Give before you take

[Chris Baxter]

I love participating in these forums and have given and received advice, insight, and ideas to/from hundreds of fellow investors.  I am less excited, however, about receiving one-sided requests by DM, which happens often.  These often start with "Hey Chris, I see you've been really active on the forums.... " and end with one of these requests:

-Can I pick you brains?

-Can you analyze this deal for me?

-Can you connect me with your (Realtor/PM/accountant/lawyer)?

Often, these requests come in from people that have no profile on BP and with no attempt to make a genuine connection with me.

My advice to those that want help.... build a profile (with photo, goals, interests) and give before you take! Every book on REI says the same thing... if you want a mentor / or help from a more experienced investor, offer something of value when you reach out.

Have you had the same experience? Any other ideas to share on building win-win connections on BP?

[Leon Doucette]

@Chris Baxter I couldn't agree more. I started this journey almost a year ago. The amount of info and advice that has come from BP members has been crucial to this journey. I've have been and continue to raise capital from investors. In every situation with investors I give first and see what I can do to solve their problems or help them out, wanting nothing in return. It has always and continues to help me build relationships to further my goals not to mention it feels good to give. I have not met an investor that was not excited to tell their story when asked. Sharing experiences is what BP is all about. Analyzing deals and sharing contacts is not something that will happen without developing the relationship and giving first.