In this episode of The Networker's Tour Guide Podcast, host Faithann welcomes Tara Waddle, founder of Waddle It Be LLC. Tara shares her expertise in fractional operations and HR support for small to mid-sized businesses. They discuss the importance of networking done right, the value of referrals, and how businesses can better equip their employees to represent them at networking events. If you've ever wondered how to make networking work for you and your business, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies.

Key Takeaways:

• Networking Happens Over Time: Tara and Faithann met through a referral partner, showcasing the power of building relationships over time.

• The Role of a Fractional COO: Tara explains what a fractional COO is and how outsourcing operational support can benefit small businesses.

• Equipping Employees for Networking Success: Many employees struggle with networking because they lack clear goals and guidance. Employers must prepare them to effectively represent the company.

• Making Networking Less Intimidating: Tara shares her approach to overcoming networking fears, including gamification and confidence-building exercises.

• The Importance of Practice: Networking is a skill that improves with experience. Every event provides an opportunity to refine your message and build credibility.

Notable Quotes:

• "Networking is done right when you're intentionally building relationships and providing value over time."

• "A fractional COO is essentially an outsourced COO—providing strategy and operational support without the commitment of a full-time hire."

• "Employees should never walk into a networking event unsure of why they're there or what they should say. Employers must prepare them for success."

• "Every networking event is practice. Whether you find a client or not, you’re refining your ability to communicate your value."

More about Tara Waddle:

At the core of everything Tara does are three values: communication, community, and curiosity. She believes that clear communication builds strong business relationships, community fuels sustainable growth, and curiosity – the willingness to ask the right questions – opens doors to new opportunities.

Tara has spoken at OK Women in Technology events, DisruptHR, SHRM chapter events, and the National Native American HR Association annual conference, helping businesses at every stage rethink how they operate from the inside out.

Today, she’s here to share how the right workflows, mission alignment, and operational clarity aren’t just internal necessities; they’re the key to making networking truly work for your business.

Connect with Tara:

• Website: https://www.waddleitbe.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tararwaddle/

• Instagram: @waddleitbe.llc

Connect with Faithann:

• Free First Impressions Download: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faithann-basore/

• Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide

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