At DTPPL, we understand that sales are crucial for beverage startups. Our masterclass emphasizes relationship building, active listening, and value-based pricing to drive success.
Read the full guide here: https://dtppl.com/beverage-manufacturing-startups-sales-methodologies/
Negotiating with Decision-Makers, Influencers, and Signatories: Why Most Professionals Get It Wrong
Why Most Outreach Fails Before It Starts and What Ashkan Rajaee Does Differently
Why executives respond months or even years later and why that is not failure. Ashkan Rajaee explains the long game of professional relationships.
In the crowded landscape of professional networking, most LinkedIn users are focused on creating the perfect post or updating their profiles. But there’s a goldmine hiding in plain sight: the comment section. A well-crafted LinkedIn comment strategy can transform casual interactions into meaningful professional relationships that drive real business results.
While everyone is busy broadcasting their achievements, the smartest professionals are building empires one thoughtful comment at a time. Let’s explore how you can leverage comments as your secret weapon for authentic LinkedIn relationship building.
The average LinkedIn post gets hundreds of views but only a handful of meaningful interactions. When you leave a substantive comment, you’re not just another notification in someone’s feed. You’re starting a conversation, demonstrating expertise, and making yourself memorable.
Research shows that engagement generates engagement. When you consistently add value through comments, the LinkedIn algorithm notices. Your visibility increases, your profile gets more views, and most importantly, you create opportunities for genuine connections that can transform your career or business.
Not all comments are created equal. LinkedIn’s algorithm prioritizes certain types of engagement:
You have approximately three seconds to capture attention before someone scrolls past your comment. This means your opening line must hook the reader immediately. Avoid generic responses like “Great post!” or “Thanks for sharing.” Instead, lead with a compelling insight, question, or personal anecdote that demands attention.
The worst comments simply echo what the original post already stated. Instead of agreeing blindly, add something new to the conversation:
Questions are engagement magnets, but they need to be strategic. Avoid yes/no questions. Instead, ask open-ended questions that invite detailed responses:
When the original poster responds to your question, you’ve created a visible conversation that boosts both of your profiles in the algorithm.
Stories create emotional connections that facts alone cannot. When commenting, weave in relevant personal experiences:
Authentic vulnerability and lessons learned resonate far more than generic agreement.
Tagging people in comments expands your reach and demonstrates your network’s depth, but use this tactic judiciously:
Never tag people just for visibility. Make sure the mention genuinely adds value to the conversation.
Thoughtful disagreement can be more valuable than blind agreement. When you respectfully challenge ideas, you demonstrate critical thinking and confidence:
Always disagree respectfully and back up your position with reasoning or evidence.
The concept of engagement pods gets criticized for being inauthentic, but strategic mutual support is different. Build a core group of 10-15 professionals whose content you genuinely find valuable:
This approach to LinkedIn relationship building creates a rising tide that lifts all boats while maintaining authenticity.
The real relationship building happens after the initial comment. When someone responds positively to your comment or when you have a meaningful exchange:
This multi-touch approach transforms a single comment into a genuine professional relationship.
Most comments follow predictable patterns. Break the mold to stand out:
Position yourself as a knowledgeable resource by expanding on the original post’s topic:
This approach to LinkedIn engagement tips establishes you as someone worth following and potentially connecting with.
Create connections between ideas, people, and opportunities:
Bridge-building comments position you as a connector and thought leader who sees patterns others miss.
Track these metrics to refine your approach:
Ready to transform your LinkedIn presence? Commit to this plan:
The professionals winning on LinkedIn understand a fundamental truth: the platform isn’t about broadcasting, it’s about connecting. Your LinkedIn comment strategy is the most scalable way to build authentic relationships with the people who matter most to your career or business.
Every comment is an opportunity. An opportunity to demonstrate expertise, show genuine interest, spark meaningful dialogue, and plant seeds for future collaboration. The question isn’t whether you have time to comment thoughtfully it’s whether you can afford not to.
Click Here Learn More about How to Turn LinkedIn Comments into Relationship-Building Opportunities. Visit Shop to access our Premium Social Media Templates now!
Hey everyone,
I wanted to share something that completely changed how my small business operates — and honestly, how I think about success.
