writer, and Creative Director of MELISASource.com, and inspirational blog that gives readers life, culture, and current events…the positive way. She is also a married mother of 4 very busy children ranging in age from college student to kindergarten. Makeba uses her presence in social media to share her sincere love for life and all things inspirational. A self-proclaimed “down-home girl” who does pretty much everything in heels, she is (as she calls herself) “A little bit of Country, and a little bit of Rock-n-Roll”. A woman of many hats, she is oftentimes forced to be a true Jack of All Trades; and she does her very best to master them all (or at the very least be somewhat good at them). You can find Makeba on her blog, as well as Facebook and Twitter.

Q: What do you love the most about what you do?

A: What I love most about what I do is the ability to deliver information on entertainment, artists, and pop culture in a positive way. I also love raising awareness on social good.

Q: In your own opinion, what would be a simple way to make sure that if you met a potential networking contact, that you would make them remember you ?

A: I believe simply by being yourself. Always be authentic and let your true www.phoenixstar9online.com 12

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

personality shine through. People always remember genuine interactions.

Q: What is one of the least effective ways for someone to approach you when it comes to networking?

A: For me, the number one turnoff is someone who tries to "play big" bragging or boasting about who they are, what they've done, and their accomplishments. It is very self-focused , vain and most of all, unattractive.

Q: How do you network effectively without sounding overly promotional?

A: I believe effective networking is allowing the interaction to flow naturally, and spotting the key moments in the conversation where the promotion/self-plug fits perfectly and wording it in such a way as to keep the interaction going in a two-way manner.

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve when it comes to networking?

A: My biggest pet peeve are people who shove me a business card without even introducing themselves first, or even trying to spark a real conversation.

Q: When it comes to reputations in your field,if someone has had a horrible track record with business would you give that person a chance if they approach you in a networking setting? Why or why not?

A: I probably would not in a networking setting -- perhaps in a different setting it may be possible, depending on the track record.

Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to making connections? What made this network the best fit for you?

A: Twitter has been the most successful for me when it comes to making new connections. I don't believe there was any one particular thing that "made" Twitter work for me -- I am just simply myself, and the authentic connections continue to grow for me.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Darlene Burns Public Contact info: Find Darlene on Twitter @Dburnsauthor23 Email: Dburnsauthor@gmail.com Call: 317.200.7474 Website: http://Dburnsauthor.com Darlene Burns grew up in Los Angeles, California. She attended L.A.Valley College to study Oceanography but realized her true passion lied in writing.

"I come from a family of talented women. So even though I put off my dreams of writing for my children, I challenged myself to become one of those women that I so admire." ​ My true passion is reading and researching all elements regarding the supernatural. I fell in love with the old movies featuring Vincent Price and Bela Lugosi. I hope that you enjoy this novel as much as I enjoyed writing it!

Q: What do you love the most about what you do?

A: I love the fact I can use my imagination and creativity to bring people into whatever world I can create. I love exploring new themes and creating www.phoenixstar9online.com 15

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characters .Writing is a joy and a wonderful outlet.

Q: In your own opinion, what would be a simple way to make sure that if you met a potential networking contact, that you would make them remember you ?

A: Being true to myself. I am supportive of the other people’s projects and I love sharing ideas with individuals with a common goal. Plus I am very approachable.

Q: What is one of the least effective ways for someone to approach you when it comes to networking?

A: There are so many social medias to network that I haven’t really discovered any un-effective ways to approaching me. I do feel that you have to be constant and if someone approaches me with an opportunity I will do my very best to respond the same way. Say what you mean and mean what you say. And always back it up with action. Otherwise I would misrepresenting myself.

Q: How would you react to someone that you don't really know that well that asks for a co-sign/referral to?

A: I would research this person as best as I could. Especially if it involves a literary venture.

Q: Do you still believe in carrying around business cards? Why or Why Not? A: I do but not many people carry them anymore. It’s a digital world we live in but I’m old school. I feel like you should have something tangible to remember me by as well as having access to my information online.

