Mickey Mellen

“Every day, on numerous occasions, you are asked some version of the question: “How are you?” “How are things going?” “How’s business?” “What are you up to these days?” A generic response such as “Nothing much,” or “Crazy busy,” or “Same old, same old” squanders the opportunity to bolster your reputation within your network. Instead, answer with an update about a current project or an interesting client engagement. It is a much more authentic response to say, “Thanks for asking. I’m working on an interesting new project for a client in the energy sector and it’s going really well.” Even if the other person doesn’t inquire about the details, you will have promoted your expertise, your work ethic, your enthusiasm for what you do, and your willingness to engage in a real conversation.”
― David Ackert, The Short List: How to Drive Business Development by Focusing on the People Who Matter Most

“One mistake I often see people make is to end their emails with closing statements rather than closing questions. Closing statements don’t necessarily warrant a response. When you close your email message with a thoughtfully crafted question, you encourage more engagement. You also position yourself as a more proactive, responsive communicator.”
― David Ackert, The Short List: How to Drive Business Development by Focusing on the People Who Matter Most

“We have just learned our five big charisma cues (and many little ones in between)—these are the nonverbal signals that can be used for both warmth and competence. Remember to front, stay open, lean in, use space, and gaze with purpose.”
― Vanessa Van Edwards, Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication

“Connectors bring you new ideas, referrals, resources, clients, or other business opportunities. They may be partners at your firm or external referral sources providing adjacent services to your industry.”
― David Ackert, The Short List: How to Drive Business Development by Focusing on the People Who Matter Most