Don’t become seduced by the dark side of marketing – vanity metrics

by Joe Domaleski | May 1, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, News Center, Opinion

Hello fellow Star Wars fans! May the Fourth is an unofficial holiday celebrated by Star Wars fans like me around the world on May 4th every year. The date is based on a pun of the famous Star Wars phrase “May the Force be with you,” as “May the Fourth be with you.” While we reflect on the epic battles between the light and dark sides of the Force, let’s take a moment to consider how this conflict relates to the business world. In the world of marketing, the temptation to succumb to the “dark side” of vanity metrics can be strong.

Vanity metrics are data points or measurements that may make a business or organization feel good about their performance but do not really provide meaningful insights into the overall health or success of the business. These metrics are often superficial and can give a false sense of accomplishment without providing any actionable insights that could lead to improvements or growth.

As a small business owner or non-profit executive, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of social media likes, website traffic, and other vanity metrics. After all, these numbers can make one feel good and give someone a sense of accomplishment. Indeed, as the owner of a marketing agency, I help companies extend their reach, which is sometimes measured by so-called vanity metrics. However, focusing too heavily on vanity metrics can be dangerous for your business in the long run and they rarely present a complete picture of what’s going on.

In the movie “The Empire Strikes Back,” Yoda tells Luke, “Once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny.” In the context of the Star Wars universe, this quote refers to the idea that once someone has been seduced by the dark side of the Force, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to turn back and resist its influence. In the context of vanity metrics, this quote can be seen as a warning against becoming too focused on superficial metrics that may lead a business down a “dark path” of measuring success by numbers that are ultimately meaningless.

Just as the dark side can dominate one’s destiny, vanity metrics can dominate a business’s marketing strategy, leading to a lack of focus on metrics that truly matter and ultimately hindering the business’s growth and success. The Star Wars quote can be a reminder that businesses should be cautious when using vanity metrics and ensure that they are focusing on meaningful data points that can drive real results.

Here are some specific dangers of vanity metrics:

Misleading information – One of the biggest dangers of vanity metrics is that they can be misleading. For example, having a large number of social media followers may seem impressive, but if those followers aren’t engaging with your content or converting into customers, then those numbers don’t really matter. I often tell customers that you can’t take social media likes to a bank and deposit them.

Misaligned incentives – Vanity metrics can also create misaligned incentives within your organization. For example, if your sales team is only incentivized to close deals, they may end up pursuing deals that are not in the best interests of the company long-term. Instead, they should be focused on building relationships with customers and creating long-term value.

False sense of security – Vanity metrics can give you a false sense of security. For example, if your website traffic is increasing every month, you may feel like you’re doing well. However, if those visitors aren’t converting into customers, then your business may be in trouble without you even realizing it. Web traffic is something to track, but not a complete picture of your website’s performance.

Wasted resources – Focusing too much on vanity metrics can also lead to wasted resources. For example, if you’re spending a lot of money on advertising to increase website traffic, but that traffic isn’t converting into customers, then you may be wasting valuable resources that could be better spent elsewhere. We often tell clients to do A/B testing to see which type of advertising works best so that resources can be spent on getting results.

Poor decision-making – Relying on vanity metrics can lead to poor decision-making. For example, if you’re only focused on increasing your social media following, you may end up posting content that’s designed to be viral rather than content that’s actually valuable to your target audience. Popularity doesn’t necessarily equate to sales.

Vanity metrics can also be harmful to people. In the age of social media, the pressure to perform and present oneself in a positive light can be overwhelming. Likes or followers on social media can create an unhealthy obsession with external validation. This can lead to a sense of low self-esteem and self-worth when the number of likes or followers doesn’t meet one’s expectations. Vanity metrics can also create a sense of comparison and envy, where people start to compare their lives and achievements with others based on likes and followers. This can create a negative impact on mental health, leading to feelings of anxiety. Resist the temptation to judge yourself or others based on vanity metrics.

So how can your organization avoid the temptations of vanity metrics?

