5Q² Featuring Rob Coats

5Q2-Promo-Featuring-Rob-CoatsLinkedSTL 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:

Q1-LinkedSTL:  What does Connecting mean to you?
Q1-Rob Coats:  Here’s what Connecting means to me: Connecting is based on the sharing of common ground. Common ground is based on people, places and things. And the more common ground you have with someone, the higher the trust level. The higher the trust level, the more willingness the person has to share key contacts, information and resources. See the connection? The difference between networking and connecting is like the difference between memorization and studying in school. Memorization will get you an “A” on the quiz. Studying will help you pass the finals. When you think about it, connecting is the Ph.D. of networking. It’s the next step, the graduate level. In networking, it’s the handshake and the smile. But connecting is all about the heartfelt emotion and the trust. It’s the exciting burst of energy that sparks when you meet someone who shares your values.

The difference between networking and connecting is like the difference between memorization and studying in school.

"...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.

"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!

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