Episode 31
Brand Story Podcast

Networking in the Digital Age

featuring David J.P. Fisher

Author of "Networking in the 21st Century" and President of RockStar Consulting

David J.P. Fisher, Author of Networking in the 21st Century and President of RockStar Consulting, talks about sales, networking, and building human connections with our president, Steve Gilman.

Before the digital age when buyers had limited access to information, no one thought twice about being sold to. Now, armed with more information than they know what to do with, buyers are looking for a little bit more. They’re looking for quick, easy, and peace of mind.

David J.P. Fisher would call this the Sales Sherpa, and it’s not just for salespeople. It’s a concept relatable to marketers, business owners, or anyone in a position to influence others on making a purchase. It means networking with people authentically, building a relationship, and then being there to help guide them through the purchase process when the time is right. And with the digital age bringing about even more ways to build and keep connections, the possibilities are endless.

In this episode, David discusses the importance of networking ahead and building both personal and professional relationships, even as an introvert. He talks about how to be a better conversationalist, and shares his sales advice for those looking to evolve their strategy – Don’t sell to people, sell for them. Strike up a conversation, get to know them, and whatever you do, don’t pitch-slap.

About the Guest

David J.P. Fisher

Author of "Networking in the 21st Century" and President of RockStar Consulting

David is the Author of Networking in the 21st Century and President of RockStar Consulting, a professional development consultancy focused on providing LinkedIn coaching and messaging support, social selling training, and fractional sales coaching/management services. He is a Keynote Speaker, Author, and Coach focused on helping others build their digital influence, increase sales effectiveness, and create stronger personal connections. He is also a Sales Hall of Fame Inductee and the host of the Beer, Beats, and Business podcast.

Quickfire Q&A

If you could give your younger self any advice, what would you give?

I would tell myself to relax, have a little bit more fun. It works out, just calm down, don’t overthink this. Anxiety and stress are a part of life but we don’t have to have that much. So yeah, I’d probably say enjoy yourself a little bit more because the work is always going to be there.

If you hadn't been in sales, what would you have done?

I would’ve been an air force pilot or astronaut, at least that’s what the 12-year-old me wanted to be. I would’ve probably loved to have been a professor or some sort of teacher, I’m kind of wired that way. But you know, I love writing, I love reading, so maybe being an academic would’ve been in my path.

What do you think is a must read for people out there around the subject of networking or sales?

“How to Win Friends and Influence People”. I really do feel it’s worth the time. Maybe one that’s a little older and kind of outta left field is “Never Eat Alone”. It was actually one of the first books I read when I started my business and I think it actually permeates a lot of my approach. Also one of my favorites is Daniel Pink’s “To Sell Is Human”.

About The Host

Steve Gilman

As the President of Gravity Group, Steve is passionate about helping brands reach their goals through honest, creative marketing and powerful brand stories.

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