1. Identify your key performance indicators (KPIs): These are the metrics that are directly tied to your business goals and objectives. By focusing on KPIs, you can ensure that you are measuring what matters most to your business.
2. Use a data-driven approach: When measuring metrics, ensure that you are using reliable data sources and methods. This will help you avoid inaccuracies and misleading metrics. Remember that not all social media metrics are accurate.
3. Analyze metrics in context: Instead of looking at metrics in isolation, it’s important to analyze them in the context of your business goals and objectives. This will help you understand whether a metric is truly meaningful or simply a vanity metric.
4. Regularly review and adjust your metrics: As your business evolves, your metrics may need to be adjusted to reflect new goals and objectives. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your metrics will help ensure that you are measuring what matters most to your business.
5. Focus on quality over quantity: Instead of measuring every possible metric, focus on a few high-quality metrics that are directly tied to your business objectives. This will help you avoid getting bogged down in vanity metrics and ensure that you are measuring what truly matters to your business.

From a personal perspective, avoid comparing yourself to others with vanity metrics. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, but this can be counterproductive and lead to feelings of inadequacy. Realize that what most people share on social media is not a complete picture of their lives, nor is it a complete picture of your life.

In conclusion, vanity metrics can be a seductive yet ultimately harmful path for businesses to go down. By focusing on superficial metrics, businesses can lose sight of their real goals and objectives, and miss out on opportunities to improve and grow. However, by identifying key performance indicators, using a data-driven approach, analyzing metrics in context, regularly reviewing and adjusting metrics, and focusing on quality over quantity, businesses can avoid the dangers of vanity metrics and measure what truly matters to their success. Remember, the quote “Once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny” can apply not only to the Star Wars universe, but also to the world of marketing. By avoiding the seductive pull of vanity metrics, businesses can ensure that they stay on the right path towards growth and success. May the Force (and Fourth) Be With You!

[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year.  Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran.  He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. ]

Taking your work outside can boost your productivity and creativity

by Joe Domaleski | Apr 25, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, News Center, Opinion

This past Saturday was Earth Day, and what a nice spring weekend it was! From community festivals to art shows, our local community here in Fayette County was filled with lots of great outdoor activities. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like nature. During this beautiful time of year, many people are reflecting on the importance of our planet and our relationship with it. One way to connect with nature and make the most of the natural world around us is to take our work outside. While it may seem counterintuitive to leave the confines of the office, working in the great outdoors can have numerous benefits for both our productivity and our well-being. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of taking your work outside and how it can help you tap into the beauty and energy of nature.

For many people, work is synonymous with sitting at a desk in an office all day. However, with the rise of remote work and the availability of portable technology, it’s becoming easier than ever to take your work outside. And, as it turns out, there are numerous benefits to working in the great outdoors – especially here in our wonderful community.

Being outside can boost creativity and productivity. Research has shown that exposure to natural environments can stimulate the brain and increase cognitive function. This means that taking your work outside can help you generate new ideas and solve problems more effectively. Plus, the fresh air and change of scenery can help to reduce mental fatigue and increase energy levels, allowing you to stay focused and alert for longer periods of time.

Secondly, being outside can reduce stress and anxiety levels. The tranquility and peacefulness of nature can have a calming effect on the mind and body, which can be particularly helpful for people who are feeling overwhelmed or burnt out. Taking a break from the confines of the office and spending some time in nature can help you relax and recharge, making it easier to tackle your work with renewed focus and motivation.

The author working from a hammock at The Ridge Nature Area in Fayetteville. Photo/Joe Domaleski

Also, being outside can have positive effects on physical health. Sitting at a desk all day can take a toll on your body, leading to a range of health issues such as back pain, eye strain, and poor posture. However, working outside can help to alleviate these problems by encouraging you to move around and stretch your muscles. Additionally, exposure to natural sunlight can help to regulate your sleep cycle and improve vitamin D levels, which are essential for bone health and immune function.

Finally, taking your work outside can be a great way to incorporate physical activity into your day. For example, you could go for a walk while brainstorming ideas or take your laptop to a local park and work while getting some exercise. This not only helps to improve physical health but can also increase creativity and productivity, as exercise has been shown to stimulate the brain and boost cognitive function.

