It's that time again. Time for the New Year's resolution where we try to get rid of the holiday weight in time for swimsuit season. If you're considering a gym membership we've got some important news for you. The following gyms are offering special deals to NET members. Most of the discounts will cover more than half of the cost of NET membership, and you still have the entire year to use that handy, dandy card at over 100 participating businesses. Not to mention, when you become a NET member you now get a free subscription to Lehigh Valley Style, a $15 value. And in January, NET membership is 10% off. So what are you waiting for? Join the NET now. It's a no brainer.
Easton Yoga - Buy 10 regular classes and receive 2 free (a $20 value)
FitQuest Fitness - Free one-week trial and 50% off the enrollment fee
Lehigh Valley Racquet & 24-7 Fitness - 50% off the current enrollment fee
Lehigh Valley Yoga Center - 15% off a basic session
Your local gym not listed? Send the name, location and contact information to Erin Gruver at lvnetyp@aol.com and she will contact them about participating in the NET discount program. Please note that the NET supports private, locally-owned businesses only. No chains.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Lehigh Valley Professionals Group Meeting
Lehigh Valley Professionals (LVP) is a free recruitment resource for companies, organizations, and recruiters seeking high-caliber professionals and consultants of all disciplines in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding area.
Meeting agenda:
· 10:00 - 11:00 Program: The 1st Step to your New Career
Kevin Boucher, Program Chairperson ~ Lehigh Valley Professionals Group
· 11:00 - 1145 Icebreakers and Open Discussion
· 11:45 - 12:00 Network
Next meeting is January 12, 2006, at 10:00 AM, in the Lehigh Valley Room.
When: Friday, Jan. 5, 10 a.m.
Where: Lehigh Valley Room, Careerlink Lehigh Valley, Allentown
Cost: FREE!!
The Lehigh Valley Professionals Group is not associated with NET.
Meeting agenda:
· 10:00 - 11:00 Program: The 1st Step to your New Career
Kevin Boucher, Program Chairperson ~ Lehigh Valley Professionals Group
· 11:00 - 1145 Icebreakers and Open Discussion
· 11:45 - 12:00 Network
Next meeting is January 12, 2006, at 10:00 AM, in the Lehigh Valley Room.
When: Friday, Jan. 5, 10 a.m.
Where: Lehigh Valley Room, Careerlink Lehigh Valley, Allentown
Cost: FREE!!
The Lehigh Valley Professionals Group is not associated with NET.
Allentown woman to work with Gore on global warming
This summer's documentary ''An Inconvenient Truth'' made an unlikely movie star out of Al Gore, who narrates the film.
But for Jamie Harkins, the former vice president has always been something of a star, going back to her environmental economics class at Muhlenberg College, where she read Gore's books.
So when Harkins — who lives in Allentown and works as vice president of finance at Easton's State Theatre — learned about a chance to work with Gore, she signed up right away, even before she knew what the work entailed.
''I just knew I had to do it,'' said Harkins, who leaves this week for Tennessee to work with The Climate Project. She'll take a four-day course — led by Gore — and learn about issues surrounding global warming, and receive training in giving the same presentations that form the basis for the documentary.
According to nonprofit The Climate Project's Web site, the same course also is offered in Sydney, Australia.
When the training is over, Harkins comes back to the Lehigh Valley and will spend the next year giving the presentation at schools, churches and businesses.
The whole process began last summer, when Harkins, who graduated from Parkland High school, participated in a nationwide conference call with Gore, who alluded to the project.
''All he said was 'I'm training a thousand people to give this global warming presentation,''' she said. Harkins began sending letters to Gore's office, and eventually was chosen — along with others nationwide — to come to Tennessee. At that point, she hadn't even seen the documentary yet. She's seen it since then, given copies of the DVD as Christmas gifts, and taken other people to see it, converting some global warming skeptics along the way.
She's also started driving a car with a diesel engine, making sure she practices what she preaches.
Despite any debate over global warming, Harkins insists ''An Inconvenient Truth'' is not a political movie, but one that simply lays out scientific ideas.
''Really, it's not that people are against the idea anymore,'' she said. ''They just don't know what it's all about.''
But for Jamie Harkins, the former vice president has always been something of a star, going back to her environmental economics class at Muhlenberg College, where she read Gore's books.
So when Harkins — who lives in Allentown and works as vice president of finance at Easton's State Theatre — learned about a chance to work with Gore, she signed up right away, even before she knew what the work entailed.
