When I opened Indie Beauty's social networking site to the public earlier this year, I had no idea what would happen. There were no models for what I was trying to accomplish. I have made it up as I've gone along. (Click the orange arrow to listen to the audio message.)
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Today there are over 3,300 people there learning, sharing and having fun growing their businesses. One of the best things about the site is the Groups that have formed there. Engaging in social networking as you put what you learn to good use is an effective way to make progress in your business, and to have fun at the same time. Group members are experiencing the same challenges, and as they connect and work together to meet them, everyone wins. Our Groups are led by experts in their field, and they want to connect with you to share their expertise and let you know how they can help you.
Here are 5 of our most popular groups:
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Label Chat & Help, led by Matt Hamilton. He answers questions about label materials, sizes, applications, software, and anything else that has to do with labels. Matt owns OnlineLabels.com and has been a member of the Indie Beauty Network since May 2006.
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How To Sell To Major Retailers, led by Jim DeBetta. Jim puts his 20 years of retail experience to good work to help you to sell major retail chains, catalogs, and TV shopping channels. Jim owns Jim DeBetta Enterprises and has been a member of the Indie Beauty Network since last month.
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The Packaging Diva, led by JoAnn Hines. She can help you solve your packaging problems! JoAnn owns Packaging University and edits the Packaging News You Can Use Blog and has been a member of the Indie Beauty Network since January 2007.
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Melt & Pour Mania, led by Debbie Chialtas. This mom and author of a new book shares tips and tricks for making beautiful Melt & Pour soaps. Debbie owns Soapylove and has been a member of the Indie Beauty Network since November 2007.
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Product Labeling Tips & Tricks, led by Sheri Willson. This is the place to learn how to label your products beautifully without breaking the bank. Sheri owns Designer Label Gal and has been a member of the Indie Beauty Network for just a few weeks, and already, there are 57 people in her group!
Then, There's My Group
I even started a few groups. One of them is The Media Is You, where I help you create branded media outlets of your own to make and distribute information about your products and services. (This is the only group that is exclusively for members of the Indie Beauty Network. If you are not a member, you can join here.)
I hope you will join our site to connect with other like-minded small and independent business owners, and join a Group to put the expertise and comaraderie of our the group leaders and participants to work for you!
Question: If you lead or belong to one of the groups at the site, I'd love to hear what you have to say about being a member there, and if you have ideas for other groups (or would like to lead one!) leave your comments below.