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve when it comes to networking?

A: Not enough venues or events to mix and mingle. www.phoenixstar9online.com 16

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Q: Define networking in your own words and what it means to you.

A: Getting to know people by supporting their work and help promote any way I can. At any event or social gathering I try to have conversations with as many people as I can. Working the room as my mother would say!

Q: When it comes to reputations in your field, if someone has had a horrible track record with business would you give that person a chance if they approach you in a networking setting? Why or why not?

A: No. They have already demonstrated that they- 1)can’t be professional 2) they already have a reputation that is tarnished . It’s hard to become involved with that kind of negative association

Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to making connections? What made this network the best fit for you?

A: Twitter! It has been a wonderful experience. I have met some really wonderful and talented people that I not only support but they support me as well.

Q: What has been the biggest obstacle for you when it comes to networking in general?

A: Time. I wish I had more time to devote to networking. Or go to more events to meet people.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Lucien Beaubrun Website: LearnTheIndustry.com Public Contact Information: Lucien@LearnTheIndustry.com Website Links: http://LearnTheIndustry.com http://SecureTheWin.com http://SecureTheWin.net Lucien Beaubrun Jr. is a music business expert that specializes in helping independent record labels and recording artists achieve their goals. Lucien has worked with many music companies and record labels including College Music Journal, RPM Marketing and RCA Records.

He provides many services to the music industry including focus groups, college radio promotion, and creating marketing plans. Lucien is currently focusing his efforts on music business coaching, seminars, writing books, consistently updating his music business website LearnTheIndustry.com, and educating people about the music business on his radio show Secure The Win for free at SecureTheWin.net

Q: What Do You Love The Most About What You Do? A: The greatest feeling in the world is to see my hard work elevate a person’s financial and music industry status. I have been fortunate enough to work for many record labels and play a role in helping once unknown recording artists become stars. www.phoenixstar9online.com 18

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

It is the reason that I currently focus my efforts on helping indie labels. It is still amazing for me to see indie labels and artists go from wasting their money to becoming financially independent with my guidance.

Q: In Your Own Opinion, What Would Be A Simple Way To Make Sure That If You Met A Potential Networking Contact That You Would Make Them Remember You? A: I will usually crack a bunch of jokes related to the music industry or business topic that we are discussing. It’s hard to forget someone that makes you laugh especially when the discussion is backed up with useful information.

Q: What Is One Of The Least Effective Ways For Someone To Approach You When It Comes To Networking?

A: I am an easy going, laid back type of guy. A person can always approach me especially when it comes to talking about the music business. I am the type of guy that gets overly excited educating people about music publishing, online marketing and other music industry subjects. It might be hilarious, sad or wired, but it’s true.

I have two turn offs. The first one is disrespectful people. It is the quickest way for me to ignore a potential client or business associate. The second one is to have a habit of doing and saying things so stupid that I do not want to continue having a conversation or doing business with you.

If a person is set in their idiotic ways, I will not be able to teach him or her anything. My mission is to help people reach their goals. It is not to work with people that will do things to give me high blood pressure, and prevent themselves from being successful.

Q: How Do You Network Without Sounding Overly Promotional?

A:I hardly ever mention my profession or services unless I’m asked in most situations. People usually think that I am very knowledgeable about the music business, and they will ask me “Well, What Do You Do?” I will give them a business card and tell them to go to LearnTheIndustry.com when they get a chance. After that, I will talk about something else. If they want to go to the www.phoenixstar9online.com 19

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

website or ask more questions about my services, it is up to them to continue that type of conversation.

Q: What Is Your Biggest Pet Peeve When It Comes To Networking?

A: I hate when people lie about their status in the music industry when I can totally tell them the truth about their entire situations. I sometimes know more about artists and music executives’ careers than they know about themselves.

I’ve inadvertently embarrassed many people, so I’m learning just to let people tell their lies.

