President's Message
It’s Happy Heart Month! Time to think about those you love, but is also time to reflect on how you are taking care of yourself. We each only have one heart, and we need to take good care of it, making sure we stay fit by eating correctly, exercising, and resting. As women, we get carried away with a full schedule of events, running here and there and cramming 30 hours into a 24 hour day. I am making a pledge this year to take care of me along with my loved ones. As a past Olympian and University Professor in the area of Kinesiology, one would think that I would have learned my lesson. Sad to say, I know what to do, but have been lax in doing it! I have decided that it is much more fun to participate in physical exercise if I can do it with someone else who will keep me on schedule and committed (if not to exercise, then to the friendship). So we have started a walking group at our office. It is amazing how just a few minutes of time away from our desks can change the entire atmosphere along with helping our hearts, joints, and body systems (not to mention our attitudes).
For over 12 years I walked faithfully with a friend until I moved away. During that time, we fought her breast cancer (she never missed a day of walking), we solved our daughters’ issues, held each other up during the loss of jobs, cheered with each other at the conquering of breast cancer and over pay raises, gossiped about our families, solved the world’s problems and were there for each other, walking regardless of the cold, rain or heat. We learned a great deal from one another and gained fitness as a by-product along the way. I encourage all of you to take time out for yourself. Schedule just 15 minutes a day for you and a friend.
The Mission of the Fresno Women’s Network is “…to support each other in business, personal and professional growth. Members are encouraged to build relationships, mentor one another, and give back to the community.” If women are to become great in whatever they choose they must reach out and step up. How are you reaching out and stepping up? I challenge you to make your heart feel good in this month that celebrates hearts by finding a new friend, keeping close to those you have befriended over the years, and challenging yourself to spend more minutes learning something new.
February is a great month to bring a guest to the Women’s Network luncheon. We will be introducing the Table Shuffle. Upon entering the luncheon you will draw the number of the table you will sit at during the luncheon. Yes, it is time to reach out and network. You have all asked for this opportunity. It will be a time to meet new friends and develop relationships. This is one way you can “reach out and step up” in the month of February. Not to worry if you bring a guest, you certainly may sit with that guest.
Here are some helpful hints on networking:
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Compose a brief introduction for yourself. You may need to compose several versions of this speech, each customized to particular situations.
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Practice your introduction by standing before a mirror and paying close attention to your posture and stance. You should try to exude confidence by keeping your shoulders back and your eyes up.
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Find a friend or someone you feel comfortable rehearsing your short introduction in front of. This should be someone who is willing to listen and give constructive feedback to help you perfect your introduction or icebreaker.
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Find a networking opportunity that is low key and low pressure at which to unveil your introductory speech. This can be anything from a casual party to an alumni event for your college or university (or the Fresno Women’s Network luncheons).
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Dress the part. Your appearance makes up a large part of the first impression for a new contact. When networking for your career or business, choose professional attire that is suitable to the occasion and avoid over- or under-dressing.
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Introduce yourself to at least one new person during your first networking event. By overcoming your fear or shyness, you will find the next introduction that much easier.
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Improve the likelihood that the contacts you make will be fruitful by following up. Send a brief email or make a couple of calls, especially if you promised or were promised information or job leads during your initial conversation.
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Keep getting out there. The best way to improve your networking skills is through real-world experience.
Taken from: Remember – “Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” Harriet Tubman May your heart be filled with joy!
Cathy Ferguson
