Lately I have found myself instinctively going back to some techniques that produced income in what I call "interesting times." Some may call them tougher times, but after experiencing several cycles in this profession, I like to just use "interesting times" and adjust my business methods as needed. Cut back on expenses, market differently, educate myself technically, improve social networking, become more active in volunteerism etc. etc.
But back to the "80's Dejavu" .........
Lately I have found myself immersed in lengthy information gathering visits with other brokers, builders, bankers, and other business owners sharing new ideas and methods, trading war stories , and advising one another.
Today I found myself sitting across the table from another broker I haven't transacted with in 20 years! Of course we traded stories before and after conducting business. He commented about my increased waist size and I told him to shut up and that I would have him know my pants were the same size as 20 years ago......I just wore them 4 inches lower.
The amount of time we took to cover the business item I was there for, was just part of the process. We also covered other issues in the community and both came out more knowledgeable.
But the Deja Vu actually happened when I realized we were sitting in 80's furniture in an 80's office building decorated with 80's pictures and both our haircuts hadn't changed since the 80's!
Now seriously why is all this important? Well I have found myself reverting back to some 80's networking techniques. Make a point to just get out and visit with other business owners. Go to every business and social event you can that involves a gathering of local business folks. I have been to 2 skeet shoots, Rotary club, a home builder's meeting, a town hall meeting, a Realtor tour of homes (caravan) and several other events all in the last 7 days. This was the "pre-internet social networking" we used in the 1980's. Honestly it was a relief to find out that it still works if you want it to. I know we picked up at least one client maybe 2 as a result. The great part is that it was fun at the same time.
Am I giving up social networking on my computer? No I plan on increasing it.
Just saying there is a whole other world to stay connected in that we just can't forget.
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