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Jada A. Graves, U.S. News & World Report A recent study published in an American Psychological Association journal, Emotion, suggests that early birds are generally happier than night owls. More than 700 respondents, ranging from ages 17 to 79, were surveyed and asked about their emotional state, health, and preferred time of day. Self-professed “morning people” […]

If your income depends on networking with other people, this one’s for you. Don’t bore me with your 5-minute speech about what you do for a living if I don’t ask you. Give me a 6 second intriguing intro about what you do and let me ask questions if I want to. But don’t be offended […]

Seriously? You can’t focus on a conversation without looking at your phone every time it buzzes? Smart phones are awesome. But it would be dumb to lose a friend, a client, or an order because you’re looking at your smart phone during a conversation or meeting. Looking at your phone in the middle of a […]

Writing a note on a notecard is old-fashioned… but it might just be what strikes the right chord for your client to pick up the phone and place another order. Still thinking old-fashioned? In the age of texting, email and other forms of electronic communication, sometimes an old-fashioned hand-written note is what makes you standout […]

Regardless of how rushed you may feel, taking a moment to be fully present when you first meet someone is a gift that will long be remembered by the other person. It also gives you the opportunity to fully experience what that person has to offer. That means listen patiently, maintain eye contact and take a […]

Since business networking involves giving as well as taking, your connections are a vital part of the process. People will only remain connected in productive relationships, so it’s important to have knowledge and contacts of your own. If you have nothing to offer, your network will dry up quickly. Think about your knowledge and your […]

What do you do with all the business cards you pick up at a convention or on a trip or even at a local business networking event? If you want to solidify the opportunity for connection, as soon as you get back send a postcard, a quick note, or even an email recapping something memorable […]

The very first step in successful business networking is to believe. Believe that you have something unique to offer. Believe that you know people who will be useful or helpful to others. Believe that you can get what you want when you are willing to ask for or trade for it. So, as you prepare […]