''I just knew I had to do it,'' said Harkins, who leaves this week for Tennessee to work with The Climate Project. She'll take a four-day course — led by Gore — and learn about issues surrounding global warming, and receive training in giving the same presentations that form the basis for the documentary.
According to nonprofit The Climate Project's Web site, the same course also is offered in Sydney, Australia.
When the training is over, Harkins comes back to the Lehigh Valley and will spend the next year giving the presentation at schools, churches and businesses.
The whole process began last summer, when Harkins, who graduated from Parkland High school, participated in a nationwide conference call with Gore, who alluded to the project.
''All he said was 'I'm training a thousand people to give this global warming presentation,''' she said. Harkins began sending letters to Gore's office, and eventually was chosen — along with others nationwide — to come to Tennessee. At that point, she hadn't even seen the documentary yet. She's seen it since then, given copies of the DVD as Christmas gifts, and taken other people to see it, converting some global warming skeptics along the way.
She's also started driving a car with a diesel engine, making sure she practices what she preaches.
Despite any debate over global warming, Harkins insists ''An Inconvenient Truth'' is not a political movie, but one that simply lays out scientific ideas.
''Really, it's not that people are against the idea anymore,'' she said. ''They just don't know what it's all about.''
So what exactly is NET?
This question has been posed to me again and again, which as marketing chair, I am glad to hear because it means we are reaching new people.
Formally, the Lehigh Valley Network of Young Professionals "fosters awareness of employment possibilities, welcomes new young professionals, supports community organizations, provides professional development opportunities, and engages in social networking."
Yeah, yeah you say. But what exactly does that mean? Let's look at it piece by piece.
One of the most active parts of our organization is social networking. Our First Thursday events consistently draw 40-60 people, sometimes more. Although we don't define "young professional" generally NET members hover in age between 22 and 35, with the average age being 28. We are a good mix of locals, like myself, and many imports who are just getting acquainted to the area. Most of us are working and just cutting our teeth in our given businesses which range from engineering, to sales, to graphic design.
Although we are not a dating service, most of our members are single, and many romantic connections have been made through the NET. In fact all of our presidents have met their wives through the organization, so we have a pretty good track record.
Our other strong consistent social opportunity is our monthly dine-outs in which we get together at various restaurants throughout the Lehigh Valley. This is a bit more intimate setting than First Thursday and draws anywhere between 12 and 30 people.
Although we certainly like to cut loose and have a good time, we are not a party or drinking club. However, many members go out together after our events which generally let out around 9 p.m.
We provide employment and professional development opportunities through events like our Connect Business Card Exchanges. Held at art galleries, lofts and other unique places around the Valley, these events provide a more formal, business atmosphere which usually attract 20-40 people. Other professional development events we have held include business lunch etiquette and entrepreneurial events.
In addition to professional development, we also occasionally host educational classes of interest to young professionals like first time home-buying seminars.
As far as supporting community organizations, we have consistently volunteered at Musikfest. And every year we collect cans for our November First Thursday for a local food bank. In addition, we have become involved with Renew Lehigh Valley, an initiative to promote smart growth and revitalization in the Lehigh Valley. Community leaders are listening to young professionals, since we are vital to the future of this region.
Finally, the NET is the unofficial welcoming committee for all young professionals new to the area. The NET is a great way to meet friendly, like-minded people and get out into the region. We hold activities at a variety of locations, and will be able to help orient you in no time.
So what exactly is NET? It's what you make of it. If you just want to hang out, make friends and have a good time, fine. If you want to further your career, beef up your resume, and impress your boss, you can. Or if you want to get involved in the community and make a difference great! You can do all of the above. It's up to you.
I hope you will consider joining us on Thursday for our January First Thursday event at Starter's Riverport. And if you're ready to join, we'll give you 10% off your membership fee during the month of January.
Hope to see you there!
Vanessa Williams
NET Marketing Chair
vanessawilliams2004@hotmail.com
Formally, the Lehigh Valley Network of Young Professionals "fosters awareness of employment possibilities, welcomes new young professionals, supports community organizations, provides professional development opportunities, and engages in social networking."
Yeah, yeah you say. But what exactly does that mean? Let's look at it piece by piece.
One of the most active parts of our organization is social networking. Our First Thursday events consistently draw 40-60 people, sometimes more. Although we don't define "young professional" generally NET members hover in age between 22 and 35, with the average age being 28. We are a good mix of locals, like myself, and many imports who are just getting acquainted to the area. Most of us are working and just cutting our teeth in our given businesses which range from engineering, to sales, to graphic design.
