You know what I like to do? Meet people for coffee.
Is it because I love coffee? Yes.
Is it because I love people? Pretty much.
But the main reason is because it helps me grow my business. Today’s two-minute video explains how.
Click below to watch… (Move slider at bottom of video to adjust volume!)
Webinar: tinyurl.com/michaelpenguin
Hi Michael, great advice. I am a big tea drinker and enjoy meeting with people one-on-one as well. Some of my favorite spots are ‘Expresso Love’ in the Finance District, Panera Bread in Woburn and Barnes & Noble in Braintree. Other suggestions? Let me know!
I’m a starbucks guy, Lisa. Always good!
Me too ! But often times it is way too crowded and noisy (love their Chai tea!).
I agree. When I really need to get some work done (as opposed to just meeting someone), I do Panera. Free wifi, food and you can sit there all day. (Maybe I’ll have to sneak in some starbucks coffee!)
Good point Michael….coffee at $1.65 try around $3.50 to $4.50 we pay.
Thanks..Doug
That’s what we pay for gas, Doug. Are you sure you’re not drinking petrol down under?!
Hey Michael,
How about we meet for coffee at the original Starbucks in Pike’s Place Market in Seattle? Right next door there’s a fabulous French pastry shop with the best chocolate eclairs outside of France. Game??
How’s tomorrow?
I do this as well, Michael, and it’s terrific to get to know new people. Most of them do not directly need my career coaching services BUT they DO know others who do want them, so I do get referrals this way. And I am usually able to help *them* by connecting them with others, which is great fun.
Also, they’ll refer me to others who become sources of referrals as well. A gift that keeps on giving!
That’s a great point, Joanne. I’m surprised by how many people only have an interest in interacting with clients or prospects, ignoring the fact that many of the people who are quite willing and able to spread the good word about them are neither!
Aloha Mike – we have our own version in Hawaii – its our pau hana. We have several clients that get together after work no matter where in the garage/driveways in solar companies, auto bodies etc. Lite up the BBQ- oysters – ahi have drinks relax talk story get to know one another. Done this for years and its a great way to network.
As for the coffee Starbucks here is more the $3.50 – $4.50 that is more the stiletto crowd. Ok just kidding! They do make a mean hot chocolate!.
Sounds great, Janet! Actually, anything that includes the word “hawaii” sounds great to me. I hope to join as a guest one day soon!
I love your idea about choosing only 3 or 4 marketing options and do them consistently. My office introduces us to, pays for, and promotes so many ways to do business that I have become overwhelmed. I’ve forgotten how to do just the basic, one-on-one meeting that allows me to connect with a person and go a wee bit deeper.
Thank you for the reminder! I can definitely do coffee!!
I know, Cathrerine, it can be overwhelming. In my one year marketing class (http://marketingoneyear.com/) one of the first things we do is each identify three or four things that we enjoy and that won’t take over our lives, that we can work steadily, all the time. I think it’s like excercise – not painful, but you need to keep doing it!
Michael, I am so impressed that you correctly said, “More important” as opposed to the common “more importantly.”
Thanks Katherine! It’s been pointed out to me by enough readers (maybe you were one of them) that it’s finally stuck in my head. Most importantly, it feels good to get it right.
Great idea, Michael, as usual! This is a small tidbit of information that seems like common sense to some, but is easily forgotten. Everyone is a potential customer or knows someone who is. Thanks for the recommendation. I can apply this today!
I’m drinking coffee at this very moment, Tara!
I NEVER listen to anything on the internet. Like to read articles, but you challenged us awhile ago to listen and I did. I enjoy your information in both formats. My 2013 saying, “I NEVER listen to anything on the internet, but Michael Katz”. Thanks for simple tips that are easy to do.
Thanks Teddi, that’s great to hear. Your motto it the exact opposite of that of my children, interestingly enough!