Networkers Tour Guide

Episode 26 How to Successfully Network as an Employee with Debra Walker

In this episode, Faithann explores networking from an employee’s perspective with Debra, a business development professional at Armstrong Company. Debra shares her experience of building relationships and representing her company through networking. Faithann and Debra discuss how employees can leverage networking to grow their business, the benefits of intentional relationship-building, and how employers can support their employees in these efforts.

Download Your FREE First Impressions Guide HERE.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Deborah & Armstrong Company:

  • How Debra got into networking.

  • Overview of Armstrong Company’s relocation services.

• The Power of Networking for Employees:

  • How networking benefits both employees and their companies.

  • The importance of intentionality in building professional relationships.

• Debra's Networking Journey:

  • How she transitioned from Ohio to Oklahoma City and built her network.

  • Her introduction to Business Networking International (BNI).

  • The impact of finding a community and establishing her own chapter.

• Employer Support & Permission for Networking:

  • How Debra approached her company for permission to join BNI.

  • The financial investment companies make in networking and its ROI.

  • Why Armstrong Company values employee networking.

• The Value of Exclusive Networking Groups:

  • How BNI’s seat-specific structure fosters strong professional relationships.

  • The difference between referrals and leads.

  • Why exclusivity in networking enhances credibility and trust.

• Networking Beyond BNI:

  • Other industry-specific networking groups Debra participates in.

  • The importance of continuous learning and connections within an industry.

• Tracking & Reporting Networking Results:

  • How Debra demonstrates ROI to her employer.

  • The value of tracking referrals, closed business, and engagement metrics.

  • How businesses can measure the effectiveness of employee networking efforts.

• Final Takeaways:

  • Why networking is a long-term investment.

  • The importance of tracking results and being proactive.

  • Encouragement for employees to seek employer support for networking.

Resources Mentioned:

• Armstrong Company OKC Website

• Business Networking International (BNI) 

• Debra on LinkedIN

Connect with The Networker's Tour Guide:

• Free First Impressions Guide

• @thenetworkerstourguide

• Faithann on LinkedIN

• Email your questions to faithann@thenetworkerstourguide.com

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us bring more valuable networking insights to our listeners.

 

Episode 25 How to Set Your Employees Up for Networking Success with Tara Waddle

In this episode of The Networker's Tour Guide Podcast, host Faithann welcomes Tara Waddle, founder of Waddle It Be LLC. Tara shares her expertise in fractional operations and HR support for small to mid-sized businesses. They discuss the importance of networking done right, the value of referrals, and how businesses can better equip their employees to represent them at networking events. If you've ever wondered how to make networking work for you and your business, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Networking Happens Over Time: Tara and Faithann met through a referral partner, showcasing the power of building relationships over time.

• The Role of a Fractional COO: Tara explains what a fractional COO is and how outsourcing operational support can benefit small businesses.

• Equipping Employees for Networking Success: Many employees struggle with networking because they lack clear goals and guidance. Employers must prepare them to effectively represent the company.

• Making Networking Less Intimidating: Tara shares her approach to overcoming networking fears, including gamification and confidence-building exercises.

• The Importance of Practice: Networking is a skill that improves with experience. Every event provides an opportunity to refine your message and build credibility.

Notable Quotes:

• "Networking is done right when you're intentionally building relationships and providing value over time."

• "A fractional COO is essentially an outsourced COO—providing strategy and operational support without the commitment of a full-time hire."

• "Employees should never walk into a networking event unsure of why they're there or what they should say. Employers must prepare them for success."

• "Every networking event is practice. Whether you find a client or not, you’re refining your ability to communicate your value."

More about Tara Waddle:

At the core of everything Tara does are three values: communication, community, and curiosity. She believes that clear communication builds strong business relationships, community fuels sustainable growth, and curiosity – the willingness to ask the right questions – opens doors to new opportunities.