Q: When It Comes To Reputations In Your Field, If Someone Has Had A Horrible Track Record With Business Would You Give That Person A Chance If They Approached You In A Networking Setting? Why Or Why Not? A: It all depends on the situation. Everyone in the music industry has had a horrible reputation at some point because this industry is a very volatile industry like the stock market. People will avoid a female today, but everyone will call her tomorrow because they all of a sudden need her now.

I don’t work with people when they do things that I don’t respect. I don’t follow the music industry’s opinion on a person. I do my own research and stick with my final decision unless proven otherwise.

Q: What Online Social Network You Found The Most Effective To Making Connections? What Made This Network The Best Fit For You? A: Twitter has been the most effective social network for building my connections because I am automatically speaking to my contact with one tweet. When a people send out tweets, they can instantly get feedback on their comments from people in and out of their social networks instantly.

Personal and business relationships are not built with links or pictures but conversations, and a twitter conversation is the closest thing to text messaging on the internet.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Latoyah "Lovely" Shaw Company: Luvlymedia / Luvly Beatz Website: www.luvlymedia.com www.luvlybeatz.com Public Contact Information; info@luvlybeatz.com Info@luvlymedia.com 2luvly is 1/2 of a production duo called SPAZ. The duo were established in 2009, where they worked and managed their own girl group called 'Belle Antonio'. After a successful run with the girl group in 2010, the duo decided took sometime out to refurbish their sound and build their new studio / dance studio based in the heart of London, in which they would come back bigger and stronger.

2luvly has been producing since the age of 16, after attending various out of school music activities, which then lead her to picking up the keyboard and allowing "Music" to take its natural course. " I never dreamt of being a producer nor did I dream of ever being within the music industry. But one lonely night... home alone, turned everything upside down and I am, what you see today. The music I make, is the music that bleeds through system. I am nothing like the rest but strive to become the best female music producer of all time. ."

LuvlyMedia originally surfaced in 2008 when "Luvly" hit the age of 18 years old. She was able to explore her design and web skills, when employed by a local computing company as marketing director. Self-taught in web and www.phoenixstar9online.com 22Â

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

graphics, Luvly went on to University to commit to the academic knowledge of her desires. Having built the right clientele and hired a small team LuvlyMedia was able to pioneer a stronger, better and more equipped team than ever before.

LuvlyMedia is a media service that has been designed to provide you with a variety of design and web solutions. As we are a small team we are able to maintain an efficient relationship with our clients and demonstrate a good understanding by working closely with you and support material for your target audience.We aim to create a brand that is both eye-catching, appealing, unique and recognisable globally.

Q: What’s the best way to get assistance from someone in an industry you aren't familiar with?

A: I would show / demonstrate that particular person how I may go about a certain task. Usually, what I find that helps is starting something together with that person, that way you build a stronger relationship with them whilst also assisting them with their needs. The advantage with doing collaborative work or demonstrations is you will always learn something new, which is never a bad thing.

Q: How do you network effectively without sounding overly promotional?

A: When I have the time, I usually target a certain type of audience usually via twitter / Facebook or linkedin. I Find building a good relationship with new audiences usually works better than going straight in with the kill and spamming with promotions. The reason why I do it this way, is from personal experience. If you have something to share some times its nice to go that extra mile and be personal with your message.

Q: What do you think is the most important thing to do when you first meet someone in a live networking environment?

A: Understand their goals, what that person wants and how much they are willing to work to reach that goal. Its easily to work with artists / clients but understand each and every contact that you come into contact with is a much www.phoenixstar9online.com 23Â

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

harder yet rewarding opportunity. Once you understand what your client / artist wants there you can provide them with the best support , equipment and advice to get them that little bit closer to their goals.

Q: What makes you want to network with someone?

A: I love traveling, I love meeting new people and most of all I Love learning.

Networking With somebody new allows me to learn something new whether its something simple / personal about that person or whether it is business related. By learning, I'm able to adapt and commit to new adventures. Life is meant for living, so why limit yourself.

Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to making connections? What made this network the best fit for you?

