The Pedestal Group

Putting our clients where they belong

Brains Are Not For Picking

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I do a lot of networking – like 24 hours a month. I meet many new people and some of them are really cool. My least favorite thing to hear when meeting a new person is, “I would love to pick your brain”. Yeah, I know. Now don’t get me wrong. When I first started my business I found this flattering. I would schedule coffee with the person, usually have to buy my own, sit and tell them the answers to many of their questions. They walked away feeling great about me and I knew I had helped someone. Go me. But over time I realized these people weren’t then sending me business or in some way returning the favor. Somehow they felt entitled to receiving free information and I had just done what I’m suppose to do. In fact the only referrals I got […] Continue reading

Can’t Remember Your Name

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I had a fascinating discussion at a meeting last week. I am part of an organization that has been around for over 20 years.  In the past they had a printed directory but in recent years had stopped printing it.  I was in favor of continuing in only electronic form but was out-voted so it will once again be printed.  Talking to another member, she was quick to tell me I would learn to love the printed copy.  When I asked why, she said she carries hers everywhere and when she runs into someone she should know, she can quickly scan the pictures and find them. That way, they never know she didn’t remember their name. I have to say – this has never been a problem for me.  No, I’m not some genius at names, but there are so many better ways to get […] Continue reading

Are You Present?

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I arrived at a networking meeting this week and starting talking to a client I haven’t done business with in awhile.  It was great to catch up and see if I could help them now.  While we were talking, four people interrupted to ask if I would see them before I left.  My client was impressed and asked how I do that.  It was his first time to that meeting in over two years.  I explained that I attend this particular meeting every month.  People can count on me being there so they will often make themselves a note to connect.  I schedule an extra hour in my calendar for the meeting because I know I will be staying after and getting there early.  I am always present at this meeting. It seems funny that a little thing like showing up can make such a […] Continue reading