I learn something special from everyone I meet.

The young bucks trying to make an impression. The thirty-somethings building their legacy. The seasoned pros with the wisdom you can only gain through a lifetime of persistence and hard work. They all have something special I take away from each interaction.

I attend at least one event or gathering on a weekly basis in Livingston County and southeast Michigan with the goal of connecting with someone. Not necessarily the typical “making connections” with big-wig idea. More along the lines of seeking a genuine conversation with a fellow Michigan professional, and having that “Yup, this is a cool person that I would like to do business with” type of connection.

One event in Livingston County was particularly intriguing. The Livingston County Association of Realtors (LCAR) hosted their annual Education Expo, or “Education Sensation” at Cleary University in Howell, MI. We had the opportunity to be a sponsor for this event, and have a booth like all the other vendors (lenders, inspectors, title insurance, attorneys). What was unique about this event is how there was an incentive for everyone attending the event to visit each vendor booth. When visiting each booth the individual has a “scavenger hunt” checklist they aim to complete. The checklist consisted of pre-written questions to ask each vendor (the questions of course are chosen by each respective vendor). Whoever gets the most correct answers on their scavenger hunt checklist wins a prize!

• Sponsor an event related to your industry
• Set up a booth with goodies
• Come up with a question that you want every one of your prospects to ask you.
• Ultimately highlighting what specifically separates you from your competition!

Not only do they have to ask you the question, but they have an incentive to write down the answer! Naturally this forces them to not only listen, but it then leads into a memorable conversation. Of course time constraints can limit the effectiveness of the interaction, but you get the point. You are naturally positioned to talk about your business in a way that is unique, and more likely to connect with everyone involved in the discussion (as long as you’re clever with the wording of the question).

I didn’t have any idea how powerful that was going to be.

Of course, I was too wrapped up in the preparation of the event, sneaking my business card into each giveaway coffee mug. Little did I know that our heavy-duty coffee mugs weren’t going to have the lasting impact that we were shooting for. It was the quality of the conversations that provided the greatest value. Who woulda thought?

There are so many resources in Livingston County to take advantage of, and help gain exposure for your business. LCAR is great if you’re in the real estate industry. Definitely connect with the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce as well. They have an event (almost daily) where you have an opportunity to network with local business owners and professionals. Their tireless support  team seems to be truly interested in helping you succeed and grow. Of course the big picture goal in all of this is to create genuine relationships within the community, and change the world! The Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce will surely play a part in that if you’re building your business in Livingston County.