Aaron, thanks for starting a great thread.

Pure gold in this topic.

We currently receive around 2k ( http://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6...Marketing.aspx - no marketing, not my link, good stuff here.) marketing messages daily, getting through the clutter is first, with all the ducks lined up (thanks Oliver: BTW, the ribs sound scrumptious) first as well.

How we communicate always played an important role in our success, technology and volume is making this skill ever more valuable.

The relationship is first and foremost, which can be built very well around value for all involved. Digging a bit deeper, old school-er here... looking at the JV wave that's what it's all about. Identifying and monetizing clear value propositions via the shared assets of all the participants.

Before contacting someone, the first question I need to answer is what is my value to that persons endeavor. Once I conquer that hurdle, conversions are close behind.

Thanks! Sergio.