NETWORKING MAGAZINE - February Issue

FEBRUARY 2020 I ISSUE NO. 1

NETWORKING

YOUR GO TO GUIDE FOR BUSINESS NETWORKING IN THE BOCA RATON SYNAGOGUE COMMUNITY

THE DATING GAME The dos and donts of networking

GETTING TO KNOW YOU A look at BRSNG members

THE BUSINESS OF NETWORKING Why it's important to mix and migle

MEMBER DIRECTORY The Who's Who of BRSNG

TABLE OF CONTENTS

NET WORK ING JANUARY 2020 Editor's Note

04

The Dating Game

05

Getting To Know You

07

The Business of Networking

08

Member Directory

FEBRUARY 2020

11

Upcoming Events

13

About Us

14

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WELCOME!

It all started with a vision. We had a vision – to create an authentic, conscious, inspiring entrepreneurial networking group within the Boca Raton Synagogue business community. No small feat but one made easier by an extraordinary group of professionals, like yourselves, bringing together a collective of like-minded, passionate game changers and thought leaders; that delivers inspiration, leadership and business connections that helps you grow your business and forces you to keep asking the questions of yourself, personally and professionally: ‘why?’ ‘why not?’ 'what can I be doing differently?' 'how can I make a difference?'

So, what's it all about? BRSNG is a business networking group comprised of original thinkers, seeking genuine human connection; people with a willingness to share and speak out, to strip back the spin and hype. Our goal was to uncover those truly being courageous enough to be all that they can be; People who were living, not just existing; People who are emotionally invested and not just ‘Working for The Man’; People who believe their voice means something and that corporate logic or rhetoric isn’t always logical. That sometimes there is indeed a better way.

We have already had a few very informative meetings, getting to know each other and learning about what we each bring to the BRS business community. To continue these conversations beyond our monthly meetings in the social hall and encourage business referrals, we decided to go digital!

With that in mind, we warmly welcome you to the inaugural issue of NETWORKING, the official digital publicaton for members of BRSNG. Your go to guide for business networking in the Boca Raton Synagogue community.

Each month, NETWORKING will cover the latest in Business and Networking, Tips and suggestions to help your personal and professional growth and regularly update the directory to include our newest members.

We invite you to become a contributing writer, let us know what you'd like to learn more about or simply provide constructive fedback.

This is NETWORKING! Warmly, Gila Stern & Marc Bienenfeld Co-Chairs, BRSNG Editors at Large

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THE The Dos & Don'ts of Networking

DATING Written by Jesse Fofana

GAME FEBRUARY 2020

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Networking is a necessary evil but when used for the forces of good, it’s an amazing tool that ignites opportunity through relationship building. Learning how to do it well is a skill set unto itself and one that takes practice.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help you get through your next networking event.

1. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself While it can be intimidating to roll up on someone and start a conversation, it’s often necessary. There is no shame in admitting that bum rushing your way into conversation isn’t your favorite approach for relationship building. Sincerity often goes a long way so be honest and acknowledge your discomfort.

If you’re from the cool and confidant school of networking then know what you plan to say to engage your audience.

2.Try and be a friend first Don’t go in for the kill and start with your elevator pitch. The me me me approach is never a big hit!

Genuinely be interested in whomever you are speaking too. Most people love to talk about themselves so start there. Ask questions about who they are, where they are from and what they do before you hit ‘em with the glory that is you.

3. When sharing info about yourself be sure to keep it concise yet interesting Have the basics ready but make sure it doesn’t sound scripted. Talk with passion and confidence but make sure it’s an inclusive conversation and not a sales pitch.

4. Keep it short and sweet If communicating via email or social media messaging it is important to keep it short and sweet. Copy-heavy outreach is usually skimmed or wholly ignored. The subject is as important as the text in the body. A creative subject gets your email opened and read.

5. Do something to make yourself memorable A funny story, a quick anecdote or a seemingly unrelated question about your conversation partner’s life will make you standout and give you a chance to follow up via email and reference your own originality. A little humor and wit can go a long way. This is especially important if you are at a networking event where everyone has similar goals and lots of conversations are happening.

6. Look for commonality It’s great to find a parallel interest that you can bond over.

It doesn’t matter if it’s work related or totally inane and random. Whether it’s a mutual passion for Fetty Wap, a love of DIY crafts or a commitment to binge watching Homeland, finding common ground is a great way to solidify yourself in the hearts and minds of whomever you’re chatting with.

7. For networking in the online space don’t be afraid of the “cold pitch”.

Especially if you can find a way to engage with someone that will prevent it from feeling totally random. There is no shame in doing a little research without taking it to stalkerville. It makes you seem prepared and shows that you’re not interested in wasting anyone’s time. You are reaching out for a reason.

