Idea Climbing® Podcast Episode 38
In this episode I speak with David J.P. Fisher (also known as D. Fish) about creating a hybrid marketing, networking and outreach business plan during the pandemic and beyond. David is a speaker, coach, and author of 9 books, including the best-selling Hyper-Connected Selling and Networking in the 21st Century: Why Your Network Sucks and What to Do About It.

David suggests that you shouldn’t wait until the pandemic is over to create a “post pandemic plan”. Create a hybrid plan NOW for networking, marketing and outreach. Make sure that you’re doing work to build social capital and foster relationships during the tough times. This will set you up for success moving forward.

One piece that you can start working on now is your digital presence. Start with LinkedIn to continue conversations and  create relationships. People are spending a lot more time on LinkedIn during the pandemic which means that they’re more accessible. That way when we go back to in person networking events and meetings you’re not starting from scratch, you’re continuing online conversations in offline venues.

Instead of a bunch of rando Zoom calls pick a target audience and schedule two Zoom meetings a week with people in that audience. That’s 48 targeted conversations in six months. Those “deposits of social capital” will pay great dividends in the long run. Every conversation doesn’t have to be a sales conversation. Simply reaching out to discover what the other person is working on and how you might be able to help them will build your social capital.

Listen in!

In this episode we also talk about:

What hybrid meeting habits will carry over into a post pandemic world.
More ways to develop relationships on LinkedIn.
What NOT to do when you’re networking on LinkedIn.
How to create “hyperconnected” sales opportunities
…and more golden nuggets of advice!

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About The Guest

David J.P. Fisher (also known as D. Fish) is a speaker, coach, and author of 9 books, including the best-selling Hyper-Connected Selling and Networking in the 21st Century: Why Your Network Sucks and What to Do About It.  He is a Sales Hall of Fame inductee and LinkedIn Influencer and collaborator.  Building on 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur and sales professional, he combines nuanced strategy and real-world tactics to help professionals become more effective, efficient, and happy.

David’s goal is to help them understand the new Sales Sherpa™ Path, where social media, networking, and old-school sales and communication skills are the key to providing value and staying relevant. He lives in Evanston, IL – next to a huge cemetery which helps him appreciate the value of every day.

Connect with David on LinkedIn here or visit his site here