When I first started, I did what everyone else did: I tried every sales trick, every ad, every post. But the truth? None of it really worked.
I was working harder than ever and feeling stuck.
Then, I made one small change: 👉 I stopped focusing on sales and started focusing on relationships.
I began helping people without expecting anything back. I answered questions, gave honest advice, and shared my story — including my struggles.
And slowly, people started trusting me.
Once trust was there, the sales started flowing naturally. Clients came back. They referred friends. The stress of “chasing” disappeared.
If you’re a small business owner struggling to grow, my advice is simple:
Business is built on people, not products. And relationships will always outperform ads.
Stop selling. Start helping. That’s how you build something that lasts. ❤️
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One key truth applies to all industries and countries: trust is essential for success. Products change, services adapt, and markets shift—but strong relationships stand the test of time. The ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships with clients is crucial for sustainable growth.
Whether you’re a freelancer working on a few projects or a large agency managing big accounts, how you connect with clients can impact your long-term success. It’s not just about getting results; it’s also about having regular, value-focused interactions that make clients feel supported, understood, and invested in the partnership.
Every business transaction starts with a problem and a promise. The client brings the problem; you get the promise of a solution. What follows should be more than a fulfillment of the contract—it should be the beginning of a deeper partnership.
A positive client relationship translates into:
Trust-based relationships are less price-sensitive and more focused on results and reliability. When clients view you as a partner rather than a provider, they are more willing to invest in your ideas, extend engagements, and collaborate strategically.
Before proposing solutions, take time to understand the context. Go beyond the surface-level brief and explore the client’s broader business goals, key performance indicators, operational challenges, and internal dynamics.
Ask questions like:
These insights help you shape strategies and communications that are not only technically sound but deeply aligned with the client’s realities.
Clients notice when you invest in understanding their world. This clarity at the beginning prevents misalignment later—and lays the groundwork for a strong client relationship built on relevance and empathy.
Image by Gustavo Fring from Pexels
Clients work with you because they believe in your capabilities. But belief alone isn’t enough—it must be reinforced over time through consistent action.
Consistency doesn’t mean being perfect. It means showing up, delivering when you say you will, following through on commitments, and owning your responsibilities. This builds dependability—an essential pillar of trust.
Some best practices include:
The most successful firms don’t just deliver great results; they deliver predictably great results—and that’s what keeps clients coming back.
One of the biggest reasons client relationships break down is miscommunication—or lack of communication altogether. Clear, timely, and respectful communication is a differentiator in today’s fast-paced world.
Here’s what effective communication looks like:
The strength of a client relationship often rests on how confidently and clearly you can navigate difficult conversations—delays, scope changes, or feedback loops. Communication doesn’t just transfer information—it strengthens bonds.
Image by Warchi from Getty Images Signature
What separates a good service provider from a great one is their ability to add value beyond the agreed deliverables. This doesn’t always mean doing extra work for free; it means staying attuned to your client’s long-term success.
Examples include:
This shows that you’re not just concerned with completing tasks—you’re invested in helping them succeed. That level of commitment elevates the client relationship from transactional to transformational.
Even with the best intentions and systems, challenges will arise—missed deadlines, misalignment, scope creep, or unforeseen issues. How you handle these moments often matters more than the issue itself.
Here’s what seasoned professionals do:
Clients appreciate honesty and accountability. When you demonstrate reliability under pressure, it often deepens trust rather than diminishes it. A client relationship isn’t tested when things go smoothly—it’s tested when they don’t.
Image by Midnight Studio from Getty Images
Not all clients want the same type of interaction. Some appreciate frequent updates; others want minimal contact unless there’s an issue. Some prefer detailed reports; others want summaries. Adjusting your approach based on client personality and expectations can have a huge impact on satisfaction.
Personalization can take many forms:
This level of attentiveness shows respect for their time and reinforces the strength of the client relationship. People remember how easy—or hard—it was to work with you.
Read Also: Effective Communication: The Art of Connecting and Achieving Understanding
A happy client is good. A loyal, referring client is gold.
Once you’ve built trust and delivered results, focus on turning that client into an advocate:
Staying top of mind without being intrusive keeps the door open for future collaborations. Many of the most lucrative projects come not from pitches, but from past clients remembering who they enjoyed working with—and who delivered.
