I read an article that offered suggested daily habits that could help us 5 years from now. One habit stood out, not just because it has marketing implications, but because I think it could bring immediate benefits.
The habit:
Talk to one stranger every day.
Think about the possibilities. The stranger you speak to could be your next client, a marketing joint venture partner, or a source of referrals. Or they might introduce you to someone who fulfills one or more of those roles.
Talking to someone new can give you ideas for articles and posts, for marketing or managing your practice, or for doing something new and exciting.
Practicing the habit of approaching strangers also helps you develop your networking and interpersonal skills.
And it could be a lot of fun.
You could approach people by design–professionals and centers of influence in your target market or local community, for example. Or, you could make it a serendipitous adventure and approach people at random. How about the person immediately behind you in the line at Starbucks?
Strangers represent opportunities, the article notes. True, most opportunities don’t pan out. With many strangers, you won’t get to first base.
But you never know when the next person you meet might be the one who opens doors to great new adventures. Or, turn out to be a new friend.