A: At the moment I find twitter the most successful networking site. This is because majority of all twitter accounts are managed by the individual rather than managements, agents etc and realistically there is no limitations on who you can contact. However, getting a particular person to respond is another story. I'd say 70 % of all clients I've build up and successfully done work with has been through twitter.

Q: What is one of the least effective way for someone to approach you when it comes to networking?

A: The worst way to approach me is to try and chat me up... that is not the best way. The other things is be humble, be honest and just be real with yourself before you approach anyone. The moment you start talking yourself up to another person and have no groundwork or evidence to back it that's when you run into problems

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Precious Owens Public Contact Information:ntunedshow@aol.com | Website: http://www.thentunedshow.com http://www.facebook.com/thentunedshow http://www.instagram.com/thentunedshow http://www.twitter.com/ntunedshow https://www.facebook.com/GetNTuned Radio Personality Ms. P created The N‘TUNED Show as platform and resource introducing listeners/readers to the humanities drawing on creative literature and the arts. She uses past and present commentary, exploring culture, sexism, oppression, prejudice, sexuality, and commonly shared experiences. In her radio program, Ms. P interviews movers and shakers in the music world and beyond. Her support and networking style lets you know that you can make a difference. It’s a simple yet powerful belief held firm by every person dedicated to changing the world. She is a woman on a mission who isn’t accepting excuses or limitations.

Motivational Speaker Ms. P delivers an energetic, humorous and unforgettable message crafted for the needs of your audience. People who’ve heard her speak invariably walk away with a feeling of being uplifted, empowered, and N’Tuned; ready to www.phoenixstar9online.com 25

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improve their lives.

Keynote Speaker In her keynote speeches you hear the theme behind what she does: .To set aside race, sexual orientation, class, and gender as a interlocking systems of oppression. .To unite the individual experience of every beautiful shade of color—African Americans, Latino/Latinas, Native Americans, European and Asian Americans. Contributing discussions on social conditions that simultaneously oppress our everyday lives, our culture and lifestyle.

Mixtape Hosting The hosting package allows you to utilize the extensive NTuned Show network to promote your personal mixtape or EP project. Your project will be hosted by Ms. P and include (shout outs/drops) throughout your CD. What two things are bigger than the past? The PRESENT & The FUTURE! Learn to leave the past where it is, by moving beyond the PRESENT into the FUTURE in order to obtain PEACE OF MIND AND SUCCESS! Form connections and friendships based on genuine love, support and expression.

“Together we are powerful taking our creative destinies into our own hands so that we can better the world around us.”

Q: Best way to get assistance from someone in an industry you aren't familiar with?

A:Let me begin by stressing research, research and then research your research. This is the utmost important part of any finely tuned formula in any and every arena of your life. Target and learn your market meaning (people, places and things). Approach someone in the fashion that you would want to be addressed. You'll be surprised of the doors that will open up.

Q: How do you personally reach out (without giving up your kfc recipe) to people that you wish to network with?

A: I don't mind sharing my recipe with others. I believe that it takes more than one cook to add flavor to a bland recipe of networking filters. Everyone, has their own taste preference so learn how to season before launching. www.phoenixstar9online.com 26

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Network using these trimmings: 1 tablespoon of patience 1 1/2 teaspoons of humble A cup of genuineness Add honesty Finally sprinkle in your vision, dedication and just being you!

Q:How do you network effectively without sounding overly promotional?

A: Promotional ranting is for the NBA's Halftime. Lol. Just being yourself is key however providing or producing a great product is your winning ticket.

Creating a great brand and standing behind it will be one of the most important promotion that you would ever need. Remember word of mouth can take you across the world. HINT: No one likes to be smothered with promo.

Q: What do you think is the most important thing to do when you first meet someone in a live networking environment?

A: When you're interacting with anyone live, via phone or e-mail corresponding remember interpersonal skills are essential. A greeting can aide in unlocking a variety of closed doors or bolt them shut. Be focus and stay focus and don't forget to use your charm. Lol. Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to networking?

