I’ve spent the last few days at a business conference filled with over a hundred other people in the same business I am. I’ve been to many of these, and I’ve noticed that, after the first day, I find myself being more…selective…when I am choosing the table to sit at during meals. I know that, depending on where I sit, the chit-chat will either be 1) enlightening and thought-provoking, or 2) awkward and uncomfortable.

I started thinking about it and wondering: why are there some people who I’m drawn to more than others? What I came up with is, I am instantly turned off the minute someone starts telling me about how great they are. I…I…I, me…me…me, blah..blah…blah. The truly awesome people are the ones who engage you in a conversation, listen to what you have to say, and share their experiences or thoughts in a way that isn’t condescending.

I met a lot of awesome people over the 3 days of the conference.  If you are not buying the products for your office from a local, independent office supply dealer, you’re really missing out.  The people I met were friendly, interesting, and truly committed to their business.  Wouldn’t it be great if you didn’t have to pretend you were busy every time your office supply sales rep called or stopped by?  Wouldn’t it be great if you actually looked forward to talking to them?  Wouldn’t it be great if you gave them a hearty handshake or hug when you saw them, because they were just that awesome?

What are your thoughts? What makes you think someone is awesome?

(See what I did there? I opened up the dialog and am giving you a turn to speak. Isn’t that awesome! [insert sarcmark here] )