The Bow Tie Guy

Danny Beyer
Business Development Manager
Experis IT

It happened.  I was out networking a month or so ago and someone came up to me and said, "Hey, you're the bow tie guy right?  So why aren't you wearing one?"  It's official, I'm now the bow tie guy for the West Des Moines Chamber.  I wrote a blog last fall called The Case for Bow Ties.  I think now is a good time to revisit that post and maybe convince a few more guys to make the switch they've been thinking about for months.  Enjoy!

You may have noticed some changes to my profile picture the past week.  I’ve finally made the leap and done something I’ve wanted to do for years – learned how to tie a bow tie.  So why now?  Why finally figure out how to manipulate that silly piece of fabric and wear what some might call “nerdy” and others call “cool” or “hip?”  It’s simple really.  Because I want to.  Not to be with the in crowd or try and impress all the hipsters out there.  It really comes down to the fact that I like bow ties.  The variety of patterns, the different knots, and most importantly, the way they look.  I understand not everyone will agree with these thoughts and so here are a couple of other reasons for those of you who may be considering a bow tie but don’t want to put up with the strange grins or the hassle of learning to tie one.

1.  Bow ties are actually in fashion.  Richard Cristodero of Brooks Brothers explains that bow tie sales are up every week compared to last year while everything else in the store is either holding course or even declining in sales.  They’re also in more and more ads recently.  And not just “old guy” ads either.  Turn on any celebrity award show or concert and I’d bet you a dollar you’ll see some young actor or musician sporting a bow tie.

2.  It’s not as hard to tie one as you might thing.  Can you tie your shoe?  Then you can tie a bow tie.  That’s the easiest thing to compare it to.  Google “how to tie a bow tie” and literally thousands of YouTube videos come up to help you figure it out.  Still having issues?  Just go a clothing store that sells them and ask for help.  Odds are someone will be able to help you tie it and will be more than happy to give you lessons!

3.  Girls dig bow ties.  Let me repeat – Girls Dig Bow Ties.  It’s true.  Sure there are some who will giggle or won’t get it.  But if you’re considering wearing a bow tie you probably don’t want to be around those girls anyway.  I’ve been to numerous events wearing a bow tie now and it’s amazing how many compliments and smiles I get when wearing one.  Still don’t believe me?  Try wearing one the next time you go out.  I dare you…  You’ll see!

4.  They’re a great conversation starter.  Not only do girls dig them, but most guys are generally interested in them as well.  Let’s face it, even though we (guys) like to give off the macho vibe and act like we’re not interested in fashion or what’s “hot” most of us secretly know.  Or at least we see enough television ads and other pop culture references that we typically subconsciously have an idea of what’s going on.  At the events I’ve worn my bow ties to more guys have come up to ask me about it than girls.  Things like, “cool, did you tie it yourself?”  ”Where did you learn to tie one?”  ”Is it hard?”  ”Looks good, wish I could pull it off.”  These are real quotes from the last wedding I went to and they’re from complete strangers!

5.  There’s just something about a bow tie.  Whether you’re trying for that trendsetter look or the intellectual look or even the polished gentleman look nothing can do it better right now than a bow tie.  They go great with Tuxes and jeans, full suits and tweed jackets.  They look great whether you’re smoking a cigar and drinking scotch or just having a Bud Light on the deck.

Just remember if you make the leap start simple, a classic solid or polka dot is always in fashion.  Learn to tie it!  There’s nothing worse than jumping into the bow tie scene wearing a clip on.  Wear it with pride and confidence.  There’s always going to be the haters, so let them hate.  They’re more than likely jealous of your confidence and the fact that you can pull it off!  I hope I’ve inspired you to give bow ties a try.  Now go get a bow tie and spread the love!

Some Words from our Vice Chair



Kristen George - Audit Supervisor,
McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith



It’s hard to believe it is already 2013!  I am looking forward to a great year for New View as the Vice-Chair of the New View Board for 2013.  We have so many great activities planned with many different speakers, panel discussions, casual and structured networking, and a chance to learn more about our sponsors.

As I write this it is my second day back to work at McGowen, Hurst, Clark and Smith after a 10 week maternity leave.  I am a supervisor in the audit department and it is going to be a busy few weeks getting ready for all of our year end audits.  While coming back to work is an adjustment I am grateful that I work for an employer that allows me the flexibility to take such a long maternity leave and also to allow me to continue to do the things that help me not only to grow as a professional, but also as a person.

One of those important things in my life that has developed over the last few years is New View.  It has been a lot of fun getting to know the other board members, both new and old, and to work with them in planning events and finding new ways to promote our name in the community.  It has also been a great way to meet new people as they come and go from our monthly events and spend time volunteering their time and expertise on our committees. 

