How do I interact with all my Twitter followers?

How do you interact with all of your Twitter followers (and acquaintances, business associates, clients, club members, friends, and prospects)? There are probably as many answers to this question as there are networking “experts” so I will stick with my simple, tried-and-true answer: one person at a time.

View each person as a unique individual. Treat them as you would like to be treated. No one wants to be just a number or a face in the crowd. Almost everyone likes to feel as if they are the most important person in the world, at least for the moment when you are interacting.

Try to

• Show an interest in their lives and the things they are passionate about
• Listen with the desire to make a positive connection
• Answer questions
• Pass along helpful information
• Say good things about them to others
• Ask how you can help
• Respond to people’s requests
• Express appreciation
• Give thanks when thanks is due
• Encourage
• Have fun
• Be yourself at all times

 What are your favorite tips for making connections at networking events and online?

Good news for recent graduates

I am proud to have another college graduate in the family. I look forward to the lasting difference she and her peers can make in our world.

LinkedIn has created an ’09 Grad Guide to help them make connections, exchange ideas, and find the opportunities that require their special skills. LinkedIn is also offering a free upgrade to their premium account and membership in their ’09 Grads group.

Share the good news with your favorite graduate today.

Season of hope

This is such a hopeful time of year. Gardens spring to life. Newlyweds chase their dreams. Graduates (and those who have supported them through the college years) achieve a measure of financial independence. Families celebrate the bonds that draw them together. The sun even shines longer here in the northern hemisphere.

How can you keep this hope alive? Partner with people who encourage and bring out the best in you. If you are fortunate, as I am, this will include your spouse and other family members.

Aspire to act and speak in a way that builds others up. Spend your leisure time with friends who want you to be your best. If the choice is yours, work with professionals who will challenge you to do your best. Pursue your dreams and achieve your best.

How will you perpetuate this season of hope?

World Fair Trade Day

May 9, 2009 is World Fair Trade Day. Here are ways you can be involved:

• Become familiar with Fair Trade requirements which include a living wage, safer working conditions, and eco-friendly practices.
• Find Fair Trade partners in your area by checking online at the Fair Trade Federation.
• Look for the Fair Trade Certified™ label or endorsement by the Fair Trade Labeling Organization.
• Join the day’s celebrations at Ten Thousand Villages stores across the United States and check out the many ways materials have been reused or recycled to create something new. My favorite is the Ephrata, Pennsylvania store and café.

Who is your favorite Fair Trade partner?