Although we are not a dating service, most of our members are single, and many romantic connections have been made through the NET. In fact all of our presidents have met their wives through the organization, so we have a pretty good track record.
Our other strong consistent social opportunity is our monthly dine-outs in which we get together at various restaurants throughout the Lehigh Valley. This is a bit more intimate setting than First Thursday and draws anywhere between 12 and 30 people.
Although we certainly like to cut loose and have a good time, we are not a party or drinking club. However, many members go out together after our events which generally let out around 9 p.m.
We provide employment and professional development opportunities through events like our Connect Business Card Exchanges. Held at art galleries, lofts and other unique places around the Valley, these events provide a more formal, business atmosphere which usually attract 20-40 people. Other professional development events we have held include business lunch etiquette and entrepreneurial events.
In addition to professional development, we also occasionally host educational classes of interest to young professionals like first time home-buying seminars.
As far as supporting community organizations, we have consistently volunteered at Musikfest. And every year we collect cans for our November First Thursday for a local food bank. In addition, we have become involved with Renew Lehigh Valley, an initiative to promote smart growth and revitalization in the Lehigh Valley. Community leaders are listening to young professionals, since we are vital to the future of this region.
Finally, the NET is the unofficial welcoming committee for all young professionals new to the area. The NET is a great way to meet friendly, like-minded people and get out into the region. We hold activities at a variety of locations, and will be able to help orient you in no time.
So what exactly is NET? It's what you make of it. If you just want to hang out, make friends and have a good time, fine. If you want to further your career, beef up your resume, and impress your boss, you can. Or if you want to get involved in the community and make a difference great! You can do all of the above. It's up to you.
I hope you will consider joining us on Thursday for our January First Thursday event at Starter's Riverport. And if you're ready to join, we'll give you 10% off your membership fee during the month of January.
Hope to see you there!
Vanessa Williams
NET Marketing Chair
vanessawilliams2004@hotmail.com
Monday, January 01, 2007
Working a Room: Guide for the Introverted
As a self proclaimed introvert – I relate to your pain and anxiety.
We are all confronted with the daunting challenge of entering a room filled with hundreds of strangers yapping and shaking hands. We want to be like them, the carefree and confident, those that seem to smile and waive to everyone – they just walk by and are drawn into a new conversation.
Does this saga sound familiar? Before you leave you try to convince yourself you have more work and your time is best served staying in the office, but damn you RSVPed! While you drive to the venue you are already dreading the experience, thinking you can still go back to the office. By the time you park and are walking to your destination your heart beats faster, you start to think how short you can make your cameo appearance and leave.
As you enter you are overwhelmed by the crowd, your hands are clammy – so you wipe them off in case you have to actually shake someone’s hand. You have no clue where to go first – then off in the distance like an oasis rising from the
First of all most people in this world as just like you – Introverted! Second – being introverted is fabulous and don’t ever think anything less! We need our own theme song! So recognize who you are and be proud.
We cannot change our DNA, but here are some techniques to ease the anxiety level and make group networking experiences more manageable & comfortable.
Volunteer – Sign up to volunteer if possible. This affords you the status of being knowledgeable about the event and able to help others. Mentally you now have an official reason for being there. Think of yourself as more than just the regular attendee - you are part of the host team!
Early Bird – Much of the intimidation factor is the sheer size of the audience. So arrive very early – even offer to help set up. This gives you a chance to meet the organizers and other volunteers in a small setting. Busy work will help take your mind off the event and knowing the hosts make you feel like a part of the team. Often they will repay you for your help by making some introductions.
Co-Pilot – Attend with a friend who is in a different business and help each other navigate the crowd. If you can go with someone who is more extroverted that is even better, but the goal is having a wingman/woman. It’s much easier and less stressful to travel in a group. You can take turns introducing each other to new people and allow your friend to brag about you. As a dynamic duo you can approach others as a team and neither of you will feel all alone in a swirling sea of networkers.
Seek out your fellow Introverts – Like a beached whale they are often not hard to spot – look against the walls, columns or other obstacles where they frequently attempt to camouflage themselves into the room! Others will stand in the middle with their snack observing the action all around trying to be invisible. Approach such folks and introduce yourself – they are just as uncomfortable and anxious as you. This allows you to practice approaching others. You may even find a buddy to work the room with.