A: Twitter, has been the most effective social media tool invented in my opinion. By allowing less features allows people to actually interact yet keep it concise by only allowing people to tweet only 140 characters lol which helps resolve drama to get down to real networking. Hone in on what makes or break you using social media. Remember these site were design to bring people together use it as a tool to aide in your success not destroy it.

Q: As a seasoned radio show host, how do you handle someone when www.phoenixstar9online.com 27Â

How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

they are late for a guest spot, or don't show up at all?

A: I'll be the first to admit I don't handle lateness or no shows to well. Lol. I'm still a work in progress however I will say never let them see you sweat, always have an alternative program on standby such as a good topic to discuss in the event this does occur.

Q: Name at least 3 things that could kill a business relationship.

A: No practical business sense or structure. Poor handling of another's time, money or energy. Having little or no integrity will kill any successful business plan before and after it begins.

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Name: Erica Burton Company: XOXO EB/ EB Gets Fit Website: http://www.goherbalife.com/ericab/en-US Public Contact Information: Email: EBgetsfit@gmail.com Phone: (240) 423-4269 Twitter: @love_eb Instagram: @love_eb Erica Burton is a HEALTH COACH AND MENTOR.

Q:What do you think is the most important thing to do when you first meet someone in a live networking environment?

A: The most important thing to do when first meeting someone in a live networking environment is to be conscious of what image you want to give to others. Ask yourself if you portray the type of person that you would want to network with. If not, it’s likely others won’t want to either.

Q: What makes you want to network with someone?

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A: When I choose to work with someone I want to create a mutually beneficial relationship. If I see that what they have to offer is in alignment with the same direction I want to go then I choose to connect with them. I pay attention to what they say, what they don’t say, determine whether their actions match what they say, and more. It’s important to be confident yet friendly. Some other things that make me want to network are if they are effective communicators, consistent, dependable, honest, and willing to learn. Someone that fails to have those characteristics usually deter me from wanting to work with them.

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How to Build Your Network and Make it Work For You

Name: Leandrea Hill & ReVivian Freeman Company: 2 Team Entertainment Agency & Management Website: www.2teament.com Public Contact Information: Email: twoteamentertainment@gmail.com Phone: (704) 931-3181 Twitter: @2Teament Instagram: @2teament Facebook: 2 Team Entertainment Agency & Management Facebook: Leevi Freehill 2 T.E.A.M. Biography: 2 T.E.A.M. started in Fall of 2013 when both ReVivian Freeman and Leandrea Hill joined together to deliver a dynamic team of services for their clients. Having had very successful businesses separately, the two decided to www.phoenixstar9online.com 31Â

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expound their foundation where not only their existing clients, but new clients may receive outstanding services. This tag team is dedicated to meeting each client at their current status and is committed to advancing them to their next level. Currently this dynamic pair manages themselvesLady V Poetry and Luvleeh Poetiklocks, hip hop duo Bonafide, Abstract Academy Artist Sharp Coda and most recently Sir Jay aRe. In the summer of 2014, they will release works from the management side for a 2 T.E.A.M. mixtape, several featured/ hosting events and multiple networking projects in the surrounding Charlotte area and east coast.

ReVivian Freeman Biography: Lady V Poetry was born ReVivian Freeman on October 13th in the small town called Swansea in South Carolina. This is where she began writing poetry in 2000, while in grade school, after the death of the only grandparent she ever knew, Rev. William J. Frazier. She found poetry as a means of therapy not only for herself, but also for others who were not allowing themselves to express their true feelings.

In 2005, Lady V graduated from Swansea High School and went on to pursue her Bachelors of Science at Limestone College in Gaffney, South Carolina. There she was an active part of the campus life and continued gracing the stage with her spoken word poetry, acting, and dancing. In the spring 2007, Lady V became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She prides herself educating children about the arts and the importance of being true to one’s self. Her motto is "Always be yourself because no one can be you better than you!" During these college years, she started her first business RDF, where she worked with celebrity and local clients to obtain their goals through management, bookings and more.

