Kevin Harrington is the inventor of the Informercial, an original shark on "Shark Tank," and the CEO and founder of StarShop.
Over the years I have launched over 500 different products across just about every consumer category, including pets, golf, housewares, health and beauty, fishing, electronics, fitness, food, and toys, to name a few.
Throughout all of these launches, the habit that has proved to be most valuable for me is NETWORKING.
Networking across all industries has allowed me to stay connected to the latest trends.
Over the past 30+ years, I’ve made it made a priority to attend as many trade shows as possible, both domestically and internationally, which has given me the opportunity to network with a variety of people in various categories including invention, distribution, product development, and media. These relationships are invaluable to my success as an entrepreneur.
But just showing up is only half of the picture. I engage with peers and colleagues by speaking at these conferences and trade shows, hosting events, walking the floor, and attending media rooms.
Every year I host “The Big Pitch” at over 20 big shows, where I invite budding entrepreneurs for the opportunity to pitch their products directly. Having a hands-on approach is important in getting to know the products and people you work with.
Additionally, I founded two global associations — ERA (Electronic Retailers Association), which is now in 45 countries, and Young Entrepreneur’s Association (now EO – Entrepreneurs Organization) which boasts combined member sales of over $500 billion. Both associations provide members with a network of like-minded professionals they can tap into.
Regardless of what industry you work in, always network.
Take the time and make the effort to develop meaningful relationships through networking. No amount of advertising or marketing can outdo referrals and word of mouth in ROI.
The Success Series is a collection of the best advice from some of our favorite writers, thinkers, and leaders. This week, we asked: "What is the one habit that has made you more successful?" See other articles in the series here.
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