Jonathan Sprinkles teaches Disney Dreamers how to Connect

"That's how you edify yourself. That's how you make a name for yourself. That's how people know, like, and trust you faster. It's the little things..." -J. Sprinkles

I was invited to attend the 2011 Disney Dreamers Academy back in March. It was a wonderful opportunity to share with over 100 students who were selected across the country to fulfill their dreams. A great portion of this event was consumed by enlightening speakers. They all came from different walks of life, had diverse personalities, and delivered positive messages.

Jonathan Sprinkles knows how to capture his audience. In fact, you can visit his site, www.jsprinkles.com, to take a look at where he came from, to where he is heading. He is known for his public speaking and ability to connect to his audiences. And at the Disney Dreamers Academy, he taught a few of the students just how to do so.

I filmed just a small segment of his speech, but it sums up the message he was trying to send that day. Even though he spoke to the Dreamers, the information can be used for everyone.

Remember, the "Big Five" steps for making a connection are:

• Extend your hand...all the way.
• Smile!
• Eye Connection
• Web shake
• Bold statement

We must remember that there is life offline. Being comfortable in front of the computer is great, but you have to know how to "sell" yourself, your brand, in the real world as well. I need to work on this aspect of networking so that if and when I finally attend a conference, I'll be able to make a wonderful first impression. 

Have you made any great connections lately?