I loved talking to Stacy because she’s not directly in the pet industry – although she does have an adorable corgi named Hashbrown! I’ve found that getting business and marketing ideas from people outside of our industry can be very inspiring.
Stacy shares actionable tips for how to make the most of networking as an introverted pet pro including example questions that you can use the next time you find yourself in the middle of some awkward small talk. Check out her W.I.N. framework below!
I also love her advice about being “sticky”! That will get your brainstorming wheels turning. If you want to talk about any of the ideas here and how to best apply them to your business, that’s what we do every month in Wear Wag Repeat Society.
Grow Your Pet Business With Networking Online and In Person
Stacy Pong is a relationship-building expert and founder of The Exchange, an innovative membership community that makes networking more authentic and less intimidating for freelancers and online service providers. With a rich background in sales and recruiting, she honed her expertise in reading personalities and building meaningful relationships during her time in the hospitality industry.
Her approach to networking helps online businesses move beyond simple social media interactions to create lasting professional partnerships that spark unlimited growth and new experiences.
When she’s not connecting entrepreneurs, you’ll find Stacy at her favorite spin studio, where she’s been a dedicated member for over 6 years, or exploring outdoor malls and dog parks in Southern California with her Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Hashbrown. Together, they bring joy to their community, with Hashbrown sharing her mom’s natural talent for connecting with both humans and four-legged friends alike!
The Exchange is a networking community that prioritizes genuine human connection for freelancers and online service providers
The Exchange, founded by networking mentor Stacy Pong, is an innovative membership community designed to make networking more authentic and less intimidating.
Launched just six months ago, this thoughtful, human-centric platform caters especially well to introverts looking to expand their professional circles. It’s specifically tailored for freelancers and online service providers, welcoming members of all genders and all stages of their business.
Tools, resources, and activities inside this exclusive community are shared and designed to promote business growth in addition to network expansion. To learn more about The Exchange, you can visit Stacy’s website.
Here is Stacy’s W.I.N. framework for asking questions:
- What – “What inspired you to start your business?”
- Why it works: Encourages them to talk about their passion and journey, creating a deeper connection.
- Identify something unique: “Tell me something I wouldn’t know about your or your business by reading your website or resume.”
- Invites the other person to share unique, personal insights beyond the professional.
- Notable Recent Win: “What’s a recent win that put a smile on your face?”
- Encourages sharing positive experiences, which helps create a light, uplifting conversation and builds rapport.
OVERVIEW OF THIS EPISODE:
- How to make networking feel more authentic
- Using the WIN framework to better handle being introverted in networking
- What inspired Stacy to start her business
- Advice for networking with established businesses
- Tips for building connections online
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
WHERE TO FIND STACY:
- Website: www.stacypong.com
- Website: The Exchange
- Instagram: @stacy.pong
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