February 12, 2010
As a member of many local organizations, our own Nick Williams (aka “the Man”) shares his advice on how to make the most of your professional group membership.
- FOCUS! Select groups that are best suited for your availability and needs. This will increase the return you get from the time you dedicate to the group. Determine which are the best groups for your goals, and focus on these groups.
- WORK! It’s called netWORKing. Attend regularly – You can’t gain anything if you’re not there. If something comes up, try to have a representative from your office attend in your place. That way you will still maintain a presence in the group and your coworker can catch you up on what you missed. Once you leave your meeting, the networking is not done. You really develop the trust and learn more about people in a one-to-one setting. Coffees, lunches, and golf outings will help you build relationships within your network.
- KNOW! Know your message! Have a plan on how you want to market yourself and your business. Keep on topic and make sure your message is consistent. You’re the brand messenger for your company. “Umms” and “I don’t know” do not fit in here. Be precise and ask for specific leads – this will help you be a highly effective networker.
- LEAD! When possible take on leadership positions. There isn’t a better way than to have an audience on a weekly basis listening to you. You and your business will stay on the forefront of their minds, and they will remember you when asked for a referral. Someone that is new to the group is more apt to begin a conversation with the group leader than member. Groups are always looking for volunteers and new ideas, so ask how you can help.
- LISTEN! Always keep an open mind. The person you meet today may become a client tomorrow.
There are a ton of groups out there and plenty of avenues to network with your peers. Get out, get networking and get some business.
See you on the town,
Nick
February 3, 2010
Chalk 2009 in the record books for Onyx Group. We had an outstanding year thanks to amazing clients, supportive friends and family. We are so thankful for the network that has surrounded us, and we are grateful for our success in 2009.
Onyx Group is pleased to announce several organizational changes that will enhance our ability to offer outstanding services to our clients in 2010:
• Nick Williams has transitioned into Onyx Group’s Communications Manager, where he will be focusing heavily on marketing. “I am thrilled to be able to work on Onyx’s marketing efforts,” Nick says. “There are so many things involved with our brand awareness, and we have some awesome ideas in store for 2010.”
• After joining the team late last year, Neil Bell (aka “Mr. Media”) is settling into his business development position. Neil brings a plethora of knowledge and skill to the team and is already off to a strong start in 2010.
• Onyx Group welcomes Adrian Mummey, who will be helping to take our websites to the next level of excellence as our new Information Engineer (aka “Web Nomad”). For more information on Adrian, check out the About section of our newly-updated web site.
• Megan Valente has transitioned from her position as general intern to her new position as Communications Assistant (aka “The Connector”). She will be helping with Onyx’s social networking and will be manning the front desk.
• Bill Mattox recently joined the Onyx Group as our resident Wordsmith. An experienced writer, Bill (aka “The Chaperone”) is a KCCI Catalyst for 2010 along with Onyx Principal Nadia Kamal.
With so many new things going on at Onyx, we are excited about the year ahead. Please check out our refurbished website at www.onyxcreates.com. If you have any questions or want to talk about how we can help your business succeed in 2010, please give us a call at (850) 877-3930.
November 25, 2008
Onyx travels far and wide to seek business opportunities. Actually, just to Orlando to the 2008 MatchMaker Conference hosted by the Florida Office for Supplier Diversity. This event highlights Minority and Women-owned businesses throughout Florida – teaching them on how to work with the state, to capitalize on bids and contracts.
Kris and I set out Wednesday evening for the two-day event in Orlando, FL. Thursday morning came quickly and we found ourselves, eating breakfast with about 350 other business owners and employees looking to gain some insight on opportunities with state agencies. Shortly after breakfast we had our first workshop which went till lunch. Governor Charlie Crist spoke at the luncheon and in the afternoon we set off to another workshop. Wrapping up the day with a reception was another great opportunity to network for fellow vendors and businesses.
On Friday, we manned the best looking booth there (no partiality here) meeting more state agencies, fellow exhibitors, and businesses. We met tons of great people and heard great stories also. I learned a lot about state procurement, and look forward to future opportunities. The MatchMaker Conference was definitely a success and we will be back next year.
Stay Sophisticated,
Nick Williams
