While at the gas pump, in the checkout line of the grocery store, or waiting to place your order for your morning coffee, mine for gold. Specifically, golden opportunities to build your client base or business partnerships. They're all around you.
Photo: Courtesy of Wix Media
Last week, I was standing by my car pumping gas at the station when a car pulls up on the opposite side of the pump. When the man steps out, we exchanged a smile and struck up a conversation that went something like this:
“What a beautiful car,” I remarked admiring his sports car.
With a big smile on his face, he said, “Yeah, this is fun to drive.”
“Tell me, how much horsepower.”
“I would say 600 plus, I'm not sure.”
I chuckled and replied, “So, it’s probably difficult for you not to get ticketed, right?”
“No, I take it easy but it’s fun.” Then he added, “I have another one, a Corvette Z6.”
I exclaimed, “That’s a powerhouse!"
We went on to discuss which car was his favorite and what made him invest in them. He explained it was a reward for his retirement. Noticing that he looked younger than typical retirees, I commented on it. That's when he shared that he'd sold his business six years ago and decided to buy a couple of toys with his profits.
As an entrepreneur, I was intrigued. So, I dug a little deeper.
He went on to share how he and a friend were noodling around and bought a couple of mobile homes. And that's when it all started. They'd met a man who’d done pretty well developing mobile home parks and were inspired by his success. The seed was planted. Next, they did the research into all that was required; the licensing, zoning, building, and maintenance, and then leaped in full bore. They developed and managed several mobile home parks for twenty years.
When they sold them, he made over eight million dollars.
As random as this casual gas pump exchange was, it involved a very instructive conversation. Because there was a transfer of information that included an entrepreneurial idea. I can act on it or pass it on to friends, family and clients, and share it with followers as I am doing now.
You may be looking for a seed of inspiration which this business model provides. You may feel moved to explore this idea, follow the same pathway, and venture into this business that could net you a financial treasure, and give you the financial and personal freedom you desire.
This lesson didn’t take place in a classroom or formal educational institution, but rather in the academy of life. This man could be a mentor, a partner, a vehicle to meet other success-minded individuals who could alter my or your course for the better. Yes, my friends. While I pumped gas, I struck gold. Valuable information I’m sharing with you now.
I challenge you to build this same irresistible habit of mining for gold in random settings. Practice the approach of being relaxed, laid back, optimistic, and gracious in initiating casual conversations with complete strangers. Be alert to discern what might be of mutual interest that could spark a conversation. In this case, it was a red Toyota Supra. But it just as easily could have been a pair of wingtips, cool sneakers, a nice broach, or a lovely dress. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as you’re alert to it. Then you can use it as a conduit to starting a conversation.
You can find a lot of interesting elements in your environment that could be uplifting, admired, and the basis for a comment, question, and eventual conversation. But there is a caveat. One must be continuously optimistic, greeting others with a pleasing demeanor and sincere curiosity. And you must also bring your best self.
Case example. While both of us wore casual attire at the gas pump, we were reasonably well groomed. We happened to be wearing deck shoes and sneakers, shorts and knit shirts. You don’t have to be fancy, but it does help to be presentable, bringing your best self wherever you go. You never know who you may encounter. Of course, either of us could equally have been there after working in dirt. When that's the case, so be it. But be decent, if not in attre, in attitude.
Don't forget to bring your smile. People are attracted to others who are friendly, and a smile is your personal kindness billboard. It breaks down walls and lifts up hearts. It declares that you’re comfortable in your skin and demonstrates that you’re at ease engaging with strangers. A simple smile can be a great icebreaker.
While pumping gas, I presented well, I smiled, I broke the ice, I relaxed, and I embarked on the practice of irresistible communication. In doing so, I struck gold.
Now it’s your turn.
Let me help you take a creative approach to the business of becoming increasingly irresistible and financially invincible. Together, through intentional and achievable steps, we can make your future bright, build your wealth and give you the freedom you deserve. Today is your day to take that first step. Contact me here.