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A strong client relationship is about care. It’s about seeing clients not just as accounts, but as partners with their own challenges, hopes, and real pressures. It involves being consistent, curious, responsible, and understanding.
The businesses that succeed are the ones that recognize that relationships, not just contracts, are the true keys to growth.
If you’re working on better processes, smarter strategies, or more competitive prices, don’t forget to invest just as much in the relationships behind it all. In the end, what keeps clients coming back isn’t just what you do; it’s how you make them feel.
What does an APTA Lobbyist do | Talk with Brian Allen | PT Pro Talk Podcast
In this video, I speak about the value of building relationships in policy work. While I address the technicalities and make sure legislative language is precise, a large portion of my job is to be constantly meeting with Senators, members of Congress, and their staff to fight for our issues and offer informed advice. But the real power is giving our members the ability to build strong relationships with policymakers themselves.
Why TDZ Pro Is Changing How Smart Businesses Win Deals in 2025
Sales is about trust. TDZ Pro builds that trust before the first signature.
How to Be a Good Husband starts with love, respect, and real partnership. In this powerful and heart-stirring message, Douglas Vandergraph breaks down what makes a man a strong, supportive husband and the spiritual keys to building a lasting marriage. Learn how effective communication, emotional presence, and godly leadership can transform your relationship and your home. Whether you’re newly married or want to be the man your wife deserves, this is the wake-up call every husband needs!
👉 SUBSCRIBE for more real talk about faith, marriage, and family:
https://www.youtube.com/@DouglasVandergraph
☕ Support the mission—Buy Douglas a cup of coffee:
https://buymeacoffee.com/douglasvandergraph
Don’t miss this. Share it with someone who needs this message today.
💬 What do YOU think makes a great husband? Drop your thoughts below, and don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE if this message blessed you! 🙌🔥
#GoodHusband #MarriageGoals #HusbandTips #GodlyMarriage #RelationshipAdvice #FaithAndFamily #MarriageMatters #ChristianMarriage #RealMenLead #DouglasVandergraph
Understanding the Difficulty of Apologizing
The Psychology Behind “Sorry”
Apologizing involves more than just uttering the word “sorry.” It requires acknowledging that we’ve done something wrong, which can be emotionally taxing. Here are a few psychological reasons why apologizing is so hard:
The Importance of Apologizing
Despite the challenges, apologizing is crucial for several reasons:
Practical Examples of Effective Apologies
Scenario 1: Apologizing to a Friend
Situation: You forgot about a planned meet-up with a friend.
Apology: “I’m sorry I missed our meet-up. I completely forgot about it, and I feel terrible. Can we reschedule for next week?”
Why It Works: This apology is sincere, acknowledges the mistake, and offers a solution to make amends.
Scenario 2: Apologizing to a Colleague
Situation: You made a mistake on a project that affected your colleague’s work.
Apology: “I want to apologize for the error in the project. It was my oversight, and I understand it caused extra work for you. I’ll make sure to double-check my work in the future.”
Why It Works: This apology takes responsibility, acknowledges the impact on the other person, and commits to improvement.
Scenario 3: Apologizing to a Partner
Situation: You said something hurtful during an argument.
Apology: “I’m sorry for what I said earlier. It was hurtful and uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me, and I promise to communicate more respectfully in the future.”
Why It Works: This apology is heartfelt, acknowledges the emotional impact, and promises better behaviour moving forward.
Insights on Making Apologizing Easier
Conclusion
Apologizing may seem like the hardest word, but with practice and the right approach, it can become a natural and essential part of our interactions. By understanding the psychology behind apologizing, learning from practical examples, and implementing insights, we can foster stronger relationships and personal growth. Remember, a sincere apology can mend bridges and open doors to better communication and understanding.
So, the next time you need to apologize, take a deep breath and say “I’m sorry.”
Stop Chasing the Marketing Gold Rush | The Secret to Long-Term B2B Success
In this video, we dive into why chasing quick fixes in marketing, like mass cold emails or the latest trends, often leads to short-term success and long-term struggles. Instead, we focus on what really matters: building real relationships and trust with your prospects. Learn why sustainable growth in B2B comes from consistent, founder-led strategies that prioritize connection over shortcuts. Whether you’re a founder or executive, this is your guide to creating lasting success without the peaks and valleys of the marketing “gold rush.”
