Always Make Them Want You — by Dan Lynn

By Dan Lynn

I had a great boss, Brad Smith, who gave me advice I've used ever since: always make them want you.

Going on an interview for a job you're not sure you want? Make them want to hire you anyway. Meeting a vendor you'll probably never use? Make them want to work with you anyway. Whatever the room, be at your best and sell why you — or your company — are great.

The reason is simple: it puts you in control. When they want you, you're the one who gets to choose. You can always say no. But there's a big difference between turning something down and getting turned down — and you want to be on the right side of that every single time.

It also keeps every door open. People move around, situations change, and reputations travel. The "no thanks" of today can become the perfect opportunity two years from now.

So no matter what: always make them want you.