527 - I will cut you off.

Today, I did something I never wanted to do but interacting with people gets messy sometimes.

I was approached by a young man asking if I knew any restaurant owners who sell alcohol.

Of course, I do.

Next, I got a 3 way message from the man who included another gentleman requesting a meeting.

The message said something like, "Hey, Tom, Jane knows restaurant owners in Texas. Let's meet with her".

I felt like the bull's eye on a dart board. This should be interesting.

I agreed to meet with them because this is how we build relationships on LinkedIn, right?

Not always. Some people still don't get it.

These guys were out for a sale. They were pushy and arrogant.

They showed no interest whatsoever to learn anything about who I am or what I do.

Not once did they ask about my business. At one point, I simply started telling them a bit about what I do.

Silence.

They quickly returned to their agenda.

There was no way I was going to give out names of my friends and fellow chamber of commerce members who own restaurants.

This all happened within about 5 minutes and I realized the conversation was going nowhere.

I explained that before I give out any names for referrals, I want to get to know more about them and their business.

They seemed baffled, as if I was going to interrogate them.

We were at a stand still and they were about to start accusing me of being untrustworthy.

It's so interesting how they turned the exact reason I wanted to learn more about them against me.

So, I did it. Quickly, quietly, and without further discussion.

I ended the meeting and blocked them.

I don't want people like that anywhere near my network.

I hope you don't either!

We don't always have to agree but we do have to show respect for one another.

Integrity is important in all areas of business, networking and life.

Grow your network strong and with integrity.

And, don't hesitate to cut off those who don't engage and are only out for a sale.