So if you’ve read The Skool of Life or listened to BlogcastFM for any length of time, you’ll know Srini is an avid surfer, often scheduling business around the surf report for that day.
That doesn’t fly here in Chicago, so I’ll go with a hockey metaphor.
The Blackhawks are pretty big in town right now, and they’re doing pretty well – as of this writing, tied for first place in the Western conference. A big reason for their success is this:
They take more shots than any other team in the league.
Of course there are other factors that influence the game, but for the most part, more shots = more goals = more wins.
So how does this apply to social media and personal development?
Be persistent – take lots of shots.
A concept that’s been out in the networking world for a while is that every time your network doubles in size, your income does as well.
Taking lots of shots means getting your name out there, commenting on posts, building relationships, pitching guest posts – getting to know the people in your niche and in your industry. Not every shot is going to lead to something amazing, but the persistence really pays off.
It’s even more productive if your shots are on target
Taking shots in every direction might very well work, but any strategy works better with a written plan and measurable goals (check out the Skool of Life Q1 Marketing Plan for an example).
Having a written plan gives you a framework for decision-making. Everyone has a limit on the time they can spend on personal and business development each day, and consistently consulting your plan and goals will ensure you are making optimal use of your time.
For example, consider this very guest post. It may be weird for him to read, but I “targeted” Srini as a guy I wanted to develop a relationship with – we’re both in the personal development niche and I really liked the content he was creating, as well as how transparent he was about learning to earn income online. I’ve emailed him a couple times, commented at Skool of Life, commented on some of his guest posts, and conversed some on twitter.
That way he knew who I was, so when the topic of guest posting came up, I’m thinking he was more willing to listen (although it may have been different from his point of view – let us know in the comments Srini).
Notice I said “persistent,” not “relentless”
I also didn’t say annoying or exasperating. “Take lots of shots” does not mean email someone every hour until you get a response. There was a post earlier this week that talks about being patient that is a great complement to this post.
Be respectful. Be authentic.
Relationships are built on genuinely wanting to help others. People can sense right away when you’re in it for yourself or that you just want to use them to get to someone bigger.
So get out there!
Engage people. Build relationships. Provide value. You’ll find you and your business are growing much faster than if you’re sitting and waiting for people to find you!
Mike Tiojanco is a husband, father, and entrepreneur making his way out of the 9 to 5. He writes about personal development, social media, and more or less how to be awesome at Pursuit of Change. In his free time, he enjoys video games, ultimate frisbee, and general rocking out (just like when he was a college freshman in 1999). Connect with him over at Pursuit of Change and on twitter (@mtio).
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By the way... Hawks win the Stanley Cup!!
.-= Mike Tiojanco´s last blog ..Where I’ve Been and What I’ve Learned =-.
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