There I was, performing magic at the Williamstown Film Festival, and as I looked around I became very aware of why networking is so important for success. My audience consisted of such people as Alec Baldwin, Brian Dennehy, and Dan Butler; all great actors I respect and enjoy. And here I was, entertaining them!

How did I get there? Networking. Years ago, I was visiting California and saw that the TV show, Frasier, one of my favorites, was taping at Paramount Studios. In order to gain access to the set, I called Pam Pierce, a woman I’d worked with in Vermont to produce magic shows to benefit an organization she chaired. Pam is David Hyde Pierce’s sister-in-law, and David was one of the stars of Frasier (Niles).

Without hesitation, Pam called David and got him to invite me to the taping. On set, not only did I meet David and the rest of the cast, but I became friendly with Steve Lawson, a close personal friend of David’s and the Executive Director of the Williamstown Film Festival.

Over the next few years, I was invited back again and again to entertain at the festival, meeting such greats as Sigourney Weaver, Dick Cavett, Tom Fontana, and the actors I mentioned earlier.

Networking Is Marketing Your And Your Business!

It’s all about networking and marketing yourself and your business; make yourself visible, available, and interesting to the people you meet. Let them know who you are and what you do. You never know where that will lead. For me, it’s been a journey of absolute delight.

And, had I not opened my mouth, first to Pam and then to Steve, I never would have had the opportunity to perform for the celebrities I have. If you’re hoping to attain success in your business, make networking a big part of your strategy. Let go of the shyness, the reserve, and the considerations, and let people see you. And, of course, make sure you give value. Whether by sharing a talent or simply being attentive and unselfish, make sure you’re remembered as someone who cares. When you’re networking in that way, you’re sure to achieve success!

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