Your 2ndChance at a First Impression: I'm Dating For My Business

As most of you know I am single and since I finally feel settled with how things are going in my very CRAZY entrepreneurial life I've begun dating again. My dating companions don't seem to last very long. Many potentials don't make it past asking me out.

Why, one might wonder, would I not be falling out of my seat for men who compliment me and tell me I'm beautiful or who are offended if I want to pay (hey new business owner here, I'm on a budget) or seem to think I'm perfect in every way. Why, one might wonder, would I not be flattered by the individual today who calls me gorgeous but whose mother is only 5 years older than me. Why, one might wonder, am I not impressed with his bank account, looks or Swiss Patek Philippe (which has symbols that I don't even understand).

At this point I KNOW MYSELF. In most instances I know almost immediately if I'm attracted to or interested in someone. For those who make it past the initial impression one date tells me all else that I need to know with regard to the longevity of our time together. I know what I'm looking for. I know my flaws. I know my strengths and what I have to offer. At this point I know what doesn't work for me even if I don't know where to find it. I am prepared and so when opportunity presents itself I am ready.

Part of that knowledge is also in knowing my business. If we each applied our "quality" dating rules to our businesses we would be at an entirely different level. New entrepreneurs, in particular, are wowed when someone compliments their work. They often give it away for a kiss of kindness or a compliment of confidence. Then they wonder why there being tossed over for the cutie who played hard to get. But, if you don't know what your business is really about, what you provide, what you need and what external elements "fit" then you are destined to always be a bridesmaid and never a bride.

Opportunities surround us everyday. Networking is your "speed dating" business opportunity. Go to these events with the knowledge of how your business and business ideas sparkle like a beautiful smile. Enter the room knowing the wisdom that you're sharing is refreshing like the sparkling beverage they hand out as you enter the room. Engage others knowing that your mere presence will have them begging for a meeting to hear more about your product/service or business plan.

But be vigilantly aware. If you begin with self awareness then you will hear it when someone doesn't share the same values. If you are aware of your business' needs you'll know when someone has nothing to offer your business. If you are paying attention you will notice when someone is engaged in learning more about you and your offerings.

Yes, just as in dating politely respond to those who ask you out but if they aren't a fit then let them go and do so quickly. For those who are worth pursuing allow them the opportunity to show you all of their attributes so that it can best be determined how you can work together. If it turns out that everything will be about them and you and your products will start collecting dust then clearly that's not the best relationship for your business. Partners, Ambassadors, Vendors and Clients should all fit in to your circle to take you to the next level. So feel free to apply your dating rules to your networking and connecting for your business because it will save you hurt feelings and a possibly painful divorce (partner dissolution). So Happy Dating and Happy Entrepreneuring!!!