MEETING JIM BELUSHI

Last time I was in Chicago, I stayed at the House of Blues Hotel. It is an awesome property, with incredible décor, top-notch service and (I swear this is true) harmonicas available from the in-room mini-bar!

Stepping out of the lobby to walk over to the HOB concert venue, I noticed Jim Belushi headed my way. Apparently, his band was in town to play and he was also staying at the hotel.

When he noticed me, I smiled broadly (couldn’t have stopped the smile if I wanted to), extended my hand and move toward him. He stopped, we shook hands and spoke briefly. I told him how much I appreciated his talent, and I encouraged him to keep doing what he does because so many people love it. [Note: I did not mention his brother John, and I did not ask for an autograph.]

What does this have to do with sales? Everything, because you have to be able to engage anyone (even a celebrity) without making them want to avoid you.

You can approach anyone in the world if you do so with a smile, an extended hand, and a genuine compliment or words of encouragement.

And you don’t have to launch into a sales pitch the first time you meet someone. Get to know them. Find out what is important to them. Help them solve a problem.

If it’s really appropriate, the opportunity to serve them will evolve.