Tara has spoken at OK Women in Technology events, DisruptHR, SHRM chapter events, and the National Native American HR Association annual conference, helping businesses at every stage rethink how they operate from the inside out.

Today, she’s here to share how the right workflows, mission alignment, and operational clarity aren’t just internal necessities; they’re the key to making networking truly work for your business.

Connect with Tara:

• Website: https://www.waddleitbe.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tararwaddle/

• Instagram: @waddleitbe.llc

Connect with Faithann:

• Free First Impressions Download: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/

• Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to The Networker's True Guide Podcast and leave a review! Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur or business owner who could benefit from networking insights. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more tips on building meaningful connections!

 

Episode 24: How to Grab. Benefits of An Industry Exclusive Networking Group Before You're Ready to Join

In this solo episode, Faithann dives into how you can gain valuable networking benefits from industry-exclusive groups even before officially joining. While she always recommends becoming a member as soon as possible, there can be valid reasons for delays, such as cost or scheduling conflicts. This episode outlines seven actionable strategies you can implement to stay engaged and build relationships while waiting for the right time to join.

Key Takeaways:

1. Arrive Early – The most committed members are there early, making it a great time to connect with engaged individuals in the group.

2. Have a Curiosity-Driving Introduction – Prepare a response that sparks interest when asked, “Who are you? What’s your business?”

3. Prepare a Strong 60-Second Presentation – Even as a visitor, be ready to clearly communicate who you are looking for in a referral.

4. Be Open About the Cost – Membership fees reflect the value these groups provide. Consider the return on investment before dismissing the cost.

5. Connect with Members Online – Use provided member lists or business cards to follow up via LinkedIn or email and schedule one-on-one meetings.

6. Engage with the Speaker on LinkedIn – If the meeting includes a speaker, endorse their skills on LinkedIn as a way to build rapport.

7. Offer to Be a Substitute – Many networking groups allow substitutes for absent members. Volunteering for this role can keep you involved and visible.

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 22: The Experts We Meet Part 1 with Nikki Rausch

• Episode 21: The Fair Analogy – Who's in Your Network?

• Free Resource: Guide to Making a Great First Impression –Download today!

Final Thoughts:
You don’t have to wait to start benefiting from networking groups. By using these strategies, you can build relationships, gain insights, and prepare yourself for membership when the time is right. Go network, my friend!

Connect With Me:

• Website: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenetworkerstourguide/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/

 

Episode 23 The Experts We Meet Part 2 with Amy Singleton

In this episode of The Networkers Tour Guide Podcast, Faithann Basore welcomes Amy Singleton, owner and CEO of Hite Digital Norman. Amy shares her journey from being a nurse to becoming a leader in digital marketing and business growth. She discusses the power of networking, the importance of authenticity, and how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to incredible personal and professional transformation.

Key Takeaways

• Networking as a Two-Way Street – True networking isn’t just about gaining clients; it’s about forming valuable connections and offering support.
• Business Growth through Messaging – Many businesses struggle not with marketing, but with unclear messaging and broken systems.
• Overcoming Fear in Networking – Amy shares how she went from being terrified of networking to becoming a sought-after speaker and mentor.
• The Importance of Finding the Right Room – If you’re the most knowledgeable person in the room, it might be time to find a new space for growth.
• Intentional Networking – Asking thoughtful, personal questions fosters deeper relationships and leads to more meaningful connections.

Notable Quotes

💡 “Growth does not happen when we’re comfortable. Forget your comfort zone—kick the door down and get uncomfortable.” – Amy Singleton

💡 “The more accomplished people become, the more they are willing to share. It's the people who haven't done much that are often the most guarded.” – Faithann Basore

 

Resources & Mentions:

• Connect with Amy Singleton: amysingleton.net
• Follow Amy on social media: @TheRealAmySingleton
• Faithann’s blog: The Networker’s Tour Guide
• Free Resource: First Impressions Download at networkerstourguide.net/resources

Connect with Faithann:

🎙 Subscribe to the Podcast – Never miss an episode!
📱 Follow on Social Media – @The Networker's Tour Guide

Episode 22 The Experts We Meet Part 1 with Nikki Rausch

Welcome to the first episode of Faithann's special series, Meet the Experts! In this series, she talks with experts who can help us become better at networking and building strong business relationships.

