Two weeks ago, I returned to my college alma mater, the University of California, Davis (in Northern California) to speak to students in the Managerial Economics Program. Attending the standing room only event were third- and fourth-year students along with a few Masters’ and PhD. Students.
After talking about my company, Frieda’s Specialty Produce (which I sold 2 ½ years ago), I answered at least a dozen questions from students who wanted to hear not only about my successes, but my failures and any regrets.
As the time of the event was ending, I pulled out my notes and announced that I had prepared a list of 7 lessons I had learned and some advice I had for them. It impressed me that many of them took notes, and no one left early, even though the session ran over 15 minutes.
Here is the advice I shared:
- Do what you say you’re going to do. Figure out a system to make sure you fulfill your commitments (even the verbal ones). I was given this advice early in my career (and I remember exactly who said it to me). Whether it’s a calendar system, a things to do list, figure out some way to keep track of commitments – your reputation will be defined by this.
- Create a touch system: a system and process for keeping in touch with people you connect with. Whether it is with personal handwritten notes (my favorite), or texts, emails or connecting on LinkedIn, start now to develop a way to have your own network. I shared with them that every December I send out more than 800 holiday cards including a newsy letter!
- Have a personal board of directors. You can call it a kitchen cabinet or accountability partners, but no one can make it on their own. We all need a support group who we are in touch with regularly (quarterly is best) and who will hold us accountable for our goals.
- Take care of your body. Based on my research, here is the priority order: Sleep (at least 7-8 hours a night), Move (even if it’s just daily walks, or it can be a full on exercise routine, daily exercise is critical) and Eat (all things in moderation). ***I saw lots of nods in the audience when I covered this one.
- Be curious and a lifelong learner. Read or listen to podcasts, books, non-fiction or fiction. It doesn’t matter. I shared the story of a scientist from New Mexico State University who told me in the 1980s that every time he is at an airport, he purchases 3-4 magazines on subjects he knows nothing about. It might be Field and Stream or The Economist, but he maintained a continual curiosity and hunger for the new and unknown. I have continued his practice to this day. Another best practice: When you meet someone, ask them what book they’re reading and ask them if they recommend it. Download at that very moment so you won’t forget. Great way to expand your horizons.
- Set goals in multiple areas of your life. I encouraged the students to get the book The 5 Types of Wealth, by Sahil Bloom. He lists: Time, Social, Mental, Physical and Financial as the 5 types. Set goals for one year, 5 years, 10 years and your lifetime (a bucket list). Break down your goals into smaller increments. Perfect items to review with your personal board of directors.
- Be prepared (for meetings, etc.). I asked everyone to raise their hand if they had done research on me before they came to my lecture. Only one person (out of 100) raised their hand! I find that to be typical. A best practice is to always do research before you meet with someone, whether it is for a job interview, a client meeting, a business review or a lecture. You will always get more out of any situation if you come prepared and have done some sort of research. And frankly, since 99% of your competition/coworkers/colleagues will NOT have done this, you will be a shining star.
As I was getting ready to leave, I mentioned that, even though I know less than 10% (at best) of them do this follow up, I encouraged them to email me, text me or connect with me on LinkedIn as a way to build their network and try out a touch system.
I am pleasantly surprised to report that I am still getting emails and LinkedIn requests from the students! Many of them listened and are stretching their adulting muscles.
How about you? As a business professional, consider evaluating if you are using the above 7 best practices. It’s never too late to start.
Onward and upward,
Executive Coaching and Consulting for CEOs, Presidents and Owners in all industries
If you’re enjoying what you’re reading, please consider recommending it to others. They can sign up here
