LinkedSTL focuses on providing opportunities for professionals to connect and build meaningful relationships. We feel that job-skills training is important, and the mission of Goodwill Industries is centered around job-skills training.

As you build your own network, we invite you to take a look at Goodwill Industries, or any other organization that can benefit from your efforts. We encourage you to consider giving back to the community as a part of your normal business practices.

LinkedSTL had the opportunity to have a virtual sit-down the other day with Rob Coats, author of “Connect and Grow Rich”, for a LinkedSTL 5Q² session (a.k.a. “5 Quick Questions”). We wanted to know a little more about how Rob views connecting, as well as a few suggestions on how anyone could learn the same skills and strategies. Here’s what Rob had to say:

"...it's like the difference between memorizing and studying in school."

Q2-LinkedSTL:  What have you learned from “Adding Value First?”

Q2-Rob Coats:  It’s the easiest way to build lifelong relationships, and building these relationships is what helped me become Rich. When I say Rich it’s in all areas like Emotionally, Mentally, Spiritually and these things lead to success, fulfillment and happiness.

Q3-LinkedSTL:  Why should anyone attend a Professional Networking Event?

Q3-Rob Coats:  Well the best one would be because I’ll be at this one! LOL. No they should attend to start building a bigger network. Your network determines your network. I don’t think you can go wrong by meeting new and exciting people who want more out of life. Also you never know you will meet there that may possibly change your life. I truly believe that it only takes one connection to change your life. You are who you surround yourself with. Take a look at the 5 people closest to you. If you’re the smartest person in the group you need to add some people to your circle who can sow into your life and make you a better person.

Q4-LinkedSTL:  What is your inspiration for connecting?

Q4-Rob Coats:  Well the reason I’m so inspired to connect and help others connect is because 95% of people do it wrong! Most people don’t connect effectively and since they don’t connect it takes years for them to do things that I believe, with the right connection, can take days. Most people want to be millionaires but I think if they become Connectionaires that can help them get there much faster. Here’s my definition of a Connectionaire.

1. A person who builds wealth through creating personal connections as opposed to capital gain.
2. A person who can be fiscally deficient, yet still receive V.I.P. treatment due to his extensive network of influential contacts.
3. Someone who establishes life-long relationships and builds his personal brand into a wealth of indeterminable value.

"It’s the exciting burst of energy that sparks when you meet someone who shares your values."

Q5-LinkedSTL:  How can others learn more about the power of connecting?

Q5-Rob Coats:  Thats a great question. They should start reading about it. One of the best books I’ve read on it would have to be Dale Carnegie’s how to win friends and influence people. Jeffrey Gitomer also has a book on Building Rich Relationships. I have a blog that people can read for free at www.connectionaire.com – thats a great start. I also wrote a book called “Connect and Grow Rich” and recorded the audio (myself) for anyone who really wants to learn how to get any and everything you want… For Free! You’ll love it!

An award winning entrepreneur and international speaker, Rob is the founder and president of Connect Your Life, a national organization established to connect innovative professionals and entrepreneurs across the nation.

With over eight years experience in marketing and recruiting, Rob began building his professional bridges while still a senior at The Ohio State University when he accepted a position at Prepaid Legal.  Promoted to executive sales director, Rob was one of the youngest directors in the company’s history.  Recognized as first in sales in Ohio and seventh in the nation, Rob was awarded the 2005 Trailblazer award and the Top Builder award in both 2005 and 2006.

Additionally Rob has held positions at Residential Finance Corporation and Oxford Lending Group where he led his sales team from $100k to $350k in closings in just three months.  Rob also served as director of business development at Favor Magazine, Ohio’s premiere upscale urban publication.

Rob’s authorial debut, Connect and Grow Rich, a step-by-step guide on establishing relationships and acquiring favor with the right parties, is now available for purchase on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, Borders and all other book stores online. You can also get it from his personal website www.connectionaire.com.

Also, you can register for the event on LinkedIn.

Looking forward to seeing you at the event!

Please make sure you stop by their Website, or even better, go to Bar Italia in the Central West End and enjoy the best combination of service, food and atmosphere in the St. Louis area!

Bar Italia
13 Maryland Plaza
St. Louis, MO 63108
(314) 361-7010

Featured Speaker:

• Rob Coats – The Connectionaire, and author of “Connect and Grow Rich“

Free Gifts, including:

• Software
• Books
• Electronics

The best professionals in St. Louis!

Register for the event, and stay tuned for upcoming location and other information!