⬇️Download Your First Impressions Guide Below⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

Visit the Networker's Tour Guide blog here.

Meet Our Guest: Nikki Rausch

Nikki Rausch is a sales expert, coach, and the creator of The Selling Staircase. She teaches business owners how to sell in a way that feels natural and comfortable. Nikki has helped many people, including our host, understand sales better and use it to grow their businesses.

How We Met

Faithann first discovered Nikki through Business Networking International (BNI), an organization that helps people connect and learn about networking. After watching Nikki’s Selling Staircase training, she became a fan and later joined Nikki’s Sales Maven Society—a group that offers coaching and support for business owners who want to improve their sales skills.

The Selling Staircase: A Simple Way to Sell

Nikki created The Selling Staircase to help people understand how to have successful sales conversations. Just like you wouldn’t jump to the top of a staircase in one step, you shouldn’t rush into selling without taking the right steps first!

The 5 Steps of the Selling Staircase:

1. Introduction – Make a great first impression.

2. Create Curiosity – Get people interested in what you do.

3. Discovery – Have a conversation to understand their needs.

4. Proposal – Offer a solution that fits their needs.

5. Close – Confidently ask for the sale.

Many people make the mistake of skipping steps, but following this process makes selling feel more natural and effective!

How This Relates to Networking

• Networking isn’t just about meeting people—it’s about building relationships.

• Creating curiosity is key! Instead of overwhelming people with information, give short, interesting answers that make them want to learn more.

• Avoid "word vomiting"—talking too much without letting the other person engage.

• Think of conversations like a game of catch—both people should take turns asking and answering questions.

Fun Tip: Dog Calling vs. Cat Calling

• Dog Calling (Too Pushy!) – Being overly excited and overwhelming people with information.

• Cat Calling (Creating Curiosity!) – Giving just enough information to make someone want to ask more.

Key Takeaways

• Sales and networking go hand in hand.

• Take your time and follow the steps of the Selling Staircase to build trust.

• Make networking conversations fun and engaging by creating curiosity.

• Anyone can learn how to sell with the right structure and approach.

Connect with Nikki Rausch

• Get Nikki's free e-book, Closing the Sale here.

• Listen to The Sales Maven Podcast for more tips!

• Join the Sales Maven Society for coaching and support.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and share it with someone who wants to improve their networking and sales skills!

 

Episode 21 Who's in Your Fair? Building Strategic Referral Partnerships

In this solo episode, Faithann dives into the importance of building relationships with other business owners who naturally align with your client’s journey. Before that, Faithann revisits Episode 20, where she worked with Amy Thurman to craft a clear, compelling elevator pitch that helps her attract the right referrals. Faithann reads the final version they created together and breaks down its structure so you can apply the same approach to your networking strategy.

Next, Faithann explores the concept of a business “fair”—how clients move from one service to the next and how you can position yourself as the natural next step in their journey. Whether you’re a real estate professional, contractor, or coach, understanding where your clients come from and where they go next can help you build strong referral partnerships and grow your business.

⬇️Download Your First Impressions Guide Below⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to structure a compelling elevator pitch (featuring Amy Thurman’s pitch from Episode 20)
• Why networking is more than just collecting business cards—it’s about strategic partnerships
• The concept of the “business fair” and how different service providers fit together
• How to identify who your clients see before and after you, and how to build relationships with them
• Smart questions to ask clients to uncover referral opportunities
• How to proactively create opportunities for others so they’ll return the favor

Key Takeaways:

• A well-structured elevator pitch makes it easy for people to refer you.
• Your clients don’t make purchases in isolation—each step leads to another.
• Identify businesses that naturally align with yours and form partnerships.
• Asking clients “What’s next?” helps you anticipate their needs and connect them with the right people.
• Providing referrals builds trust and increases the likelihood of receiving referrals in return.

