Banking on People is Better than Money in the Bank

Success in business can be as simple as learning to become a people magnet. It doesn't require a huge investment of money or time, just a genuine interest in meeting other people.

When I arrived in New York City as a young artist with very little in savings, I decided although I didn't have an impressive bank account I was going to bank on people.

I genuinely was and still am interested in people. I find most people very fascinating. There is something unique about everyone I meet. There is something they have to offer, to share and to teach someone else.

I recall saying to myself, "I want to get to know everyone in the art world. People will be my source of wealth and success." That promise to myself was the biggest key to having a very successful and rewarding career for the past 28 years.

I took on a lot of unpaid assignments and projects through art writing and organizing exhibitions in order to meet people. I began building relationships with artists, gallery owners, art writers and art lovers. At the start of making a new acquaintance I developed the habit of asking each person, "What can I do for you?" "How can I help you?" You can learn a lot from these questions.

What I learned is one of the greatest needs people have is to meet another person because the right introduction can lead to a romantic relationship, career upgrade or another opportunity. I learned to plant seeds, nurture and harvest fascinating relationships and became a very good matchmaker.

I studied, questioned and learned about each person's hobbies, heritage, profession, where they lived before arriving in NYC, where they attended college, and other facts about them so I could build the right connections to others who shared their interests and common experiences.

I hosted a party practically every week in my apartment. I learned to make some excellent punch, veggie dip and cookies. However, I learned food was second to the appetite my guests had to connect with other human beings who they could share a rapport.

I offered to work at a private singles club a few blocks away and organized multi media events. Hosting parties took me away from my shyness by "working the room," making sure no one was feeling left out. I pursued my mission to actively introduce my guests to each other. Bringing people together through fun activities was rewarding. Through my introductions friendships blossomed, artists met representatives and collectors, marketing experts met entrepreneurs, radio and television hosts met artists and entertainers.

When I attended events I made a practice of having a goal to bring home several business cards by the end of the evening. On the back of the card I would write notes about the person and follow up very soon thereafter.

So, a lot of my success was formed upon this principle of attracting people and sharing relationships. I believe if you help someone else you help yourself.

The other day I received a very attractive check in the mail as a "finder's fee." It was for referring one professional to another. You see, sometimes being a people magnet also has its share of financial rewards.

Renée Phillips is an artist career consultant. Learn more.

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