Okay, so hopefully, you’re convinced that taking your work outside can be a great way to boost your productivity and creativity, but how can you make that happen? Quite simply, it’s important to do it in a way that is comfortable and effective. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your outdoor work experience:

1. Choose the right location: Look for a spot that is comfortable, quiet, and free from distractions. A park bench, a quiet corner of a garden, or a shady spot under a tree are all good options. Our local community is full of parks and quiet spaces from which to work.
2. Stay connected: Make sure you have all the technology and resources you need to work effectively, including a reliable internet connection and a fully charged laptop or tablet. Consider bringing a power bank or portable charger in case you need to recharge your devices. Cell phone coverage and even public Wi-Fi access spots are plentiful in our community, which makes staying connected easier.
3. Bring the right equipment: Depending on the type of work you’re doing, you may need additional equipment like a sunshade, a comfortable chair, or noise-cancelling headphones. Bring everything you need to ensure that you can work comfortably and efficiently. I can get most of my work done using an iPad, earphones, water bottle, and a small chair, which all fit into a small backpack.
4. Be mindful of the weather: Check the weather forecast before you head outside, and be prepared for changes in temperature or weather conditions. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable clothing that will keep you cool or warm as needed. Because I don’t necessarily want to lug around a lot of extra stuff, I purposely look for public spaces that are in the shade and have quick access to cover in case of a storm. If I’m in a park, I make sure I’m close to the car in case of bad weather.
5. Take breaks: Even though you’re outside, it’s still important to take breaks and give your eyes and brain a rest. Stand up, stretch, take a short walk, or simply look up at the sky and take a few deep breaths to help refresh your mind and body. It’s easy to stay glued to one spot, so even though you’re not at a desk, make sure you get up and move around a little.
6. Stay hydrated: Make sure you have plenty of water or other hydrating beverages with you, especially if you’re working in hot or humid conditions. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased cognitive function, so it’s important to stay hydrated. I always carry a water bottle with my stuff as well as some snacks.

Taking your work outside can have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health, as well as productivity and creativity. So, next time you’re feeling stuck or burnt out, consider taking a break from the office and heading outdoors. You might be surprised at how much more productive and energized you feel as a result. Maybe I’ll see you outside at The Ridge Nature Area in Fayetteville, Drake Field in Peachtree City, or even one of the public spaces over at Trilith.

[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year.  Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran.  He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. ]

It’s always easier to criticize than to create

by Joe Domaleski | Apr 18, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, News Center, Opinion

Have you ever found yourself in a meeting or discussion where nobody wants to be the first one to speak up? That can be a challenging situation in which the silence is “deafening”. Leaders often find themselves in situations in which they have to initiate dialog. It can be difficult to be the first one to share your thoughts, especially when the topic at hand is a sensitive one or when you know that your ideas will be met with criticism. This applies whether you’re leading dialog internally at your organization or externally with clients or other stakeholders like a board.

A mentor once told me, “it’s always easier to criticize than to create.” I agree with that statement and, in general, someone gets “extra points” for being the first to speak. But not everyone is wired that way. Some people are naturally reserved and introverted, so they’re not likely to be the first to speak up. When they do speak, they’re rarely critical. They just don’t want to be the first one out on the dance floor.

Other people are very deliberate about not speaking first. Dealing with such individuals can be a challenge because it’s not immediately clear whether they’re just trying to poke holes in someone else’s idea or they’re trying to offer constructive feedback to refine an idea or thought. More on that in a minute.

One way to “break the ice” is to ask an open-ended question that encourages discussion. Sometimes that strategy will work and it’ll inspire people to speak up. A simple question like, “what are some ways we could handle this situation?” creates a space for others to share their thoughts and ideas. Once the open-ended question is asked, then there should be a period of silence in which the dialog initiator gives ample time for others to speak. I personally struggle with this because silence can be awkward. Yet, sometimes that awkwardness is needed to give others time to chime in.

What happens if no-one speaks? Well, sometimes the leader must break that awkward silence in order to seed an idea, thought, or suggestion to get the dialog started. Some people find it easier to create and articulate original thoughts than others. So what happens when an original thought is expressed and suddenly one or more people start criticizing it? The easiest job in the world is to be an arm-chair critic of someone else’s work, but much harder to come up with original thoughts. How can one distinguish between constructive feedback vs. complaining?

Criticism can be a helpful for growth and improvement when it is constructive and based on facts. Constructive criticism provides specific feedback intended to improve something. It focuses on actions or behaviors that can be changed and offers specific suggestions for how to make those changes. Valid criticism can help a leader identify blind spots and recognize areas for improvement. Leaders need feedback.

