Networking: How the Idea Marketplace Grew
“One, she's one of our investors; and two, she's a local publisher. She's asked us to come by her office for a little one-on-one meeting. Well, I guess I should say two-on-one,” Greg said, counting on his hand.
“Oh, yes, now I remember. Yeah, I met her at the presentation we did at Jan's gallery. Yeah, she seemed very nice. What? We're meeting with her right now? Sheesh, Greg, I just spent all afternoon spinning our tale to-” Steve said, slightly perturbed at the time he had wasted.
“Steve, you got to strike while the iron is hot! Not only can Miss James invest more money in our site, think of the promotional efforts she can do for us through her company. It's not enough simply to have a better mousetrap, the world has to know about it.”
“Well, I must say,” Hillary began. “Steve, Greg, I think this website of yours, the ‘Idea Marketplace,’ Stevenetwork.com has enormous potential!”
Greg gave a slight bow and said, “Why, thank you, Miss James; we think so too.”
“Ah, but do you see its true potential? One thing I've learned from the writing and publishing business is this: One word – networking,” Hillary said.
“Networking? How does that factor into our idea?” Greg asked.
“Ah, I see what you mean,” Steve began. “Bringing people together who have something in common, whether it's a writer who's good at sci-fi and someone with an idea for a book or…”
A laughing Hillary joined in, “Yes, or someone with an idea for a new widget and the people he needs to connect with in order to make it happen. You're very fast at picking up on things, Steve. I like that in a man.”
“So, just what are you suggesting we do?” Greg asked.
Steve’s face lit up. “I see it!” he said excitedly. “We expand our website. It won't just be a place for people to post their ideas. We'll also help them to network with the sorts of people who'll want to invest and/or promote their idea!”
Hillary was impressed. She smiled at Steve. “Once again, you're on top of things, Steve – another attribute I like in a man,” she added with a twinkle in her eye.
“Ah,” Steve said with an appreciative smile. “Thanks.”
Perplexed and a little jealous at being left out of the conversation, Greg interrupted. “And it would only require a slight modification to the website. Miss James, you are a certified genius!”