In this inspiring episode of Career Leadership, Donna Serdula and Isaiah Hankel reflect on the life and teachings of John Rulon, author of Giftology, who revolutionized the concept of gifting with his focus on authenticity and thoughtfulness. They discuss the art of giving quality gifts, building meaningful connections, and why authentic effort is more important than quantity in networking. Learn how to enhance your professional relationships by focusing on personalized gestures, LinkedIn recommendations, and even the impact of sending a handwritten note. Donna and Isaiah also share tips on creating your “Dream 100” list to strategically advance your career.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:12 Remembering John Rulan

01:38 The Art of Gifting

05:32 Effort and Authenticity in Networking

10:37 The Impact of Personalized Effort

18:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Links:

• Giftology: The Art and Science of Using Gifts to Cut Through the Noise, Increase Referrals, and Strengthen Client Retention — Does it feel like you work in a "red ocean filled with sharks?" Eat or be eaten. Fierce competition. Continual battling over scarce resources.
  
  
  What if there was another path? What if you could create your own blue oasis where profits are higher, marketing is as natural as breathing, and competition is nearly nonexistent? This nirvana can be a reality when you practice the principles of Giftology. In this unusual un-marketing resource you’ll discover…
  
  
  *Why Giftology isn’t an expense…it’s an investment that can pay off with huge dividends.
  *How to practice Giftology on a tight budget… it’s easy and very effective.
  *How Giftology turns existing clients into your best salespeople.
  *Why (and how) gifts with a relatively low value can trump something expensive.
  *When is the best time to send gifts? (The answer may surprise you.)
  *How to unleash a “Referral Factory,” a small army of influencers vouching for you--no gimmicks, no catches.
  *Find out how Giftology can transform your supply chain.
  *The ten worst gifts…definitely avoid these. (This info’s available in the expanded bonus resource. Just click the link inside! It’s my gift to you.)
  
  
  The average person is hit with at least thirty thousand messages a day, courtesy of that “red ocean filled with sharks.” Giftology neutralizes that deadly philosophy and equips you with every tool you need to make your message a priority. Every time. Get your copy today!
• Handwrytten — Handwrytten builds deep and lasting bonds with your customers through the power of handwritten notes.
• Handwrite — Real pens. Real stamps. Real robots. Deliver “WOW” at scale.
• LinkedIn Headline Generator — Optimize Your LinkedIn Headline with a Click of Your Mouse!
  Stop trying to do it yourself. Creating a POWERFUL LinkedIn Headline can be as EASY AS 1-2-3 when you use my LinkedIn Headline Generator!
  
  This simple and easy online application walks you through creating a POWERFUL, keyword-packed LinkedIn Headline! Choose your terms and in seconds you have an engaging, professional LinkedIn Headline that impresses!