Set Goals – Much like a fear of heights - A Fear of networking and interacting among a room of strangers cannot be conquered in one day. Baby Steps. Do not expect to incorporate all these suggestions at once. Integrate them slowly into your practice. Goals aid this process. Never commit to yourself to stay for a period of time – all you will do is monitor your watch like its 10 minutes to midnight on New Years Eve. Set goals that involve meeting people: Commit to introducing yourself to 5 new people and reconnecting with 5 others you already know to catch up. When you reach your goals you can leave, patting yourself on the back all the way out the door for a job well done.
Follow Up – You have overcome your doubts, fought through discomfort and achieved your goals! Don’t waste all that energy and exciting progress by not following up with those you met. This is the crucial step! How you respond sets the tone for who you are and how others remember you. Send each person an individual message, be it a phone call, email or note card – make it memorable and personalize the message. No room for generic stuff here! For those whom you want to meet again, simply invite them to have lunch or coffee.
Face to Face – This is where you shine! You can engage in a one on one conversation and truly spend energy getting to know someone on a personal and professional level. Relationships start with a face to face conversation. Such meetings are why you endured ands pushed yourself. Don’t launch into your sales pitch or dominate the conversation. Show genuine interest in them as a person – what they do outside work, their family, dreams etc. Think – how can you help them in terms of connecting them with others you know? They are testing your human being factor. Make sure you pass.
Always remember, people do business with those they like and trust. In every interaction and every conversation BE THAT PERSON!
Top ten reasons to become a NET dues paying member in January
1. NET membership is the key to NET’s fantastic social, educational, and cultural events. In the past year, we’ve had political roundtables, professional development seminars, community volunteer opportunities, and recreational outings.
2. NET members get to join in on First Thursdays for free. First Thursdays cost $3 for non-members.
3. NET members get a free subscription to Lehigh Valley Style (worth $15).
4. The NET membership card is a gateway to discounts at businesses throughout the Lehigh Valley. We currently have over 100 participating businesses, and with our aggressive new campaign, that number is growing every day.
5. You can fulfill work volunteer requirements by having fun with your peers and making a difference in your community.
6. You can take action with a group of your peers and speak out on behalf of young professionals across the Lehigh Valley to help shape the quality of life here. We do have a voice, and community leaders are listening.
7. You can develop professional skills that can help advance you in your career and network with other like-minded young business people.
8. The opportunity to become a leader in your community and give back to the Lehigh Valley.
9. As a dues-paying member, you are able to vote in NET elections, run for the NET board, and serve as committee chair. To find out more on how to become further involved in the NET come to our next organizational meeting.
10. During the month of January you get 10% off the regular $30 membership fee.
So what are you waiting for? Join now!
2. NET members get to join in on First Thursdays for free. First Thursdays cost $3 for non-members.
3. NET members get a free subscription to Lehigh Valley Style (worth $15).
4. The NET membership card is a gateway to discounts at businesses throughout the Lehigh Valley. We currently have over 100 participating businesses, and with our aggressive new campaign, that number is growing every day.
5. You can fulfill work volunteer requirements by having fun with your peers and making a difference in your community.
6. You can take action with a group of your peers and speak out on behalf of young professionals across the Lehigh Valley to help shape the quality of life here. We do have a voice, and community leaders are listening.
7. You can develop professional skills that can help advance you in your career and network with other like-minded young business people.
8. The opportunity to become a leader in your community and give back to the Lehigh Valley.
9. As a dues-paying member, you are able to vote in NET elections, run for the NET board, and serve as committee chair. To find out more on how to become further involved in the NET come to our next organizational meeting.
10. During the month of January you get 10% off the regular $30 membership fee.
So what are you waiting for? Join now!
Sunday, December 31, 2006
NET Events Planning Meeting
Ever have an idea for a NET event? Want to be involved in the event planning process? Come share your ideas and talents to help with NET events for the future. Whether you want to be involved very little or very much we could always use a hand. Ideas always welcome!
When: Sunday, Jan. 14, 4 p.m.
Where: Wired Cafe, 520 Main Street, Bethlehem 18018
Admission: FREE!!
Contact: Wendy Gerlach at vicepres@netyp.org
More information.
To get the latest news about NET events and more sign-up for our weekly e-mail list here.
When: Sunday, Jan. 14, 4 p.m.
Where: Wired Cafe, 520 Main Street, Bethlehem 18018
Admission: FREE!!
Contact: Wendy Gerlach at vicepres@netyp.org
More information.
To get the latest news about NET events and more sign-up for our weekly e-mail list here.
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