Question:

Is it important to attend corporate events and seminars?

Answer:

If you want to score extreme business success, you must be open to meeting all kinds of people all of the time.

So, yes, you should attend corporate seminars and play golf if asked. Also, start friendly conversations often. Join some organizations that interest you. Go to that party! Sign up to do charity work somewhere -- and perhaps the good karma you receive in return will be meeting good hearted people in your career.

Basically the career math works like this:

Every person you talk to = 3 degrees of separation from who you might need to/want to talk to.

Meaning: The more people you know the luckier you will be.

With this in mind…never have cold feet about cold calling anybody.

I am always looking to meet people I call “Supermodelers” – people who are admirable role models in their career. I send them my books and a friendly note offering to take them for coffee. Most have agreed.

Another breed of people to keep a watchful eye out for: “UNHEARD OF IDEA PEOPLE.” This renegade breed -- in direct contrast to slower grazing “HERD IDEA PEOPLE” -- will always take more risks and give you more freedom to flex your talent. You'll not only make more money -- you'll have MORE FUN making your money. So, whenever possible try to meet the "UNHEARD OF IDEA" people in any crowd.

Finally… don’t overlook the people you already know and love. Familiarity breeds success. So lunch regularly. Send sweet emails for no reason except to be sweet.

Keep in mind this career math: Out of sight = out of mind = out of work

In summary: Whatever business you are in you are in the people business. Make getting to know and love the best people in your career a fun and active part of your career.

Find out more about Karen Salmansohn