New View is a fantastic way to network with other young professionals especially if you are new to networking.  It provides a structured environment to meet new people with a very casual and laid back attitude.  We have many returning faces each month but also new ones with many different professional backgrounds and career paths.  New View is also flexible in the timing of its events to hopefully allow everyone a chance to join us.  Alternating lunch and after hours events make it easy to get to several events throughout the year – especially for a new mom who will not always be able to make it to after work events I will always know I can make the lunches. 

Whether you are new to our group or attending for the first time please feel free to come discuss any suggestions or ideas to improve our events this coming year with me or with any of the board members.  Also, we are always looking for fresh ideas and new people to join our committees.  If you are at all interested please let me know and I will get you more information.  I am looking forward to an exciting year for New View in 2013.  I hope you are too!

Get Viewed with New View in 2013!

Lindsey Mathews
Project Delivery Coordinator
Shive Hattery

Pigs aren’t flying and the underworld hasn’t frozen over...yet here I am:  the 2013 chair of New View. 

I have high hopes for New View this year.  We’ll continue growing and building our group to make sure we provide worthwhile events for you to attend.  And we’ll work together to get New View more involved in our community too.

We have some new faces on our board (although not new to New View).

·         At Large Board Member:  Melissa Heikes – Kaplan University www.kaplanuniversity.edu

·         Secretary & Outreach Committee Chair (Over-achiever):  Danny Beyer - Experis It  www.experis.com

·         Communications Committee Chair:  Raylee Melton – Moth Media www.moth-media.net  

I’m sincerely excited about working with the 2013 board.  We’ll get lots done and have fun doing it!

First, you’ll notice more activity on this blog.  Danny Byer is working hard to schedule guest bloggers who will be blogging on all sorts of subjects.  So stay tuned for that.  It could be food one week and then an interview the next.  You’ll just have to check in at the blog to find out!

Second, we’re mixing up our after-hours format in 2013.  Glen Oaks Golf & Country Club has been kind enough to offer to host all of our after-hours events for the year.  We’ll also be trying out some themed after-hours events.  Be ready to experience a new location and participate in some unique networking!

Lastly, we plan to provide opportunities for you to give back to our community by volunteering as part of New View throughout the year.  Whether it’s donating items when you come to one of our luncheons or signing up to work an event with us on a weekend, you’ll get to feel like you’re a part of something big; and you will be.

Thanks for reading and I’m looking forward to seeing you at New View events in 2013!

2013 New View Blog

The New View Blog is changing and starting January 1st, 2013 we're revamping the way it is presented in hopes of providing better content.  Content you, as Young Professionals, might actually like to read.  The 2013 Blog will consist of weekly guest blogs updating each Monday morning.  These blogs will feature CEOs and Presidents of local companies, politicians, foodies, YPs, start up founders, non-profit leaders, fashion experts, and more.  The blog will be an ever changing environment so feel free to leave your ideas and thoughts in the comments section regarding topics, bloggers you'd like to hear from, or whatever else might be on your mind.  While we can't promise to fill every request we'll do our best to accommodate as many as we can.  And if you're enjoying what you find please tell you friends and coworkers!  The more people we can reach the better. 


We look forward to making 2013 the best year New View has had.  If you're already involved, keep involved!  If you're not involved and want to be, message us and we'll get you details.  Check us out on Facebook for even more information on our events and what we're about.  Thanks for stopping by!

Facebook - www.facebook.com/newviewwdm
Online - www.wdmchamber.org/new-view.html

Par-TEE for a Great Cause!

Link Associates, local non-profit in West Des Moines serving individuals with intellectual disabilities, invites you on Saturday, August 25^th, to the most UNIQUE Par-TEE around! 

The Barley Par-TEE (www.barleypartee.com) is Link’s annual fundraising event.  The event combines a sampling of a large variety of micro brewed beers from Olde Main, Millstream, Twisted Vine, and Peace Tree, with an amusing twist on golf involving the use of tennis balls, golf clubs, and themed “holes” played on the pasturelands of Living History Farms called “Pasture Golf,” along with a tantalizing BBQ meal provided by the Iowa Barbeque Society AND live music.

Two of the most well-liked golf holes from past years will be available for guests (who missed the golf registration deadline) to try for the low, low price of $5 each.  Beer enthusiasts pay only $25 for a sampler mug to try the great selections.  BBQ lovers will enjoy a meal of pulled pork, beans, chips and drink for $8.  The live music is free for all to enjoy and is provided by local band The Eldorados.  For those dreaming of owning an iPad3 (16g, WiFi), here’s your chance to win one for as little as $10!  Raffle tickets are available in advance or at the event: 1 for $10, 3 for $25, or 10 for $75.

We are still seeking business sponsors (levels $250 - $1,000) and volunteers, especially to assist with tear down of the golf course at dusk.  Other volunteer opportunities are available as well.

The Par-TEE starts at 6:30pm and lasts until 11pm; plenty of time to enjoy beer, food, music, friends, and “golf.”  ALL proceeds from this event go directly to the Link Foundation, which helps us achieve our mission to “provide people with intellectual disabilities opportunities to achieve their personal goals.”

