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?