Here she developed a love for her gifts with words and began her journey as a writing professional.

Today Lady V resides in Charlotte NC, but Upstate SC will always be her poetry home as she continues to uplift people through spoken word as an art form. She can be heard at various venues in the Upstate of South Carolina and Charlotte. You will be taken on a trip through her thoughts with the use of metaphors, similes, and phrases that will paint a picture so vivid you will be left in awe over what you have heard. She has the power to release emotions that you thought were locked away in the pits of your soul. The experience is one that words do no justice. You have to see it to believe it.

Currently, ReVivian is co- owner of 2 T.E.A.M. ( 2 Team Entertainment Agency & Management), she is the COO of Sunday Sound Sensations and www.phoenixstar9online.com 32

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active member of her community. She believes in her hard work and delivers the same great services to her clients. Each- a poem in her life, Each- a piece of a greater whole- designed for greatness.

Leandrea Hill Biography: Newburgh, NY native and Elizabeth City State University graduate, Leandrea Hill, affectionately known as Luvleeh Poetiklocks, is a poet, author, painter, mentor, workshop facilitator, jeweler and overall entrepreneur.

Luvleeh began writing poetry and painting in her youth. She professionally expanded on these artistic abilities by adding jewelry design to her creative expression with Luvleeh Inks & Links in 2005 at ECSU. In 2008, Luvleeh developed her poetic gifts, featuring at Mama’s Caribbean Grill & PJ’s of Charlotte, NC. Her one woman poetry showcase “Love, Life & Relationships” debuted at The Golden Arrow Plaza. From 2009 to 2012, Luvleeh relocated back to NY featuring at venues, such as The Wherehouse, Cuneen Hacket Theater, Sleuth Pro Presents Series, Funkadelic Studios, The Holland Theatre and The Linda. Luvleeh’s spoken words have graced several platforms throughout the US with poetic favorites like “I Love Your Hair”, “She Moves Again” and “Cosmic Love”. She incorporates original songs into her poems with her sultry vocals. She hosted Newburgh’s Open Mic and Verbal Illustrations (created by Leandrea Hill) introducing UTP. She released her first book of poetry “Sakura: A Luvleeh Experience Volume 1”, 2012, after previously releasing three limited edition chapbooks and a short manual “L.I.P.S”(2010), “Strokes of a Petals Edge”(2011), “Chronicles of Valentine Love”(2011) and “How To Become A Self Published Author” (2012). Luvleeh also facilitates a poetry and song workshop for girls and women called “Finding Your Voice”.

In 2010, she started the Unity Through Poetry (UTP) movement (also known as Spreading Unity Through Poetry); the support of all artists and genres, which has now spread across the nation and has partnered with various supporters of the cause including Newburgh’s Open Mic, Abstract Academy, K-Hill Driven, 26 Mics N 26 Weeks, and over hundreds of indie www.phoenixstar9online.com 33

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artists/poets/ dancers/ djs/ visual artists/ events, etc. During this year, she promoted her writings, crafts, jewelry and art works known as Unspoken Poems through Luvleeh Inks & Links. Her Unspoken Poems also have of a variety of sub- collections such as Eternal Breezes Collection, Domme Isis Collection, Family Portraits, Poly Expressions and the Luvleeh Muse Collection. She created and donated tribute pieces through art, poetry and jewelry for Susan G. Komen for the Cure; S.C.O.R.S; Women Unified, S.G. Rho Sorority Inc; REAL Skills and Jerusalem House of God. She has designed celebrity accessories for many local and national celebrities. Luvleeh has showcased paintings, including live art at The Ultra Lounge, Sleuth Pro’s Art Studio and at Poor Richard’s Book Shoppe. With works like “Silently; She Sat”, “Thick”, “The Messenger”, “Warrior in Thought” and “Oduduwa in Autumn”, she has introduced herself to the visual art world with an explosion of originality that is as dynamic as her poetry.

