The Clique Vs. The Network

On today, I was reminded that often times we have individuals that prefer to be in cliques instead of being a part of a network. Now, I will get more in depth on my thoughts concerning this but here is the difference between the two.

"Clique" - A small group of people, with shared interests or other features in common, who spend time together and do not readily allow others to join them.

Source - Google

The key words here is do not readily. If you plan to have a private, uninviting group that focuses on appearances, comfort-based off on purely who you know and what you know then that is NOT a network.

"Network" - A group or system of interconnected people or things. Interconnected refers to those who are all connected.

Source - Google

The meanings and differences sound pretty accurate to me. I can't speak for you or anyone else but networking sounds much more attractive to me.

- This can be concerning when referring to cliques formed in an office setting or where individuals are motivated to build a professional leadership group. I can speak from my own personal experiences that becoming or being a part of a clique is something that you might want to avoid. If you desire the ability to form a successful networking partnership then you need to be open to meeting new people who have that objective at heart. Being a part of a clique happens often in work environments and that can stir up a lot of tension amongst co-workers, whether it be departmental or interdepartmental. Save your time and energy for producing quality work, building strong relationships, earning the trust of your co-workers and upper management. 

Managers be advised that you create the environment in which your employees will demonstrate professionalism and increase morale. You are the example. What you start will be what you have to finish and will be purely a representation of you.

That doesn't mean that you shouldn't be weary of those that you attach your name and brand too when building your networking circle. You have the advantage, communicate with them so that the relationship can thrive and grow. If someone has already made up their mind about you then they will automatically reject you or any information that you have to offer. Be open to the people that you come into contact with, you never know what type of skills or experience they may have. It's just like they say "Never judge a book by it's cover," you must always be willing to read the story. Ask specific questions and understand that you may not agree with what they have to say but realize that you have started a lane for communication with them. 

You have more influence over a person when your are more receptive to listening to them then rejecting them. I prefer to be the go-to person and not be the person to watch out for, There will be a time where you will need assistance from someone outside of your clique or network. You will not want to be rejected based off of how you treated them or someone that is connected to that particular person. 

There is always more to a person than what we can see or hear, keep that in mind. 

Be Blessed,

Mrs. N.B.S

Personal Vs. Professional Relationships

If you have valuable connections within your network then you need to be in constant communication them. Your network does not have to be large for it to be valuable, often times the best connections are unexpected and small. How do you know that you have a valuable network? It's when you don't have to ask repeatedly for support. 

Negative Outcomes of reaching out to your network:

Hosting an event:

If you are one to host events often and your events play a major role in how you market your business but no one in your network shows, how are they valuable connection?

Selling or offering a product or service:

You suggest or ask for individuals to share your product even it they are not interested. If no one even shares the product or services that you have, then they are not a valuable connection?

Starting a new business or venture:

You request that your connections, give a advice, give suggestions, feedback or referrals. You could ask family or friends and receive little to absolutely no responses at all. Your family and friends are exactly just that. They are not apart of your networking circle.

Keep in mind that each example that I shared does not eliminate those individuals from becoming a valuable connection it just means that they are not a valuable connection at the moment.

As a professional in general, we must be able to understand that a personal relationship and a professional relationship are different. I'm learning that you can have a personal relationship with individuals and it can be merely just that. I've also learned that if you have a professional relationship with the people who you are connected with then there is a certain level of respect given. When you have a personal and professional relationship with people that you are connected with, those people are your most valuable connections. You can accomplish so much with people when you have their respect and their friendship.

Be Blessed,

Mrs. N.B.S

Preparation for a new start

The re-invention stage of developing your business and brand is overwhelming at times. Honestly, I understand how hard it can be to place yourself in a position within your business that is pleasing and fulfilling only to be disappointed with your results. Time and time again you hear people say, "don't give up or you are on the right track". Well, it's true and there is no excuse for you to give up on the one thing that will help you achieve the most important goal in this life, becoming what you were put on this earth to be.