Resources & Mentions:

• Episode 20: Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch with Amy Thurman
• Episode 3: Understanding Referral Partners

Connect With Me:

• https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/
• Tour 53: At The Fair at The Networker’s Tour Guide blog

If you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more business owners looking to grow through strategic networking.

Episode 20 Your Perfect (Pitch Part 5) with Guest Amy Thurman

Welcome to Episode 20!

In this episode, Faithann talks with her special guest, Amy Thurman. Amy is a best-selling author, speaker, and transformation coach who helps people live more authentically and overcome fear. She also shares her personal journey of recovering from a traumatic neck injury.

⬇️Download your free Powerful First Impressions guide⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/questions

 

How Faithann and Amy Met

• Faithann and Amy met at a networking event.
• Faithann reached out to Amy before the event, making her feel welcomed.
• A great tip for networking leaders: Send a message to new attendees to make them feel comfortable before they arrive!

Amy’s Inspiring Story

• Amy lived with an undetected broken neck for six months.
• She turned her trauma into a message of empowerment.
• She wrote her book Finding My Hero Within to share her journey from pain to strength.
• She chose to publish her book on the anniversary of her accident to change the way she saw that day—from tragedy to victory.

Helping People Find Their Authentic Self

• Amy teaches people how to be their true selves.
• When you are authentic, life flows more easily, and you don’t have to try so hard to find joy and purpose.
• Her work helps people improve their relationships, careers, and overall happiness.

Making a Stronger Elevator Pitch

• Instead of just saying what you do, describe the kind of person you help.
• Use clear examples to make it easy for others to refer you to the right people.
• For example, Amy helps people who feel stuck in their roles and want to discover who they truly are.

Final Thoughts

• If you want to improve your elevator pitch, focus on who you help and how you help them.
• If you want to read Amy’s book, you can find it on Amazon and her website.
• Thanks for listening, and don’t forget to subscribe for more great networking tips!

Links:

• Amy’s book: Finding My Hero Within
• Amy's website: getamyshelp.com
• More resources at:thenetworkerstourguide.net

 

Episode 19 Your Perfect Elevator Pitch (Part 4) Three Examples

In this solo episode, Faithann talks about elevator pitches—those short, powerful introductions that help you stand out in networking meetings. She shares three real examples of elevator pitches from business owners and gives helpful tips on how to create your own!

⬇️Download your free Powerful First Impressions guide⬇️

https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/questions

 

📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ What an elevator pitch is and why it matters
✅ Three great examples of elevator pitches from different industries
✅ How to confidently tell people who you’re looking to meet
✅ Tips to make sure your pitch is memorable and effective

📝 Key Takeaways:
🔹 A great elevator pitch starts with a short success story
🔹 Be specific about the type of person you’re looking to meet
🔹 Give your listeners a clear action step (like introducing you to a friend!)
🔹 If you’re in a room with others in your same profession, make your pitch stand out!

💡 Bonus Tips for Networking Meetings:
✨ Pick a seat where you can see the whole room when speaking
✨ Stay focused—even if there’s a distraction, keep going
✨ If others in the room do the same job as you, sit separately and make your pitch unique

📚 Resources Mentioned:
📖 Referrals in 60 Seconds Playbook – Get it at networkerschewerguide.net/products

🎧 Missed the last episodes? Check out:
🔹 Episode 17 & 18 – Guest interviews on crafting great elevator pitches

🔗 Connect with Faithann & Learn More:
💻 networkerschewerguide.net

Take Action! Use these tips to improve your elevator pitch and stand out at your next networking event!