Often the word networking conjures up images of someone running around frantically trying to shove his or her business cards into as many hands as possible. If this describes you — stop doing this now. If it describes anyone you know — then share this article with them. Believe me, they’ll thank you for doing so. Trust me, paper-cuts make a terrible first impression.

If we are really honest what I described above isn’t that uncommon an occurrence is it?… Read the rest of the article

In the video below I discuss how to go about developing win, win mutually beneficial business relationships with prospective clients and customers. You will also learn how to strengthen your existing customer relationships as well.

Friend, make no mistake, the ideas included here are also helpful if you aspire to stand out in your profession. Look for opportunities to put what you learn to use in your day and you’ll be better for it!

It’s your life, LIVE BIG!
Josh Hinds

-What were some of the key ideas you learned?… Read the rest of the article

“We can’t compete on price with the big box stores”…

Nothing drives me nuts more then to hear that statement from small business owners and entrepreneurs. First off, competing only on price (unless you happen to be the rarest of exceptions) is not a recipe for long term success.

Do you doubt what I’m saying? …

Consider that even Wal-Mart, starting out, had competitors that were larger then they were. The truth is that while delivering low prices was an essential component of Mr.… Read the rest of the article

A simple, yet effective way to build positive mind share with your customers would be — provided you run a restaurant or retail store (you can certainly adapt this idea to other types of businesses as well) would be to offer a discount or free gift / item in return for your customer agreeing to check-in or post a Facebook message or tweet mentioning they are at your particular business.

It is worth keeping in mind that whatever you offer, you need to make sure your numbers work out OK — meaning you don’t want your discount / or gift to have an adverse effect on your bottom line.… Read the rest of the article

Most folks know I speak and teach on topics related to motivation and human potential, but I’m also very passionate about business, entrepreneurship, sales & selling, and particularly relationship marketing (i.e. how to go about creating amazing, more profitable, long term customer relationships).

Recently I was a guest on Kerry’s Network Talk Radio (you can listen to the interview in its entirety below). The show is geared towards those in business, entrepreneurship, and sales professionals, but I imagine you’ll also get a lot out of what is shared in the interview even if you don’t see yourself as a “business person”…

Here are a few of the questions I was asked included:

* Exactly what does relationship marketing can mean to the success of your business?… Read the rest of the article