Episode Details

Before we begin, some big news to share…

Stay Cool: Sequential Magazine Award Nominee!

Stay Cool has been nominated for two awards by the entertaining and informative Sequential Magazine:

Be sure to vote! Voting ends March 31.

I appreciate everyone who takes the time to go to this page and help put Stay Cool on the map.

With that in mind, let’s talk about how…

“Networking” Feels Gross

In my day-to-day life, I’m a regular corporate schill. Some would argue that I excel at it. Though, that has probably changed a bit working from home. It’s a lot harder to smooth things over with a smile and a laugh over the phone. Things just tend to come in a smidge more phoney.

But the truth is that if your intentions are pure, it works. Networking only feels gross when someone is just trying to sell you something or get something from you.

The trick to it all is to take a genuine interest in the people you’re trying to network with.

It’s not about what either of you can do for each other up front. You know why you’re there. It’s a secret to no one, so when people act like they might be able to get something without having to put themselves into it - it shows.

Be yourself. Be generous. Be a friend.

The rest comes later.

Have Something to Share

All that said, there will come a time when you get comfortable with someone and your opportunity arises to sell your wares. This shouldn’t be the only reason you’re talking to someone, especially early on, but if you get the chance you should be ready.

Do you have a portfolio? I don’t mean a literal one that you carry around and shove in peoples’ faces. There’s no quicker way to turn someone off.

But it’s good to have something to show that you’re serious about what you’re trying to do. For example, are you a writer? Do you have a Substack or short stories on your website? An Amazon or Kobo author page?

Keeping it simple and easy to remember helps. For me, you can find everything "@pestocomics” on nearly every social out there or at pestocomics.com

The easier it is to remember, and the higher it comes up on a Google search, the more likely it is that people will take the time to look at what you have when they’re ready.

If you have something a little more time sensitive, like say a Kickstarter launching this Spring, have your elevator pitch on lock.

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