On the other hand, complaining is not the same as valid criticism. Complaining is often unfocused, vague, and unproductive. It doesn’t offer any real solutions or suggestions for improvement. Instead, complaining often expresses frustration with a situation. It can be tempting to dismiss complaining as unimportant, but it’s important to remember that it can still have a negative impact on a team or organization. Complaining can lower morale, reduce productivity, and create a toxic work environment. It can also frustrate the person who was the first person to speak up with the original idea in the first place.

So, how can a leader distinguish between valid criticism and complaining? Here are a few key differences:

1. Focus: Valid criticism is focused on specific actions or behaviors that can be changed. It zooms in on how something can be made better with a tangible recommendation. Complaining is often unfocused and vague.
2. Tone: Valid criticism is delivered in a professional and respectful tone. It acknowledges the gist of the original thought and suggests refinement. Complaining is often emotional and can be delivered in a confrontational or negative tone. It’s often dismissive with no recognition of the original idea.
3. Solutions: Valid criticism offers suggestions or solutions for how to improve. The best solutions are specific and relevant. Complaining does not offer any real solutions.
4. Source: Valid criticism often comes from people who have experience or expertise in the area being criticized. Complaining can come from anyone, regardless of their level of knowledge or expertise.

As a leader, be open to feedback and criticism, but be able to distinguish between valid criticism and complaining. When you receive feedback, take the time to evaluate it objectively and determine whether it is valid or just complaining. If it is valid, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow. If it is just complaining, try to redirect the conversation towards finding solutions or addressing the root cause of the issue. By doing so, you can create a positive environment that encourages collaboration, growth, and productivity while also addressing any valid concerns or criticisms.

It’s important to remember that “It’s always easier to criticize than to create.” Here’s to all of the creators out there. Your unique perspective and creativity are invaluable contributions to the world. Keep creating!

[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year.  Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran.  He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. ]

Business lessons from the sport of orienteering

by Joe Domaleski | Apr 11, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, News Center, Opinion

This past Saturday, my wife Mary Catherine and I participated in an orienteering meet at Chattahoochee Bend State Park. Despite the torrential downpour, waterlogged flood plains, and cold wind, we managed to find all of our control points. We were out there for quite a while, but we eventually finished the course. Many people who had signed up for the event did not show up, and many who did show up failed to complete the course. On the drive back home, I reflected on the similarities between orienteering and running a business.

Orienteering is a competitive sport that involves using a map and compass to navigate through an unfamiliar terrain, such as a forest or wilderness area. The objective of orienteering is to find a series of control points marked on the map and placed on the ground in the field, in the correct order, and as quickly as possible. Participants are required to use their navigation skills to find their way through the course, which may involve crossing rough terrain, waterways, and other obstacles. Orienteering requires a combination of physical fitness, navigation skills, and strategic planning.

Mary Catherine & Joe Domaleski compete in an orienteering meet at Chattachooche Bend State Park on 4/8/23. Photo/Joe Domaleski

On a whim, I signed up for an orienteering meet last year. I’ve always enjoyed using a map and compass, a skill I first learned in scouting as a teenager. When I was in the Army, we did a lot of military land navigation with a map and compass. But now, I’m middle-aged and it had been years since I had picked up a map and compass. The orienteering meet was a blast, and I was surprised at how quickly the navigation skills came back to me. When I came home from the meet, I told Mary Catherine she’d have to try it out with me. Now, we’re both hooked and have spent the past year enjoying orienteering meets on the weekends with the Georgia Orienteering Club. In order to give you a taste of the sport, here’s a short video we made while orienteering out at Panola Mountain State Park a few weeks ago.

