Persistence Pays Off - Be Patient

When I was selling advertising space years ago, one of my contacts suggested I get in touch with Bob Drucker, who was then responsible for the advertising at a major printing company. I wrote notes, cards, called; nothing seemed to work, even with the introduction from a mutual friend.

I decided to keep up my "campaign" and continued to "check in" and did not give up.

Finally about twenty cards, numerous calls and even an anniversary card, he reluctantly agreed to meet me for coffee at a trade show.  Now, of course, I could have also set up "google alerts" which I call our modern day clipping service to keep on his radar screen...

To this day, many years later, Bob continues to be one of my good friends and clients.

It makes me always realize to never give up - there might just be some potential somewhere down the road.

Here is some sales and relationship advice given to me by one of my mentors:

• Do what you say you are going to do - over deliver and follow through

• Return ALL calls and emails that ask for a response

• Treat everyone you meet with respect and courtesy. A person’s position in life should have absolutely nothing to do with how you interact with them. Remember"what goes around comes around."

• Be visible - get involved and go to professional meetings, receptions and associations.

• When you meet people, be mindful-look them in the eye, smile, be personable and listen.

• Be sensitive to body language and remember that 55% of our communication is visual.

• Remember the great lessons we learned from our parents - say "thank you". It still amazes me how few people invest the time to express gratitude for a favor or a job well done. Always remember that people don’t have to do anything for us. They do it because they want to. Develop your "thank you" style that is flexible and works for you and then make this professional courtesy an everyday habit.

Here is my favorite quote of the month:"Take the high road, there is always less traffic on it!"

Look for my new book:  Savvy Networking: 118 Fast and Effective Tips for Business Success!

All the best!

P.S. Feel free to contact me at andrea@nierenberggroup.com or visit my website atwww.nierenberggroup.com