Constant connectivity with alums

Recruit your alumni as Tipsters^TMand give them a monthly opportunity to connect with their alma mater in a rewarding and meaningful manner.

As Tipsters, they will be able to exchange know-how with fellow alumni -- and others -- who are business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and students. Their know-how and experience can be effectively shared through the auspices of a BrassTacks TipList. It's give-and-get e-mail "chain letter" that pays off handsomely in terms of gathering up useful tips for running, growing and cashing out of a business profitably. It's a great way to network and continue the learning process.

Here's how it works. Every month the alumni who volunteer will be e-mailed a partially completed TipList that's focused on a topic of critical interest to business leaders. All they have to do is tap their personal experiences or curious minds to add one or more items to it, and pass it on to the TipMarket. The "chefs" at the BrainFood DigitalDiner will combine, edit, and embellish all submissions, rolling them into a Big Magillah TipList that is re-mailed to all participants. The wisdon accumulated is also distributed world-wide via the BrainFoodToGo.com web portal.

We'll compile summary publications and audio and video podcasts from the feedback that's aggregated and then re-distribute it to libraries, business schools, venture incubators, and professional associations like SCORE and small business development centers.

While Wikipedia provides definitive knowledge, the goal of the TipMarket is to build a trading post of TipLists that will be the central source of experience-flavored, practical know-how that's essential to successful venturing.

All a volunteer Tipster has to do is provide his or her e-mail address, their talent, and a willingness to spend a couple of minutes a month to help others – and themselves. They'll receive a new working list about once a month. By adding just a "carb" or two of their wisdom or from their experience and sending it back, they'll not only benefit from a monthlyBigMagillah Tip-List monthly but, if they consent, they'll be added to a published roster of Experts Emeritus. Of course, they can un-volunteer at any time. It's a great way to network!

Importantly, they'll appreciate the ongoing connection with their alma mater and the "easy way" they can access the important stuff that others learned the "hard way."

"Experience is the best teacher," but "shared experience is the best education."