REAL TIME SOCIAL NETWORKING (RTSN) TACTICS: LIVE DEEP

We’ve discussed some of the strategic elements of the RTSN in previous posts, but how does RTSN work “in the trenches”? It’s difficult to prescribe because everyone’s application of RTSN is different, based on their own interests and abilities. Let’s take a look at some examples:
Time and again we hear about the big deals that get done on the golf course. And while it’s true that comfort on the green will result in more green to give you comfort, if you are looking at where to apply RTSN, the golf course is generally not the best place. Why? Because it is so popular that it is the hobby equivalent of breathing.

With such a huge overlap, you have no distinction unless you are very good at golf and can play in high stakes charity events. That is unlikely. But let’s look at something a little more obscure.

You may look at that and think, “Hey, I’d rather have something in common with MORE people, not FEWER people.” But the interesting thing about passions is that they are multi-dimensional. Because golf can be shared with so many people, the typical golf conversation is shallow.
However, not as many people ride horses. When two horse people meet, they go DEEP very quickly. Imagine you are working a deal with someone. If you’ve seen him at the clubhouse and maybe even played a round or two, you have a significant advantage in closing that deal over someone just entering his office with a snazzy tri-fold brochure. But you will always lose to the person who comes in and shares his horse story (“Oh! A palomino! FIVE HANDS!?”). Horse trumps golf.
Of course not all the people you do business with will be horse people. This is why you should pursue a rich and active social life exploring all your interests. Biking, climbing, chess, laser tag, soccer hooliganism, ramen wrestling, archery, and taxidermy all trump golf. So start doing the things you like, and do them a lot, and get good at them!