One aspect of networking is being the trusted advisor. We had a discussion in my monthly small business roundtable today about the value of networking. After relating a few stories, it became evident that we all (those of us around the table who had braved the bad weather to be there) had similar skills when […]
Being the "Go-To Guy" Read More »
Just remember, words can wound. A friend just related to me a story about how a client “tore them a new one.” Just went off the deep end over a few details of things that didn’t go right on a show. Well, we all strive for perfection. However, in this world you need to be
The only dumb question is the unasked one. Really, if you want to know something, ask. Ask your exhibit house why they missed the deadline or when to expect the truck. Ask your I&D rep about the details of their last bill. Ask the graphics guy how they put together that mural for you. Ask
You’ve heard the axiom, “never eat lunch alone”? How about, “don’t waste space on your calendar? How many meetings have you been to this week? How many do you have scheduled? I’m not talking about those internal things; I’m talking about the outside-the-building-meet-face-to-face meetings. Come on, now, how many? Two? Three? Five? These meetings do
Fill your calendar Read More »
An open letter to exhibit service companies: I heard a story today from one of your customers. They had a simple request to have some advice (verbal and/or written) given to them. And all you could do was try and manipulate the situation so that you could make a sale. Send your guy to do
Don’t just do things to drive revenue Read More »
We all are in a hurry these days to do whatever–find new contacts for business, service a client, run an errand, whatever. But don’t forget the important things: Courtesy and manners. Mostly saying please and thank you. I was reminded today about service– a lot due to the fact that today’s MLK Day is being
Be sure to say thank you Read More »
Yes, there ARE enough hours in the day. You never know who you are going to meet and where the conversation will take you. You also will find it difficult to know who you are going to work with and for in the lifetime. A networker should be relentless. It is your life. In these
You just never know Read More »
The other day I met with some friends who own a small business. And by small, I mean it is the two of them, a contract sales guy and their “1099” installation crew guys. In the landscaping business, they know they have to maximize what they do with their selling time. And they take it
Preparing for a show Read More »
Risk. At times I don’t understand the word or concept. Truth is, we all need to take more of it. When it comes to your program, look for the new, the different, the innovative. Don’t be afraid to do fewer shows better or leave a show that you go to “just because we’ve always gone.”
With the NRF show breaking today in New York City and the IBS show going in this week in Las Vegas, it is time to remember an important part of the in-and-out of a show: Do you know where and who your driver is? Make sure before you leave for your show and before you