Orienteering is a lot like trail running and fast hiking, but instead of following a trail, you get to blaze your own path. Indeed, there are a lot of similarities between the sport of orienteering and running a business.  Here are some business lessons you can learn from the sport of orienteering:

1. Navigation and Planning: In both orienteering and business, success often depends on effective navigation and planning. In orienteering, participants must use a map and compass to find their way through unfamiliar terrain, while in business, leaders must navigate through complex markets and industries. Effective planning and navigation skills are critical in both activities to reach the desired outcome.
2. Decision-making and Adaptability: Orienteering and business both require quick decision-making and adaptability. In orienteering, athletes must make quick decisions about the best route to take to reach the next control point, while in business, leaders must make decisions based on changing market conditions, customer needs, and internal factors. The ability to adapt and make quick decisions can determine the success of a runner or a business.
3. Perseverance and Resilience: Orienteering and business both require perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. In orienteering, runners may encounter difficult terrain, weather conditions, and navigation errors.  This past weekend at the Chattahoochee Bend meet was a good test of our perseverance, as we waded through floodplains in the cold rain.  in business, leaders may face setbacks, financial challenges, and other obstacles. The ability to bounce back from these challenges is critical in both activities.
4. Teamwork and Communication: In orienteering and business, success often depends on effective teamwork and communication. In orienteering, runners may compete as part of a team, with each member playing a critical role in the group’s success. In business, effective communication and collaboration among team members can lead to more efficient decision-making and better outcomes. I’m fortunate that I have a great teammate at home and a great team at work.

If you like the outdoors and want to develop a skill that’s fun and useful, I can’t recommend orienteering highly enough.  Each meet has courses for all skills levels, including first-timers. While you’re out on the course, you might also find similarities between orienteering and business leadership.  Indeed, orienteering offers many lessons for running a business, as both activities require planning, adaptability, resilience, teamwork, and communication to achieve success.

[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year.  Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran.  He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. ]

Springtime is a great time to deep clean and revitalize your business

by Joe Domaleski | Apr 4, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, News Center, Opinion

Happy Spring, everyone! As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it’s a great time to revitalize your business and give it a fresh start. The first quarter of the year is over, and it’s likely that you have a good grasp of what’s working and what’s not working in your business. Springtime is a perfect time to deep clean and revitalize your business.

Spring is literally and figuratively a season of growth, renewal, and change. It’s also a season central to many religious and cultural holidays and festivals. The concept of “spring cleaning” has its origins in Jewish Passover customs. Spring is also closely aligned with Christian Lent and Easter traditions. Historically speaking, spring cleaning was a way to deep clean homes from soot and grime left over from heating after a long winter.

I don’t know about you, but I feel more energized by the warmer spring temperatures and increased sunlight. While humans may not hibernate in the winter like bears, we do tend to be more sluggish. Spring tends to energize people, which can positively impact a business through greater productivity and sales. In our business, we’ve always used the springtime to announce new services, promote employees, and launch new marketing initiatives.

Here are some tips for deep cleaning and revitalizing your business this spring:

• Review your goals and objectives: Take a look at the goals and objectives you set for your business at the beginning of the year. Have you made progress towards achieving them? If not, it may be time to reevaluate and make adjustments. Consider setting new goals or revising your existing ones to ensure they are aligned with the current state of your business. Get rid of those things that are not working and lean into the things that are. We’re doing that right now in our business by examining our service offerings and organizational structure.
• Refresh your marketing: Your brand is the face of your business. Consider refreshing it to attract new customers and stand out in a crowded market. This can include updating your logo, website design, and marketing materials. Ensure that your branding reflects your business’s mission, values, and personality. Spring normally causes an uptick in consumer demand with increased spending. Take advantage of the seasonal uptick. In my business, we’re refreshing our marketing by announcing some new marketing campaigns that are closely aligned with the spring season.
• Engage with your customers: Spring is a great time to reconnect with your customers. Consider reaching out to them through email marketing, social media, or in-person events. Engage with them by offering special promotions, asking for feedback, or hosting a customer appreciation event. This can help build loyalty and strengthen relationships with your customers. We recently did a spring “Country Fried Cookies” promotion in which we delivered homemade cookies to our customers.
• Invest in your team: Your team is the backbone of your business. Consider investing in their growth and development. Offer training or educational opportunities, provide opportunities for team-building, or offer incentives for meeting or exceeding performance goals. This can help increase employee satisfaction, retention, and overall productivity. Our company recently announced an initiative for employees to pursue updated industry certifications. I believe in leading by example, so if you look at my LinkedIn page (feel free to connect with me), you’ll notice some updated certifications. Learning new things and updating my own knowledge base is essential.
• Focus on health and well-being – Spring is not just a time for increased activity, but it should also be a time of rest and reflection. A spring break is just as important as spring cleaning. Taking a break from work can help reduce stress, improve mental health, and provide opportunities for personal renewal. Even if you don’t take a structured vacation, just getting outside can help recharge your energy levels. When the weather is nice, I’ll often take my office outside. If you’re on the phone with me and hear birds in the background – you’ll know my office is outside for the day.

