He knew he wanted to do something around referral marketing and network marketing. He was sitting in an event one day and it hit him. This is what he wanted to do with his life. Now seven years later, he has learned a lot and shares with our audience. 

Joe talked about building momentum as a new public speaker. He shared the things he did right along with the challenges he's faced so far.

Joe learned very quickly there was a matter of picking up the phone and calling people he knew and telling them what he was doing. It sounds like simple advice, but a lot of people don't take this crucial step. It's what he did when in real estate, his printing company, and as a speaker and coach. 

Pick up the phone and call people, you know, and tell them what you're doing. And ask who do you know that can use my services? Or is that something that you can use? 
 
"If you're bringing value to other people, then other people will be willing at some point to reciprocate." - Joe Novara

Joe had received some advice from a mentor early on to write a book in order to help him distinguish himself as a public speaker. Luckily he had already written some fiction books that he never published so he had the discipline already. 

Joe breaks down his method for following up after a networking event so as you grow your network you can continue to follow up with all your potential clients well.

We discussed CRM's or customer relationship management software. Some suggestions from Joe for people just starting out.

• Hubspot
• Zoho
• Less Annoying

Joe has developed a coaching program called the Referral Marketing Success System.

When asked about cooperation versus competition, Joe said he likes to operate under coopetition.  

Joe's books on Amazon:
Grow Your Network, Grow Your Business: Your Guide to Intentional Prospecting
Intentional Networking: Your Guide to Word of Mouth Marketing Greatness

Also mentioned in this episode,

• Vibe Cary has great space for events
• Endless Referrals and The Go-Giver by Bob Burg
• Networking Like a Pro by Brian Hilliard

Connect with Joe Novara on his website JoeNovara.com | youtube