Here are a few steps that I am using to stay motivated:

1. Setting a daily goal. I have to tell myself that it doesn't matter what time of the day it is, how late or how sleepy I am. I need to accomplish that goal each day. 

2. Weekly researching of other companies related to mine to determine how I can stand out and become more appealing to the public eye. Look for new marketing aims, I have to remind myself that it's better to make a mistake now rather than later.

3. Stay in communication with my contacts and resources weekly. Write down your results and asks mentors and those your connected to for advice on how to implement a strategic plan within your business.

4. Start investing more in others, whether showing interest and being more involved in their projects or business ventures as well. Sometimes it hard to make time for others because your more focused on elevating your own business. When you show interest it provides encouragement and confidence for them as well as yourself. 

5. Be consistent in everything that you do.

6. Be pleasant, kind and patient.

Best,

Creator and Founder, Miriam Dixon-Davis

N.B.S

The Writer's Experience- A Notebook Thought

At the moment, I'm focusing on the direction that I want to go in for my next book, Intolerable Boundaries, Part-2. I tend to doubt my lines in between writing each paragraph or wonder if the direction of the book will be relatable to my audience. Then I remember that it's my book, my vision, and interpretation of the world. I can only hope that it heart-warming, touching, appealing and over all that they are liked and loved by my readers. My desire is to become known as a writer with purpose; inspiring, heart grasping and depicting hope. I would be disappointed if there was no criticism.



-N.B.S
Writer & Creator, Miriam Dixon

Intolerable Boundaries- The Release 12/18/2015

In life, we tend to seek validation, guidance and understanding from those near us or that we barely know. We forget that what makes us stand out are those pivotal moments. The moments where we are forced to no longer procrastinate but step out on faith.

This past year, I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue a new journey with my family. It's was the best decision that I've made in years and I'm without regrets. I asked that you join me today in celebrating one of many more accomplishments; the release of my first short story, "Intolerable Boundaries."

Being a wife and mother has truly inspired me to pursue my life long goals and this is only the beginning. Intolerable Boundaries will only be available for $2.99 on Amazon for the remainder of today and my paperback book will be available for purchase after the new year in January of 2016.


Feel free to click on the link below and share with your loved ones. I hope that you all enjoy it!


Wishing you peace and joy this season. Happy Holidays to you and yours.


Miriam M. Dixon- Davis
Creator/Blogger
N.B.S

http://www.amazon.com/Intolerable-Boundaries-Attraction-Role-Position-ebook/dp/B018RIWJM8/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1450426197&sr=1-1&keywords=Intolerable+Boundaries

My STL Bridal Show Xperience

An engagement brings the excitement of planning, researching and gathering details to start the process of planning the perfect wedding. Selecting the theme of your wedding and the colors for the flower arrangements may seem simple but it’s usually the small necessities that set the tone on that special day. Today, I attended the St. Louis Bridal Show at the St. Charles Convention Center. The event was well organized for the bride-to-be on her mission to plan out that special day. Each table was prepared to present their services from beautiful bridal bouquets to samples of tasty reception treats. It was nice that some of the vendors offered one-stop shop services as well for the bride.

Although, I enjoyed the wonderful set-ups and music coming from the various DJ tables; it was quite overwhelming. It can be challenging for a bride-to-be to make decisions on a venue, florists and bridal salons when you’ve been offered information on 4 or more for each of the same services.

I realized after stopping at the first 8 tables it would be in my best interested to get more personal with each representative. Here are a few ideas that came to mind following my observation:

First thing first brides-to-be:

Create and set your budget. Do whatever you can to stay within the lines that you and your significant other have agreed on. You need to be willing to give up somethings to have what you desire the most on your special day. Everything else will come out amazing for you. I’m sure of this.

Secondly: Have your mom, mother-in-law, sister, close friend and/or maid of honor right by your side to assist when making decisions. I learned this today by having my friend with me. Your friend should be encouraging once your decisions are made. Be confident in knowing what you desire but be open to accepting the fact that your vision may change. You need someone there to remind you that everything will be fine. Take a breath!

