The Young Entrepreneur

Networking GENIUS for young entrepreneurs!

I was chatting to one of my close friends Joel, about what he thought was the serious ‘break’ in his career.  He said it was getting a graduate position at JP Morgan straight out of university (a massive investment firm).  He has since moved on from this position to do other things but still says the experience he got there was invaluable.

I knew my friend (who didn’t get the best grades or anything) and I also knew the standards JP Morgan must have for their graduates - SO I WAS CONFUSED.  Without sounding too rude I prodded him for more information on how he got the job.

What he told me was profound.  In his 2nd year, he had called up one of the more senior investment bankers at the firm and asked him to meet up for a coffee.  He told him he had a lot of interest in the industry, and especially investment banking and asked if he was willing to give up half an hour of his time for a coffee.

Apparently, the man was flattered and was more-then-happy to donate some of his time to school an enthusiastic, young up-and-comer.

So they met, got along very nicely and continued to meet during Joel’s uni schooling for periodic chats and updates.  Apart from being an extremely helpful mentor - He had actually encouraged and guided Joel in attaining the graduate position.  Joel called him the ’supercharger’ in his careers motor.

I am sure we all know that our success as young entrepreneurs will always be boosted by having someone experienced to guide and mentor us - that ain’t new.  BUT…the big TAKE-AWAY LESSON from this story is….

THESE PEOPLE ARE ACCESSIBLE!!!!

A lot of them are just a curios phone call away.  If you think they will all blow you off - then think again.  Of course not everyone has the time to meet and chat - but I hardly think anyone will be rude in denying your request.

Any human being loves being viewed as an authority (and entrepreneurs especially LOVE to teach!).  Think about when you’re asked your opinion - and you get the chance to come from an ‘experts’ standpoint.  Well…I generally wont shut-up!

If one person blows you off - then try another.  As long as you’re asking in a professional manner - you have nothing to lose.  AT WORST, you appear eager and enthusiastic.  At best - you will be able to gain an audience with someone who could supercharge you career!

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