Over the years I have been to hundreds of meetings, conventions, events, seminars, boot camps and social gatherings around the world. I have learned a lot by observing, interacting and even more from the decades of experience my mentors have passed on to me.

Here is a concise list of 5 important mindset shifts you must make—BEFORE any of the other secrets will work for you. If you don’t make the shift, success will be very hard to achieve.

LAW #1 – Everyone is a connector or a potential client. Period. Oh boy! This is one of the biggest and foremost mistakes I have seen (and continue to see) tons of people make—whether I’m in New York, Rome or Tunis.

Never, never, never pre-judge anyone! You cannot disqualify someone as a client, partner or a gem connection before having spoken with them. Don’t be superficial and go on looks like most people do. Your gem connections may not come nicely packaged in a plush velvet bag—but wrapped in paper.

No, I’m not being snobby—just making a point. There are people who never talk to those who do not appear to be in a position of power. I have gotten stellar ideas and contacts from waiters, chauffeurs, garbage collectors and maids. We are all needed and we all have wisdom to contribute.

“Become a student of people!”

How do you connect with everyone in a genuine way?

Foster a genuine love of people and talk to each person you meet. Be interested in them and curious to find out what their story is. You’ll be amazed at what happens.

LAW #2 – Always have an open mind and adapt ideas to your situation. Listen to what others have to say in all industries, not just your own. Think of how their ideas and successes can be changed to fit your needs. Be creative and cross-pollinate. I have gotten some really great ideas from people who have absolutely nothing to do with my industry.

LAW #3 – Authenticity breeds success in the connection kingdom. Be yourself. Yes, I know you’ve heard this one many times lately. That goes to show just how important it is. You need to be yourself at all times for some important reasons.

• When you are yourself you are more confident and comfortable. Two things necessary for stellar connections with other people.
• You don’t have to worry about keeping up a front. You are you and that’s not hard to repeat. Consistency in interaction is key!
• You portray an atmosphere of openness and honesty. Crucial to projecting a sense of integrity and building trust.

LAW #4 – Invest in yourself continuously. Make sure you set aside time and money to attend events, seminars and courses. Also investing mentoring, coaching and masterminding has quickly boosted my income. I cannot stress this one enough!

LAW #5 – Always tell the truth. I cannot begin to tell you how important this one is. Tell the truth even if it’s embarrassing or inconvenient. If you’re ever tempted to impress someone by lying, always remember…

“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it.
If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.”
- Warren Buffett

Be magnetic to success!

Rhonda Cort