See our ad in the Business Record, “LIKE” us on Facebook and check out our Event page, “Follow” us on Twitter, and check out the Barley Par-TEE website for more information!  We look forward to seeing you Saturday, August 25^th!

Justin Bogers

Marketing Manager

Link Associates

jbogers@linkassociates.org

Why I Do What I Do

Most young professionals wouldn’t think to call a travel agent to book their vacations for them. It is so easy to just hop on the internet and book online nowadays that no one even thinks twice about it. People either don’t know what a travel agent can do for them or don’t know that travel agents still exist.

My senior year in high school I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and it was time to fill out college applications. I researched and researched and stumbled upon a program at AIB College of Business called Travel and Tourism. I started looking at the class list and found that no accounting was required for the major. YES!!! I am good with numbers but not good with accounting. Travel and Tourism it is!

I started college and I actually enjoyed all of the classes that centered around the travel industry. I took classes on hotels, cruise lines, and geography. When it was time for my internship class I found a small home-based travel agency. I didn’t really know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised. During the internship I learned how to find the best possible vacations for people while working around budgets and each person’s individual values. I was taught how to build a vacation from the ground up based on what each family or couple was interested in. After interning with this travel agency I knew I wanted to be a travel agent.

Five years ago I took this position with Travel and Transport Vacations. When someone contacts me about booking a vacation I get to know them as much as possible. I ask what their interests are and if they are active or relaxed people. I want to know what kind of food they like and what activities they enjoy. I build a value-based vacation for them that no website could ever compete with. Travel agents provide that personal touch that makes vacations even more memorable. We have strong relationships with vendors and suppliers and can provide clients with special amenities they can’t get anywhere else. The best part about working with our agency is that if you are booking a total vacation package, there is no fee to use us. We take all of your information and plan your vacation so that you don’t have to stress over it. You can be confident that all of your flights, transfers, and hotels are in order.

So, before you book your next vacation online, remember there are still travel agents out there who are dedicated to making your travel dreams come true!!

 Sarah Roach

Travel Consultant

sroach@tandt.com

Face-to-Face Is Always Best!

As a marketer by trade, I have seen – no make that “experienced” the power of networking many times over.   And although social media has and will continue to play an important role in our integrated marketing efforts,  in my opinion, it will never take the place of face-to-face networking.  Why is that?  Simple.  When you are engaging someone new via social media, be it Facebook, twitter, texting, etc.  hard as you try, you are unable to convey your emotions, your facial expressions, your voice tone, your body language.   In a face-to-face meeting, all these things work together to deliver your personal brand – helping to make you, well…unforgettable!

If you have been spending too much time behind your desk staring at your computer, now is the time to get out and meet some real people.  But before you do, here are a few tips that will assure your success.

1.    Remember your networking goal.  If you are out to bring in a new client or land a new job, chances are you will return from the networking event sorely disappointed.   A realistic networking goal is to meet and make one or two new friends.  New clients and job offers rarely come your way without first having a relationship and this takes time.

2.    The best way to share information about yourself is actually to ask other people about themselves.  It’s true.  When you ask a new acquaintance to share information about themselves and show a genuine interest in what they do, chances are they will reciprocate and ask you to talk about yourself too.

3.    Be a good listener.  This is key in engaging other people.  When they begin talking, zero in on what they are saying and try to ask a follow-up question or comment on their response.  Remember, the most  important networking question you could ever ask someone is….”If I were to refer a prospective client (or customer) to you, how would you describe this person?”  This will definitely get their attention and show your interest.

4.    Don’t leave home without them….business cards that is.  Make sure you have an ample supply and are ready to give your card to someone at the appropriate time.   While you don’t want to scatter them across the room, like falling confetti at a celebration, you do want to make sure you have a clean, crisp business card that represents you well.   In accepting a business card from another person, make sure you look at it, taking a few minutes to comment on it, before putting it in your pocket.  If possible, jotting down a note or two on the card, will help you remember that person, once you return to the office.

5.    And speaking of returning to the office…that is when the follow-up should take place.  Take time to write a personal note or email.  Maybe make a “friend” request on Facebook or follow that person on Twitter.   Whatever you do, make sure you reach out and touch that person again to further your relationship.   Follow-up is key to networking success. Without it, you merely become a collector of business cards.

While networking can and should include social media, to begin new relationships and strengthen current relationships, there is simply no substitute for connecting in person.

Rose Breuss, Director of Marketing

rbreuss@mhcspa.com

515-288-3279

McGowen Hurst Clark and Smith, P.C.

Certified Public Accountants and Business Advisors

www.mhcscpa.com

 

***McGowen Hurst Clark & Smith, P.C. is the May 3rd After-Hours event sponsor.  Come out to Saints Pub + Patio for some casual networking!***