Part 1 : Connections, local markets and the Internet

Hi Denise. Florida seems very over-represented among our interviewees - is there something in the air that creates business and web successes down there?
Well Mark, sunshine does amazing things and Florida has a lot of it. It's one of the world's best kept secrets! Technology has provided an opportunity for business to blossom here in the Sunshine State. You can enjoy all that Florida has to offer and still serve clients around the world.

As an independent consultant, how has the Internet benefited your business in particular?
The Internet has allowed me to reach an audience that otherwise would have been quite costly to find. I've also made connections with consultants that have unique skill sets which have allowed my company to broaden its services to our client base. And I've made numerous connections with business people in my local area. It truly is incredible how small the Internet can be!

It provides amazing opportunities for strategic alliances, customer relationship management and acquisition of new clients. I never dreamed when I first discovered the Internet what was possible for pretty much any type of business.

I can launch new services quicker and keep in touch with my client base in addition to getting my company's name in front of many new prospects quite economically.

Were you obliged to learn new skills to take advantage of the opportunities the Internet offers?
Yes and it never stops. My first exposure to the Internet was in early 1996. I was drawn to it because I am an "information junkie." I felt like I had a huge library at my fingertips! I quickly discovered there was more to the Internet than information. This was a place made up of real people with diverse skills -- and they were some of the most helpful people I've ever met.

I enjoy learning new skills and finding out about technology and services that can help my client base be more efficient. Many times I'm in awe of what "new" thing has been developed to make business life easier to manage.

Continued...