But, they are my friends!!

Anthony Robbins tells us that peoples lives are a direct reflection of the expectations of their peer group. Who you spend time with is who you become. Every time I read that I am impacted. Gary Keller tells us, Our life in 5 years will be a direct reflection of the people that we are hanging out with and the books we are reading today.

Don't make friends who are comfortable to be with. Make friends who will force you to lever yourself up. Thomas J. Watson Sr.

Can I improve the casual conversation?

This morning I was listening to recording about approachability. I learned some really cool concepts. Have you ever asked anyone about their weekend? Usually they will relate what they did. "We worked on the yard and had a family barbecue", and our general response is, "Oh I like to barbecue" or "I went to a movie" or something else that makes the conversation about you. Well in order to be more approachable and engage the other person more deeply, I suggest that you make sure to ask three more questions. When you are more willing to listen to the other person you strengthen that relationship very quickly. After the third question and response you have permission to talk about yourself. Make sure however, to get contact information. Once you return to your office or home, you want to send a handwritten note referencing the conversation and how it was good to meet or talk to your new friend. What a great way to improve upon the casual conversation and take your game to the next level. A great reference is the book by Scott Ginsberg, "Hello My Name is Scott".

I don’t know anybody!

So, you asked your friends if they knew of anyone that was thinking of buying or selling Real Estate and they said, “I DON’T KNOW ANYBODY!” What do you say? Many of us are unwilling to call our friends because we don’t know what to say if they say NO. Now we have a response.

Thank you for thinking about it. Now that we have talked . . . you may notice . . . some of your friends that may need my help. Would you . . . be comfortable . . . if I checked back in a week to see if anyone comes to mind.

Make sure to emphasize the embedded commands. Now go call your friends and ask for referrals.