Selecting the right venue for your wedding:

Ask the vendor about space accommodation. It’s helpful to know as a bride-to-be that the venue offers more than one area or space within their facility for you to host your wedding or reception. Outdoor weddings and receptions should always be taken into consideration when having a spring-fall season wedding.

Also, be open to a smaller intimate wedding when hosting a smaller party of guests. Remember that the earlier you book your appointments and tour of your preferred venues the sooner you will be able to lock in your date. Narrow your venue choices down to three choices based on location, cost and space. Once you have your venue locked in and secured then your vision will become clearer. Trust me attending a bridal show can make things seem a bit foggy when planning.

Your vendor may become a one-stop shop for all the services you need. Some vendors may offer a checklist form that breaks down prices on meal plans, open bar, music, invitations, photographers and floral. This will buy you sometime in traveling or researching for additional services that they already have available.

Dress selecting process:

Your dress outside of the venue is the main attraction. Nothing lets everyone know who matters on this day more than your presentation. Your dress and your mood will set the tone for the day.

Leave negative, unhappy and opinionated people behind on the day you go to try on dresses. You cannot be confident and happy in your selection if negative vibes are flying around during your appointment. Be prepared to write your –“Misery Not Allowed” sign at your appointment for those interested in joining.

Allow yourself time in advance to find the right dress so that alterations can be made before the wedding. Review bridal planners, bridal gowns and accessories online prior to your appointment.

Lastly, remember that anything can go south before your wedding day and it will still be perfect.

STL Venues –

Andre’s Banquet Facilities and Catering

Andre’s offers a one-stop shop plan for their clients. (Invitations, Limousine Services, Music, Tuxedos, Photographers, Reception and Floral Designer. www.andresbanquet.com / P: 314-894-2622

Bristol Seafood Grill

Services include banquet, wedding rehearsal dinner, reception and bridal luncheon.

Contact: Private Events Manager, Vicki Houska, E: vhouska@bristolseafoodgrill.com /P: 314-567-0272

Saint Charles Convention Center

Contact: Connie Barber, Catering Sales Manager E: cbarber@scmocc.com P: 636-669-3006

STL Florists—

For Ever Roses

Contact: Karen McGowen or Michelle Fuhrmann /Site: www.foreverroses.weebly.com / P: 636-575-1996

Schnucks Florist & Gifts

Contact: Dena Fetsch, FTD Master Designer/Bridal Consultant /E: drfetsch@schnucks.com /P: 314-997-2444

STL Make-up & Hair Services—

Eye Do STL

Contact: Scheduling Coordinator, Kim Stahlheber / E: scheduling@eyedostl.com /P: 636-541-4618

Belleza Bridal Hair Salon

Call for appointment: 630-300-3437

STL Bridal Shops—

The Ultimate Bride- Bridal Salon

Schedule appointment online or by calling: www.theultimatebride.com /P: 314-961-9997

Frew’s Bridal & Formal Wear

Site: www.frewsbridal.com /P: 618-466-8820

Touchstone Crystal by Swarvoski Jewelry

Sip & Shop Party in STL

This Saturday, I hosted my first launch party for Touchstone Crystal. You can view my site now and checked out the latest Fall/Winter 2015 fashion catalog for this season. Our beautiful crystals come in fall friendly colors for this and you can now have Swarvoski Crystal jewelry in your collection for affordable prices. There is only 3 days left for you to receive 30% off when you spend $100. 

Join me in starting off Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a big run by purchasing the Love & Miracles Bracelet for $36, the Open Heart Necklace for $56, the Pink Crystal Ball for $36 or the Heart Tac Pin for $36 as a gift to give a cancer survivor or family member.  With your help, proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society. To order online go to https://sites.touchstonecrystal.com/sites/miriamd then enter Miriam in the “Look up Host Section” and click “Sip & Shop.”

Blessings to you all! Let's Beat Cancer together! #PayitForward #TouchstoneLife #IThinkPink

Sincerely,

Miriam M. Dixon-Davis

Writer of N.B.S