8. Make sure you follow up.

Follow up in some capacity a few days to a week later. Keep the conversation going with new questions and interest so your relationship can evolve. Make a plan for a future meetup.

AND NEVER FORGET YOUR BUSINESS CARDS!

This article was originally published on Create and Cultivate.

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The pleasure I get putting a plan together for a family is unbelievable and something that I did not experience early on in my career.

- Marc Bienenfeld

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NET WORK ING PROFILE

We recently had a chance to dig a little deeper and get to know our very own co-chair, Marc Bienenfeld, a Financial Advisor at Bienenfeld, Lasck & Starr, LLC

HOW DO YOU DIFFERENTIATE YOURSELF? Everyone says that clients come first, but I have rarely seen my competitors put their clients first. As I said earlier, we are all about relationships; which means we put ourselves in our client’s shoes. We also ask the tough questions and listen to the responses. When we are able to hear our client’s concerns and put a plan in place to help them out, then we become heroes in their lives.

To learn more about the services offered at BLS, contact Marc at (954) 689-9517 or mbienenfeld@blsfinancial.com WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS WHAT DO YOU DO? CAREER PATH? I work with professionals, physicians and I kind of fell into my current career. I business owners because my passion is started off as an accountant in the helping people have more retirement hedgefund world in New York. When we income without using additional funds. moved back to Florida, I was approached Essentially, guiding people to make by my uncle to join his firm which has been smarter decisions on how to save and successful in the community with spend a dollar. Our firm makes a positive individual and business planning. I was difference in people’s lives. hesitant at first since I never worked in We are also one of the only firms who sales but realized that this business is all uses the bridge to the next generation about relationships which is a strength of process which transfer wealth and mine. Clients really want to know they are relationships from one generation to the getting advice from an advisor who is next. honest and trustworthy. The pleasure I get putting a plan together for a family is unbelievable and something that I did not experience early on in my career.

FEBRUARY 2020

WHY DID YOU START BRSNG? When I moved to this community 7 years ago, it was tough to find my place since the community is so large. I felt that I only knew people whose kids were in the same class as mine, or if I sat next to you in shul. We have such an amazing community and a diversity in what people do professionally, that we were missing opportunities to connect. With the help if Gila Stern, this group gives members the opportunity to meet other professionals in our community in order to build our network and grow our businesses

DID YOU KNOW?

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? I am a father of 4 amazing children so I try to spend as much time as I can with them while I’m not working. I enjoy playing sports, traveling and date nights with my wife. Originally from South Florida, I unfortunately am a Dolphins fan, which has not been a positive experience for the past 20 years, but hope they turn the corner any day now.

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"Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together."

- James Cash Penny, founder JC Penney

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THE BUSINESS OF NETWORKING ALEC ANTOINE

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“Keep evolving, keep thinking, keep pushing yourself.

Stay on top of it.”

For entrepreneurs, networking is not only a fun activity; it is important for their business development and personal growth. Small businesses should take advantage of networking to build relationships and grow their ventures. It is an inexpensive and effective strategy of promoting business growth and personal development. We appreciate that building a successful business requires drive, resources, and a lot of time.

Therefore, having a network of associates and friends to motivate and inspire you is crucial.

Additionally, surrounding yourself with people with similar ambitions is a step towards success. Networking meets all these needs.so, how can small businesses benefit from networking?

You never know what opportunities you will discover. Networking allows you to meet other ambitious and like-minded people. Despite lacking specific needs or an agenda, business owners will find people with other projects that might need your involvement. Networking creates new opportunities for small businesses through referrals, offering partnership or request for goods and services. Whatever the case, be prepared to seize the opportunities when they arise.

Networking creates new connections. Besides gaining exposure, you will be meeting and building new connections. If you make a good impression, you may land yourself a good referral. Alternatively, if you find someone that matches your business needs, make contact too.

Networking provides the avenue to meet potential clients. While networking should not be the motivation for hunting new customers, we cannot deny it is a nice side benefit. Small businesses will gain from the local business community networking. Chances are the loyal customers will spread the news, and people will walk into your restaurant or spa.

Networking may be the golden opportunity to meet potential investors and collaborators who are hard to come by. Every business owner dreams of expanding their ventures. Those dreams require funding, talent, or both.

Professional networking allows one to meet experienced investors or talented partners for the future projects.

Do you want to raise your business profile? Get noticed by attending social and business events.

Networking helps business owners build a reputation as a supportive, reliable, and knowledgeable person who shares useful tips and information. The probability of getting leads and referrals increases too.

Networking increases your confidence levels too. Meeting and talking to new people boosts your confidence. After all, it is an important business attribute for entrepreneurs. Business growth is dependent on making connections and talking to people.

How can you access information that will help grow your business? Reading may be the answer, but networking is the ideal platform.

