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Vanessa Van Edwards is a behavioral investigator, write, and entrepreneur. She runs a human behavior research lab called Science of People where she uncovers the hidden forces that drive our behavior. Her latest book, Captivate, was chosen as one of Apple’s Most Anticipated Books of 2017.

Over the years, she’s incorporated a lot of her personal experience — using herself as a guinea pig early on. She refers to herself, cleverly, as an awkward McGuyver.

I first connected with Vanessa because I utilized some of her research in an article I wrote for The Muse called 5 Ways to Be the Most Interesting Person in the Room. She reached out to thank me. Note: This is a great way to connect with someone you admire. Also, if they aren’t kind enough or on top of their mentions, the way Vanessa was, you can always get in touch to let them know you used their insight. Finally, you could just reach out even if you didn’t use their insight in any way other than in your own life. Influencers get so much correspondence asking for things, it’s nice to receive…especially if it requires no effort on their part. 

So, listen to this interview for entertaining insight on:

  • Why you should reveal your vulnerability sooner rather than later in interactions
  • The anatomy of her pitch deck when booking corporate speaking and workshop gigs (the more objectives you can answer in advance the closer you’re going to get to the YES)
  • How a book can be an aspect of your platform, why working with someone who shares your vision is essential, and what is means to launch “platform by proxy”
  • Why going after NICHE markets is the way to make an impact with your work…The question I always encourage clients to ask…”What can I teach this audience?”

If you like this episode and you want to WIN a copy of Vanessa’s book, I’m doing a giveaway and I’m picking a winner from those who write a review of the podcast. Click here for details. Now, go listen to the show!