Luvleeh began freelance writing for several businesses and individuals including but not limited to-Phoenixstar9online.com, Narria’s Talent Agency and The Essence of Life. Upon her 2012 return to Charlotte, Luvleeh partnered with www.myaziza.com to design hand crafted one of kind jewelry.

She became a co-host, vendor coordinator and 1st Lady of Abstract Academy Ent’s- Sunday Sound Sensations. She also partnered with Touba Faal Creations: African Art and Accessories to create Luvleeh Inc & Touba Faal.

This union opened the door for Luvleeh to create a custom ring and translate the poetry for a renowned spiritual leader of the Baye Fall brotherhood in Senegal. In 2014, she partnered with ReVivian Freeman to create 2 Team Entertainment Agency & Management, a full service management and consulting company.

Luvleeh’s paintings, poetry, crafts and/ or jewelry capture the beauty of the human body, mind and soul across the globe. She lives by her personal mottos: “Paint strokes capture the now- which will historically change forever.” “Wisdom is the river between reality and imagination. Don’t let ignorance flood your waters.” She takes this approach to all of her hard earned work. Leandrea “Luvleeh Poetiklocks” Hill is a modern renaissance women; she is the epitome of Spreading Unity Through Poetry; sharing her multiple gifts to the world around her filled with lots of luv.

Q: What do you love the most about what you do? www.phoenixstar9online.com 34

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A:ReVivian: The ability to make dreams come true Leandrea: The opportunity to offer phenomenal service to individuals and businesses.

Q: In your own opinion, what would be a simple way to make sure that if you met a potential networking contact, that you would make them remember you?

A: ReVivian: With full service composing of 2 Team that came together to fulfill your dreams.

Leandrea: We are both our brand and our business- we offer you the same service and quality that we live by for ourselves- a quality that insures your goals are met and fulfilled.

Q: What's your story? What pushed you into your current path or business?

A: ReVivian: I started doing this in college and I found out that because I’m passionate about it I exceed all expectations.

Leandrea: I began working with people in college in support of the arts; from this I saw a need to help people attain their goals by providing the resources needed to grow. I look at myself like a life coach. Once I met ReVivian, I found that together we can bring our clients an array of experience.

Q: What would be the best way for someone to reach out to you if they wanted to network? What is your ideal approach? (Is there such a thing?)

A:ReVivian: Simply sit down in a casual setting with casual conversation.

Leandrea: Once a person is assured they want something; contact me to set up a casual meeting.

Together: We both feel that non-formal settings allow for a more relaxed approach, thus providing room for genuine response towards ones expectations.

Q: What are your networking goals? www.phoenixstar9online.com 35

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A:Together: To leave a positive and lasting impression that creates future business deals.

Q: What online social network have you had the most success with when it comes to making connections? What made this network the best fit for you?

A:Together: Instagram. This network allows us to connect in the most current media through pictures and comments, thus promoting ourselves and our brands. Facebook as well, because it allows for direct interaction with people and those who are not familiar with IG still can learn and network through Facebook. It allows for us to reach a vast group of people.

Q: How do you feel others can use the power of networking to advance themselves?

A: ReVivian: Get out there, meet people and tell them what you do. Let them know what your plans are and as long as it’s a good plan with an obtainable goal, someone will be there to support you and aid in the process in one way or another.

Leandrea: By pushing your brand, building a marketable character/image/ethic- you will create professional business ties that open doors to having a large productive networking system. It will allow for you to cross network on different projects- simply by supporting what you already have access to- in and around your community.

Q: In one sentence or so when has the power of networking truly amazed you?

A:Together: By simply walking a fellow poet to her car for her safety; I never thought it would open up the door for friendship and an amazing business opportunity. That woman- was ReVivian and our goals have aligned in ways which create new doors for both us and those tied to us. Together: We both feel that non-formal settings allow for a more relaxed approach, thus providing room for genuine response towards ones expectations.

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