Last week, after 41 years working together, Jim Watkins and I closed our last deal. We closed our first deal together in 1984. In 2020, I wrote a tribute to Jim and the true mentor he has been (you can read it here). Today, I’m reflecting on both that first deal, this last deal, and […]
Firsts—Lasts—and the Journey Read More »
We all know, success isn’t just about what you know—it’s about who you know. AND in my opinion, more importantly, who knows you. The best networkers don’t just collect business cards; they create real connections by bringing the right people together. I’ve built my career by being a connector, and I can tell you I get
Stop Networking, Start Connecting Read More »
Sam Altman is one smart guy. He’s the face behind ChatGPT and a leading expert on AI. But beyond his technical knowledge, he’s made some insightful observations about what great Founders do. Here are my favorites from the text thread I copied for you below. — Be involved with customer support. CEOs have to learn
Building a Great Company OR a Fantastic Life Read More »
I always preach to “get the meeting.” If you believe that relationships matter (like I do), then you want to meet face-to-face, get to know the person, and start building a real relationship (by doing what you say you will do, finishing what you start, etc.). Relationships can start over the phone or email, but
In Person is Always Better Read More »
Edwin Land was the inventor of the Polaroid camera and known as the original Steve Jobs. He led a fascinating life, and was on the committee that came up with the U2 spy plane. I included a short article on his life below. Here are 3 of his quotes that I love: — “My whole
The Original Steve Jobs– Had to Look up Edwin Land. Wow! Read More »
I spend over 20 hours a week on emails, both reading and writing them. So, I wanted to send the below article on email etiquette and maybe help a few of us get better with our communications. Here are some of the best thoughts on what to do/not do: –Avoid ALL CAPS. This is like
Email Etiquette Rules Read More »
Today I want to share a quick primer on note taking. I take notes in every single meeting I attend. I used to exclusively write them down on paper, but now I take notes on my phone all the time. I’ve shared some great points and a few LIFEies from my 40 years of taking
Taking Great Notes Read More »
Here is a stat from the article below: The average professional now spends 21.5 hours a week in meetings (up from 14.5 pre-pandemic). Full stop. Over the past two years during the pandemic and working from home, we have all switched to Zoom meetings AND our time in meetings has gone way up. Good for you if you
I have learned…ok, I am still learning…that it’s not easy to become a great leader. Leading requires lots of practice, patience, and commitment. Breaking these words down into one word: time. I have to spend time with my team and I have to think about each one as an individual as well. There is
I negotiate on behalf of my clients every single day, and have for over 35 years. I sometimes forget how engrained negotiations are in my life. Negotiation is an obvious requirement for my job, but, as the below article explains, it’s really necessary for everyone, not just those who work in real estate or sales.
Negotiation is the Ultimate Productivity Hack Read More »
