#76: Susan McPherson, Founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies — Investing in dormant ties, networking superpowers, and converting nerves into strength

Sep 24, 2024

Susan McPherson, founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies, is a seasoned connector and angel investor with over 30 years in corporate responsibility. She shares her wisdom on the importance of reigniting dormant ties and the long-term benefits of networking. Susan discusses overcoming outreach fears and emphasizes that proactive networking, such as hosting events, can transform relationships. With practical tips and personal anecdotes, she encourages a selfless, empathetic approach to building connections that empower others.

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ADVICE

Use Small Superpowers As Conversation Hooks

Identify your personal superpowers before networking using Gather Ask Do.
Use small, specific strengths (e.g., TikTok know-how or local travel tips) as conversation hooks rather than grand credentials.

ADVICE

Prepare For Large Events With The Power Of Three

Before large events, research who will be there and plan to be helpful, not just to extract value.
Set modest goals like meet three people, share three facts about yourself, and learn three things to keep it manageable.

INSIGHT

Most Big Opportunities Come Through Connections

Major life and career changes usually happen because of connections, not solo effort.
Rekindling dormant ties can reopen access to different networks and opportunities you no longer see.

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Susan McPherson is a serial connector, angel investor, and corporate responsibility expert. As the founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies, a communications consultancy focused on brands and social impact, she brings over 30 years of experience in marketing, PR, and sustainability communications. Susan is the author of The Lost Art of Connecting and a sought-after speaker at major events like the Massachusetts Conference for Women and Techonomy. She has contributed to outlets like Harvard Business Review and Fast Company and has appeared in NPR, CNN, and USA Today. Susan invests in and advises women-led startups and is involved in several boards and advisory groups, including The 19th News and Just Capital.

This episode of From Start-Up to Grown-Up dives into the world of networking and relationship-building with Susan McPherson – a “super connector” who leverages her extensive network to help others and grow her own business, McPherson Strategies!

Susan shares her insights on the significance of rekindling dormant ties, the benefits of dormant connections, and the importance of proactive outreach in networking.

Susan started her company at the bold age of 48, reaching out to a staggering 500 people in her network, demonstrating the power of asking for help and the value in promoting others. She's full of practical tips - including hosting your own events collaboratively and keeping the conversation focused on what others need. We'll also hear about her smart approach to follow-up after events, employing the "ten touches rule" to keep her contacts engaged.

Prepare to be inspired as Susan discusses her entrepreneurial journey, overcoming personal and professional low points, and the joy she finds in team growth and recognition.

Stay tuned as we learn that it's never too late to start, it’s okay to be afraid of failure, and that, at times, success is serendipitous – often resulting from seeds we plant long before they bear fruit.

Learn more about Susan | Website
https://www.susanmcp.com/

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