WHNetwork Blog

I've been asked a number of times recently why someone should join a business and/or social network. After all, what is the point? Well, let me tell you...

First of all, because many networks have different components, my answers are mostly going to pertain to WineAndHospitalityNetwork.com, which we identify as a Business & Social Network. What's the difference? Well, for one, we heard you. We ask each person who joins what aspects of the network they are interested in. The overwhelming response has been:

1. Business Networking
2. Career Advancement
3. Gaining Professional Knowledge
(with Food & Wine Pairing coming in 4th! Hey this group also likes to have a good time!)

With this in mind, we have created a space where you can not only socialize online, you can also get help moving your business and/or career forward. Let me provide you with a breakdown of the many features available to our members at no cost:

Under the "Business" Tab:

Use the Network to connect with others in your segment by joining Groups, such as:

* Winery Marketing & PR
* Restaurant Management
* Food & Wine Pairing/Tasting
* Women in Wine
* Human Resources, and many more.
* Have an idea for a group? Contact me.

Use the Forum to post discussions or other topics that other members may be interested in participating in.

Use the Classified Ads section to advertise your business or services, or to look for businesses or services you may need. Have an idea for a new category? Email me at margie@otlconsulting.com.

Use the Press section to post industry related press releases or to check out what's going on with others in the industry.

Find lot of great reading that is pertinent to the industry in the Articles section. Have some articles you would like posted? Email them to me at margie@otlconsulting.com. For individuals with multiple articles or frequent contributors, we will give you your own articles area.

The Magazines section has a number of magazines and white papers that are free to qualified members. This link is only visible to members who are signed in.

Under the "Social" tab:

On the Blog page read the posts from one of our dedicated bloggers. (Want to be added as a dedicated blogger? Email me). You can also add your blogs from your page or read others' blogs from the center section of the home page..

Post Photos or Videos, a great way to get added exposure for your business or events!

Share your favorite Recipe - or peruse the recipes already shared by others to get new ideas.

On the Main navigation bar:

Post your Events or search for something fun to do, or look for business or learning experiences with industry trade shows or seminars.

Use our e-Learning area to attend any number of online training classes. We currently offer:

* alcohol seller/server certification
* food safety certification
* sexual harassment prevention training
* nutritional education
* tobacco seller certification (Texas)

The most competitive prices in the industry, great technology, quality education and certification - and in the comfort and privacy of your own home or office. Deep discounts for bulk registrations. Need more info? Call us at 707-933-0687 or email margieotl@gmail.com for pricing.

Use our Jobs tab to visit our sister site WineAndHospitalityJobs.com.

Job Seekers: Search for a job, upload your resume, apply online, or set up job email alerts. Make your profile visible to employers or hide it to maintain your privacy.

Employers: The most efficient and effective way to recruit! Search for experienced, industry professionals. Our resume database has over 105,000 resumes and high industry traffic. Post individual jobs or call us at 707-933-0687 for a quote on a custom package, we have packages to meet any budget.

Use Link to Us to find banner, widgets etc to add to your site.

Use the Current Surveys section (part way down the right column on most pages) to take industry opinion surveys - and to get the results. Have an idea for a survey? Email us

Keep up on all kinds of Industry News with various RSS news feeds in the left column of the home page.

Add a WHN Network Badge to other social networks you belong to.

Use your Profile Page to upload or change your photo, check your messages, check posts to your wall, edit your profile, and keep track of all your network activity.
And just for fun we often have free industry event ticket give-aways or contests, such as:
Click here for info on how you can wine $670 tickets to The Friends of James Beard Bottle Shock California Wine Dinner!

Ready join?