Tuesday, August 04, 2009

Some Things to Do Today

  1. Make a few schmoozing appointments. Just 20 to 30 minutes for coffee to talk about what's going on in their world and what's happening in yours. You'll realize the benefits later.
  2. That article you thought would be of interest to a friend? Send it on.
  3. Establish an FAQ File on your computer. What goes in it? Copies of files that you frequently need but only locate after a lengthy search.
  4. Exercise at least 30 minutes.
  5. Read something completely unrelated to your job.
  6. Read a commentator with whom you have little in common.
  7. Replenish your supply of birthday cards and thank you notes. Send one.
  8. Designate the monthly Unpleasant Task Day on which you will complete those chores you've been shunning.
  9. Put at least one worry in your Zone of Indifference.
  10. Focus on completing two important tasks.

1 comment:

Jeff said...

There was a day when "shmoozing" was a thing we did out there in Salesman Land. Not that it isn't pursued - but now with the combined abilities to hide behind voice mail and email, it gets tougher to make that human connection. And it's a shame - because that's what really drives business from both the vendor and customer ends.

Funny you should mention birthday cards. When I started on the sales end - about 25 years ago - I picked up the habit of sending birthday cards to my clients. Turned it into a habit - always asked when their birthdays were and sent them some kind of unique card, and maybe followed up with a non-business lunch invite.

It still strikes me how surprised people are that their birthdays are remembered. And if even for a moment or two, makes the both of us feel good about the day.

My current vow - to get off email and use the phone. I want a human voice - and maybe, so do the clients...

- J.