Springtime affords a special time to deep clean and revitalize your business. Leaders, if you needed a sign to get started, then look outside and get motivated! Become a solar-powered business dynamo by reviewing your goals, refreshing your marketing, engaging with customers, investing in your team, and focusing on health. Doing so can help give your business a fresh start and set it up for growth and success for the remainder of the year. Use that springtime burst of motivation to your advantage.

[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year.  Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran.  He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. ]

How to network and make connections in the local community

by Joe Domaleski | Mar 28, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, News Center, Opinion

Recently, I was asked to share some of the things I did to start and grow a successful company that is now celebrating its 20th year in business. Without hesitation, I said that the ability to network and make in-person connections in the local community may be the single most important contributing factor to our success.

When we started the business in 2003, I sought the advice of others. A mentor of mine gave me two pieces of advice to help jumpstart my entrepreneurial efforts – join the Chamber of Commerce and volunteer with a non-profit or civic group. I did both, and I’m glad that I did. If your business or non-profit organization supports, serves, hires, solicits, or sells locally, then it’s essential that you know who’s in the community, and that they know who you are.

Networking allows you to meet like-minded people, identify those who can help you, find people you can help, and is one of the best ways to maintain a connection to what’s what and who’s who in the local community. Because of its size and sense of community, Fayette County is a great place to network and make connections.

Social media really didn’t exist as we know it in 2003, so most of my networking was, and continues to be, in person. I think the ability to stay connected via social media is a great way to maintain relationships once established. On the other hand, there’s nothing like making connections and friends in person.

I’ve been told that I seem to know everyone, and it’s true that I enjoy meeting new people. What follows is a laundry list of tips I’ve accumulated over the years that may help you network and make connections:

• Remember to be genuine and authentic; people can “sense” a fake. Your goal is to help others – “what goes around comes around.”
• Participate in activities/groups that are conducive to finding the networking opportunities you seek. Some groups are focused on learning, making contacts, service work, etc.
• Find groups that work like you work – are people supportive of one another? What is the tone and temperament of the group?
• Ask open-ended questions in conversations. Learn the who, what, where, when, and how.
• If you join an organization, be willing to serve in that organization in some capacity. It’ll keep you visible and show people you care.
• Become known as a “go-to” person that has solutions, not problems.
• Be articulate about what you do and how you can help others. Be just as articulate when you ask others to help you. How can they help you?
• Have a clear vision of what you do, for whom, and why. What makes what you do different from others?
• Always follow up quickly and efficiently. Respect others’ time.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for a favor.
• Use connections you already have – clubs, organizations, neighbors, family, friends, Church, alumni associations, sports groups, etc.
• Take advantage of local networking events – Chamber of Commerce, business events, presentations, mixers, socials, etc.
• Image is everything! Make a positive impression – appearances do count. Conduct yourself with stature and authority, without being pompous.
• Know when to end a networking discussion. Nobody likes a conversation that drags on past the point of effectiveness. Don’t be afraid to end the conversation when the time is right.
• Be visible.
• Always give a card and get a card. Write notes on the back of the cards you get.
• Have fun; it’s contagious!

That last point is the most important one – have fun. The purpose of networking is to meet people, not make sales or get donations. If you meet enough people, relationships will naturally form, and that’s the way it should work. I know that some of you are introverted and don’t necessarily enjoy large groups of people. That’s perfectly fine; be authentic and meet people in a manner that’s more suited to you.

I’d like to give a shout-out to my friend Colin Martin, who has served as President and CEO of the Fayette Chamber for the past four and a half years. He’s an incredible networker, and our community is a better place because of his leadership and efforts to help people make connections. Unfortunately, Colin is leaving the Chamber at the end of this month to be closer to his family in Columbus, GA. Thanks for all you’ve done for our community, Colin.

[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year.  Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran.  He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. ]