deviantly domesticated

For Be Adornable, I am always searching for people who display "adornable" qualities, like being in-touch with world affairs, having a particular ability to put ideas into a larger context, creating beautiful items to buy, or sharing advice on how-to-be enterprising.

Regarding the latter, I was researching today on tips for operating an etsy shop (if you have not heard of Etsy.com, GO NOW and check it out!).  I created my etsy profile last night and look forward to opening my shop soon, thus the research.  Anyway, I encountered this great article, "How to Network Offline," where author and etsy seller, Laura Bray, shares five tips for building a business through networking.  They are as follows:

1.  shop local networking venues (like the Chamber of Commerce, industry groups, etc.)

2.  once you plug in, be an active member

3.  make a point to meet people

4.  follow-up 

5.  keep in touch

If you own your own business, or are just looking for some tips to advance yourself professionally in your current job, Bray's article is packed full of suggestions worth taking.  I, for one, plan on adopting them right away.

Oh, and if you are wondering how to keep all your contacts organized, check out "Highrise" from 37 Signals.  It is a virtual rolodex sure to help you follow through with Bray's networking advice!