After listening for one good hour, I asked my client, Lisa,
Me (Coach ): You mean to say you are stuck in office politics?
Lisa ; No, I don’t think it has anything to do with office politics, Iam not one of those into office politics.
Me (Coach): What makes you think it has nothing to do with office politics?
Lisa: I don’t know, Iam confused
Me (Coach) : Explain how you’re Confused looks…
How ability to Influence can help you thrive in Office Politics.
Building a strong professional network is more than just a career-enhancing strategy; it’s a valuable asset that can open doors, foster growth, and create lasting relationships. John Seckel, a respected expert in professional development, shares his top techniques for creating a powerful network that extends beyond just collecting business cards. His approach focuses on genuine connections, strategic planning, and purposeful engagement to help you get the most out of your networking efforts.
Here are five techniques from John Seckel that can help you build a robust and meaningful professional network:
Networking is often misunderstood as a numbers game where the goal is to gather as many contacts as possible. However, John Seckel emphasizes that the quality of connections is far more important than the quantity. When you focus on forming genuine relationships, you build a network of people who are more likely to offer support, share valuable insights, and connect you with others in meaningful ways.
To implement this, start by targeting events and gatherings where you can find like-minded professionals. Instead of aiming to speak with everyone, focus on a few people who share your interests or work in similar industries. This approach allows for deeper conversations that can form the foundation of a lasting connection.
A powerful network is built on the principle of mutual benefit. John Seckel advises that you should approach networking with a mindset of offering value to others. Whether it’s sharing your expertise, making an introduction, or providing helpful resources, being a giver sets you apart and builds goodwill.
When you provide value to your contacts, they are more likely to reciprocate. For instance, if a colleague is struggling with a project, offer your assistance or share useful information. This willingness to help others creates a strong, positive impression and reinforces your reputation as a valuable connection.
Social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Facebook can be effective tools for expanding your network. John Seckel points out that social media allows you to stay connected with people you meet at events, share relevant content, and engage in discussions within your industry.
To make the most of social media, be strategic about the content you share. Post articles, insights, and updates that reflect your expertise and interests. Engage with the posts of others by commenting or sharing, which not only adds value to the conversation but also keeps you visible to your network. Regular, thoughtful interactions on social media can strengthen your connections over time.
One of the biggest mistakes people make in networking is failing to maintain the relationships they’ve formed. John Seckel emphasizes the importance of following up after meeting someone. Sending a quick email or message to thank them for the conversation and suggesting a future catch-up is a simple but effective way to keep the connection alive.
Staying in touch doesn’t mean reaching out only when you need something. Instead, find ways to reconnect periodically. This could be through sharing an article they might find interesting, congratulating them on a recent achievement, or simply checking in to see how they’re doing. Regular touchpoints help keep you top-of-mind and can lead to more opportunities down the road.
Lastly, John Seckel advises attending networking events with a clear purpose in mind. Know why you are attending, what you hope to achieve, and who you want to meet. Being purposeful about the events you choose can help you make the most of your time and connect with the right people.
Before attending, research the event and the expected attendees. If possible, reach out to the people you’re interested in meeting ahead of time to schedule a brief chat. This preparation can help you stand out and make a more memorable impression during the event.
Networking events are not just about introducing yourself; they’re about building relationships. Use the time to listen, ask questions, and learn about the needs and interests of others. When you show a genuine interest in people, they are more likely to see you as a valuable connection.
Building a powerful network requires more than just collecting business cards and adding contacts on social media. It involves forming genuine relationships, giving more than you take, staying in touch, and being purposeful about the connections you make. John Seckel’s techniques emphasize the importance of quality, engagement, and strategic planning in building a network that can truly support your personal and professional growth.
By following these five techniques, you can cultivate a strong network that not only benefits you but also helps others achieve their goals. Remember, networking is a two-way street, and the more you invest in others, the more you’ll get out of your relationships.
It’s short for “I Miss You.” This simple phrase carries a lot of emotion, but how do you respond? 🤔
Understanding and responding to IMY can strengthen connections. How do you respond when someone says “IMY”? Share your thoughts! 👇
