Linda Armstrong Kelly (Lance’s mom) tells the story of how she overcame the odds she and Lance were up against in their lives. Most of us know about both of their battles against cancer and her overcoming being a single, teenaged mom.
But she told a story today at a NDCC speaking engagement that surprised me–and reinforced one of my eprsonal “10 Guidelines”–always carry a business card.
When Lance was just starting his cycling career as a pre-teen and teen in Plano, Texas, his mom coached him to talk to everybody. She had a business card printed for him to hand out as he met potential sponsors.
“Mom, why do I need a business card,” the kid asked. “If you give a card, you get a card,” mom replied.
Great advice. Lance probably still has some of those cards in his Rolodex–or at least his database today. Thanks to a mom/coach who had the foresight to teach him to reach out and always ask questions and not be afraid to introduce yourself.
As we have touted in this space in previous posts, always–that’s always–carry and be prepared to share your business card. You never know who you are going to meet and, long term, who you might work with and for in the future.
Relentless
1/14/2010 at 10:28 pm
Donna writes:
Right on!!! Can’t believe how I feel like I know you more now, than when you lived in MN!!
You are amazing!! And an inspiration!