Through the network meet-ups, business owners meet professionals who discuss success strategies, market trends, and case studies.

Additionally, information such as who is hiring or opinions on software and equipment may be shared. You may meet with your direct competitors too. You can learn a few tips and tricks that may come in handy for your small business.

Lastly, networking is fun and free. It is a rewarding experience to entrepreneurs who land themselves long-term clients and build personal relationships with investors. It also gives you the chance to get a life outside of work.

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Member Directory Healthcare Services

Law/Legal Services

Home Healthcare

Divorce:

Sal Abady - Auracal Senior Homecare Joseph Benmihen - Visting Angels Noah Zisquit - Florida Assisted Living Placement Shari M Geller, MSW, CMC - Senior Options

Dentistry Dr. Gil Bloom - Wendroff & Bloom Dental Dr. Mordy Goldenberg - Goldenberg Orthodontics Dr. Craig Lustman - Kids United Pediatric Dentistry

Deborah Beylus - South Florida Mediation Services

Labor/Employment Law: Stuart Silverman - Stuart M. Silverman, P.A.

Personal Injury Law: Daniel Oppenheimer - The Oppenheimer Law Firm

Immigration Law: Jessica Weiss, Esq. - Weiss & Moy, PC

Other: Internal Medicine

Alex Shkolyar

Dr. Aaron Klein - Boca Care Concierge

Physical Therapy Andrew Hauptman - Physical Therapy Now Dr. Trevor Meyerowitz - Preferred Physical Therapy

Psychiatry Dr. Akiva M. Daum, MD, FAPA - Kimmel Psychology and Associates

Accounting Services Tova Chait - Echelon CFO, LLC Shlomo Halbertam - Goldstein Poole, LLC

Business Services Isaac Bardos - Breakthrough Business, LLC Gila Stern - SPARXiQ

Mental Health Dr. Moshe Winograd - Rejuvenate Counseling

Medical Billing Services Ayelet May

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Member Directory Insurance Services Steven Abrams - AFLAC

Financial Services Marc Bienenfeld - Bienenfeld, Lasek & Starr, LLC

Misc./Other Services Funeral/Cemetery: Deena Borzak - South Florida Jewish Cemetery

Home Services & Solutions: Matiel Buchnik - Mosquito Hunters of South Florida / Matt's Overhead Garage Doors Avi Genuth - WeDry USA Jay Zussman - Golden City Home Inspections

Computer Services Web Design/Development: Rhea Cohen - Rhea Cohen Web Design & Marketing Stephen Plotzker - Noora Digital IT Services: Carmi Gross - Greelight Tek

Real Estate Services Commercial: Joseph Landsberg - CBRE

Residential: Joseph Shayowitz - The Saperstein Group - Expo Realty

Restaurant/Food Todd Cohn - Cinnaholic

Commercial Services & Solutions: Zev Herman - Superior Lighting

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UPCOMING EVENTS Networking @ Nite - 6pm Membership Meeting

March 4, 2020 April 1, 2020

All meetings begin at 8am and are held in the Boca Raton Synagogue Social Hall

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ABOUT BRSNG DEVELOP I INTERACT I GROW I CONNECT

MISSION: The Boca Raton Synagogue Network Group (BRSNG) is committed to providing excellent opportunities to develop business connections and growth enhanced with Jewish values through interaction with fellow entrepreneurs and business leaders in a relaxing, social and professional setting.

ABOUT US: The BRSNG is a quality forum for respected professionals to create circles of influence. The Group strengthens relationships among our community’s Jewish professionals through education, networking and communal and philanthropic engagement. The BRSNG provides opportunities to expand your professional and social circles while making a meaningful difference within our community.

The Rambam says that the highest form of Tzedakah (Charity) is to help establish someone in Business.

The BRSNG will create the avenue where people will have the opportunity to fulfil this mitzvah. Not only by helping other professionals expand their circle of influence but also by donating portions of membership fees. As a member of The BRSNG, your annual membership fee of $180 will be allotted toward events and a donation to Tomchei Shabbos or The Rabbi’s discretionary fund. (We are a registered 501c3 organization and your contribution is tax deductible.)

By bringing together the business professionals of the BRS Community in a sophisticated, exciting and supportive environment, that is based on common Jewish heritage, values and spirituality, we endeavor to help BRSNG members make great contacts, leading to great business opportunities.

Benefits of a BRSNG Membership: Member listing and link to company website featured on the BRSNG webpage Networking opportunities with other professionals at monthly meetings 30-second business spotlight at networking meetings Your company materials displayed at networking meetings Access to sponsorship opportunities Member-exclusive Facebook group BRSNG Annual Membership Fees: Synagogue Members: $180 Non-Members: $500

Interested in becoming a member?

Click Here

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NET WORK ING info@brsng.org

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